WTG Ares Gen 2 - No Choil - Dark Washed SK85 Blade - Canvas Micarta Handle - Black Kydex Sheath

Work Tuff Gear — Hemlock Ares Gen 2-NC (SK85)

NC stands for Non-Choil version.

Thanks to a larger production run, we’re able to offer the Ares at a more accessible price point this time — without compromising the materials or build quality that Work Tuff Gear is known for.

The Hemlock Ares is the tool you bring when compromise isn’t acceptable. Positioned between axe and knife, it’s a purpose-built survival blade engineered to take punishment and keep working. Built for batoning, heavy chopping, and extended field use, the Ares favors strength, serviceability, and straightforward geometry over gimmicks.

Crafted from Japanese SK85 high-carbon steel, the Ares delivers exceptional toughness and edge retention — the kind of performance you need when the work is relentless. A steep saber grind and stepped spine concentrate mass for impact work, while a broad belly flows into a reinforced tip for dependable cutting and piercing. The simple geometry makes field maintenance straightforward and ensures deep, reliable bites when you need them most.

Multiple grip positions — plus the ability to choke up on the blade — give surprising control for fine tasks like food prep and feathering despite its hefty nature. Designed around a single question — if this knife were all you had, could you survive? — The Ares was tested against shelter-building, game processing, timber work, and everyday camp duties.

The result: an intentionally overbuilt, no-nonsense survival tool that prefers performance to flash.

• Saber grind with the convex edge
• Japanese SK85 RC 56-58 
• 3D machined canvas micarta material
• Weight w/ Sheath: 45oz
• Hand Made Pancake Kydex sheath 
• Forged from Japanese SK85 high-carbon steel for toughness and edge retention
• Purpose-built for batoning, chopping, and sustained heavy use
• Steep saber grind for efficient displacement and durability
• Stepped spine and reinforced tip for increased striking area and tip strength
• Simple, field-serviceable geometry for easy sharpening
• Multiple grip options for control across heavy and precision tasks
• Upgraded Kydex sheath for Multi-position carry. 

1. Specs:
2. Overall Length: 16.1" (409mm)
3. Blade Length: 9.25" (235mm)
4. Cutting Edge Length: 9.2" (234mm)
5. Blade Thickness: 0.267" (7mm)
6. Handle Length: 6.85"
7. Blade Steel: SK85
8. Blade Style: Chopper
9. Edge Style: Plain
10. Blade Finish: Darkwashed
11. Handle Material: Micarta
12. Tang: Full
13. Weight: 38oz
14. Country of Origin: Taiwan
15. Sheath: Black Kydex