My 14 year old Ontario Spec Ops bolo.

[bsmith_shoot]

In 1998 I was looking for a large blade to use for day to day chores around the farm. I spend a lot of time clearing fence rows, clearing for new fence, cutting brush, and doing various other chores that require the use of a heavy blade. I also wanted a knife that could be used on my frequent trips camping, fishing, and backpacking.
I spent some time searching around, doing a little research here and there, and luckily found myself at a local military surplus store in Winchester, KY, called Stuff 2.
I was browsing around through their selection of large blades, and the owner came over to help. I asked him for a recommendation, telling him what it would used for. His first suggestion was the Ontario Spec Ops bowie.
I didn't buy it that trip. I spent a few more weeks searching around, to no avail. I just so happened to be back in Winchester. I stopped in and bought it.
Immediately I put it to work in the pastures and hillsides where I live. In 14 years I've never had a complaint out of it. I've used it to cut out acres of brush, clear off hillsides, and fall a small forest worth of small trees.
All this knife really is, is a big chunk of 1095 steel. It gets razor sharp, holds the edge good, and chops like an axe. These blades are no longer in production, and it's truly a shame. In my years of owning and using it, ive never had a desire for another big chopper.

Shes seen better days, drove nails with her, pryed with her, dug in the ground with her, you name it. She is still one of my faves.
Thanks for letting me share my blade.
Brandon

 

[Dorito Monk]

Awesome post man, thanks for sharing. That thing looks like one hell of a well-used blade. :thumbup:

 

[jsp]

It sure does. Gives her character.

 

[clearytja]

That is a real knife!!!! Great user.
TC

 

[razorsdescent]

Thanks for the share man, great looking blade even after 14 years :thumbup:

 

[bsmith_shoot]

Thanks guys. This blade isnt anything special, and most wouldnt have a new one if it was given to them, but she has served me well. To my knowledge, she has never been sharpened on a stone. Ive always carried a small file in my back pocket when out working, and used it. I have ran it across some sandpaper a few times, but a file has always been my primary sharpening tool.
More than once, ive had to use her to field dress game. She isnt the optimal choice for that chore, but the job got done. I own quite a decent collection of traditional folders, and have recently gotten into the "tactical" blades scene, but she has always been my workhorse.
Thanks for the kind words guys.
Brandon