Ontario Shikra: Winning First Effort

Published on February 19, 2021
Duration: 11:48

This review covers the Ontario Knife Company (OKC) Shikra, a budget-friendly folding knife featuring a titanium frame lock and Micarta handle. The reviewer, with extensive experience in knife reviews, highlights its surprising quality for the $45 price point, noting the comfortable handle, effective deep-carry clip, and sharp AUS-8 spear-point blade. While acknowledging it's not a high-end or innovative design, it's presented as a solid first effort from OKC in the frame-lock category and a capable EDC option.

Quick Summary

The Ontario Knife Company Shikra is a budget-friendly folding knife featuring a titanium frame lock, comfortable olive drab Micarta handle scales, and a sharp AUS-8 spear-point blade. It offers excellent value for its $45 price point, with a deep-carry clip and good ergonomics, making it a capable everyday carry option.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Tabletop Setup
  2. 00:48Gear Acquisition Process
  3. 01:43Researching Ontario Knife Company
  4. 02:28Spec Plus Series & Past Favorites
  5. 03:04Revisiting OKC & Old Hickory Knife
  6. 03:51Introducing the OKC Shikra
  7. 04:16Shikra Purchase & Initial Impressions
  8. 04:54Handle Design: Micarta & Ergonomics
  9. 05:54Frame Lock Side & Open Design
  10. 06:49Pocket Clip Analysis
  11. 07:15Frame Lock & Blade Deployment Speed
  12. 07:34Lock Up, Stop Pin, & Centering
  13. 08:02Blade Steel: AUS-8
  14. 08:47Blade Finish & Sharpness
  15. 09:00Cutting Test
  16. 09:32Spear Point Blade Utility
  17. 10:08Comparison: Food Prep Blades
  18. 10:40Jimping & Flipper Tab
  19. 11:10Overall Value & Conclusion
  20. 11:18Ontario Knife Company's Future

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key features of the Ontario Knife Company Shikra?

The OKC Shikra features a titanium frame lock, olive drab Micarta handle scales for good grip, and a blackwashed AUS-8 spear-point blade. It also includes a deep-carry pocket clip and an open-back design for easier cleaning.

Is the OKC Shikra a good value for its price?

Yes, the reviewer considers the OKC Shikra to be a surprisingly good value for its $45 price point, highlighting its robust titanium frame lock, comfortable Micarta handle, and sharp blade as standout features for a budget knife.

What type of steel is used in the OKC Shikra blade?

The OKC Shikra utilizes AUS-8 stainless steel for its blade. While not a premium steel, it's considered a reliable and affordable option suitable for everyday carry tasks.

How is the ergonomics and handling of the OKC Shikra?

The Shikra's handle scales are rounded to prevent hot spots, and the Micarta provides a warm, grippy texture. The jimping on the blade spine offers secure thumb placement, and the flipper tab is smooth to operate.

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