Ontario Knife 1-18 in. Military Machete Review

Let’s Dive into Ontario Knife 1-18 in. Military Machete

The Ontario Knife 1-18 in. Military Machete is a no-nonsense tool designed for clearing brush, chopping wood, and general outdoor use. Made by Ontario Knife, a company with a long history of supplying the U.S. military, this machete is built for durability and functionality. Its 18-inch blade and robust construction make it a reliable companion for anyone venturing into the wilderness or needing a heavy-duty cutting tool around the property.

I was looking for a durable, no-frills machete that could handle tough brush and light wood chopping during camping and trail maintenance. I needed something that wouldn’t break the bank but could still withstand regular use in demanding environments. The Ontario Knife 1-18 in. Military Machete seemed to fit the bill perfectly, promising military-grade toughness at an affordable price.

Upon unboxing, the Ontario Knife 1-18 in. Military Machete felt solid and substantial. The black blade had a utilitarian look, and the polymer handle provided a secure grip. The weight felt well-balanced, although the handle initially felt a bit short for my larger hands.

Compared to a Gerber Gator Machete and a Cold Steel Kukri Machete, the Ontario Knife 1-18 in. Military Machete stood out for its simplicity and ruggedness. The Gerber offered a saw on the back and a more comfortable grip, but seemed less durable. The Cold Steel Kukri was a better chopper but was also significantly more expensive. I chose the Ontario Knife for its reputation for reliability and its focus on core functionality.

My first impression was that this was a serious tool, built for hard work. It wasn’t pretty or refined, but it felt like it could handle just about anything I threw at it. The initial bluntness of the blade was a bit disappointing, but I knew that could be easily remedied with a sharpening.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Ontario Knife 1-18 in. Military Machete to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Ontario Knife 1-18 in. Military Machete during a weekend camping trip in the local state forest. I used it to clear a campsite, chop small branches for firewood, and clear some overgrown sections of the trail. The machete performed adequately in dry conditions, but the blunt factory edge required frequent stops for re-sharpening in the field.

Performance dipped noticeably in wet conditions due to the smooth polymer handle becoming slippery. The edge retention, even after sharpening, was adequate but not exceptional. I found myself wishing for a more aggressive grip texture and a slightly harder steel after encountering harder woods like oak.

The Ontario Knife required some getting used to, particularly due to the handle length and the initial lack of sharpness. I had to adjust my grip and technique to compensate for the shorter handle and the blunt edge. After some practice and field sharpening, it became more manageable, but still required consistent attention.

One surprise was the lack of a sheath, which meant I had to be extra careful when transporting and storing the machete. Another issue was the handle’s tendency to rotate in my hand during heavier chopping tasks. The handle’s short length combined with the smooth polymer contributed to this rotation, reducing efficiency and causing fatigue over prolonged use.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Ontario Knife 1-18 in. Military Machete has held up reasonably well, but some wear and tear are evident. The black coating on the blade has scratched off in several places, exposing the underlying carbon steel. The handle, while still intact, has developed some minor scuffs and scrapes.

The Ontario Knife has proven to be durable enough for its intended purpose, but it requires regular maintenance to keep it in good working order. The edge needs to be sharpened frequently, and the blade should be cleaned and oiled after each use to prevent rust. The handle, while simple, is easy to wipe down and keep clean.

Compared to my previous experiences with other machetes, the Ontario Knife is a mixed bag. It’s more durable than some of the cheaper options I’ve used, but it doesn’t perform as well as higher-end models like the Cold Steel Kukri. Its main selling point is its affordability and reasonable reliability, making it a decent option for those on a budget.

Breaking Down the Features of Ontario Knife 1-18 in. Military Machete

Specifications

• The Ontario Knife 1-18 in. Military Machete features a blade made from 1095 Carbon steel. This steel is known for its toughness and ability to hold an edge, though it is susceptible to rust if not properly maintained.
• The blade length is 18 inches, providing ample reach for chopping and clearing. The overall length is 23.25 inches, offering a good balance between reach and maneuverability.
• The handle is made from polymer, offering a durable and weather-resistant grip. The handle is riveted to the full tang, providing a secure and robust construction.
• The machete weighs 1.95 lbs, making it heavy enough to deliver powerful chops but not so heavy as to cause excessive fatigue. The weight is fairly well-distributed, contributing to a balanced feel in hand.
• The blade finish is black, providing some protection against corrosion and reducing glare. The handle color is also black, maintaining a consistent and utilitarian appearance.

