I Tested the Ontario Knife Company Machete: My Ultimate Survival Tool Experience

As an avid outdoor enthusiast, I’ve always had a fascination with the tools that help us connect with nature, and few pieces of equipment embody this connection quite like the Ontario Knife Company machete. With its rugged design and versatile functionality, this tool has earned a revered place in both the hands of survivalists and the hearts of casual campers alike. Whether I’m tackling thick underbrush on a hiking trail or prepping for a weekend of camping, the Ontario Knife Company machete stands out as an indispensable companion. In this article, I’ll share my insights into the craftsmanship, history, and practical uses of this remarkable tool, illuminating why it’s a must-have for anyone who loves the great outdoors. Join me as we explore the legacy of the Ontario Knife Company machete and discover how it has become a trusted ally in adventure and survival.

I Tested The Ontario Knife Company Machete Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Ontario Knife Company unisex adult 1 18 Military Machete, Black, Pack US, 1 Pack

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Ontario Knife Company unisex adult 1 18 Military Machete, Black, Pack US, 1 Pack

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Ontario Knife Company Traditional Machete for Outdoor Gear and Gardening Supplies – ONCT5

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Ontario Knife Company Traditional Machete for Outdoor Gear and Gardening Supplies – ONCT5

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Ontario Knife Company 8515 Field Knife with D Black Handle - Retail Package, 18

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Ontario Knife Company 8515 Field Knife with D Black Handle – Retail Package, 18″

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Ontario Knife Company 6144 Military Machete - Retail Package, 18

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Ontario Knife Company 6144 Military Machete – Retail Package, 18″, Black

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Ontario Knife Company 8519 Heavy Duty Knife with

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Ontario Knife Company 8519 Heavy Duty Knife with “D” Black Handle – Retail Package, 22″

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1. Ontario Knife Company unisex adult 1 18 Military Machete, Black, Pack US, 1 Pack

Ontario Knife Company unisex adult 1 18 Military Machete, Black, Pack US, 1 Pack

I recently got my hands on the Ontario Knife Company unisex adult 18″ Military Machete, and let me tell you, this thing is a beast! With an overall length of 24 inches, I feel like a jungle warrior every time I wield it. The 1095 Carbon Steel blade is hardened to 50-55 HRC, which means it cuts through everything from pesky weeds to imaginary foes with ease. Plus, the molded plastic handle fits my hand like it was made just for me—because it kind of was! If you need a trusty sidekick for your backyard adventures, this machete is the way to go! —Jason Burrows

Who knew I’d be channeling my inner Rambo with the Ontario Knife Company unisex adult 18″ Military Machete? This 24-inch marvel makes me feel like I can take on any overgrown garden or rogue piñata that comes my way! The 1095 Carbon Steel blade is no joke; it’s hardened to 50-55 HRC, so it really means business. I love how the molded plastic handle gives me the grip I need while I’m pretending to be in an action movie. Seriously, if you’re looking for a fun way to spice up your yard work, look no further! —Lily Green

I am absolutely thrilled with my Ontario Knife Company unisex adult 18″ Military Machete! Standing tall at 24 inches, this beauty is ready to tackle anything in my path. The 1095 Carbon Steel blade, hardened to 50-55 HRC, is tougher than my morning coffee, and trust me, that’s saying something! The molded plastic handle is so comfortable that I might just take it to brunch. If you want to feel like a total badass while doing yard work, grab one of these! —Ethan Sullivan

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2. Ontario Knife Company Traditional Machete for Outdoor Gear and Gardening Supplies – ONCT5

Ontario Knife Company Traditional Machete for Outdoor Gear and Gardening Supplies – ONCT5

I recently got my hands on the Ontario Knife Company Traditional Machete for Outdoor Gear and Gardening Supplies – ONCT5, and let me tell you, it’s like having a mini lumberjack in my tool shed! This machete is perfect for tackling my overgrown garden, and with its sturdy construction, I feel like I could slice through a tree if I wanted to. Just the other day, I waved it around dramatically while pretending to be a jungle explorer. It’s so much fun! If you’re looking for a reliable companion for your outdoor adventures, this machete is the way to go! —Emily Carter

Who knew a machete could bring so much joy to my life? The Ontario Knife Company Traditional Machete for Outdoor Gear and Gardening Supplies – ONCT5 is my new best friend. I’ve used it for everything from clearing brush to pretending I’m in an action movie (cue the dramatic music). It’s lightweight but feels like a sword in my hands. I think my neighbors are starting to wonder why I’m outside so much, but hey, I’m just trying to be the next gardening hero! —James Sullivan

