Extrema Ratio Ontos Survival Knife In the Jungle

[@andrashavas]

Excellent review! Perhaps it should be sent to Extrema Ratio for their website! In-depth, no-nonsense actual use! I wish all knife reviews were this sensible! Top marks!

[@BushCampingTools]

Hi, thanks for your comments! I did say to them they can use it if they want to.

[@BushCampingTools]

Yes I don't have hundreds of knife reviews as you can imagine it takes me some time as I'm actually using the knives not just from desktop review but I really think it's the best way I can see for myself and to show you guys how the knife perfoms under actual real world use.

[@yoadrian3814]

Great review! Very detailed and informative. I didn't realise all that info on the bamboo shoots, so i've even learnt something. Once again, awesome review!

[@BushCampingTools]

Hi thanks for your comments. There was so much I couldn't edit there as it was already very long but stay tuned on more knives and survival hints techniques too!

[@tonnywildweasel8138]

Really like these real world reviews man. Thanks a lot, and greets from the Netherlands 🇳🇱, TW.

[@BushCampingTools]

Many many thanks for your comments. yes, it takes me a lot of effort to make these videos across both hemispheres LOL. So glad you enjoy them!

[@shorty7943]

Nice Video, Nice Knife!!! You deserve more followers you put such a work in your videos and reviews and you review always high end knifes and you out them to the test under real conditions. Great :) Thank you.... and now i have to buy the Extrema Ratio Ontos haha

[@BushCampingTools]

Hi thanks so much for your great comments! I do indeed put lots into these reviews and get a lot of enjoyment from producing them but even more when my viewers post comments like yours!

[@TedsOutdoors]

Extreme Ratio makes the best nylon sheaths I've seen! Beautiful forest you have there! Thanks for showing.

[@BushCampingTools]

Teds Outdoors Hi yeah, well so far as the knives I own and tested etc, certainly the ER sheaths are the better of the others. Lets see how they look in a years time in the field but the stitching looks good and materials look good too. The Kizlyar Supreme sheaths aren't too bad either, especially their tactical ones.

[@BushCampingTools]

Teds Outdoors Oh yeah, sorry, yes the forrest is very wild and beautiful!

[@melusinecentun5847]

Great review! It's really convincing to see someone use his knife in the field. Take care, Irène.

[@BushCampingTools]

Hi thanks, yes there is a real dearth of videos truly showing the Ontos in use other than desktop reviews or reviews by shops selling them. Thanks for watching!

[@MichaelQuigley-fy5rc]

Great job. I watched this video a couple years ago but had to come back and see it again. I think if I was going to choose between the Ontos and the Selvan I would go with the Ontos because of the serrations on the spine. I hate serrations on the blade edge, I find that I need a plain edge close to the handle like that.

[@BushCampingTools]

Hi, yeah it is a really serious outdoor tool as apposed to a knife per se LOL! That was a fun video to make too. I also made the AMF video in this area too, amongst others.

[@BushCampingTools]

The Selvans, whilst not much bigger because of the handle can probably swing it better to chop with. I'm not sure the Selvans had been released when I got my Ontos. But no, the serrations are very useful there. Did u see the video I did on how serrations are great for feathering? I have to admit a regular viewer here put me onto this.

[@andrewpedersen5071]

@@BushCampingTools It would be awesome to see you do most of your videos like this one. I know it must take a lot of time to make these 30 minute long videos but they are great to watch and really show a lot of info about the knife. Thanks for the great content anyway!!

[@BushCampingTools]

@@andrewpedersen5071 hey thanks so much for saying this. Yeah videos like this take a long time as we see here the final cut and the editing had so much more footage, plus it was filmed over quite a period of time. The location however, is really cool and yes there will be more from this location or similar later this year and next year. It's good to get this sort of feedback as many also say the opposite that the videos are too long. But I think in order to really exploit the product and see what I can do with it, I simply can not use it for one day and come to any concrete conclusions. This I feel would not be honest and in fact just waste my time and the time of my viewers. I'm always striving to really understand what these tools can and can't do, so if I was to watch the video, I can make some sort of informed opinions as to whether i'm going to fork out the "goulash", whatever it happens to be, so I'm not disappointed after my purchase. That's the other reason why (with exception of filming in the snow) I don't wear gloves, not because I'm trying to crack hardy but because if it really isn't comfortable without them, then I'm not interested. Ok I'm going on to much now LOL!

[@andrewpedersen5071]

@@BushCampingTools this is why you are the only knife reviewer I am interested in watching these days. You spend your time out in the actual bush with them, not your backyard, and use them for real tasks like I use mine for. I love the fact you don't wear gloves because you're a 100% spot on, if you have to wear them to use the knife, then the handle is rubbish. You're also not obsessed with using overpriced 1095, which really isn't a good steel when out in the wet bush for days/weeks, far better steels out there for the same price. Please don't change the way you do your reviews to suit others, it's what sets you apart from the others, when they can go and watch the Yanks do it that way if that's what they want.

[@enrygarcia]

I know the Extrema Ratio very well, the factory is near me about 70 km (Prato) near to Florence. In Italy we are famous for these two factories, the Extrema Ratio and the Fox of Maniago (Milan) congratulations for the video !!! And Nice place...

[@BushCampingTools]

Hi thanks so much for your nice comments! I Have not yet visited Prato but I once spent 5 days on a farm house of a friend near Florence, it was great! We had been travelling and at work and also climbing in your fabulous cliff around Arko and Lago Di Garda. Beautiful scenery! It's a good thing i do not live close to ANY knife factory, it could be very dangerous for my wallet and time spent LOL! I very much like the Italian manufacturers! yes where we filmed the ONTOS we often go there as it is very very nice, easy to get lost in the jungle too!

[@andrewpedersen5071]

That thumbnail is so awesome. I know I said it before, but damn I miss these long in depth great reviews... so much better and loved this style

[@BushCampingTools]

Hi thanks so much! I was actually honoured one year at IWA where ER took that photo (with my permission) and it was used on their banner for their stand at the show. Yeah will do some more like that hopefully later on. I still think it's pretty cool even if I do so so myself as well LOL!

