Ka-Bar Becker Eskabar BK14 handle scales

In late 2009, Ethan Becker—designer of the Becker Knife & Tool series—created a "Frankenstein" prototype by combining the blade shape from his BK11 Necker with the ergonomic handle scales from the ESEE Izula (designed by Jeff Randall and Mike Perrin of Randall's Adventure & Training / ESEE Knives). He posted photos of this hybrid neck knife online around December 20, 2009, sparking immediate interest in the community

Inspired by fan enthusiasm and the natural synergy between the two brands' survival-focused designs, Ka-Bar (official manufacturer of Becker knives since ~2008) collaborated with ESEE to produce the official version. The Ka-Bar Becker Eskabar BK14 debuted in Fall 2010 (late 2010 production release, per BladeForums and catalogs), with the name "EsKabar" chosen by a customer (blending "ESEE" and "Ka-Bar")

The Ka-Bar Becker Eskabar BK14 features a 3.25-inch drop-point blade in tough 1095 Cro-Van carbon steel (powder-coated for corrosion resistance, 0.165" thick) for excellent slicing, piercing, and durability. Weighing just ~2.4 oz (overall 7 inches), it uses the Izula-style skeletonized handle with paracord wrap option, quillon guard from the Necker, and a hard plastic sheath with swivel lock—perfect for neck carry, EDC fixed blade, survival knives, or backup tasks

Made in the USA, it earned praise for lightweight versatility, ergonomic grip, and unbeatable value (~$50–$70 MSRP). Variants in D2 steel and custom sheaths followed, cementing the BK14 as a cult classic hybrid in compact survival knives and tactical neck knives—symbolizing cross-brand innovation in hard-use tools