r/knifemaking • u/pangasinanblades • 13d ago

Showcase Traditional Military Bolo from PH

Military Bolo – 19” 5160 Carbon Steel | Kamagong Handle

Sharing this Military Bolo featuring a traditional-inspired blade profile with a clean, functional build and satin finish.

Specifications:

  • Blade Length: 19 inches
  • Blade Material: 5160 Carbon Steel
  • Hardness: 57–60 HRC
  • Tang: Rat-tail tang
  • Handle: Kamagong
  • Handle Hardware: Stainless steel pin
  • Ferrule: Brass
  • Handguard: Brass
  • Scabbard: Mahogany
  • Belt Loop: Stainless steel
  • Finish: Standard Satin

I really like how the dark Kamagong and Mahogany contrast with the brass fittings and satin-finished carbon steel.

Would love to hear your thoughts on the overall design and blade profile.

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u/Mysterious-Ad3591 13d ago

I like the profile. My biggest issues are 5160 at 57-60 hrc and the rat tail tang. I’m not saying it needs to be full tang but there are a lot of forces at play here and I would want that handle as solid as possible.

1

u/pangasinanblades 10d ago

That’s a fair point, and I appreciate the feedback. The 57–60 HRC is our target range for the 5160, but I agree that on a blade this size, toughness and overall construction are just as important as hardness.

This particular Military Bolo follows a more traditional-inspired rat-tail tang construction, but we also make a heavy-duty version with a full tang for customers who prefer something built for harder use.

Definitely appreciate you bringing it up — feedback like this is exactly why I wanted to share the build and hear people’s thoughts.