Let’s Talk About Ontario Knife Spec Plus Alpha Survival 9710
The Ontario Knife Spec Plus Alpha Survival 9710 is a fixed blade knife from the Ontario Knife Company (OKC), designed with survival and tactical applications in mind. This knife, part of the Spec Plus Alpha line, boasts a simple yet functional design, promising reliability and durability for those venturing into the outdoors. The 9710 offers a full skeletal tang construction for strength and a synthetic rubber handle for a secure grip.
As a seasoned outdoorsman, I’ve always been on the hunt for a dependable survival knife that doesn’t break the bank. I needed a rugged tool that could handle basic camp chores, light bushcraft, and act as a reliable backup in emergency situations.
Upon unboxing the Ontario Knife Spec Plus Alpha Survival 9710, my initial impression was one of utilitarian simplicity. The knife feels solid in hand, despite its relatively light weight of 6.6 ounces. The black synthetic rubber handle offers a secure, comfortable grip, even with wet hands.
Compared to my ESEE 5 and Mora Companion, the Ontario Knife Spec Plus Alpha Survival 9710 stands out for its lighter weight and more compact size. I chose it specifically for its portability and potential as a secondary knife, complementing my larger, heavier blades.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. While the materials seemed decent for the price, I was eager to see how it would perform in real-world situations.
Real-World Testing: Putting Ontario Knife Spec Plus Alpha Survival 9710 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first field test of the Ontario Knife Spec Plus Alpha Survival 9710 was on a weekend backpacking trip in the Adirondack Mountains. I primarily used it for tasks around the campsite, such as preparing kindling, food preparation, and cutting cordage.
The knife performed admirably in dry conditions. The 5-inch blade proved useful for batoning small pieces of wood and creating feather sticks. It held its edge well enough during initial tasks.
The Ontario Knife Spec Plus Alpha Survival 9710 required no adjustment period; it felt comfortable and intuitive from the start. I appreciated the grip even while wearing gloves.
After the first use, I was impressed with the initial sharpness and its ability to handle basic tasks. However, I did notice the black coating on the blade began to show some wear after batoning.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over the past six months, I’ve subjected the Ontario Knife Spec Plus Alpha Survival 9710 to various tests, from extended camping trips to backyard bushcrafting projects. The knife has proven to be a dependable tool, albeit with some limitations.
While the blade steel held up well to moderate use, I observed that the edge required more frequent sharpening than some of my higher-end knives. The black coating has continued to wear with use, particularly around the spine and cutting edge.
Maintaining the Ontario Knife Spec Plus Alpha Survival 9710 is straightforward; I simply wipe it down after each use and apply a light coat of oil to the blade to prevent rust. Sharpening is easily accomplished with a standard sharpening stone.
Compared to my Benchmade Bushcrafter, the Ontario Knife Spec Plus Alpha Survival 9710 doesn’t quite match its edge retention or overall fit and finish. However, given the price difference, it’s a solid performer for the money.
Breaking Down the Features of Ontario Knife Spec Plus Alpha Survival 9710
Specifications
The Ontario Knife Spec Plus Alpha Survival 9710 boasts the following specifications:
- Overall Length: 10.19 inches
- Handle Length: 5.19 inches
- Blade Length: A practical 5.0 inches.
- Blade Thickness: A robust 0.19 inches.
- Handle Thickness: 0.66 inches.
- Blade Hardness: 57-59HRC.
- Blade Material: High Carbon Steel.
- Blade Style: Clip Point.
- Blade Finish: Black.
- Handle Material: Synthetic Rubber.
- Sheath Material: Nylon.
- Weight: A light 6.6 oz.
The 5-inch blade length strikes a good balance between maneuverability and cutting power. The blade thickness of 0.19 inches provides sufficient strength for batoning and other demanding tasks.
The high carbon steel blade, with a hardness of 57-59HRC, offers a good compromise between edge retention and ease of sharpening. The clip point blade style is versatile for both slicing and piercing tasks.
The synthetic rubber handle provides a secure and comfortable grip, even in wet conditions. The nylon sheath offers basic protection for the blade and a convenient way to carry the knife on a belt.
Performance & Functionality
The Ontario Knife Spec Plus Alpha Survival 9710 performs its intended job as a general-purpose survival knife reasonably well. It excels at tasks like food preparation, cutting cordage, and creating feather sticks.
Its strengths lie in its affordability, lightweight design, and comfortable grip. However, the edge retention could be improved, and the black coating is prone to wear.
For its price point, the Ontario Knife Spec Plus Alpha Survival 9710 meets expectations. It provides a reliable cutting tool for basic outdoor tasks, but isn’t designed for heavy-duty applications.
Design & Ergonomics
The Ontario Knife Spec Plus Alpha Survival 9710 features a simple, no-frills design focused on functionality. The materials used are adequate for the intended purpose, and the knife feels well-balanced in hand.
The synthetic rubber handle provides a secure and comfortable grip, even for extended periods of use. There’s virtually no learning curve; the knife is intuitive to use.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Ontario Knife Spec Plus Alpha Survival 9710 should last for many years of moderate use. The high carbon steel blade is relatively easy to sharpen and maintain.
Maintaining the Ontario Knife Spec Plus Alpha Survival 9710 is relatively simple. Regular cleaning and oiling of the blade is enough to prevent rust and corrosion.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Ontario Knife Spec Plus Alpha Survival 9710 comes with a basic nylon sheath. There aren’t any readily available aftermarket accessories specifically designed for this model.
However, the knife can be used with generic knife sharpening tools and cleaning supplies. The nylon sheath could be replaced with a custom Kydex sheath for improved retention and durability.
Pros and Cons of Ontario Knife Spec Plus Alpha Survival 9710
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it an accessible option for beginners.
- Lightweight and compact design for easy carry.
- Comfortable synthetic rubber handle ensures a secure grip.
- Versatile clip point blade suitable for various tasks.
- Full skeletal tang construction provides decent strength and durability.
Cons
- Edge retention could be better, requiring more frequent sharpening.
- Black coating on the blade is prone to wear.
Who Should Buy Ontario Knife Spec Plus Alpha Survival 9710?
The Ontario Knife Spec Plus Alpha Survival 9710 is perfect for beginner campers, hikers, and survivalists on a budget. It is also a good choice as a backup knife for more experienced outdoors enthusiasts.
This knife is not ideal for those who require a high-end, heavy-duty knife for demanding tasks. Individuals seeking premium materials, superior edge retention, and advanced features should look elsewhere.
A must-have accessory for the Ontario Knife Spec Plus Alpha Survival 9710 is a reliable sharpening stone. A Kydex sheath could also be a worthwhile upgrade for improved carry and protection.
Conclusion on Ontario Knife Spec Plus Alpha Survival 9710
The Ontario Knife Spec Plus Alpha Survival 9710 offers a solid value proposition for its price. It’s a reliable and functional tool suitable for basic outdoor tasks.
The price is definitely justified given its performance and durability for light to moderate use. For anyone looking for an inexpensive and practical survival knife, the Ontario Knife Spec Plus Alpha Survival 9710 is worth considering.
I would personally recommend it to beginners and those seeking an affordable backup knife. If you’re on a budget and need a decent survival knife, give the Ontario Knife Spec Plus Alpha Survival 9710 a try!