Ontario Gen II SP46: “Surviving Compactly” by Nutnfancy

In the realm of sub-15 oz quality non-stainless steel survival blades that cost less than $75, there are few players. This is a specific and frequently needed POU for me: a lighter weight blade with big capabilities in chopping, skinning, and wood splitting. I do prefer large survival blades when the propensity of use for such is HIGH. But usually it is not, especially when day hiking or backpacking as we often do in high elevations. Enter the outstanding Ontario Spec-Plus Gen II SP46. Thankfully the Spec-Plus line was not discontinued but expanded and improved. At 14.6 oz total carry weight, the SP46 was/is light enough to come along on some big TNP adventures. Though SAWC is a big concern on these outings, I still want a capable blade that can tackle big jobs and minimize work as much as possible. In testing the SP46, it performed fire preparation tasks, including heavy duty hammering through logs, admirably (cold weather performance not tested yet, surprises always possible). The full flat grind is a huge attraction for me as is the 5.6″ leaf shaped Dirk blade: I love it. It is distal tapered, has great sweep and belly, and a strong tip. Its .1875″ thickness strikes a good balance of weight, strength, and splitting ability. The FFG spits and chops with excellence, given its weight limitations (heavier blades will always chop and split better). The black powder coating seems to wear well. Designer Dan Maragni showed incredible attention to detail in the creation of the Gen II line, represented well in this SP46: water jet cut WCI-brand US-made 5160 steel, industrial hardening, specific grind geometries, vacuum stress relieving, and laser imprinting. It’s a lot of quality at this price point. It arrives sharp from the box too. The Kraton handle absorbs shock, does not transmit cold, and is durable. It features a prominent guard on both top and bottom. The MOLLE sheath is a huge improvement over the Spec-Plus Gen 1 series and is lightweight and waterproof. However this version is too long for the SP46 and still has the loose-fitting thermoplastic liner that Ontario frequently provides (easily rectified as shown in the vid). The SP-46 could flex into the tactical fixed blade category but I feel its true calling is as a compact wilderness blade. Second kind of cool is lacking but that’s to be expected at the reasonable $57 price (2010 www.yourcornerstore.com price, subject to change!). But if, like me, you can use a tough, compact survival blade that won’t break your wallet, you will find it in the SP46. ///////////////////////////////////////// Nutnfancy LIkability Scale: 9 out of 10 (price considered)////////////////// Music: “Hidden Blues” by Pitx used under license