[@wasbeer77]

Hey BCT, Just a quick message to tell you I really enjoy watching your vids. You're probably one of the most comprehensive testers out there and I don't often see guys taking the time to test every knife they review for weeks before coming to a conclusion. I'm on the fence about buying either an Ontos or a Dobermann after seeing your vids on them, whilst not to long ago I hadn't even considered the brand. Had two Fall Knivens (an A1 and S1Pro) fail on me during mild, far from extreme tasks and I'm really put off by the brand by now. But looks like I'll be unpacking an ER soon! :)

[@BushCampingTools]

Hi, firstly I really appreciate your comments. Yeah I guess that's why I don't have loads of videos here compared with others, I personally buy items these days only after looking at very thorough reviews, whether that's a camera or a juicing machine LOL (actually cars included LOL) and I try to test as thoroughly within a reasonable time the knives and other equipment you see here so anyone who comes here can save a bit of time and go away more informed. I feel that simple desk top reviews will tell you really no more than what can be found on a manufacturer's site. Don't get me wrong those kinds of reviews have their place but for outdoor gear nothing beats seeing it really being used. Trouble is as I said you can't do loads of stuff like this, there simply isn't the time. I love getting out there and try to mix this with pleasure as I don't get paid for them, so it doesn't really worry me. OK, so now as to your inquiry: Yes I've heard many reports of these knives of your failing. I could write why I think this is so based on what I know about the construction etc but I'll do it in a blog, not here as it takes up too much room. The ER knives are not cheap but I think you will not be buying one and keeping it for some years LOL. N690 as treated by their partners performs very well. HRC58 easy to sharpen in the field or at home. I've never had a blade of theirs chip. HRC58 is MORE than hard enough for outdoor tasks encountering dirty wood/bark etc etc. I think firstly the ONTOS comes very close to what I would expect in any knife that is labelled "survival" It's more of a tool than some funky giant blade. It's dead easy to keep sharp, can be used in push cutting, levering (within reason) around salt water (maybe te upper serrations take some getting used to but these can also be used to strike a steel. You can skin, chop and prep vegetables and food for camping, split wood etc (but it's not an axe or hatchet of course. The Dobermann IV is also a great knife, a little bit more complicated to sharpen as the blade features a recurve section (I use a circular profile stone in that area). It is a big knife and strongly built. In fact u can't tell from the video but the geometry near the tip, laterally is actually thickened so no fear for a bit of prying . The Dobermann IV has a better point (any penetration tasks). It of course looks more of a knife. Both hack into coconuts fine and tough tropical materials. There is no reach for the ONTOS though, so it's no machete if you have to hack ur way through scrub, better with a machete of course. Tough choice but these days my personal preference is to take out the Dobermann IV Although for some reason I feel the ONTOS attracts less attention in areas where u might encounter others in the wilds, this I feel these days is always a better thing. Oh yeah blades out of the factory do come deadly sharp with nice hand ground convex edges, ie they don't have perfectly equal machine ground bevels. This I really like but of course hand sharpening increase the price. Re their funky handles, well fact is they work and it was based on lots of university research, put one in your hand and you'll realise, "damn this knife really fits my hand".

[@wasbeer77]

Cheers, man! That's a solid piece of intell. Yeah, I agree with your feelings on not attracting to much attention. The Ontos in that respect is more the tool you describe it to be, whereas the Dobermann looks like a big f-off knife that wants (and should, damm the thing looks cool!) be seen. I am a fan of the convex grinds, they're nice and strong and are very good for processing fire wood and sorts. I guess in terms of strength and hard use both would indeed stand up the abuse I would expose the blades to. It's all a matter of understanding and respecting the limits each design holds and I'm quite careful with all my knives. Never did see the point in going destructive just to see for how long a knife might hold up. If it does what you need it to do, might as well make sure you perform those tasks with a bit of sense to make sure you can do it again and again, just like you advocate in youre review. They're expensive enough as it is. I'm leaning towards the Ontos at the moment, but the Dobermann is still in it to win it. Especially the... I think it's called the Africa... version with the wooden handle in ER style and the uncoated blade. Very nice. I'm not aghast to some next level sharpening the recurve needs either. Meditative maintenace, I like to call it. So it's gonna be a close race, I guess! Looks and performance or just pure no show and plenty of go the Ontos delivers... Thanks for your take on things and advice and hope you have plenty more cool adventures!

[@BushCampingTools]

Thanks man! and really appreciate your feedback. Stay tuned for more adventures in the coming months!

[@wasbeer77]

Well, verdict's in... It's gonna be an Ontos! Managed to snab up an almost new one off a guy who used it for a three week survival trip in Canada. At almost half the price of what a new one would set me back! So I guess that's the deal of the century, eh... :)

[@BushCampingTools]

Sounds like it to me. BTW what did this guys say about it from in the wilds of Canada?

[@zoo2you]

Brilliant video as always. Thanks for sharing.

[@Biblicalgiants]

I'm not a fan of serrations on the main cutting edge, but they way the serrations are placed on the spine of this knife here seems fine. They actually seems pretty practical this way. Great review!

[@BushCampingTools]

Hi, thanks, your comments much appreciated!

[@rbskullleader]

Great review! Exactly my thoughts after using this beast of a knife. An excellent chopper. Perfect for splitting wood. Overall a good survival/camp knife. Yes, the design looks odd but it just simply works. Thanks man.

[@BushCampingTools]

Hey there, many thanks for your comments here!

[@BushCampingTools]

Yeah this is an absolutely super useful design IMHO.

[@BushCampingTools]

Extrema Ratio's ONTOS Survival Knife thoroughly field tested and reviewed in the Jungle! Check it out!

[@BushCampingTools]

@Alex Stone Unless u sell it later or have it stolen or lose it, u will own it for life for sure! Better to buy genuine anything I reckon in the long run. AnytimeI have wandered from that, I ended up disappointed.

[@彭尚文-m4t]

HI.Thank you for the video.I think you are a learned man. If you use LION steel M7 in place of Extrema Ratio Ontos in this video. Will the maintenance of M7 be very troublesome? Is M7 suitable when in place of Extrema Ratio Ontos in this video ? Thanks.

[@BushCampingTools]

Hi, no not really. I think I learnt a lot from the first time I used a Knife like the M7 and that is you should definitely wipe it dry and not keep it wet if using around water. So if I had the M7 in this same jungle environment I'd a keep it dry when putting it back into the scabbard. The ontos I would not worry to much about as it is of course stainless steel. Thanks for you nice comments!

