Ka Bar Cutlass Machete v Ontario SP5 Big Bowie

L

Loves2stabU

Joined
Feb 22, 2008
Messages
35
I really like the ontario SP5, at least the way it looks anyway. It has the exact blade shape and design I am looking for. The handle looks pretty good to and the price isn't bad. But I heard some review at cutlery science where it failed under "light load."

Anyway, can those who have owned them please chime in and let me know how durable they are to actual field use? And if you have had some problems, let me know how cust svc honored their warranty. They have a lifetime warranty don't they?

I am also looking at KaBar cutlass machete though it only has .171 thick steel blade. They also have life time warranty. Anyone chime in about this one also and about KaBars cust svc?
 
Either would be OK. Keep in mind the Ontario review, while not exactly reassuring, is several years old. It's unlikely Ontario has let QC lapse for so long. The Kabar is similarly constructed to the Heavy Bowie tested by Noss, a very good performer. I'd have no qualms about beating a knife with "only" a .171 thick steel blade. ;)
 
The KaBar cutlass machete is an excellent knife. I've had one for years and it has been very useful and extremely durable, holding up to a good deal of hard use with nary a whimper. The edge retention on mine has been unbelievable. It is a poor man's Busse Battle Mistress. I would strongly recommend tihs knife to anyone, especially in its price range.
 
I no longer have the Ka-Bar Cutlass machete, but it will out chop the SP5 easily. I prefer the lighter SP5 for all-around use, though. I have used my SP5 for over 8 years, chopping, splitting, and cutting. I know others have had failures with them, but mine has held up very well. Until I got my Dog Father LE, it was my favorite bowie that was light enough to carry all day.
 
We had the cutlass machete as part of a roundup. It's a mean old chopper but I FAR prefer the 14" Bowie as it's FAR more useful and is better balanced. In fact, it's my current go-to big blade from kitchen to campsite. The Grips on these are the best of anything I've handled in any material or design. I'd post pictures but man am i pushed for time!!!
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top