Gerber knives have long been a staple in the world of outdoor enthusiasts, survivalists, and everyday carry (EDC) users. Known for their durability, functionality, and affordability, Gerber is a brand that has built a strong reputation in the knife industry. However, one question often arises among military personnel, gear aficionados, and prospective buyers:
Does the army use Gerber knives?
This article delves deep into the relationship between the military — specifically the U.S. Army — and Gerber knives. We’ll explore procurement processes, official contracts, field usage, and personal preferences of soldiers to give you a full picture of Gerber’s role in the U.S. military ecosystem.
History of Gerber and Its Military Ties
Gerber Legendary Blades was founded in 1939 in Portland, Oregon, by Joseph E. Gerber. Initially, the company focused on producing knives as promotional items for restaurants and other businesses. However, its trajectory changed dramatically during the Vietnam War when Gerber submitted its now-iconic Mark II and Mark III daggers for military use.
Gerber in Vietnam and Beyond
The Gerber Mark II, a double-edged fighting dagger, became especially popular among U.S. troops. It was never officially adopted as standard issue for the Army, but many soldiers sought it out independently. The knife’s aggressive blade shape, ergonomic handle, and lethality in close combat made it a fearsome tool for special operations units and experienced field fighters.
Despite its unofficial status, Gerber’s reputation was cemented as a brand trusted by those who served. Over the decades, Gerber continued to build on this legacy, producing military-inspired designs that resonated with veterans and servicemen and women alike.
Official Military Contracts and Standard Issue Equipment
To understand whether the army uses Gerber knives today, we must first examine the U.S. Department of Defense’s (DoD) procurement practices and equipment standards.
How the Army Selects Gear
The Army issues standardized kits to soldiers that include everything from uniforms to weapons. Knives used as standard-issue tools are typically selected through competitive bidding, with requirements covering:
- Blade material
- Durability under stress
- Multi-purpose utility
- Ease of maintenance
- Cost-effectiveness for mass procurement
The Army employs different knives based on branch, unit, and mission specifics. For example, the Air Force Academy offers survival training with the Gerber LMF II, while Navy SEALs have historically favored custom knives or brands like Ontario, Ka-Bar, or Benchmade.
Gerber and the U.S. Military Contract Landscape
While Gerber knives were not a part of the standard issue for the Army as a whole, the brand has indeed had some military contracts. For example, Gerber’s Strider Joint was developed in partnership with the U.S. Marines — not the Army, but still within the DoD realm. Gerber has also produced knives for the Department of Homeland Security and other federal law enforcement agencies.
Another notable example is the Gerber Gator Knife, which became a favorite among military and first responders due to its ergonomic design and versatility. It’s often used in survival scenarios and is popular in U.S. Army Reserve and Guard units.
Limited but Present Influence
It’s safe to say that while Gerber knives have not been widely adopted as part of the Army’s standard kit, they have found a niche within certain components of the military — particularly special operations, training exercises, or through personal issue by soldiers who purchase them independently.
Gerber Knives and Special Operations Forces
When discussing military usage of knives, one must also consider the special operations community — which includes units like the Green Berets, Rangers, and Delta Force.
Unofficial but Respected Selections
Special operations forces are often allowed more discretion in personal gear selection, especially when deployed in complex or high-risk environments. Because Gerber offers a range of combat-oriented knives, many operators have opted for them — even if not part of their formally issued gear.
Gerber Recon Team Folder: A Tactical Favorite
The Gerber Recon Team Folder (RTF) is an excellent example of a folding knife designed with military applications in mind. Featuring a sturdy locking mechanism, corrosion-resistant blade steel, and a compact build, the RTF has seen use among some military personnel who prefer a folding knife for concealed carry or utility tasks in the field.
Gerber Strongarm and Fast Draw: Duty-Ready Designs
Among modern Gerber offerings, the Strongarm — a fixed blade knife with an MOLLE-compatible sheath — has been viewed as a viable alternative for field use. Similarly, the Fast Draw design includes a quick-deploy sheath and a full-tang construction that appeals to tactical users.
While these knives aren’t issued across Army units, they have been praised for their reliability and are often carried privately or used in training environments.
Gerber Knives in Training and Survival Kits
While actual field assignments may limit Gerber usage in the Army, these knives find their way into training programs and survival kits across various branches.
Army Survival School and Preparedness Training
At the U.S. Army Survival School — located at Fort Polk’s Joint Readiness Training Center — there is a strong emphasis on equipment versatility and adaptability. Gerber knives such as the LMF II series have been spotted in training scenarios aimed at teaching soldiers field survival.
The LMF II was actually developed for the Air Force Pararescue Jumpers to be effective for wilderness survival and first responder missions. Its influence has often spilled into Army training curricula, especially in non-infantry units or medical and rescue roles.
Gerber and Field Medical Training
In field medicine, knives are used for cutting uniforms, opening trauma kits, or performing emergency procedures. The U.S. Army Medical Department often uses durable, non-corrosive knives, and Gerber’s line of utility knives has found some role here in training or emergency kits.