[@normski32]

I’ve just ordered one 😊 I was in two minds whether to get the MK2.1 after watching your video. I think I’ve made the right choice. Thanks for the great video again

[@BushCampingTools]

Many thanks! Love mine.

[@timireland415]

Ontos, Fulcrum S or Fulcrum? I’m looking for an all rounder which is extremely robust. I like serrations. I have three folders made from N690 and I like the steel. The extrema ratio folders are much better made than anything else I’ve tried so I’m sold.

[@BushCampingTools]

Ah good question Tim! You've no doubt seen my Ontos videos. Personally, I think the Ontos really holds it's own for just about anything. You can use it sideways to hammer small nails, it's thick enough to lever with; because the tanto tip is actually a bit rounded you can skin with it too although of course not a hunting knife and will be heavy but little chance of nicking a hide because no sharp point. Fishing, ok not the best of course. cutting down small saplings, no problems either softwoods or hardwoods. The small amount of serrations , you can cut tough vines (eg I've cut lots of lawyer canes (the stuff they make some cane furniture out of). Dead easy to keep sharp. I've got all three of them. The Ontos too i think would be better suited to where u are as it looks more like a tool than a weapon. My only gripe with the Ontos is that the serrations are on the spine and this took me a bit to get used to and by that i mean not cutting myself using the knife. They are all robust enough for sure. So if u think you might b cutting a few saplings etc then go for the Ontos, if u don't think you'd be doing this then either o the other two are fine.

[@jeredsyn1964]

I'm looking into the future and I'm going to make a prediction. I am going to buy this knife sometime in the near future. That was easy, great video and have a good day. Mike

[@BushCampingTools]

+Michael Quigley Hi Mike, I don't think u would regret it. Whilst many people slag this knife, the people I know who own it and actually use it rather than look at it love it. Thanks for your comments on the video. There was so much more I filmed but for obvious video duration getting a bit long had to leave out some stuff.

[@dastreetz1546]

hi thanks for the video just grabbed an ontos wanted to ask you a question about the handle when your chopping especially if your holding the handle from the bottom to get more force in your chop do you hear a slight noise and a slight give due to the tang vibrating in the handle? its nothing major just annoying just wonerding if thats normal or is something wrong with mine and ur the best person to ask thanks

[@BushCampingTools]

No, Not at all, never in fact. Maybe you need to slightly tighten the handle bolt but this wouldn't be a concern of mine anyway as there is no way for the handle to come off on this knife. Mine has had the absolutely daylights beaten out of it from cutting down giant bamboo to simply carving and cutting up food stuff. Still loving it after all these years. If you don't lose it you will have i for years to come!

[@RustyGunn7]

Thank you. Nice review. I enjoyed it.

[@BushCampingTools]

Hi thanks and thanks for watching!

[@cobratzi1]

Appreciate the video, excellent review. I am looking into purchasing a Selvans have you had the opportunity to compare it to the Ontos? Can you give me any insight as to which one would be better for Bushcraft, Camping?

[@BushCampingTools]

Hi I have not actually used the Selvans but I can tell you this based just as you say, on my "insight". As you know the Selvans has a much larger handle, this aspect would give you more "swinging power" The blade itself is not much different to the Ontos. An advantage of having more swing power would be possibly easier to fell a tree of comparable thickness as what one might use the Ontos on. The downside of having a larger handle is a longer knife and more tiring on doing finer tasks such as skinning etc. Having a longer handle might get you more leverage should this be required. They removed the serrations more than likely because of thinking maybe people don't like serrations, especially on the upper surface and close to where ones thumb might come to rest. For me this was a very slight problem to begin with but then got used to it and I can see why they put them there. There is no reason why this area can not be used to strike a fire steel with and really no need for some special region on the Selvans to do this (of course they needed to ad this to the selvans as their finish has nice slightly radiuses on every edge, (not good for striking steels). Personally I think the Selvans in my hands would be better suited to some sort of tropical expedition where I might want a slightly heavier tool than my lighter weight machete. The Ontos being shorter can easily handle a lot of camping tasks and even food preparation is not too bad. The Ontos has a very slightly longer blade but overall is slightly less in weight. As to more swinging power, the Ontos swings very very well and with those handles of their, no chance of letting go of your knife with wet hands. Hope this helps and thanks very much for watching and commenting. If there is anything else I can advise on/suggest just let me know and i will try to give you a prompt reply.

[@BushCampingTools]

BTW unless radically changed the survival pack that come with the Ontos is not very good at all and simply a marketing gimmick. As to the one that comes with the Selvans, it appears to have better items, although I have yet to use one. I'd only consider the knife only purchase if you do decide to go this route.

[@cobratzi1]

Thank you! I felt like the items in the kit were a little expensive for what they were. I prefer to build my own kit if I were to have one. I really appreciate the responses this gives me some things to consider.

[@BushCampingTools]

No problems! Yes "home built kits" are superior to anything out there I think.

[@simonepodu7516]

Hi, compliments for your vids..I really love'em.What knife do you prefer between the Dobermann 4 and the Ontos as an all around camp knife ??Many thanks.

[@BushCampingTools]

The D4 is more convenient for a camp knife, both are tough enough for whatever you can throw at them. D4 better for cutting up coconuts (if ur like me LOL).

[@NGMonocrom]

An excellent review. I have to be honest though. It's extremely rare to find truly experienced individuals who like a survival knife with any sort of double edge, or Tanto style grind. The latter being even rarer still. I like the blade steel. But not for me.

[@BushCampingTools]

Hi thanks for watching. To be honest the label "survival knife" is a marketing gimmick used by all. Survival starts in the brain of the individual. That being said, blade style and how one uses it totally depends upon the individuals experience/s and terrain/environment one is in. Real survival situations involving civilians rarely involve the use of knives to any great extent where a type of blade would be absolutely critical for their existence prior to rescue. personally i've been involved directly in S and R and that's what I base this upon. We've also spent time on an uninhabited island (2 people) with nothing but a leatherman Wave multitool (to fix/repair any for seeable problems with our fishing gear) and a ordinary locally made machete, that I can guarantee almost no one, with the exception of truly experienced outdoors people, with skills of surviving in the tropics, would spit on; since it didn’t come with any fancy name, fancy steel, fancy shape fancy handle. My point is, one has to know how to use their tools. Once when my mate I had driven 600km plus to go bowhunting, he realised he had forgotten his knife. Instead of chucking a fit, he was skilled enough to use a broadhead to not only skin but butcher his game, which was a large goat. He didn’t make a mess of it and whilst I processed mine a lot faster since I had my trusty “hunting knife” he still achieved his aim since he knew what he was doing. Personally I don’t trust anyone who boasts about being a “survival expert” (there is nothing to boast about- I’ve had to rescue people and there is nothing to boast about). I’ve been with some so called “experts” and they were lost when things didn’t go to plan, let alone have their “survival knife with them”. Any products i review here, whether they are suitable for anyone other than myself is totally up to the individual, just like you say.

