configure and RD for me

G

grobe

Joined
Aug 18, 2005
Messages
228
i'm looking to purchase a ranger knives RD soon. i'll be using this as a general purpose camp knife. it's tasks will include shelter building, preparing firewood (moderate chopping and splitting when needed), food prep, and some whittling if nescessary. the whittling isn't as important as the others because i always carry a pocket knife for the lighter chores.
the reason i ask your configurations is this. i've heard that the 1/4" stock and thick edge can hinder cutting and slicing chores. also i wonder if the RD7 would be a bit overkill. how much more chopping and splitting performance would the extra 1 1/2" give me?? what about the possibilities of an RD of 3/16 stock, full flat grind?? anyone find there regularly configured RD7 a bit much for general camp use?? i'm used to smaller blades, but want the most versatility in a one package deal.

thanks
 
I’ve often thought about a 3/16 RD, but I keep reaching the conclusion that if I get rid of that much steel I’ll have to work harder when chopping to make up for the reduced mass.

My RD7 bites a bit deeper than my RD6, but if you’re not accustomed to large knives you’ll need to go with what you feel comfortable with. Personally, I’d get the RD7, and I’d learn how to put it to use as effectively as possible. You’ve always got your folder, so there’s no need for a short RD.

My suggestion would be to get a flat ground RD7, and to get Justin to thin the edge. I’ve got a thinned edge on mine (which makes it a much better cutter), and it still chops well. Also, ask Justin to give the micarta a slightly rougher finish: it increases grip security (which might be helpful while you’re getting used to using a big knife).
 
Go for the bigger knife IMO- once you use a big knife for a while, it doesnt seem big anymore- you get used to it quickly. I would get the RD9 / flat grind. :thumbup:
 
RD9 - flat grind!

PolishedSpine-Hand2.jpg

PolishedSpineProne.jpg


RD9-b.jpg
 
how about the blade shape?? seems that there's quite a "drop" to the point. does this affect the versatility of the blade. i tend to like more traditional drop points such as the rat7, seems like it has more belly(?).
 
The point is designed to survive prying, digging, and disappearing deep within logs while being batoned. It is a completely functional point, and entirely appropriate for a large go heavy knife.

More belly would add more weight, and I can’t really see extra belly enhancing the sweet spot for chopping and cutting on an RD.
 
would anyone happen to have a pic of the RD7 next to a kabar (or similair) for size comparison??
 
Here are my 2 RD6 knives next to a Kabar. I don't have a RD7.
 

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Paddling_man said:
Hey, Cobalt... what happened to the pins on the RD6?
Click to expand...

That handle is thicker so the pin is inset a little. Actually they are screws so you can take the handles off I think.
 
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