Big, bold, and built for action. SOG (short for Studies and Observations Group) Knives are known for their solid construction and overall toughness. They’re the knife of choice for many military operators including NAVY SEALs since 1986. SOG has set the industry standard for beefy knives that can handle almost anything thrown at them. In this article we break down our Top 7 SOG Knives and what makes them so great! Read on to learn more!
Check out the top seven SOG knives below. Catch a review from one of our beloved customers at the end of each breakdown!
1. Terminus XR
SOG has added an upgrade to their Terminus series of folding knives with the Terminus XR. This model features a G-10 handle with an XR locking mechanism and a D2 blade. The blade can be quickly deployed using ambidextrous thumb studs or a flipper opener. Item includes a reversible deep carry pocket clip.
- Overall Length: 7.00″
- Blade Length: 3.00” Drop Point Blade
- Blade Material: D2
- Handle Material: G-10
- Locking Mechanism: SOG XR Lock
Kelly A. says…
“When I first saw this knife I was apprehensive, the price and honestly the brand made me worried it wouldn’t hold up to my other knives. After watching a review I decided to take a chance and well… I was wrong. Perfectly centered, chamfered, sharp and with great action to boot. I was impressed, and I still am! The XR lock is super strong and the fidget factor is off the charts. More than that, however, I beat the crap out of this knife and it keeps on cutting. Impressive knife.”
2. Seal XR
Meet SOG’s Seal XR Flipper Knife. This knife is large, meaty, and dressed head to toe in grip-enhancing jimping. The nearly 4″ blade is Cerakote coated for added durability. The XR lock all but cements the blade in place for maximum lockup and can be operated at either side. The pocket clip is reversible, making this tool completely ambidextrous. Ideal for use with gloves and ready to meet all your cutting needs. The tactical design is finished off with a strike pommel.
- Overall Length: 9.125”
- Blade Length: 3.875”
- Blade Material: CPM-S35VN
- Handle Material: FRN
- Locking Mechanism: SOG XR Lock
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3. Spec Elite Auto II
The Spec Elite 2 Auto series from SOG Knives features a solid and dependable build designed as a go-to tool for military and law enforcement personnel. Each knife comes equipped with a substantial 4″ clip point blade made from high-quality AUS-8 stainless steel. Its hard anodized, machined aluminum handle is a lightweight platform that provides an excellent sense of balance, comfort, and control always.
- Overall Length: 8.90”
- Blade Length: 4.00”
- Blade Material: AUS-8
- Handle Material: Aluminum
- Locking Mechanism: Plunge Lock
Steve D. says…
“I currently have a Sog spec elite II with a black blade, but I also wanted a satin blade because…. no reason, I just wanted another one. The satin bladed knife is identical in that the blade is quick opening and light in weight. Both are my EDC knives and now I have a choice in addition to my Sog slimline XL. I, in particular like the AUS-8 steel in the blade because it takes a razor-sharp edge in a few minutes and just a few passes on a sharpening steel returns the blade to a razor. I’m thinking of buying a couple for holiday presents. Overall, an excellent knife for defense and EDC.”
4. Kiku XR
One of the most iconic SOG designs gets the XR treatment with the Kiku XR! There is so much to love about this awesome knife! It’s got a sculpted handle that allows for a solid grip even when wet, and two pocket clips for either right- or left-hand carry while still being amazingly comfortable in hand. The blade locks up with no play in any direction with the XR lock, which, by the way, is super easy to use either right or left-handed. The blade is made of cryogenic heat-treated CTS-XHP for optimal blade performance. What are you waiting for? Grab your Kiku XR today!
- Overall Length: 7.375”
- Blade Length: 3.00”
- Blade Material: CTS-XHP
- Handle Material: Micarta
- Locking Mechanism: SOG XR Lock
Frederick S. says…
“Sharp as the Reaper’s scythe and as deadly looking too. A Very nice blade that i get comments on every time I pull it. It comfortable even in my bear cub hands and opens with a flick of the wrist. Locks up solid and closes sweet. One of my favorite knives.”
5. SOG-TAC ST-04 Tanto Auto
The SOG-TAC ST-04 Tanto is SOG’s first automatic knife and it was worth the wait. This knife is remarkably lightweight and thin, so you won’t feel like you’re hauling a lead weight. Its action is quick and the lock-up is flawless. It features a low-riding bayonet-style pocket clip that’s reversible and made for tip-up carry.
- Overall Length: 8.00”
- Blade Length: 3.50”
- Blade Material: AUS-8
- Handle Material: Aluminum
- Locking Mechanism: Plunge Lock
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6. Pillar Fixed Blade
The SOG Pillar is a USA-made tactical fixed blade featuring a resilient no-nonsense build. Its full-tang clip point blade is made from premium CPM-S35VN stainless steel with a two-tone satin/stonewashed finish and wide notched jimping. Grooved black canvas Micarta scales offer a secure, full grip in any weather. Includes Kydex sheath with Tek-Lok compatible mount.
- Overall Length: 9.90”
- Blade Length: 5.00”
- Blade Material: CPM-S35VN
- Handle Material: Micarta
- Locking Mechanism: Kydex Sheath
Michael M. says…
“This is my go to fixed blade for many situations. Love S35VN. Comes razor sharp and stays that way for a long time. The sheath is by far the best I’ve seen any knife come with before. Super comfortable and great for long usage. Love the exposed tang and overall finish of the knife. 13/10.”
7. Seal Pup Elite Fixed Blade
Last but certainly not least, the SOG SEAL Pup Elite is a high-performance edition to the SEAL family of products. Sometimes… we just “have to have” more horsepower, the racing suspension, and every available option including sunroof. All kidding aside, the SEAL Pup Elite is serious business and carries on the tradition of supplying the world’s elite military forces. This knife includes a Kydex carry sheath. Over many years of military experience, an active duty Navy SEAL witnessed a recurring theme: open blades are useful and necessary but dangerous to equipment and personnel. His own personal experience with this problem occurred, coupled with countless stories of injuries to people and equipment, led him to invent the patent pending “GROOOOVE!”. He spent months drafting and testing prototypes. This innovation allows rope/line to be cut without unsheathing the knife.
- Overall Length: 9.50”
- Blade Length: 4.85”
- Blade Material: AUS-8
- Handle Material: GFN
- Locking Mechanism: Kydex Sheath
Trevor N. says…
“Great steel, very sharp, and the nylon is firm. Great fixed blade for your field craft.”
Conclusion
Whether you’re after a solid knife for everyday carry or a hefty fixed blade for camping or work, SOG Knives are a great choice. Their designs and build quality give these knives that timeless quality we look for in many things we buy. They come in many shapes, sizes and price-points so chances are there’s a SOG knife for you.
If these SOG knives don’t catch your eye or meet your needs, check out our full line of SOG Knives by clicking below. Or check out our SOG Ultra XR Review where we dive deep into this great SOG EDC pocket knife.
While these are our top SOG recommendations, Blade HQ has got way more knives than the ones featured here. Leave a review of your favorite and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all your future knife updates.
Learn More
Need more SOG knives? Check out this recent episode of Knife Banter where we sit down with SOG to see their new line up for 2021. Yeehaw!
Other Best Knife Guides
Still in that information gathering phase? We’ve got a whole bunch more lists of all the Best Knives! Happy hunting and may you find that one special knife of your dreams!
*Customer reviews may be condensed for clarity and edited for grammatical errors. You know we have to make our high school English teacher proud. Check product listings for current pricing.