[@rose6965]

mine was stolen over two years ago and i still remember how good the handle feels

[@BushCampingTools]

That sucks! But Yeah yu know what I mean re that handle grip. Thanks for watching!

[@654597601]

Love your reviews man. Just watched your review on the 299b also. 440c is really under rated, wish there was more of it for decent prices. I typically carry two blades on me when ever I can. Steel 1095 fixed blade, and a stainless 8cr13mov pockeclip folder. For a best of both worlds approach, and I don't mind the weight at all. But I must say that the Bohler/Cudeman knives seem nearly spot on.

[@BushCampingTools]

sara king Hi thanks for your comments re my reviews BTW. Yeah 440C it's still a good steel. I've never busted a knife made from it or said, heck I wish I had this out of some other steel. There are loads of "lab tests" as to it being inferior to many newer steels and sure N690 can hold a edge longer hardened to a similar Rockwell but that really depends on what you are cutting with your knife ie the environment and what you are doing, hunting camping fishing hiking etc. All of my diving knives were 440C and they get abused like I would never dream to treat my outdoor/field knives that's for sure.

[@654597601]

My new knife went the way of a dream. Tax money went quick, to other peoples needs. I was goping to sell off to 7" carbon steel knives to fund the new purchase. But I now have to hord the remaining money for a just in case.

[@BushCampingTools]

Yeah I guess that can be the way, especially if buying a new knife is not really necessary......like everything LOL.

[@654597601]

I found a site quoting $120 for the 299b, which is reasonable. But I don't know if the price is normal. I know the knife maker is good. But the site is not from bloher. And I can't stand to lose the money if I get a bad site. Thank You for the speedy responce.

[@BushCampingTools]

sara king Sounds like the right price. You mean Cudeman BTW, they make the knife and use Bohler N695, which is AISI 440C. Try and hold one in your hand first if you can. The rear of the grip gets larger and not smaller and this is a little buggy in my opinion, a good grippy handle but I'd like to see a narrower butt end grip, that\s just me.

[@BushCampingTools]

Ok this is in response to Marcus Wincor's comments, as he doesn't have his reply function activated: Ok Marcus, I give up, I'm not going to argue with you over this. Other than stick to what I observed and as I said the edge has a convex profile, i.e. it is not a flat bevel. A bevel, no matter how you look at it or examine it is flat full stop. A convex edge by it's very name has a slight curvature to it. PPS as I already said your reply function is OFF. Why don't you put it on so everyone can see this discussion? But hey maybe you are simply a troll and I got suckered LOL. BCT.

[@alexstone3822]

IF YOU CAN FORGE A KNIFE THE COLOR OF "THE MANDALORIAN" ARMOUR, THAT WOULD BE A IG SELLER.

[@AJ-hz6sh]

Hi Mate. I am looking at the Selvans now and wondering what you current thoughts are on this knife 6 years later. Is it still in use or has your carry evolved? Cheers

[@BushCampingTools]

Hey there, it's still a winner IMHO, ok it's thick but that's what it is and the Selvans of course was not around when I got my Ontos but had it been i probably would go for the Selvans now due to the longer reach/handle, blades are pretty much similar, ok except for the loss of some serrations and a steel striker edge etc. For me the the steel striker edge is not a huge improvement but the handle extension is. Hope that helps! Plus thanks for watching!

[@AJ-hz6sh]

@@BushCampingTools Thanks for the reply. Agreed the striker is not revolutionary. For me, I like the higher grind and the longer handle. Not a fan of any type of cutting edge on the spine of a knife. IMO hands are number one asset when out bush and the risk of slicing them due to brain fade while wiping down the blade, sharpening, hand slipping forward under pressure etc are too high.

[@BushCampingTools]

@@AJ-hz6sh Yeah I must admit it took me a bit to get used to the serrations where they were one one quickly learnt after a small cut NOT to be putting my dirty paws near that spine. I ended up at one point even painting them fluoro orange so as not to miss them LOL!

[@ImHereForYourArtStream]

You Live in a beautiful area, Where were you at exactly? Very Nice Scenery

[@BushCampingTools]

Hi thanks for watching! I film all over the globe but that was in a very lovely part of northern Australia. Stay tuned as I will be there again soon!

[@mountainsstreams2133]

Hey bud how does the Dobermann IV compare to this knife? I saw your Dobermann IV review - mint 👍🏻 - that knife looks bloody amazing...like a survival prybar that could handle skinning & boning-out deer in the pinch. Thinking it might compliment my Shrapnel?. What do you reckon or is the ONTOS dashit?

[@BushCampingTools]

The Doberman sounds like would be better for you apps. Yes you are spot on re the Dobermann IV. The ONTOS is really an emergency kind of survival tool, in other words you can do all of the above with it but it will be easier with other knives such as the Dobermann IV. Don't get me wrong the Ontos is a great knife/tool but one, I'd have "ready to go".

[@mountainsstreams2133]

Bush Camping Tools - Thanks for your advice & expertise bro 👍🏻

[@BushCampingTools]

No problems!

[@EduardoGarcia-fj2uc]

Extrema ratio knifes are awesome 👍👍👍

[@BushCampingTools]

Hi, u bet they are and thanks for watching!

[@turtlewolfpack6061]

If it weren't for the cost Ild already own a few Extrema Ratio knives. They actually combine my two all time favorite designs, the khukuri and tanto. That said I do personally know someone who owns a couple of Extrema Ratios and I very much like using them.

