Clearing up the confusion on the different types of Gerber LMF II knives – ASEK vs Infantry vs Survival

A word of caution when shopping for this style of knife, many dealers don’t even know the differences in the models. I have seen both physical 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 he’s getting exactly what he wants.

There are three types (not two) of Gerber LMF II knives, the ASEK, the Survival, and the Infantry. 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 in the handle. The ASEK SOLO is available in foliage green and is IR resistant.

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 in the handle. The SURVIVAL version is ONLY 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 favourite…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. In May 2008, production with the original steel was resumed. Gerber had to change steel types due to a lack of available material. The 440A US SS was as close as they could get.

These are great knives and I highly recommend them. They are excellent at hunting, camping, surviving, and have even seen action in foreign lands. If you’re looking for a good solid fixed blade knife, you can’t go wrong with one of these models.

Here are the model numbers for the different types of knives.

22-01627 Foliage Green LMFII ASEK (IR)

22-01626 Foliage Green LMF II Infantry

22-01117 Foliage Green LMFII knife only (no sheath included)

22-01118 Foliage Green LMFII Sheath only (knife not included)

22-01400 Camel Brown LMFII Survival

22-01463 Camel Brown LMF II Infantry

22-01629 LMF II Black Infantry