Dave, I looked hard at the SP48 during my research for this acquistion; it got super fine reviews. But went with the saber grind SP53 instead, reasoning - perhaps incorrectly - that saber grind would yield more splitting power for batoning than flat ground. I have no data or models to back that up. Thoughts?
And in general, how do you like the 48? What are you using it for? Part of what I'd like to do in this thread is compare and contrast the 53 with similar blades by both Ontario and other makers (e.g., ESEE Junglas; Kabar Cutlass Machete, etc).
Also, very interesting observation about the powder coating. I hadn't considered that, but it makes sense. That coating is hella rough for a blade.
Can you tell me more about how you would do a bluing or add a patina? I'm not familiar with either technique (though I know what "bluing" is; I've just never done it).
...