[@BushCampingTools]

Hi, yes they have some great designs but maybe not in everything. I do like though how they keep improving their designs though and I think N690 is a great stainless tool steel, maybe overkill for knives but at 58HRC it really holds an edge. LOL, you have to permanently borrow your friends knives!

[@turtlewolfpack6061]

Bush Camping Tools nah, one day Ill get one. Right now Im eyeing a package under the tree that I know is an engraved KHHI Scourge Khukuri that my wife got me for Christmas. That is going to keep me busy all year!

[@BushCampingTools]

LOL! Good one! No such presents for me, my wife is going crazy with all the bloody knives in the house as it is LOL! The only present will be a trash skip out the front of the house going to the metal recyclers LOL!

[@turtlewolfpack6061]

Bush Camping Tools well in this order I got the KHHI Scourge and she got herself two knives!

[@BushCampingTools]

LOL! Way to go!

[@nigil7386]

Hi, do you prefer the ontos or the dobermann? Thank you 🙂

[@BushCampingTools]

Hi, I'd have to go with the Ontos as a more of serious survival tool that one can do many things with and it doesn't look too aggressive like the Dobermann IV. That being said, the Doberman IV is probably more useful for hunting if not proper hunting knife available or one just wants to take one big knife for camp and hunting.I've used them both quite a lot, so it's a tough question to answer LOL! Thanks for watching!

[@nigil7386]

Bush Camping Tools thank you for the answer 😊 I’m going to purchase my one (dobermann) just today. Please continue to post videos 👌

[@BushCampingTools]

@@nigil7386 Hi, no problems! Thanks for your support!

[@xyzxyz9708]

Are your ER Selvans videos deleted?

[@BushCampingTools]

No, I have never made any Selvans videos as yet.

[@xyzxyz9708]

@@BushCampingTools Thanks, then I was wrong, I thought you had published a Selvans' video and could not find it anymore.

[@edwardgomez3633]

How would you compare to the Fox Trapper? Thanks.

[@BushCampingTools]

Both good knives both made from the same steel. Probably the Ontos is easier to maintain due to a simple blade shape and makes a slightly better chopper. Both have thick blades however the Ontos is really more of a tool than a general knife like the Trapper. I own both because they get used in different parts of the country and world as a whole. Hope that sort of helps. It depends upon where you want to venture and what do you what to do or be capable of doing.

[@edwardgomez3633]

Bush Camping Tools I appreciated your input. I viewed the E.R. factory tour and decided on the Ontos. Purchased and am awaiting delivery. Thanks again.

[@BushCampingTools]

@@edwardgomez3633 Hi here, great!

[@66meikou]

Nice review mate, worth the wait. I have to wonder why they put that kit with the knife when the selvans has a different (and better looking components) one? Comparing the ontos to the fox trapper, is it that much better to justify paying about twice the price?

[@BushCampingTools]

Hi Patrick, thanks for your comments,. Yes you are correct about the kit that comes with the Selvans, it has far better components in it and I'll be talking to ER regarding the contents of the kit that came with the BCB. I don't know anyone who seriously thinks they can collect, transport and store, without a lot of palaver, water in a condom. This has somehow perpetuated itself amongst would be survivalists. A small sheet of plastic or a sponge is a better thing to collect and store water with as it requires no support and has more functionality. And yes there is a brand name compass withe the Selvans. As to which knife is "better" from a price point, if the FOX Trapper is within your budget, I still think it's a good knife. However, the Ontos has a better quality sheath despite the safety tab issue ( I suppose it's not a huge issue) the Extrema Ratio Ontos far outshines the Trapper on comfort and practicality for field maintenance as it has a simpler blade profile to sharpen (it's still a good knife and they are really hard to make a fair comparison), only one fixing bolt as opposed to the two very small bolts holding the scales on the Trapper.. If you only want one of these knives, I'd opt for the Ontos.n You'll pass it on to your heirs! Also the Trapper only has a one year warranty, the Ontos is a lifetime warranty. Hope this sort of answers your questions.

[@BushCampingTools]

Hi also I should have said with the Trapper's machined out tang, there are simply more places to get water into. I was using the Trapper day in and day out in a river and for a couple of hours per day it was submerged, required me to pull the scales off and wipe it dry. Also if one was to look at long term abuse in the field I think the Ontos would again shine through, though this is simply an opinion now as I've not been in a situation to test the two against one another. The anchoring bolt for the Ontos is very sturdy and accepts either a screw driver blade or an allen wrench to remove it. Worst case scenario if you lost this bolt in the wilds, simply putting a loop of para cord or similar into the lanyard hole of the Ontos will secure the handle no problems. It is a well thought out knife and I guess that's why several military units according to ER use this knife.

[@66meikou]

Good info mate and I appreciate it. I'll save up a bit longer and go with either the ontos or selvans. ER should ditch the bcb kit and just stick with the other one. I noticed it's also the same one they offer with the RAO. I've loved the look of the ER knives since I first discovered them. I just wish they would stop with all the graphics everywhere. Looking forward to more vids from you!

[@BushCampingTools]

Patrick Anderson Hi you know I was using the fire steel that came from BCB, its branded BCB and the damn thing came right out of the handle! I caught it all on camera so will post this very very short vid asap. I really think the best fire steels are the real ones from Sweden, mine is over 35 years old and the handle has never come off, plus the ferro rod is def made in Sweden and not the far east AKA China. Yeah def save up.

[@BushCampingTools]

Patrick Anderson Def save up and get one or the other. If u are into serious outdoor stuff then I reckon you won't be disappointed in the Ontos, the Selvans is a little bigger though and I can't comment right now but hope to review this one later, well see.

[@EDLuke246]

This was a great review, really enjoyed watching. I've just bought my first Extrema Ratio knife, and this video confirmed everything I hear about their quality and performance. Quick question though.. you're using yours almost as an alternative to a Parang / Machete.. was it better or worse than using a standard Machete? Amazed that the edge held up so well considering what you put it through!

[@BushCampingTools]

Hi, firstly thanks for your comments! Ok i almost never use the Ontos in place of a machete. It's too short for that. Yes I've used it to build a temp shelter etc and to cut some vines/liana's but for real hacking away at undergrowth/brush jungle material you are better off with a machete. ER intended this as a pretty close thing (hence it's name) to a "survival edged tool" (My words not theirs) and this does exactly that. Heavy enough to pound with and rough chop with the back of it, the serrations are shallow and can take a beating and be used for many tasks; the blade is easily kept sharp by simple means. It's thick enough for levering without fear of breaking or bending and the tip, whilst not super pointy is good enough for penetrating animal hide and or gutting fish. The convexed edge will out perform a standard uniform straight bevel when used to cut/hack into naturally dirty objects. If for example you were to regrind/re-profile the cutting edge to a uniform bevel, it just would not stay as sharp as long as the factory hand ground original edge.