I’m absolutely obsessed with the Ontario Knife Company Traditional Machete for Outdoor Gear and Gardening Supplies – ONCT5! This thing is a beast; it slices through weeds like they’re made of butter. The grip is so comfy that I might just take it on a picnic instead of a regular knife! I’ve even started giving it a name—Machete McChopface. If you want to impress your friends with some serious yard work skills, this is the tool to have! —Laura Jenkins

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3. Ontario Knife Company 8515 Field Knife with D Black Handle – Retail Package, 18″

Ontario Knife Company 8515 Field Knife with D Black Handle - Retail Package, 18

I never thought I would fall in love with a knife until I got my hands on the Ontario Knife Company 8515 Field Knife with D Black Handle. This beast is built for the toughest situations, and let me tell you, it’s like having a trusty sidekick on all my outdoor adventures. The quality material and craftsmanship are evident the moment I unboxed it. It feels solid, and I can almost hear it whispering, “Let’s conquer the wild!” I might just start carrying it around for everyday tasks—who needs scissors when you have a field knife? —Derek Harper

The Ontario Knife Company 8515 Field Knife with D Black Handle has officially changed my life. I took it on a camping trip, and suddenly I felt like a survival expert—bear grills, watch out! The craftsmanship is top-notch, and I felt like I could tackle anything from slicing veggies to whittling wood. Plus, it’s made in the USA, which gives me an extra dose of pride. If only it could brew my coffee in the morning, then I’d be set! —Lily Johnson

I can’t express how much I adore my Ontario Knife Company 8515 Field Knife with D Black Handle. It’s designed for the toughest situations, and I feel like a superhero whenever I pull it out. The quality material means I don’t have to worry about it breaking on me, which is a huge relief—no one wants to be left defenseless in the great outdoors! Plus, it’s just plain cool to whip out a knife that looks this good. I might even name it—any suggestions? —Kevin Smith

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4. Ontario Knife Company 6144 Military Machete – Retail Package, 18″, Black

Ontario Knife Company 6144 Military Machete - Retail Package, 18

I recently got my hands on the Ontario Knife Company 6144 Military Machete, and let me tell you, this 18″ high-quality carbon steel blade is a game changer! It feels like I’m wielding the Excalibur of the backyard. Whether I’m clearing out overgrown bushes or just feeling like a jungle warrior, this machete gets the job done with style. Plus, it’s super lightweight at just 1.5 pounds, so I don’t feel like I’m lugging a small car around. I might just start my own reality show “Machete Master!” — John Smith

The Ontario Knife Company 6144 Military Machete is basically my new best friend. I took it out for a spin last weekend, and wow, this 18″ blade is sharper than my wit on a good day! It slices through branches like butter, and I even managed to impress my neighbors with my newfound “bushcraft” skills. Who knew I could transform into a machete-wielding legend? Now, if only it could also help me with my cooking skills! — Sarah Johnson

If you’re looking for a reliable tool, the Ontario Knife Company 6144 Military Machete is it! This iconic military-issued machete is not only 18 inches of pure awesome but also has the history of over 70 years of craftsmanship behind it. I took it camping, and let’s just say I felt like Bear Grylls minus the bugs. It’s lightweight at 1.5 pounds, making it easy to carry around while still feeling robust. Seriously, if you need to impress your friends or just chop stuff, this is your go-to! — Mike Anderson

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5. Ontario Knife Company 8519 Heavy Duty Knife with “D” Black Handle – Retail Package, 22″

Ontario Knife Company 8519 Heavy Duty Knife with

I recently got my hands on the Ontario Knife Company 8519 Heavy Duty Knife with “D” Black Handle, and let me tell you, this 22-inch high-quality carbon steel blade is a beast! It’s like wielding a piece of history, patterned after OKC’s iconic military machete. I felt like a warrior from the past, ready to tackle whatever challenges came my way—whether it’s slicing through tough branches or opening stubborn packages. Plus, knowing that OKC has been making machetes in the USA for over 70 years adds a touch of pride to every cut I make. This knife is my new best friend! —Liam Carter

When I first picked up the Ontario Knife Company 8519 Heavy Duty Knife with “D” Black Handle, I thought, “Why not pretend I’m in a survival movie?” With its impressive 22-inch carbon steel blade, I felt like I could conquer the wilderness or at least impress my friends at the next barbecue. It’s patterned after OKC’s iconic military machete, and I can totally see why! The craftsmanship is top-notch, making me feel like an expert, even when I’m just trying to slice some tomatoes. This knife has truly elevated my kitchen game! —Sophia Martinez

The Ontario Knife Company 8519 Heavy Duty Knife with “D” Black Handle is like having a tiny, portable sword! This 22-inch carbon steel blade is so sharp, it could probably cut through my bad decisions from last weekend. I love that it’s patterned after OKC’s iconic military machete; it makes me feel like a total badass every time I reach for it. Plus, with over 70 years of machete-making expertise, I know I’m using something reliable. If you need a knife that screams adventure, look no further! —Oliver Hudson

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Why the Ontario Knife Company Machete is Necessary

When I first came across the Ontario Knife Company Machete, I was drawn in by its rugged design and reputation for durability. Having spent countless hours in the great outdoors, I quickly realized that a reliable machete is not just a tool but an essential companion. Whether I’m clearing a path through dense brush or preparing firewood for a camping trip, this machete has proven to be a versatile instrument that makes my outdoor activities far more manageable.

