Ontario SP5 or KaBar Cutlass Machete: Experiences???

[Loves2stabU]

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?

 

[kgd]

I can't help you with direct experience but there have been many many positive posts in this forum about the ON SP-5 as well as the Kabar Heavy Bowie. Both are nearly industructable knifes that take on phenomenal abuse. For the price point, you can't go wrong with these knives. You will have to pay double to triple their cost to get equivalent knives in other brands.

The next bargain, but at twice the cost (and most consider well worth the price), is the Ranger RD-9.

 

[sdt11670]

I have the sp5 and two 1085 kabar bowies and they are fantastic knives! Ontario has had heat treat problems in the past and i read the review you speak of and if i recall correctly heat treat was the reason that blade failed... my sp5 is an excellent knife that holds a great edge and is a fantastic chopper! you cant go wrong with this knife at the asking price. Go for it!