SOG Kiku: Matsuda Fighters for Less

Published on March 2, 2014
Duration: 18:21

This review covers the SOG Kiku series of knives, designed in collaboration with Kiku Matsuda. The series includes folding and fixed blade models, noted for their attractive, oriental-inspired designs and functional grinds. The reviewer highlights their suitability for tactical applications and EDC, praising their cutting performance and handle ergonomics, while also discussing potential drawbacks like weight and sharpening complexity.

Quick Summary

The SOG Kiku knife series, a collaboration with Kiku Matsuda, offers attractive, oriental-inspired designs with functional Tanto recurve blades and Hami ba grinds. Utilizing AUS-8 steel, these knives provide excellent cutting performance and ergonomic linen Micarta handles, making them suitable for tactical use and everyday carry at a more accessible price point than custom versions.

Chapters

  1. 00:01Intro & Kiku Series Overview
  2. 00:40Advice for Knife Makers
  3. 00:51Oriental Flavor & Kiku Matsuda Collaboration
  4. 01:16Steel Types in Customs
  5. 01:32Blade Grind Description
  6. 01:53Affordability of SOG Collaborations
  7. 02:08SOG Kiku K-101 (Large Folding)
  8. 02:32SOG Kiku K-101 (Small Folding)
  9. 03:01SOG Kiku K-201 (Small Fixed Blade)
  10. 03:16Philosophy of Use
  11. 03:42Blade Lengths
  12. 03:50Reach for Self-Defense
  13. 04:00Size Comparison: Small Fixed vs. Folder
  14. 04:21Fixed Blade vs. Folder Concerns
  15. 04:31Fixed Blade Weight & Thickness
  16. 04:52Tactical Blade Potential
  17. 05:00EDC Suitability
  18. 05:12Micro Kiku Idea
  19. 05:25Hunting Knife Potential
  20. 05:30Blade Origin & Intent
  21. 05:48Proxy Blades & Affordability
  22. 06:05Weight Discussion
  23. 06:13Liner Milling
  24. 06:18Liner Material
  25. 06:48Return for Weight
  26. 06:53Strong Tip & Penetration
  27. 07:09Deadly Penetration
  28. 07:14Feel & Authority
  29. 07:19Weight vs. Blade Size
  30. 07:41Steel Type: AUS-8
  31. 07:53Satin vs. Black TiN Finish
  32. 08:01Stamping & Small Fixed Blade
  33. 08:10Resharpening Difficulty
  34. 08:18Sharpening Tools
  35. 08:33Out of Box Edge Test
  36. 08:43Cutting Performance
  37. 08:53Reverse Belly Grind Effect
  38. 09:12Superb Out of Box Edge
  39. 09:22Aesthetic Grind Criticism
  40. 09:29Speed Test
  41. 09:37Blade Speed Judgment
  42. 09:46Pivot System: Phosphor Bronze Bushings
  43. 09:57Blade Centering
  44. 10:06Small Kiku Centering
  45. 10:10Thumb Stud Accessibility
  46. 10:17Quick Pop Out & Shake Out
  47. 10:21Retention
  48. 10:35Lock Up
  49. 10:47Fixed Blade Lock Up (Joke)
  50. 10:58Fixed Blade Strength
  51. 11:04Liner Lock Material
  52. 11:13Liner Lock Thickness
  53. 11:19Realistic Application
  54. 11:30Speed Score
  55. 11:35Strength Assessment
  56. 11:44Handle Visual Interest
  57. 11:47Linen Micarta Handle Execution
  58. 11:57Visual Detail
  59. 12:06Handle Construction Details
  60. 12:18Handle Feel & Traction
  61. 12:30Sub-Hilt Design
  62. 12:35Tactical Grip
  63. 12:42Gimping Wishlist
  64. 12:47Fixed Blade Gimping
  65. 12:57Fixed Blade Handle Construction
  66. 13:03Large Fixed Blade Weight
  67. 13:15Large Kiku Fixed Blade Model
  68. 13:15Handle Length Preference
  69. 13:27Lanyard Hole
  70. 13:29Full Tang & Skull Crusher Pommel
  71. 13:36Handle Slab Removability
  72. 13:39Olive Drab Linen Micarta
  73. 13:47Handle Execution Praise
  74. 13:51Folder Handle Length
  75. 13:57Handle Comparison
  76. 14:08Comfortable Handle
  77. 14:14Ergonomics Recap
  78. 14:20Clip Design Praise
  79. 14:29SOG Clip Consistency
  80. 14:36SOG vs. Spyderco Clips
  81. 14:40Kershaw Clip Issues
  82. 14:51Clip on Small Folder
  83. 15:02Loop Over Clip
  84. 15:06Large Folder Clip
  85. 15:11Clip Details
  86. 15:25Open Construction
  87. 15:29Stop Pin
  88. 15:35Stop Pin Size
  89. 15:40Durability
  90. 15:43SOG Customer Service
  91. 15:47Spyderco Clip Replacement Experience
  92. 16:17SOG vs. Spyderco Service
  93. 16:22Value & Pricing
  94. 16:46Fixed Blade Sheath Review
  95. 16:55Sheath Quality
  96. 16:58MOLLE Attachment Wish
  97. 17:02Sheath Material & Construction
  98. 17:14Nylon Quality
  99. 17:21Sheath Fit
  100. 17:25Sheath Weight Consideration
  101. 17:30Attachment Method
  102. 17:40Sheath Overall Impression
  103. 17:45Recommendation for Kiku Matsuda Fans
  104. 17:49Kiku Matsuda's Reputation
  105. 17:58Combat Blade Orientation
  106. 18:01SOG Collaborative Effort
  107. 18:05Fair Price Consideration
  108. 18:07Performance, Cutting, Looks, Durability
  109. 18:13Final Recommendation

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key features of the SOG Kiku knife series?

The SOG Kiku series, designed with Kiku Matsuda, features attractive, oriental-inspired designs with a Tanto recurve blade and a Hami ba grind. Models include folding and fixed blade options, known for their functional grinds, good cutting performance, and ergonomic linen Micarta handles.

What steel is used in the SOG Kiku knives?

The SOG Kiku knives reviewed utilize AUS-8 steel, which is cryogenically treated. This steel is known for being easy to sharpen, relatively rust-resistant, and durable, making it a good choice for tactical and everyday carry applications.

How does the SOG Kiku series compare to Kiku Matsuda's custom knives?

The SOG Kiku series offers a more affordable and attainable version of Kiku Matsuda's custom designs. While Matsuda's customs can cost up to $1,000 and use steels like VG-10 or ATS-34, the SOG collaborations provide a similar aesthetic and functional experience at a production knife price point.

What are the pros and cons of the SOG Kiku knife handles?

The linen Micarta handles are a strong point, offering excellent grip, warmth, and visual appeal with a sculpted sub-hilt design. However, the reviewer notes the handle on the small fixed blade is short, which might not suit everyone's preference for longer grips.

More Tactical & Gear Videos You Might Like

More from nutnfancy

View all →