Bandicoot or howling rat?

voppa · Jul 21, 2005

I want a small fixed blade that I can beat the piss out of. I kind of like the looks of the howling rat better but figured I'd get some opinions since they are both the same length, steel, etc. Anyone owned or held both of these?

TNRat · Jul 21, 2005

I own both.

Stop dipping your toe and be a man(or woman, whatever the case may be.)

They each have their ups and downs. Get both. Over a period of time you will learn the attributes of each, and keep both. Sell any other cheap knives you may have.

Jeff Clark · Jul 21, 2005

I'd go with the Howling Rat. The primary difference between the two knives is their blade widths. The blades are rather thick at 3/16-inch. The wider blade on the HR will be more accute and will cut better than the narrower Bandicoot. Its greater width will also make it a little stronger. This may not be a big difference, but if you are looking for reasons to choose that is one (or maybe its two).

sodak · Jul 21, 2005

I have both, and prefer the Bandicoot for general utility, it's more comfortable for close in working such as whittling, due to the less width. The HR looks stronger and will probably be a better skinner with the extra belly. I agree with Jeff that it's probably stronger.

You will need to thin the grinds out when you get them, they are pretty thick from the factory. Once you do that, they are both a real pleasure to use and own.

wetdog1911 · Jul 21, 2005

I HAD both and still have my HR. Just love the shape and it was my first Rat.

It's a very personal thing as both are outstanding. You'll probably end up with both eventually, but I'd say get the Howler first.

If you're married though, keep it away from your wife. If she ever uses it in the kitchen you just lost a knife. LOL That's pretty much what's happened to mine. I do get to visit now and then.

Rob

voppa · Jul 22, 2005

Thanks for the input guys. I just ordered a Howling Rat. Now all I have to do is wait for it to arrive

Could it actually take up to 8 weeks? I hope not, but if it does, I'm sure it will be worth the wait.

Dr. Thor · Jul 22, 2005

It could, and probably will take 8 weeks.

But your going to love it, I have one and I sure do!!

Coonskinner · Jul 23, 2005

My Bandicoot has pretty well become the knife I reach for in a lot of situations.

I love it for field dressing deer.

You won't go wrong either way.

ljg · Jul 23, 2005

Don't mean to hijack the thread, but can anyone tell me what the length of the cutting part of the blade is on the Howling Rat? I'm not sure if the specs they give on their website mean total blade length or the length from mid-choil to tip

Thanks,

ljg

wetdog1911 · Jul 24, 2005

ljg said:
Don't mean to hijack the thread, but can anyone tell me what the length of the cutting part of the blade is on the Howling Rat? I'm not sure if the specs they give on their website mean total blade length or the length from mid-choil to tip

Thanks,

ljg

Actual edge is 3 1/2", tip to handle is 4 1/2". HTH

Rob