The Personal Factor: Soldiers and Their Gear Choices
Perhaps one of the most telling indicators of Gerber’s relevance to the Army lies in what individual soldiers choose to carry.
Bootcamp and Beyond: Soldier-Driven Equipment Selection
In basic training, soldiers are issued basic gear and tools. However, once they move into specialized schools, units, or deployments, they often have the discretion to add personal gear for comfort and effectiveness.
Gerber is a brand that many GIs favor when selecting:
- A secondary knife for utility
- An EDC folding knife for base duties
- A backup tool for field missions
Gerber Suspension: A Soldiers’ Choice
The Gerber Suspension series has consistently ranked among the top selling folder knives in the U.S. Many soldiers appreciate its assisted opening mechanism, sturdy blade materials, and reliability under combat stress — even though it’s not standard Army-issued.
This trend is also evident in post-military circles, where veterans continue to carry Gerber knives, a testament to their real-world performance in the field.
Gerber’s Military-Inspired Lineup: Designed for Tactical Performance
Gerber understands its military clientele well and has built an entire segment of its product line with tactical users in mind. These models are often created in collaboration with or inspiration from military feedback.
Gerber Prodigy Tactical Folder
While not issued to the Army directly, the Prodigy Tactical Folder embodies features desired by tactical personnel:
- Durable blade steel
- Flipper-style deployment
- Military-grade G10 handle
- Low visibility tactical gray color
Gerber M200 Intervention Fixed Blade
The M200 Intervention is designed for high-stress tactical use. Though not standard Army kit, it has been used by individual soldiers due to its:
- 440C stainless steel blade
- Aggressive belly and tanto tip
- Full-tang design for strength
- Tactical, no-slip grip
What the Army Uses Instead: Competing Blade Brands
If Gerber knives aren’t standard issue for the Army, what knives are actually being issued across active units today?
Ontario RAT Series
The Ontario RK7 (“Rat Cutlass”) has been widely issued to U.S. Army soldiers, particularly in light infantry roles and deployment kits. It is known for its brush-cutting edge, durability, and lightweight build — ideal for jungle or woodland environments.
Ka-Bar USMC Fighting Knife
While originally issued to the Marines, the iconic Ka-Bar knife has been adopted by some Army personnel over the years for field survival and close-quarters fighting. It’s been a standard in military units for decades.
Benchmade AFO 9000
The Benchmade AFO model (Automatic Fixed Operational) was developed specifically for the U.S. Air Force, but is also used by Army special operations personnel due to its exceptional durability and combat readiness.
| Knife Model | Manufacturer | Used By | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ontario RK7 | Ontario Knife Co. | U.S. Army, Special Ops | Stainless steel, 10.5” blade, rugged build |
| Ka-Bar USMC Knife | Ka-Bar Knives | Multiple military branches | Carbon steel, leather grip, simple blade |
| Benchmade AFO 9000 | Benchmade | Special Forces, PSYOPS | 8Cr13MoV steel, full-tang, tactical sheath |
| Gerber LMF II | Gerber | Trained personnel, personal use | Folded steel, MOLLE-ready sheath, serrated edge |
Gerber’s Continued Legacy and Market Position
Though not the default knife provided by the Army, Gerber has retained a strong presence within the military market. Their knives are frequently carried by soldiers who seek:
- Reliable edge retention
- Cost-effective gear without sacrificing performance
- Tools that merge everyday utility with tactical readiness
What’s more, Gerber’s marketing has embraced its connection to military aesthetics and applications, solidifying it in the culture and mindshare of the armed forces community.
Gerber and Veteran Popularity
One need only visit veteran forums or attend military gear shows to see how many former service members continue to carry Gerber blades. Whether it’s for utility, survival, or ceremonial reasons, the brand has earned an enduring spot in military life.
Conclusion: Does the Army Use Gerber Knives?
In short: the U.S. Army does not issue Gerber knives as standard equipment. However, this does not mean they lack relevance in military operations or field use.
Gerber knives are widely respected among military members — particularly special operators, rescue units, and those in survival-intensive roles — for their performance, value, and tactical styling. Soldiers often carry Gerber knives privately or select them for training and mission-specific applications.
A Final Note on Versatility and Choice
Militaries evolve with time, and with that, gear choices adapt. While Gerber knives may not dominate the U.S. Army’s inventory, the brand remains a testament to rugged American manufacturing, trusted by many who serve. Its influence on tactical knife culture, personal gear preferences, and training applications underscores its enduring relationship with the military.
So if you find yourself asking not just “Does the army use Gerber knives?” — but also considering which knife might be right for you — you can take comfort in knowing hundreds of soldiers have already made Gerber part of their survival story.
Does the Army issue Gerber Knives as standard equipment?
The U.S. Army does not currently issue Gerber knives as standard equipment across all branches or units. Instead, the Army typically provides general-purpose combat knives, such as the OKC-3S Bayonet or the M9 Bayonet, which have been the primary sidearms and tools for decades. However, Gerber has had a long-standing relationship with the military and some of its knives have been used by certain units or branches, especially when individual soldiers or officers seek upgrade options or gear better suited for specific missions.
