[Sir Galahad]

Been thinking on one. But I must admit, the Cold Steel Laredo Bowie is a tempter. But how thick is the blade on a Bagwell Bowie, say, a Hell's Belle or a Fortress?

[Bruz]

But how thick is the blade on a Bagwell Bowie, say, a Hell's Belle

At the thickest a Bagwell Hells Belle is .35 inch and a Ontario Hells Belle is .3 inch. Do not know bout the Fortress.

[BigG]

*Gulp* that's ~ 9mm thick! :what:

[Kjay]

The blade spine is indeed thick. However, the blade has considerable distal taper and is flat ground. Don't let the initial thickness fool you - it weighs in at about 16 oz and is very quick in the hand. It's a good fighter blade - less so for utility purposes.

[Sir Galahad]

Out-freakin'-standing! I'm getting one! A Fortress! Or perhaps a Hell's Belle. One or the other. The Cold Steel Laredo will have to wait.

[MK11]

Where can you find one? I see the Ontario Knife version of the Helles Bell on several different Web sites, is that the same thing or a poor copy?

[brownie0486]

If you want the real deal Belle, two options.

Order one from Bill Bagwell and wait two years or

Find someone willing to sell one privately.

He makes about 10-12 Belles a year at the present time.

Brownie

[MK11]

Thanks. How do the Ontario copies stack up?

[Bruz]

How do the Ontario copies stack up?

A novice, like me, could not tell the difference unless you held both side by side. As far as the balance, stabbing and slashing ability, and feel in hand, if I close my eyes I do not know which one I am holding...but remember I am but a novice.

[Kjay]

I can't speack for an actual Bagewell, but the Ontario versions are good affordable alternatives. I have the Onatrio Belle and am very happy with it. Excellent thruster and back cutter. Fighter not a utility blade.