SOG knives are one of the most popular names in the market today. These blades are known for their excellent quality and beautiful aesthetics. It isn’t surprising that some of these blades are actually part of collections as many people see SOG knives as a work of art. However – what exactly makes these knives stand out from their competitors? For those who are fascinated with these knives and thinking of buying – We’ve included some short, concise and readable information that might prove useful.
By the way, if you’re wanting the short answer to where the knives are made, we can tell you 4 places we know they are made, but which ones exactly come from where is harder because it changes from time to time. The four places are USA, JAPAN, CHINA and TAIWAN. See more details at the end of this post!
The SOG Company
The company was started by Spencer and Gloria Frazer in 1986. The name was actually derived from the Joint Services Special Operations unit or the Military Assistance Command, Vietnam Studies and Observations Group. When shortened, the name is MACV-SOG or simply SOG. This group is known for developing their own knife while in the midst of the war in Vietnam.
Ever since their establishment, the SOG Company worked its way in creating some of the best blade tools in the country. Although fairly slow, the name has worked its way to the top and is currently the provider for some of the most distinguished groups involved in the military today.
Our Favorite SOG knife … for now!
Presenting…. The SOG fixed blade Seal Team Elite Survival Knife. It’s one mean hunting/tactical/survival knife. It features a hard-cased Titanium Nitride (TINI) black coated blade for looks and longevity, and it also includes a ballistic nylon, MOLLE compatible sheath. The blade is made of AUS-8 stainless steel and it’s 7 inches long! Overall, the Seal Team Elite is a smidge over 1 foot long and is cryogenically hardened. The handle is made of a nearly indestructible nylon which offers a very good grip and needs no maintenance.
It comes razor sharp right out of the package and while it is not FULL tang (unfortunately), it does offer an “extended tang” for lifetime durability. SOG is very sure you’ll likely never need their services after the sale, but they do want to please! That’s why they’ll consider all repair or replacement requests. That’s a great deal! They also tell us that even with hard use, this particular outd00r/tactical/survival/hunting/Bowie-style knife is a knife for LIFE!
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What Makes the SOG Knife Desirable?
All knives with the name SOG are viewed as incredibly useful and durable. Due to their long-standing reputation, the quality of what they produce is no longer put in question. Even more, all their products are guaranteed against any type of defects for life. The only exception here is the Fusion SOG which is covered by a guarantee for one year upon date of purchase.
Even the Philosophy of the company is impressive and reflects their dedication to creating high-quality knives. Their goal is to create knives through the use of advanced technology, high-quality materials, imaginative design and top construction. Through these, SOG hopes to bring to life top-caliber products designed to make the life of users easier.
Uses for SOG Knives Today
SOG Knives produce blades for practically everyone. Their niche is within casual outdoor and military personnel. In fact, some SOG knives are being used by the United States Navy SEAL and goes by the official name of Seal 2000. This is the very reason why SOG is popular among collectors. If even the military trusts them to perform wonderfully under pressure, then the knife is surely worth collecting.
Another impressive product produced by SOG is the tactical switchblade. This engineering marvel is only available to military or law enforcement personnel. Still, civilians have the choice between various other SOG blades such as the Tech Bowie. They also produce several multi-tools named the PowerLock, ParaTool and Power Assist.
Where Are they Made?
SOG is a multi-national company which means that their products are available in various parts of the world. Bearing this in mind, the production process is scattered all over different sections of the globe, depending on the situation of the market. Some of their knives are actually made within the United States or at least assembled here. Most blades, however – specifically the higher quality ones are made in Japan. Since the technology in this country is impressive, Japanese factories are capable of forging some of the most durable blades in history while using only the best materials the market has to offer.
Lastly, the more affordable tools are being made in China or Taiwan. Note though that cheaper doesn’t mean less durable. The SOG line has always prided itself with their strong products and makes sure that the units coming from Taiwan and China meet their high standards. All the knives are checked for quality before being shipped for sale.
For those of you who are REALLY into exact countries, here’s the best general outline we have for basic tools and their countries of origin;
Most fixed blade SOGs are made in Taiwan, while most multi-tools are USA-made. As for most of their folding knives, the better ones are made in the USA and Japan, though cheaper models can come from China and Taiwan. Many of SOG’s less common products are made in China like Tomahawks, throwing knives and battle axes.
I’m going to go out on a limb and say that if it doesn’t say JAPAN or USA somewhere on the product, then SOG (like most other brands) doesn’t want you to know where it’s made. That means it’s likely China or perhaps Taiwan. That is my 50+ years of experience talking and not the result of any official online research.