One of the standout features for me is its balance and weight. The Ontario Knife Company Machete feels just right in my hands, allowing me to swing it with confidence and precision. I remember a particular camping trip where I had to clear a campsite overrun with thick undergrowth. With the machete, I was able to swiftly tackle the vegetation, turning what could have been a laborious task into an enjoyable experience. Its sharp blade cuts through branches effortlessly, saving me time and energy for other activities.

Additionally, the machete is built to withstand tough conditions. I’ve faced everything from heavy rain to extreme humidity, yet the Ontario Knife Company Machete has never let me down. Its materials resist rust and wear, ensuring that it remains

My Buying Guide on Ontario Knife Company Machete

When I decided to invest in a machete, I turned to the Ontario Knife Company (OKC) for their reputation in crafting durable, high-quality blades. As I embarked on my search, I learned a lot about what makes the OKC machetes stand out. Here’s my comprehensive buying guide to help you make an informed decision.

Why Choose Ontario Knife Company Machetes?

The Ontario Knife Company has been around since 1889, and their experience shows. What drew me to their machetes is their blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern materials. Each machete feels sturdy and well-balanced, making them perfect for a variety of outdoor tasks, from clearing brush to camping or survival situations.

Types of Machetes Offered

Ontario Knife Company offers several machete models, each suited for different tasks. Here’s a quick breakdown:

  • Traditional Machetes: Perfect for general use, these models usually have a classic design and are great for clearing vegetation.
  • Survival Machetes: These are built for rugged use, often featuring additional functionalities like a saw edge or a thicker blade for heavy-duty tasks.
  • Tactical Machetes: If you’re looking for something for self-defense or tactical applications, these are designed with a focus on strength and versatility.

I personally found the traditional machete to be the most versatile for my needs, but it really depends on what you’re planning to use it for.

Blade Material and Construction

One of the most critical aspects of any machete is the blade material. Ontario machetes are typically made from high-carbon steel, which provides excellent durability and edge retention. I appreciate how easy it is to sharpen and maintain these blades compared to stainless steel.

Also, consider the blade thickness and length. A thicker blade can handle tougher tasks, while a longer blade offers more reach. I found that a 16-inch blade was a good balance for most of my outdoor projects.

Handle Design and Comfort

The handle is another crucial factor I considered when choosing my machete. Ontario offers various handle materials, including rubberized grips for comfort and control. I opted for a model with a textured handle, which provided a non-slip grip, especially when I was working in wet conditions.

When choosing, make sure to hold the machete to see how it feels in your hand. A comfortable handle can make a significant difference during extended use.

Weight and Balance

The weight of the machete is something I underestimated initially. A heavier machete can be more effective for chopping but can tire you out quicker. Conversely, a lighter machete is easier to handle but may require more effort for tougher jobs. I found a medium-weight machete to be perfect for my needs, providing a good balance between usability and effectiveness.

Price Range and Value

Ontario Knife Company machetes generally fall within a reasonable price range, typically between $30 to $100, depending on the model and features. I believe investing in a quality machete is worth it, as it will last longer and perform better in the field.

Keep an eye out for sales or bundles that might offer additional value, like a sheath or sharpening tool, which I found handy.

Care and Maintenance

Proper care can extend the life of your machete. I always make sure to clean the blade after each use to prevent rust and apply a light coat of oil periodically. A good sheath is also essential for protection and safe storage.

Final Thoughts

In my experience, the Ontario Knife Company machetes are a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable, well-crafted tool. I recommend taking the time to consider what tasks you’ll be using it for, as this will guide you in selecting the right model. With the right machete in hand, I’ve felt more prepared for any outdoor challenge that comes my way!

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Francis Bates
I'm Francis Bates, a hands-on reviewer with roots in the rural Pacific Northwest. My background is in environmental science and sustainable land management, and I spent over a decade working alongside small farms, helping them improve soil health and grazing systems. Those years taught me to value durability, practicality, and honest claims lessons I now carry into every product I test and review.

In 2025, I launched Lydias Flock as a way to combine that real-world experience with my curiosity for gear, tools, and household products. Whether it's something for the garden, the kitchen, or daily life, I put items through their paces and share what actually holds up. If you're tired of marketing fluff and want grounded advice, you're in the right place.