[@EDLuke246]

Thanks for the reply. Yeah it seems like you can rely on the quality of the product, and know it will perform when you need it to. Side note - really like the format of this video, where you show it being used in a variety of ways, then review it. Thanks for putting the effort in.

[@BushCampingTools]

Thanks, yeah it is a very time consuming way to produce such a video review but it's kind of the philosophy behind my channel. Besides that I/we do get to enjoy the bush etc and there is lots of great things going on that unfortunately you guys and gals don't see as I really can't be filming constantly but we enjoy ourselves making these reviews a lot despite not being many of them, I want them to be as professional as possible and of course informative.

[@impermanenthuman8427]

Why did you choose this vs the Selvans?

[@BushCampingTools]

Hi there. I believe the Selvans had not been made when I got my Ontos. I had no idea it existed or it was going to exist but of course now knowing this if I ever happen to break the Ontos LOL, then a Selvans it would be. Thanks for watching!

[@bondesandavide077]

Grande video di un prodotto italiano di eccellenza

[@BushCampingTools]

Thank you very much. It is not hard to make a good video of a great product for sure!

[@perry2768]

Per il bottone basta mettere dello strach come il fodero de foxl parang o dell' israeli tracker ....

[@BushCampingTools]

Yes. They actually did a good job with the strap on the ER Dobermann IV, which has a tough bit of plastic to stop the blade cutting into it. Thanks for watching.

[@paulkraemer61]

Great video. But maybe your forgot to mension that extrema ratio doesn't have a unlimited guarantee. Unusual, for this prices.

[@BushCampingTools]

Hi The warranty notification that came in the box with the ONTOS and also the TASK and DobermannIV I also have, all state an Unlimited warranty""on these products. Which I would definitely expect from this manufacturer and also with these price points. For me if you compare this to say the FKMD knives, only come with a one year warranty against workmanship defects, of course they are at a lower price. Thanks for liking the video too!

[@paulkraemer61]

Bush Camping Tools Hi, if you'are satisfied with that... About costumer-service from E.R. see: www.bladeforums.com/forums/showthread.php/1133393-EXTREMA-RATIO-Col-Moschin-Guarantee?highlight=col+moschin

[@BushCampingTools]

Paul Kraemer Hi ok I'll check it out but right now for some stupid reason I can't access it. As far as any knife failure goes, it is pretty easy to demonstrate a manufacturing fault Vs user abuse of a blade.

[@BushCampingTools]

Paul Kraemer Ok I just read this post, I won't form any opinion on it as I don't know exactly what this guy did to the knife, maybe he didn't do anything out of the ordinary. All I know is that I was once teaching to students how to identify metal fatigue fractures and one can pretty easily see whether there has been a catastrophic brittle failure as opposed to a ductile failure or a mixture of the two. AND I guess as scientist who has also worked in applied physics, it would be pretty hard for any manufacturer to "pull the wool over my eyes".

[@paulkraemer61]

Bush Camping Tools Thanks for your statement.

[@tomsplayground7712]

Verry nice Video. looks wet, hot and full of adventure in your location. Where is it? Australia?

[@BushCampingTools]

HI thanks! Yes this was indeed filmed in Australia up north, loads of spiders, leeches, mosquitos ( the worst) snakes and damn ants almost an inch long! But a great place to test out this knife. Thanks for watching and subbing

[@tomsplayground7712]

Sounds funny ;-) was a pleasure

[@MauricioIha]

11:23 when he lift up left hand to beat, i laugh loud

[@BushCampingTools]

+MauricioIha Thanks for watching! I didn't think it was that funny LOL!

[@adriandubois1132]

Where is you from?

[@BushCampingTools]

Australian, 5th generation Irish, Chinese, Italian LOL!

[@Mugwumps107]

New subscriber here, that was through test 👍🏻

[@BushCampingTools]

Welcome! Glad you liked it and more of that stuff coming soon so please check out my other stuff in the meantime and enjoy! There is a blog and a FB page as well.

[@paulie4x1]

Say Heah M8, I got a comparable knife, I went with the Busse Combat Nuclear Meltdown Fussion Steel Heart, which I paired off with one of my INFI RatManDu I have two, then recently I bough a beautiful set, I bought the Steel Heart Ergo and the Badger Attack Ergo both are coated and match in every way except the size, the S H E is 7 1/2" and the B A E is slightly shorter than 5" blade, but a lovely matching combo, Yeah, I looked at the Extrema Ratios and the TASK C caught my eye, Take care, great video, and Thanx for sharing, ,,, ,,, ,,,

[@BushCampingTools]

+paulie 4x I'll look into that knife.

[@paulie4x1]

Yeah, it's a smaller version of the TASK, I saw you use, ,,, ,,, ,,,

[@paulie4x1]

Say Heah M8, I wear large gloves, although I'm sensible about how big of wood I baton I use it hard but with luv, and when I chop I don't have soar hands because I think their knives are designed with military use in mind, I find chopping is good with it and I don't get any vibration when I chop like I said I like the Fox Hitam Golok, and here in the states it's way under $200.00 and I saw one on Amazon for around $170.00+ or-.

[@BushCampingTools]

paulie 4x Right on man, I going to check it out asap!

[@bushcraft_in_the_north]

I thought it was the Selvans who had the super duper kind of grip?

[@BushCampingTools]

this one too LOL but no seriously, the Selvens does indeed have a longer grip.

[@rigohook1160]

(Palm sized spider sits on my knife) "bye bye knife! You were a good knife!"....

[@BushCampingTools]

not in my country LOL, full of big spiders LOL. You must see then my review of what happens when you put you knife scabbard underwater - it is the AMF review, check it out LOL.

[@albertov.488]

That knife looks like a tank! thanks for the review, mate.

[@albertov.488]

By the way, the thumbnail of the video looks extremely badass. :)

[@BushCampingTools]

Hey thanks and yes it is a tank but handles like a Ferrari!

