Strider Knives

Overview

Strider Knives was a custom and production knifemaking facility specializing in high-performance folding and fixed-blade knives designed for military and tactical use. The company became known for innovative designs featuring premium steel alloys, titanium construction, and subdued finishes that prioritized functionality over aesthetics. Strider knives gained recognition for their overbuilt construction, hard-use performance, and adoption by U.S. military special operations units, establishing the brand as a significant player in the tactical knife market.

History

Founded in 1994 by Mickey Ray Burger (Mick Strider), the company began by supplying Naval Special Warfare Group 1 with WB and BG models. Strider pioneered innovations in tactical knife design, including paracord-wrapped handles engineered for sustained military use and integral titanium construction. The company produced specialized models for various U.S. Military units throughout the Global War on Terror, each with its own National Stock Number (NSN). After 25 years in operation, Strider announced the closure of Strider Knives in 2017, with the last production knives sold at Blade Show 2017. Mick Strider transitioned to producing limited high-end custom knives under his Classic Line through Mick Strider Custom Knives (MSC) while continuing warranty service on all Strider Knives products.

Product Lines

Manufacturing

Strider Knives manufactured knives in-house at its San Marcos, California facility using premium materials including ATS-34, CPM S30V steel, titanium, stellite, beryllium, damascus steel, and BG-42 for blades. Handle materials included steel, paracord, and G-10 fiberglass. The company later expanded to work with advanced super steels including CTS-204P, Z-Wear, CTS-40CP, and CPM-S110V.

Notable Products

• WB Model - Early production knife supplied to Naval Special Warfare Group 1 in 1994, establishing the company's military credentials
• BG Model - Companion model to the WB, part of the original Naval Special Warfare Group 1 contract
• SMF - Iconic tactical folding knife known for innovative design and hard-use performance
• SnG - Signature model recognized as a brutalist icon in the tactical knife world
• Titanium Integral Battle Blade - 2002 Blade Show winner featuring ½-inch titanium construction with zippered composite blade and integral guard

Reputation

Strider Knives earned respect among military professionals, special operations units, and knife enthusiasts for uncompromising design focused on functionality and durability. The brand is recognized for pioneering innovations in tactical knife construction and for producing some of the most overbuilt, hard-use knives available. Collectors and users appreciate the subdued aesthetics and practical engineering that prioritized performance over appearance. The company's closure in 2017 after 25 years was viewed by the community as a deliberate decision to preserve the brand's legacy rather than compromise quality, though some enthusiasts expressed disappointment at the discontinuation of production models.