One word of caution when buying this style of knife, many dealers are not even aware of the differences in the models. I have seen both brick and mortar stores and online stores selling the wrong knife under the wrong name, so BE CAREFUL! It may be worth paying a little more from a reputable retailer to make sure you’re getting exactly what you want.
There are three types (not two) of Gerber LMF II, ASEK, Survival, and Infantry knives. Most people think that only two types were released. Here are the differences.
The Gerber LMF II ASEK version comes with the sheath, knife, TWO leg straps, safety knife, and safety knife sheath. Additional blades for the safety knife can be found on the handle. ASEK is ONLY available in foliage green color and is resistant to INFRA-REDS.
The Gerber LMF II Survival version comes with the sheath, knife, TWO leg straps, safety knife, and safety knife sheath. Additional blades for the safety knife can be found on the handle. The SURVIVAL SOLO version is available in camel brown. It is NOT infrared resistant.
The Gerber LMF II infantry version comes with the holster and ONE leg strap. The INFANTRY version is available in foliage green, camel brown, and my personal favorite … black.
There is another important thing you should know. From January 2008 to April 2008, the steel in these knives was temporarily changed from Sandvik 12C27 SS to 440A US SS. Production with the original steel was resumed in May 2008. Gerber had to change steel grades due to a lack of available material. The 440A US SS was the closest pair they could get.
These are excellent knives and I highly recommend them. They are excellent for hunting, camping, surviving, and have even seen action in foreign lands. If you are looking for a good solid fixed blade razor, you can’t go wrong with one of these models.
Here are the model numbers of the different types of knives.
22-01627 Green foliage LMFII ASEK (IR)
22-01626 Green Foliage Infantry LMF II
22-01117 Foliage Green LMFII knife only (does not include sheath)
22-01118 Foliage Green LMFII sheath only (knife not included)
22-01400 Camel Brown LMFII Survival
22-01463 Camel Brown Infantry LMF II
22-01629 LMF II Black Infantry