The new V14 is based on the geometry of the V42 but just as the 14 suffix denotes, it’s an anti rely updated version of the classic raider knife. Unknown to many, the original issue V42 was issued to both the First Special Service Force (Devil’s Brigade) and US Navy. They had a problem with the tips breaking off so two blacksmiths with the Devil’s Brigade shortened the 1400 issued there by about one inch. It’s small shortcomings like this that Spartan Blades wanted to correct by working with designer Les George.
Along with integrating a full tang, they also increased overall thickness to 1/4″. Naturally, the stacked leather washer handle had to go so they have incorporated G10 scales. In addition to a smoothed pommel to make carry a bit more comfortable, they’ve coated the blade in PVD. Finally, the thumb index is more pronounced on the V14 than the original V42 model.
Get the knife that was awarded Collaboration of the Year at Blade Show 2014.
Tags: Blade Show 2014, Les George, Spartan Blades
Les George made a few versions of this that were closer to the original than this collaboration. Specifically the handle portion, which is markedly different. Make no mistake, Les designed this knife and Spartan put a small twist on it with the handle and was able to mass produce them. Either version of the knife is brilliant and a work of art. But if you are more of a traditionalist, get one of Les’s Raider versions.
Here is a picture of the Les George Original version.
http://i61.tinypic.com/2wn8c5l.jpg
Looks cool, but couldn’t find it on website. Price?
As I recall $425
Many thanks.
Awesome! I am suprised this was not done sooner!
Wish Les would sell the original version. Handle looks way better.
SOLD OUT. Any more forthcoming?