What I wanted was EXACTLY the Smatchet used by US and UK forces in the Second World War. This Smatchet is exactly that, and I am well satisfied with it.
This OSS Smatchet is an exact reproduction of the original model from the Second World War. It is exactly the weapon described and explained in Major Faribairn's book "Get Tough: How to Win in Hand-to-Hand Fighting" and conforms exactly to the illustrations in that volume. The configuration of the hilt (as distinguished from the hilt found on some other modern-made weapons calling themselves "Smatchets", but which are actually Bolos) is exactly correct and allows for the "close-in blows" described by Major Fairbairn in his book, far better than the US Model 1917 Bolo grip does.
The finish is not a fine polished finish, but it is not meant to be. It is meant to be fairly non-reflective and it is meant to be an accurate reproduction of the kind of weapon that one would find in a Second World War arms room.
The weapon is sturdy, properly sharpened for its purpose, and to the standard of the original weapon. I am aware that some have found fault with this weapon. The critics seem to want a different weapon entirely --- either a new redesign based upon the Smatchet, or else a polished presentation version that probably never existed in the field, or else something like a US Model 1917 Bolo.
If you want a proper Smatchet, I can recommend this one. If you want a Bolo, then buy a Bolo.
| Recommended Uses For Product | Fighting,Office |
|---|---|
| Brand | Windlass |
| Special Feature | Full Tang |
| Age Range (Description) | Adult |
| Handle Material | Aluminum |
| Color | Blue |
| Blade Material | High Carbon Steel |
| Style | Modern |
| Blade Length | 3.25 Inches |
| Product Care Instructions | Hand Wash Only |
| Item Weight | 1 Pounds |
| Item Length | 16.75 Inches |
| Item Package Dimensions L x W x H | 17.83 x 4.21 x 1.46 inches |
| Package Weight | 0.9 Kilograms |
| Brand Name | Windlass |
| Manufacturer | Windlass Steelcrafts |
| Part Number | Part403214 |
