Ontario Knife XR-1 N690Co Blade Review

Let’s Dive into Ontario Knife XR-1 N690Co Blade

The Ontario Knife XR-1 N690Co Blade is Ontario Knife’s offering in the premium folding knife market, featuring Austrian-made N690Co steel and Italian craftsmanship. This knife aims to deliver a high-performance cutting tool suitable for everyday carry (EDC), tactical use, and outdoor adventures. It promises a blend of durability, edge retention, and ergonomic design, attempting to justify its higher price point.

I had been searching for a folding knife that could withstand daily use and occasional hard tasks during my wilderness excursions. I wanted a blade that could hold an edge, feel comfortable in hand, and be easily deployed in urgent situations. The Ontario Knife XR-1 N690Co Blade’s features seemed promising.

Upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by the XR-1’s solid construction and clean lines. The weight felt substantial, suggesting quality materials, and the satin finish on the blade was visually appealing. The handle ergonomics looked promising for a secure grip.

Compared to my Spyderco Paramilitary 2 and Benchmade Bugout, the Ontario Knife XR-1 N690Co Blade offered a different appeal. The Paramilitary 2 is known for its comfortable grip and exceptional cutting performance, while the Bugout is praised for its lightweight design. I chose the XR-1 because I wanted to explore a knife with a steel that I had little experience with, in addition to a more robust build that could withstand tougher use than my Bugout.

My initial impression was excitement mixed with cautious optimism. I was impressed by the fit and finish, but real-world testing would determine if the Ontario Knife XR-1 N690Co Blade lived up to its potential.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Ontario Knife XR-1 N690Co Blade to the Test

First Use Experience

I initially tested the Ontario Knife XR-1 N690Co Blade during a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. I used it for various tasks such as food preparation, cutting rope for setting up my tent, and whittling wood for kindling. The environment was damp, and temperatures fluctuated between 40-60°F.

The XR-1’s performance was commendable in wet conditions. The handle offered a surprisingly secure grip even when my hands were damp. The blade deployed smoothly and locked securely, inspiring confidence during use.

I was initially surprised by how quickly I adapted to the knife’s ergonomics. Despite its substantial feel, the handle felt natural in my hand, and the thumb stud allowed for quick and easy one-handed deployment. After some initial use, I appreciated the intuitive design.

There were no major issues, but I did notice the blade seemed to dull slightly faster than I expected during initial wood processing, though nothing significant.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Ontario Knife XR-1 N690Co Blade has proven to be a reliable tool. It has accompanied me on several more camping trips, hunting excursions, and serves as my EDC knife.

The blade has held up remarkably well, showing only minor scratches from daily use. The N690Co steel has proven to be corrosion-resistant, even after exposure to moisture. The lockup remains solid with no blade play, and the deployment mechanism still operates smoothly.

Maintaining the XR-1 is relatively straightforward. I typically clean the blade with a damp cloth after use and apply a small amount of oil to the pivot point. Sharpening has been infrequent, but when needed, the N690Co steel responds well to a ceramic honing rod.

Compared to other folding knives I’ve used, the Ontario Knife XR-1 N690Co Blade stands out for its robust construction and reliable performance. While it may not be the lightest option, its durability and edge retention make it a worthwhile investment.

Breaking Down the Features of Ontario Knife XR-1 N690Co Blade

Specifications

• Blade Length: 3.375 inches (8.573 cm). This provides a good balance between cutting power and portability for EDC tasks.
• Blade Material: N690Co. N690Co is a high-chromium, cobalt-enhanced stainless steel known for its excellent edge retention, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance.
• Blade Thickness: 0.19 inches (0.48 cm). This thickness contributes to the blade’s strength and ability to handle demanding tasks.
• Blade Color: Satin. The satin finish offers a sleek, understated appearance while providing some protection against scratches and corrosion.
• Blade Finish: Satin. The smooth surface reduces friction during cutting and makes cleaning easier.
• Blade Grind: Flat. A flat grind offers excellent slicing performance and is relatively easy to sharpen.
• Deployment Mechanism: Thumbstud Pocket. The thumbstud allows for quick and easy one-handed blade deployment.
• Clip Configurations: Tip Down, Left and Right Handed. This provides versatility for carrying the knife in different positions and accommodates both left- and right-handed users.
• Closed Length: 5 inches (12 cm). This compact size makes the knife easy to carry in a pocket without being too bulky.
• Hardness: 58-60 HRC. This indicates the steel’s hardness, balancing edge retention with ease of sharpening.
• Lock Type: Liner Lock. A liner lock is a reliable and easy-to-use locking mechanism.
• Overall Length: 8.15 inches (21 cm). This provides a comfortable and secure grip for a variety of hand sizes.
• Country of Origin: Italy. This speaks to the quality of manufacturing and attention to detail.

Performance & Functionality

The Ontario Knife XR-1 N690Co Blade performs exceptionally well in various cutting tasks. Its sharp edge and comfortable handle make it suitable for everything from slicing vegetables to processing wood.

Its strengths lie in its robust construction, reliable deployment, and comfortable ergonomics. However, some users may find the handle slightly bulky, and the blade steel may require more frequent sharpening than some premium steels.

The XR-1 generally meets and exceeds expectations for a mid-range folding knife. Its performance justifies its price point.

Design & Ergonomics

The Ontario Knife XR-1 N690Co Blade features a sleek and functional design. The handle is ergonomically shaped for a comfortable and secure grip, and the blade’s satin finish adds a touch of elegance.

The knife is generally user-friendly, although some users may require a brief learning curve to master the liner lock mechanism.

Durability & Maintenance

The XR-1 is built to last, thanks to its high-quality materials and solid construction. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service.

The knife is easy to maintain, requiring only occasional cleaning and sharpening.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Ontario Knife XR-1 N690Co Blade does not come with many included accessories beyond the pocket clip.

While there are limited direct accessories from Ontario Knife, the standard design allows for compatibility with aftermarket pocket clips.

Pros and Cons of Ontario Knife XR-1 N690Co Blade