At that time, knives became weapons. Today, things are changing. Knife manufacturers are working to provide more than just a defensive tool. Rubber and various composites are being used as material for handles versus the steel of the past. Instead of bright, shiny blades, manufacturers have begun to favor techniques such as Armaloy to soften the appearance.
Knives are tools, again.
Serrated blades, multi-purpose tools, compact axes, and specialized saws have become a part of the outdoorsman's pack. Matt Foster of Gerber Knives addressed the trend. Hunters and fishermen put them to all kinds of tests. Today's knife manufacturers have had to improve steel quality and manufacturing techniques. For example, we have gone to ATS-34 steel for the blades on our Gator series.