The company was founded in 1986 by Spencer and Gloria Frazer and was inspired in its choice of name by the Joint Services Special Operations unit known as the Military Assistance Command, Vietnam Studies and Observations Group (MACV-SOG) who developed their own knife during the War in Vietnam.

[4] A second "maritime" version of the Bowie (S2) was made utilizing a black micarta handle and stainless steel blade known as the Trident.

[4] It was decorated with the US Navy SEAL emblem as opposed to the Special Forces Crest found on the Bowie.

[7] SOG Specialty Knives manufactures an array of tools available for military personnel and casual outdoor users.

[1] SOG also makes several other military style knives including a tactical switchblade which is only available to military/law enforcement personnel.