BK-2 vs RC-4

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Sep 28, 2007
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I really like this knife and would love to purchase it, but was wondering if it can handle delicate jobs since the blade appears to be on the thicker side. Basically it's a toss-up between the RC-4 and the BK-2 for me. Thanks in advance.
 
actually, the BK2 is not at the same size as the RC 4.
people usually compare RC5 to the BK2.
they're at the same blade size, same blade thickness, similar blade shape and both are survival knife.
If you are confuse between the RC4 and the BK2, I'd say the RC4 is better slicer due to it's better edge holding ability, and thinner blade spine.
the BK2 is better chopper, due to it's thicker spine and longer blade.
and consider the price point, the BK2 is more valuable.
if you like somethings cool, like the kydex sheath and Micarta handle, go for the RC4. because the BK2 with the Micarta scales and kydex sheath will be at the same price or even higher price than the RC4.
BTW, ESEE has the most popular NO ASKING guarantee. If you happen to break you blade or you mean to do it, it doesn't matter, they'll replace it.
whatever your choice is, you can't go wrong with both.
Good luck,
 
It's most nearly equivalent to the RC-5 (See below. The BK-2 is shown with the aftermarket Micarta grips.), with their similar .25" blades of 1095 steel.

003.jpg


The RC-4's cutting edge is 4 3/8" long vs the 5" edge of the BK-2, while it is ~ .185" thick with a powder coat vs the Becker's more of a painted finish. The RC-3 is thinner and shorter, with the same size grip - and may be more appropriate for finer work. The BK-2 - like the RC-5 - is better for macro cutting service than micro. The BK-2 and the RC-5 are best carried with a decent folder, too.

Stainz

PS My RC-4 came from evil-bay, while the BK-2 was purchased locally - both for $89.99. The RC-4 had free s/h (That same vendor carries the RC-3 at the same price.), while the locally bought BK-2 included the extra cost Micarta grips - but had to have the s/t added - the RC-4 was actually cheaper! BTW, I found the BK-2 with plastic handles for <$59 shipped - it pays to shop!
 
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I only own the BK2 and im totally happy with it. cant speak for the ESEE4(RC-4) but the steel is very very similar so the ESEE shouldn't hold an edge any better than the BK2 but as mentioned above the blade geometry is different, the ESEE has a full flat grind and the becker is not quite a full flat grind. Both are very popular but the BK2 seems to have like a cult following. ESEE cost's more but that because of the upgraded sheath and micarta handle scales, if you are at all handy you can make your own custom leather or kydex sheath pretty easily and upgrade the BK2 fairly cheap heck you can even make your own micarta if ya want. Back to the knives, I personally think you can not beat Mr. Ethan Becker's Handle design which comes on the BK2. I think the BK2 handle is more comfortable than all the ESEE handles ive touched. Thats not to say the ESEE are uncomfortable, just less comfortable then the BK2
 
I really like this knife and would love to purchase it, but was wondering if it can handle delicate jobs since the blade appears to be on the thicker side. Basically it's a toss-up between the RC-4 and the BK-2 for me. Thanks in advance.

In addition to handling bigger jobs than it should be able to, my BK2 handles jobs about as delicate as I can.

I've successfully used it for tasks like

Creating wooden eating utensils ...
IMG_0002_20110305.jpg


... processing snacks ...
20101126_ac_04.jpg


... and cleaning a mess of panfish ...
20110531_img_0237.jpg


It's my all-around goto knife.


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Beckerhead #42
 
learning how to use the BK2 for finer projects has a longer curve, but it will do pretty much anything you want within reason. (no splitting 10" logs)
that said, the ESEE4 is a great blade, too, especially if you're counting ounces in your pack.
OTOH, if you're really worried about being able to do fine work, get a BK13 Remora to go with your BK2.
 
In addition to handling bigger jobs than it should be able to, my BK2 handles jobs about as delicate as I can.

I've successfully used it for tasks like

Creating wooden eating utensils ...
IMG_0002_20110305.jpg


... processing snacks ...
20101126_ac_04.jpg


... and cleaning a mess of panfish ...
20110531_img_0237.jpg


It's my all-around goto knife.


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Beckerhead #42

Man...how can you do that? I mean...cut some apples up...I can't do it really nice like that even with my BK14, only because of the thickness.
when I cut it, the apple will crack before my blade reach the cutting board :P
@ 1066vik: yes we can use the BK2 for almost any task, since it'a a survival blade, just don't use it for surgery :P
 
Kahn likes to show off his skills with the BK2;):cool:.But he is proof that the 2 will handle finer tasks,while still being a brute of a knife.:thumbup:
 
Man...how can you do that? I mean...cut some apples up...I can't do it really nice like that even with my BK14, only because of the thickness.
when I cut it, the apple will crack before my blade reach the cutting board :P
@ 1066vik: yes we can use the BK2 for almost any task, since it'a a survival blade, just don't use it for surgery :P

Hey - that was sarcasm. I recognize that! :D

Just be glad I didn't pull out my 'batoning through an olive WITH pit' picture like this...
20110325_IMG_0104.jpg


Blast! You tricked me.

Kahn likes to show off his skills with the BK2;):cool:.But he is proof that the 2 will handle finer tasks,while still being a brute of a knife.:thumbup:


Yeah man - I got skills and whatnot.

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Beckerhead #42
 
Hey - that was sarcasm. I recognize that! :D

Just be glad I didn't pull out my 'batoning through an olive WITH pit' picture like this...
20110325_IMG_0104.jpg


Blast! You tricked me.




Yeah man - I got skills and whatnot.

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Beckerhead #42

Lol your funny.
I can see you got the skill.
btw I see the green cord tied on the sheath, what was that for/ :P
 
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