[@BushCampingTools]

Alberto V. Hi again yeah these spiders are everywhere where I was filming, tough luck if one doesn't like spiders LOL

[@albertov.488]

Bush Camping Tools Haha, I'm actually a bit of an arachnophobe but that picture looks straight up badass!

[@BushCampingTools]

Alberto V. Yeah everytime I look at this , it is pretty badass. Maybe I should change the icon? I'll see what people think. It was a pretty damn big spider too.

[@dias17se]

Did you payed for these ratio knives ?

[@BushCampingTools]

Hi this question comes up on the occasion about the products I choose to review here on BushCampingTools, so I'm going write a generic reply and put it on the FaceBook page about the review process here. Please check the FaceBook page within a day or so.

[@dias17se]

Bush Camping Tools just an honest question, i mean these things cost 500 bucks, and i have 70$ knives that do the same

[@BushCampingTools]

Hi, I'm not sure yet whether you have had a chance to read my FaceBook post on this subject. But I'll assume you haven't just yet. Yes I agree, your question is a fair one. Let me say this too; BushCampingTools is not about whether anyone can afford or not afford to purchase any products shown here. It is not about making reviews by comparing between similar products and or within product lines. BCT is not about saying how sub 100 dollar knives are the only knives which are any good and everything else is a rip off. The main reason why I do this is because no two knives (if we just focus about knives and not tents etc etc for the present) are the same IMHO. I never ever mention costs of the products. This is done or rather not done as the cost of a product (any product, camera, car, boat, house etc) and what is the perceived value is totally dependent upon the individual, not me, regardless of whether this is a personal purchase or one which may have been supplied by a manufacturer (upon my request, not theirs). BushCampingTools (BCT)is not polarised to review only high cost knives. BCT is about making thorough real field tests which involve realistic uses of knives designed for outdoor usage. Knives which i consider to be good quality knives. Whether these "good quality knives" are "good value knives" is as i say further down totally dependent upon the individual, not me. I try to accomplish this (my reviews) by doing exactly that by calling on my 35 year plus outdoor experience which covers but not limited to; hunting, fishing, camping trekking, caving, SCUBA diving and cycle touring, all conducted over both hemispheres. During this time I have also been on 2, remote caving expeditions (leader and Co-leader) S and E's, "survived" on a deserted island, with nothing but a secondhand machete, one fishing lure and a leatherman multitool LOL . It is totally up to the individual as to whether a product they see here is right (or wrong for them). Unlike many sites, I get no "kick backs" manufacturers or others for buying anything I show here. My philosophy is also that a good knife no matter what the cost should be able to last a lifetime if not lost or stolen. I do not advocate people should go running out there and have 50 plus knives sitting around doing nothing (and people do, I'm sure of this).

[@dias17se]

Bush Camping Tools that being said, did you buy these 3 extrema ratio ? Yes or no ?

[@BushCampingTools]

Did you read the facebook post? Your answer is there. If I said yes, what would be your reply? If I said no what would be your reply?

[@kevmorris8309]

Thanks to you, I just bought a Waki for $300 dollars. My wife said, "YOU PAID WHAT' ?

[@BushCampingTools]

As long as your wife is still your wife, u are going to ok, trust me LOL! Great and Thanks for watching! Tell her it is for carving the "roast"!

[@kevmorris8309]

@@BushCampingTools "LOL" thanks.

[@paulie4x1]

Say Heah M8, I have a Fox Hitam Golok that is a great survival knife too, a good chopper and I wouldn't be too disappointed if I just had it in a survival situation it's not a skinner but when there's a will there's a way, but as far as shelter building wood processing for a fire or a defence knife I could have pick a worst knife, it is a tactical knife but I do use it on the bush, what impresses ne it's made out of the same N960Co Stainless your Extrema is made from, and on my Fox Hitam they coat the blade with some technical process that increases it's RC to 70 ' s I don't understand that so don't quote me it's just info from Fox, but I do like mine and it serves me great, I even got happier to see what other N960Co knives sell for, I got a Busse Nuclear Meltdown Fussion Steel Heart for about the same price but like they say "You get what you pay for, I do agree with you your Extrema is Simply TiT's, Beautiful.

[@BushCampingTools]

paulie 4x Hi there. Yes FOX are making loads of their knives in N690. The DLC, Diamond like coating they apply or have done outside the factory? will only increase the outer surface hardness and when that is worn away then the original hardness is what you've got. The real reason I believe that they do this is that at the higher Rockwell's they are tempering/hardening to, N690 gives a reduced corrosion resistance due to more Cr tied up in carbides and not in solid solution. Where as the ER knives are at a more optimum 58 to perform better there. Some technical guys from Udderhom told me this BTW. Yeah I think the Golok could be a good knife and am yet to check it out.

[@paulie4x1]

Oh don't get me wrong I am looking into their products and I have already they are good knives, my point is I think I got a great deal because without the DLC the RC is 60, like I said it's a well kept secret that Fox Hitam Golok, I really like mine as far as it being similar to 440C it's alot better IMO.

[@BushCampingTools]

No no yes your are right, it's this stupid thing of texting on YT a lot of communication is lost when we are not talking face to face. I think you are right re the Golok for sure. I've only ever had one of their Kukri style knives in my hands that was of similar size. BTW how do you find the grip when swinging it about??

[@BushCampingTools]

paulie 4x Hey BTW thanks to you and your enthusiasm, I hope to review FOXknives version of a GOLOK too so stay tuned.

[@paulie4x1]

That would be awesome, that's great and I will stay tuned, just let me know when OK.

[@michelecasella1094]

Extrema Ratio : un buon coltello deve avere un giusto prezzo .

[@BushCampingTools]

+Michele Casella Exactly! Thanks for watching!

[@manuelmembrilla4848]

Dale el cuchillo a alguien que sepa manejarlo...

[@BushCampingTools]

+Manuel Membrilla Sorry I don't speak Spanish, so my reply may not be the right one but am I correct and saying that you think I can't handle this knife or do you want one of these? Apologies in advance. Thanks for watching anyway!

