SOG Seal Pup: Comes Up Short

Published on July 18, 2008
Duration: 10:01

This review of the SOG Seal Pup, presented by experienced gear reviewer Nutnfancy, highlights its durable Kydex sheath and lightweight design. However, significant criticisms are raised regarding the use of AUS-6 steel, suboptimal blade geometry for sharpening, a large gap between the handle and edge reducing control, and uncomfortable handle ergonomics for larger hands. Nutnfancy ultimately recommends the Seal Pup Elite as a superior alternative.

Quick Summary

Experienced reviewer Nutnfancy critically analyzes the SOG Seal Pup, praising its Kydex sheath and light weight but lamenting the use of AUS-6 steel, difficult blade geometry, poor edge control due to handle gap, and uncomfortable ergonomics, ultimately recommending the Seal Pup Elite.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Knife Collecting
  2. 01:37Pros: Weight and Sheath
  3. 02:09Critique of AUS-6 Steel
  4. 03:41Sharpness and Blade Geometry
  5. 04:59Design Flaw: Edge Placement
  6. 06:15Grind and Utility Comparison
  7. 08:08Handle Ergonomics
  8. 09:01Sheath Features
  9. 09:30Conclusion and Recommendations

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main criticisms of the SOG Seal Pup?

The primary criticisms of the SOG Seal Pup include its use of softer AUS-6 steel, a blade geometry that is difficult to sharpen, a large gap between the handle and the edge reducing control, and uncomfortable handle ergonomics for larger hands.

What are the positive aspects of the SOG Seal Pup?

Positive aspects of the SOG Seal Pup include its compact and lightweight design (9.5 oz with sheath) and a well-executed, durable Kydex sheath with useful features like quick-release buttons and multiple lash points.

What steel is the SOG Seal Pup made from, and is it recommended?

The original SOG Seal Pup is made from AUS-6 steel, which is considered a softer steel and a poor choice for a combat-style knife by the reviewer. He recommends the SOG Seal Pup Elite, which uses AUS-8 steel.

How does the SOG Seal Pup compare to other knives for bushcraft?

The SOG Seal Pup's multi-faceted grind is less effective for bushcraft tasks like batoning wood when compared to the full flat or convex grinds found on knives like the KA-BAR or Recon Scout.

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