Comparison Please

[G19G26]

I'd like to hear/see comparisons of the Ratweiler and the Camp Tramp and might as well ask, the FSH. I found out recently that I need a chopper blade. Need to clear fence rows and hunting spots, and make quick hunting blinds.

I've got several Rats and Busses, but nothing I'd take to these tasks regularly. The big question is how do the handles feel to chopping? Do the micarta handles badly wear the hand?

The soft grip of the CT
The economy of the Ratweiler
The investment value of the FSH
Trying to figure out which one is my next buy is killing me. Well at least keeping me awake

Let me know soon. Knob Creek may be the buying scene.

 

[rbmcmjr]

I can't help with any comparisons, but I can't believe that any of the alternatives you have listed will compete with a FSH, especially the HOG version. What about a BM? The BM-e is very choppy, at least in ZT flavor (the only version I have).

Rick

 

[Troy H]

Hey Chuck,

I don't have a shot with the FSH, but here's a visual comparison of the CT and RW. I tried to line up the choils in both pics so that you could use that as a reference point.

I'll start by saying that either blade will do the trick, and each has their advantages and disadvantages.

The Camp Tramp is a bit smaller than either of the others and that does become apparent when chopping. You will be able to get the job done, but it may take a bit longer. However, you'll absolutely love the feel of the Res C for extended periods of chopping. If you are looking at a more dedicated chopper in Res C, I'd definitely look at the Battle Rat. The CT is a bit smaller and suits itself better as a multi task, easy carry blade.

The Ratweiler is the next step up from the CT in weight and performance. It may not have quite the overall chopping power as the Battle Rat, but it's close. The micarta handles can be a bit painful to the mitts, so I'd recommend a good pair of leather gloves. I've had no problems with hand fatigue or injuries with the micarta handle since I started wearing gloves. Being micarta, it also lends itself to custom shaping with a dremel or sandpaper. The handle shape is outstanding for a multi purpose blade. Choking back on the rear palm swell, I can chop nearly as well as a Battle Rat, probably 50% better than the CT becuase of the added mass of the handle. It is heavier than the CT though.

I've only held a HOGFSH with standard scales, but I'll give you my impression of it. Big, heavy, and drool drool drool. This would no doubt be a great chopper, but I wouldn't want to carry this one around all day -- my RW weighs my belt down enough. It is probably a full inch longer in blade than the RW with a 1/2" wider blade. The handle is also much longer than the RWs.

With any of these, you will no doubt be impressed with its abilities. Taking size, chopping, and versatility into consideration, I now use a Ratweiler.

Good luck with your decision, bro.

-360

 

[Heavy]

Here's some pics that might help.

 

[TNRat]

I really don't think you will be able to go wrong with either the RW or CT, although I only have a CT myself.

However, the CT that I have has worked well for me. You get a lot of knife, w/o a lot of knife being in the way, especially when wearing the drop leg sheath by 360.

To offer some more ups and downs for the CT based on my personal experience:

The CT will cost less, and weigh less;

If you have smaller hands the CT will work well for you;

As 360 said, the Respirene is very easy on the hands;

You will find 3 or 4 CT's for sale at a decent price on the forums before you run across one RW for sale.

Let us know what you decide on.

BTW, while I do not own Busse's, and do hold them in the highest respect, I would not want to use a Busse for reasons of value. But, that is just my humble opinion.

I seriously doubt you will suffer with any of the three choices.

 

[Troy H]

You know where to ship that FSH right Heavy? You can just ship that RSII in the same box, bro. :thumbup:

 

[Heavy]

You know where to ship that FSH right Heavy? You can just ship that RSII in the same box, bro. :thumbup:

Say when...

 

[Rat Finkenstein]

My vote is for a Battle Rat. it might sound big, but it is super sweet in person and not too large. It excels as a chopper, and is extremely comfortable in the grip.

 

[G19G26]

SO, I wonder if there will be any Battle Rats at Knob Creek. Gotta have it in Tan, of course!!!!!

 

[Troy H]

You will love that blade!!

Good luck at the show.

-360