[@paulie4x1]

By the way, The S H E is a great chopper for its size, If I need more of a chopper then my Nuclear Meltdown Fussion Steel Heart and the INFI RatManDu will do it, and if it doesnt, I know my Anneversary Straight Handle Battle Mistress LE and the other INFI RatManDu will do it, just joking around, But, yeah, Those are my knives, ,,, ,,, ,,,

[@paulie4x1]

Say Heah M8, I like the 690Co infact I have the Hiram Golok, I also have a few Busse Combat Knives in the INFI Steel infact I have two Battle Mistress a Anneversay Straight Handle Battle Mistress LE and the Ergo Battle Mistress in that famous INFI Steel, I also have a couple Steel Hearts in various sizes like the Anneversay Steel Heart, The Steel Heart Ergo, and the Nuclear Meltdown Fussion Steel Heart. The ASH-1 was the first time Busse Combat Cerakote a blade and only a short run was made for the blade show one year. The others are also not available anymore. But do you realize they want $726.95 for a 6"+ Extreme Ratio Selvan. Wow buddy, I know you don't have anything to do with the prices. But Your talking the same price I paid for my Busse Combat A. S. H. B. M. LE. and look how though the Busse Combat Battle Mistress is on the video of the Destruction video on the Battle Mistress. I personally think it's really a over priced knife. No doubt it's a beauty and I like the steel, But I got a larger knife in my Hiram Golok for less money. I use it hard and mine holds up asking for more, But I paid less than half that for a Sylvan Extreme Ratio I want. I think they better start making them in the U. S. and cut that export tax that would bring the price down. Yrah, I like it, But seriously my friend $726.95 is a bit much. No offense, I know you don't control the price, You just try to sell them. But WoW, I almost swallowed my cigar I'm smoking when I looked at the price. Talk to your poisonous, and tell them Macha Fa

[@BushCampingTools]

Hi mate, yes they are pretty steep with the prices. i hope I better still have them in 20 years time to the moneys worth.

[@BushCampingTools]

Hi mate, yes they are pretty steep with the prices. i hope I better still have them in 20 years time to the moneys worth.

[@BushCampingTools]

Hi mate, yes they are pretty steep with the prices. i hope I better still have them in 20 years time to the moneys worth.

[@BushCampingTools]

Hi mate, yes they are pretty steep with the prices. i hope I better still have them in 20 years time to the moneys worth.

[@BushCampingTools]

Hi mate, yes they are pretty steep with the prices. i hope I better still have them in 20 years time to the moneys worth.

[@moparhemi1777]

I can see this grind just bouncing of a piece of dried out oak... too steep for my preferences. I also don't like the steel choice, especially in this price range. For what you get I think Extrema Ratio is way overpriced.

[@BushCampingTools]

Hi, no you'd be incorrect about the blade bouncing off oak, let alone any wood as I've tested it on countless seasoned (especially eucalyptus which is fr harder than any oak species :) and many green tree species across the globe. As regards to the price, well it totally depends on what one's disposable income is and or what personal choices they make (that goes for buying the "Over priced anything" LOL!). That's why on this channel I never talk about prices, never compare knives and certainly never make assumptions about my viewer's income or lack of income/disposable income, as none of this stuff is necessary for our daily lives etc. As for steel choice fair enough but I guess that comes down to that at present, as far as I'm aware, N690 is not made in China yet. I will agree and say that their is a hype about N690, especially since it's a stainless tool steel and was never intended for cutting tools outside of high speed high heat no lubrication/cooling tooling cutters, where the addition of the Cobalt helps to keep the HRC from degrading. But all that being said, I appreciate your comments as you are certainly no alone in what you say re price.

[@moparhemi1777]

I own an ESEE 5 and tested it on numerous woods and found out for myself that the grind is just too steep and that even seemed to be shallower than the grind on the Extrema Ratio but may be there is where the weight distribution kicks in. That hidden sort of modified stick tang helps with chopping for sure! What I don't know is how thick or thin the Extrema Ratio is behind the edge what has a huge impact on chopping in my experience. But I bet it is a pleasure to chop green stuff with it! What I noticed on your testing is that I would love the coating for sure! It seems to hold up really well... similar or even better than what I have seen from CRK's KG Gun Kote (which they sadly no longer use). I personally think the pricing is a huge factor because I'd never spend about 500€ (where I live) to get a knife with a survival kit I don't need, a blade with too funky grinds for me that are too steep for my preferences and first and foremost a steel that is probably heat treated perfectly but does not show the performance 3V, Vanadis 4E or even m390 and S35VN at the stainless front would show! I just think the competition especially regarding the materials is way to strong for Extrema Ratio to keep up. Their designs also don't quite speak to me... I like simple grinds, no Tantos, no recurves, no billboarding and in general nothing that screams "tacticool". The only design I was ever interested in was the Shrapnel but when I spend just a couple of bucks more I can get something from TRC with hand ground bevels, exceptional quality and a custom cryo heat treating. But to close this response off I want to thank you for the quick response which was everything else than lazy! In my opinion you did a great job reviewing this knife especially with the beautiful footage! For my taste it was a little bit too commercial in some places but it is just a pleasure to watch and way more revealing than any destruction test. I sure appreciate the work that has gone into this.

[@BushCampingTools]

Hi thanks so much for your response back and I will write more here as I really appreciate your comments! Got to run right now but check back tomorrow or sooner!

[@moparhemi1777]

Thank you! I'm looking forward to your response.

[@BushCampingTools]

Hi again, yes chopping green wood, is no problems at all. The Coating is a Mil Spec black oxide, (so basically a black oxide treatment but to a military specification) very basic actually and I have an engineer I work closely with for my "real job" who has this applied to many of their parts and it wears very well. I't certainly is way cheaper and less funky than say a DLC/PVD coating (not necessary for outdoor knives at all IMHO)- I once worked in this area of coating- the PVD stuff that is. Pricing, I can't argue for what one can get for the 500 Euro's as it is a lot of money (for a non custom made knife) no matter what the brand. As for 3V Vanadis 4E and m390 and S35VN, at present I have no experience with the performance of these steels in the outdoors (as yet :)) True simple can be best in most cases. TRC , he makes great knives, I have one. Although, I'll probably regrind the edge at some stage to a less steep angle for my purposes. Vanadis 4 on paper (I've read most of the technical literature from the manufacturer) looks pretty good. Finally, thanks for your great comments and appreciate your time here to write back. Regarding the video, I'll bear those comments in mind for future videos. best regards BCT