SOG makes knives and multitools with roots in military history, best known for blending functional design with a heritage that traces to Vietnam-era special operations. Founded in 1986 by Spencer and Gloria Frazer, the company took its name from MACV-SOG, the Studies and Observations Group, and launched with a reproduction of the distinctive combat knife that unit carried. From that single commemorative design, SOG grew into a full line of knives and tools used by military, law enforcement, tradespeople, and outdoor users.

The lineup covers folding and fixed-blade pocket knives and tactical knives, along with multitools and field tools that carry the same design focus. SOG also produces axes and specialty tools for camp and field use.

SOG's identity is functional engineering with distinctive design. The company built its reputation on knives that balance capability with a clean, purposeful look, and it has developed patented mechanisms across its folders and multitools, including assisted opening systems for fast deployment and compound-leverage multitools that increase gripping and cutting power. Blade steel choices balance edge retention against ease of maintenance, and either serves well when the edge is kept up. Whether the tool is a slim EDC folder, a full-tang fixed blade for hard field use, or a multitool for repairs, SOG's focus stays on giving the user a capable tool matched to the task.

Pair a SOG knife with an EDC flashlight, add a multitool for daily tasks, and compare hard-use blades in tactical knives.