One of Ka-Bar’s Most Time-Tested Folding Knives Just Became a Modern EDC Contender

This classic hunting knife gets a serious blade steel upgrade, vaulting it into the contemporary carry conversation.

Ka-Bar Dozier S35VN Folding Hunter outdoors

Published April 28, 2025

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Updated April 28, 2025

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For 20 years, Ka-Bar’s Bob Dozier-designed Folding Hunter has represented the brand’s pinnacle of value, meshing versatile utility with extreme affordability.

This knife has now been given new life with a significant blade upgrade that makes it a seriously modern EDC knife while maintaining its overall value and affordability. Meet the aptly named Ka-Bar Dozier S35VN Folding Hunter.

Ka-Bar Dozier S35VN Folding Hunter — The upgrade to S35VN steel increases the knife’s value without sacrificing what makes it great.

Going through changes

Let’s start with the good news: the standard version of the Dozier Folding Hunter (which has D2 steel) still exists and is available in several different colorways. This upgrade hasn’t replaced it, but it does offer a more upscale, high-performing option for those who want it.

As mentioned, the only real difference between the standard and this new version is that the steel has been swapped out for S35VN. The blade is still a drop-point shape, measuring 3.0 inches in length, and it comes with a black finish (which isn’t exclusive to this version).

It’s worth noting that this steel swap is a significant upgrade over the original. While D2 is a great all-around budget-friendly steel, S35VN outperforms it in nearly every way. It’s especially beloved for its edge retention and corrosion resistance.

While that upgrade comes with a price bump, the knife is still relatively affordable. You’d be hard-pressed to find a knife of similar quality with this blade steel for under $100.

All that remains

As mentioned, the blade steel swap is the primary difference between this Dozier and the standard edition. For those who loved this knife already, that’s excellent news.

The knife still measures 7.25 inches overall (as mentioned, with a 3.0-inch drop-point blade). It also maintains its iconic, versatile silhouette.

Regarding mechanisms and other features, it retains its sturdy, reliable back lock and lightweight-yet-tough Zytel handle scales. It also still has its reversible pocket clip and lanyard hole on the tail.

Like its siblings, this knife remains a relatively no-nonsense folder that’s as capable in an EDC sense as it is in the outdoors (its original purpose). It’s not super fancy, even with the new steel, but it’s a great performer and will be a reliable go-to knife for years to come.

Pricing and availability

The Ka-Bar Dozier S35VN Folding Hunter EDC knife is now available on the brand’s site for just $97. While pricier than the D2 version, it’s still a remarkable value for a steel of this caliber.