Battle Rat vs. Battle Mistress?

Warthog

Warthog

Joined
Oct 6, 2000
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Is there any difference? They look the same...but the Rat is $150 while the Mistress is $347:eek:

Warthog
 
I think they're slightly different steel, and grind and edge are different.
Also I don't think you can buy the SwampRat knives could be bought from anyone other than Swamp Rat.
 
There are differences in the steel which are probably not going to be critical for most users, INFI will be more durable with better edge retention and other properties, but most would be very pleased with the SR101 in the Swamp Rat knives. The major factor would be the handles, they are very different in design and construction, you would want to check them out in person as suitability is very person dependent.

-Cliff
 
I would argue that there was a massive difference in the edge holding of INFI over a good carbon steel. I can't be specific but at least a magnitude of 5x better edgeholding if the past suggestions are true. How well this 'carbon steel SR101 (52100?) holds up in comparison to say Carbon V or A2 would interest me.

The handle is the same as the Basic series.

It strikes me that these are the Basic Combat series in a cheaper package and worse steel.

That is to say, very good knife at a reasonable price with a steel that most would find more than good enough, unless you were, say Cliff Stamp!;) :p :D
 
The General :

I would argue that there was a massive difference in the edge holding of INFI over a good carbon steel.
Click to expand...

In some respects yes I would agree. However SR101 isn't exactly a slouch in this department so the edge lifetime should be high and the overall blade durablity solid with the differential temper. The handle difference in the knives is more severe and could lead to a more significant difference in performance, so first off I would make sure that aspect agreed with you. Mike (Evolute) had some informative comments in this regard in past posts.

-Cliff
 
Ok, thanks for the replies.

Now...comparing the Rat to the Becker knife & tool...another case of a big price difference. The handles LOOK the same and the blades are of similar length and thickness. For light chopping, would I notice a difference?

I know this is kinda subjective...Unfortunately I cannot personally handle any of these models so I have to rely on others' opinions :(

Thanks!
Warthog
 
I can't find any info on the sheaths for the BR and BM...do they come with them? If so, thoughts on them?
 
I think the sheaths should be the same, but black for the Swamp Rat, OD for the Busse.
These are all good knives you're looking at, and all made of good materials, but definitely handle them if you get the chance. There is a big difference between the Busse E's, Swamp Rats, and Beckers. I've owned four Busse Basics, a Busse E handle, and three Beckers. Much prefer the handles on the Basics to the others, and the Swamp Rats are a further improvement. For me (particularly when chopping), the Beckers are very comfortable, the E handles are very secure, and the Basic/Swamp Rat handles are both.
 
SR-101 is an extremely good steel IMO, I have to admit though that I never really tested an INFI blade (but I know INFI takes a sharp edge), so I can´t offer first hand comparisons between the two. I like the SRKW´s Resiprene handles better than Busse´s Micarta - but this depends on personal preference.
 
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