These specifications are crucial because they directly influence the machete’s performance and usability. The blade material determines its toughness and edge retention, while the blade length affects its reach and chopping power. The handle material impacts grip and comfort, and the overall weight influences maneuverability and user fatigue.

Performance & Functionality

The Ontario Knife 1-18 in. Military Machete performs adequately for basic chopping and clearing tasks. With a sharpened edge, it can effectively cut through brush, small branches, and other vegetation. However, its performance is limited by its relatively soft steel and its lack of a refined edge geometry.

The main strengths of the Ontario Knife are its durability and affordability. It’s a tough tool that can withstand a lot of abuse, and it won’t break the bank. Its weaknesses include its blunt factory edge, its slippery handle, and its relatively poor edge retention.

The Ontario Knife 1-18 in. Military Machete meets expectations for a basic, affordable machete. It’s not a high-performance tool, but it gets the job done. It’s a good option for those who need a durable and reliable machete without spending a lot of money.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Ontario Knife 1-18 in. Military Machete is robust, with the full tang blade extending through the polymer handle. The materials are simple and functional, prioritizing durability over aesthetics. The weight is balanced, but the handle is short and somewhat uncomfortable for extended use.

The Ontario Knife 1-18 in. Military Machete is not particularly user-friendly, especially out of the box. The blunt edge requires sharpening, and the slippery handle can be challenging to grip, especially in wet conditions. The lack of a sheath also makes it less convenient to carry and store.

Durability & Maintenance

The Ontario Knife 1-18 in. Military Machete is built to last, thanks to its durable carbon steel blade and robust polymer handle. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service.

The Ontario Knife 1-18 in. Military Machete is easy to maintain. Simply clean and oil the blade after each use to prevent rust, and sharpen the edge as needed. The handle can be wiped down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and grime.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Ontario Knife 1-18 in. Military Machete does not come with any accessories. The most essential accessory is a sheath, which must be purchased separately.

Customization options are limited, but the handle scales could potentially be replaced with aftermarket options. The blade can also be modified with custom grinds or finishes, but this would require specialized skills and tools. The Ontario Knife is compatible with most standard machete sharpening tools and blade maintenance products.

Pros and Cons of Ontario Knife 1-18 in. Military Machete

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Who Should Buy Ontario Knife 1-18 in. Military Machete?

The Ontario Knife 1-18 in. Military Machete is perfect for:

• Budget-conscious campers and hikers who need a reliable tool for clearing brush and chopping firewood.
• Landowners who need a durable machete for maintaining trails and clearing vegetation.
• Survivalists who want a simple and robust tool for wilderness survival scenarios.

Those who should skip this product:

• Those who need a high-performance machete with exceptional sharpness and edge retention.
• Those who prioritize comfort and ergonomics over durability and affordability.
• Those who need a machete with a sheath for safe and convenient carry.

Must-have accessories or modifications:

• A durable sheath for safe carry and storage.
• A sharpening stone or file for maintaining the blade’s edge.
• Handle wrap or aftermarket handle scales for improved grip.

Conclusion on Ontario Knife 1-18 in. Military Machete

The Ontario Knife 1-18 in. Military Machete is a solid, no-frills tool that gets the job done without breaking the bank. It’s not the prettiest or most comfortable machete on the market, but it’s tough, reliable, and affordable. Its 1095 Carbon steel blade and full tang construction ensure durability, while its simple design makes it easy to maintain.

The price is definitely justified for what you get: a durable and functional machete that can withstand a lot of abuse. However, be prepared to put in some work to sharpen the blade and improve the grip.

I would personally recommend the Ontario Knife 1-18 in. Military Machete to anyone who needs a basic, reliable machete for general outdoor use. If you’re willing to put in a little effort to sharpen and customize it, it can be a valuable tool for years to come. So, grab an Ontario Knife, sharpen it up, and get out there and start clearing some trails!