Gerber knives have been adopted by some members of the Army in a non-official capacity, often as personal purchases to supplement or replace issued gear. These knives are favored for their durability, affordability, and versatility, especially models like the Gerber LMF II or the Gerber Strongarm. While not standard issue, Gerber’s presence in military circles is significant due to the brand’s reputation for producing rugged and reliable knives that can stand up to the demands of field operations and survival scenarios.
Which models of Gerber Knives are most popular among military personnel?
Among military personnel, the Gerber LMF II Infantry刀 and the Gerber Strongarm are some of the most recognized and widely used models. The LMF II is especially appreciated for its full-tang construction, serrated blade, and built-in seatbelt cutter, which make it well-suited for emergency and survival situations. Though originally not issued by the military, this model found favor among troops in the field, particularly during the Iraq War, because of its combat-readiness and utility features.
The Gerber Strongarm, on the other hand, is known for its ergonomic design, secure grip, and solid lockback mechanism, which add to its reliability in both combat and everyday military use. While not officially issued, it and similar Gerber models have become popular among service members looking for quality knives that offer good value. These knives often serve roles ranging from food preparation to tasks requiring a sturdy blade in remote, austere environments.
Has Gerber ever supplied knives directly to the U.S. Army?
Yes, Gerber has supplied knives directly to the U.S. military in the past, though not exclusively or consistently to the Army. For example, Gerber provided knives to the U.S. Marine Corps as part of their gear during World War II and saw an increase in military sales during the Vietnam War Era. However, due to changing military procurement policies and specifications, Gerber’s role as an official supplier has evolved over time.
More recently, Gerber has focused on supplying tactical gear and knives to individual soldiers and special operations personnel who may bypass standard issue items in favor of tools better suited for specific missions. While the company does engage in military contracts from time to time, many of these are not direct Army-wide procurement efforts. Instead, Gerber’s presence in the military community is primarily through retail marketing and word-of-mouth among soldiers seeking high-quality personal gear.
Why might a soldier choose a Gerber Knife over standard issue models?
Soldiers may choose Gerber knives over standard issue models due to the brand’s reputation for durability, useful features, and user-friendly designs. The M9 Bayonet, for example, has been criticized over the years for its limited utility in cutting tasks and ergonomics, especially under harsh battlefield conditions. Gerber models like the LMF II or Paraframe offer alternative designs that some soldiers find superior for specific field missions that require a more robust or versatile knife.
Additionally, Gerber knives often come with unique features that appeal to soldiers, such as seatbelt cutters, glass breakers, or lightweight yet strong builds. These features increase their utility in survival and vehicle egress scenarios. Soldiers, especially those in special operations or deployment-heavy units, often invest in personal gear that meets their mission-specific requirements, and Gerber offers a number of options that fulfill those needs more effectively than issued equipment in some cases.
Are Gerber Knives considered reliable in combat and survival environments?
Gerber knives are generally considered reliable in combat and survival environments, especially models designed for tactical or outdoor use. Many Gerber knives are built using durable materials like 420HC steel and rugged polymer or rubberized handles that can withstand harsh conditions. The design of the Gerber LMF series, for instance, is aimed specifically at emergency survival and harsh terrain, making them popular with outdoor enthusiasts as well as military personnel.
User feedback over the years has supported this reliability, with many service members praising Gerber’s ability to hold an edge, resist corrosion, and endure heavy use. That said, like any gear, individual experiences vary depending on usage and expectations. While Gerber knives are not always up to the ruggedness of more premium brands, they offer cost-effective, dependable solutions for soldiers who need reliable blades without the higher price tags of certain boutique tactical knives.
What distinguishes Gerber Knives in the military and outdoor communities?
Gerber knives stand out in both the military and outdoor communities for their affordability, accessibility, and practical design. Unlike luxury brands that charge premium prices, Gerber offers a wide range of knives that are accessible to the average consumer, yet still meet the demands of rugged outdoor activities or military use. This accessibility has made them a go-to choice for those looking for a dependable utility knife without the high cost of specialized models.
Another factor that distinguishes Gerber is its long history of innovation and response to consumer feedback. The company has evolved its tactical line to incorporate features like integrated tools or ergonomic grips, making the knives adaptable to a range of tasks. This responsiveness, combined with a strong reputation in hunting, survival, and tactical markets, helps Gerber maintain a strong presence in both military circles and the wider outdoor enthusiast community.
Can soldiers purchase Gerber Knives through military stores or exchanges?
Yes, soldiers can purchase Gerber knives through military stores or exchanges such as the Army & Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) or Navy Exchange (NEX). These stores often carry a selection of Gerber knives, especially those considered useful for field duties, survival, or everyday carry. While not officially issued, these outlets provide soldiers with an easy way to buy knives that may better suit their personal preference or mission requirements.
The selection may vary depending on location, deployment status, and store inventory, but models like the Gerber Strongarm, Paraframe, and LMF series are often available. Additionally, many soldiers take advantage of online shopping through the military exchange websites, which expand access to a wider range of models. This gives service members the opportunity to customize their gear with reputable tools that can enhance both functionality and personal morale in the field.