Introducing the SPAX

Not technically a weapon but I'm sure it will be used as one. This is a SPAX. It is supposed to be an emergency tool to get out of something fast, airplane, Humvee, etc. Not sure who they are being issued too but it seems to be a couple per squad rather than everyone. Also issued in planes and some armored vehicles although I don't know why. The center hole is supposed to open a Humvee door without a handle.

These are only made by Ontario Knife company. Figured I'd get one before they got ridiculous in price. This one came new in the package for $60 on eBay.

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Whoa, for a moment there I thought there was some kind of throwing star aspect to this thing...turns out it's just the placement of it on your rug!

LOL, the rug wasn't the best choice but it's dark outside and I can't use my usual forest green porch lid to take the photos. I made sure to keep the stars out of the center.

My wife is convinced it's a throwing axe of some sort. I haven't heard of anyone doing this but I've only known about them for a week or so now. As a weapon, or tool for that matter, I'd be concerned with stabbing myself in the back with that "hook' thing.

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Product Description
The SP16 SPAX made by Ontario Knife is part of the Spec Plus Next Generation series designed for military, sporting, and rescue use. The SPAX is a knife, a hatchet, or a pick axe, whatever the situation dictates. Situated in New York State's scenic Southern Tier, Ontario Knife Company produces one of the most comprehensive, wide-ranging product lines in the cutlery industry today. While being a worldwide supplier, the Ontario Knife Company is also a major supplier to the U.S. Government and its military. Ontario has built its reputation on a heritage of uncompromising craftsmanship, quality materials and components, and a steadfast commitment to its workforce. Epoxy textured and powder coated black steel blades. Full tang blades are hardened to 52-54 HRC. Kraton handle resists the elements and has finger grooves for a secure grip. Piped lanyard hole in handle. Includes leather cordura sheath.

It looks almost spot on for the air crew escape axes.

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Originally Posted by browningautorifle

It looks almost spot on for the air crew escape axes.

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That is one of its uses.

Originally designed for firefighters per the Ontario rep I spoke with at a trade show several years ago. Military picked up because it's also an all-purpose tool useful to aircrew, firefighters, and grunts. Don't know whether the Navy uses them or not.

The center hole is for opening fire hydrant covers.

Steve,
When I saw the axe on the carpet I thought it was part of a Ninja kit with all them stars :lol:

I'm on the fence with this one. I found a used one with what looks like a dulled blade in the $60 range, wonder how it will take an edge, and how long the edge lasts.
I'm thinking general camp duty, cutting smaller firewood and ditching tent perimeters.
Much lighter and smaller than a 3# camp axe and and cool military style, similar to the older military raft and PAL woodsman survival tools.
What the heck, talked myself into buying it and see how it works in Maine this summer.
Thanks Aragorn243 you enabler you!

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Originally Posted by Gil Boyd

Steve,
When I saw the axe on the carpet I thought it was part of a Ninja kit with all them stars :lol:

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Not my best choice of backgrounds, LOL. I usually take them on the porch on my green storage boxes but this was probably at night.

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Originally Posted by pickax

I'm on the fence with this one.
Thanks Aragorn243 you enabler you!

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I'm just a collector, no idea how good it would do chopping wood. Should hold an edge pretty well, it seems to be good steel.

Received my SPAX the other day, looks good and should do well for light camp chores, and truck duty. Thanks for the heads up!

The design has been around for quite some time here is a pic of the WWII escape axe carried in the bombers for crews to hack their way out of a crashed aircraft.