Confused about RAT

R

rrpalma

Joined
Nov 27, 2005
Messages
80
Hello,

Although I have several folders, I'm set to purchase my first fixed blade -- it will primarily be used for camping. After asking some questions on the General Forum, I decided to purchase a RAT Cutlery RC-6, which will probably be best suited for my needs. I understand the blade is nice carbon 1095.

However, after searching my usual online dealers, I found an Ontario brand RAT 7, (slightly longer, w D2 steel -- I love D2!). What gives?? :confused: Are they the same company?? Are them both made in the USA? They seem to have the same logo, and both mention RAT Jungle Training... :confused: :confused:

Thanks for reading.
 
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It's a legal mess. The jist of it is that Ontario used to license the RAT name from Jeff and Mike. After the contract ended and RAT Cutlery was started, Ontario attempted a back stab and attempted to trademark the name for themselves. I believe it's still in the court's hands at this point.

The bottom line is that Ontario is making unauthorized copies of the RAT design and using the RAT logo illegally.
 
What Kiahs said- But I'd like to add that RAT Cutlery is a new company- the knives marked "RC" are authorized and made by Rowen. RC-4, RC-3, RC-5, RC-6 and Izula are all made by the new, authorized company. And they're awesome.
 
Furthermore, the Ontario versions don't have the amazing Rat Cutlery warranty... something to keep in mind.
 
RC provides 3 times the knife at a slightly higher price. F&F is not even in the same ballpark between the two offerings. Go with the best, go with rat cutlery.
 
What they all said!

RC knives are heads above the Ontario produced RAT knives.
 
Check with Derrick here or Lisa here for all your RAT "RC" needs.

Both are great to deal with and forum members to boot.

My opinion, stay away from the Ontario branded ones.
 
Again, a vote for the Rat Cutlery RC6. I got one a few weeks ago and it is a great general duty knife. Welcome and good luck stopping at just one Rat!:thumbup:
 
I will add the Ontario versions are not illegal,, Jeff has started to receive payment for his design from Ontario since the lawsuit. Ontario RAT's & RAT Cutlery are Jeff Randalls Designs and Property. Ontario Rats are older design still a good knife but the RAT cutlery version are the Latest & Greatest made by Rowen.
 
Hello rrpalma & welcome!

You didn't mention what your knife needs are but I can tell you that the RC-6 is one serious cutting tool.

As far as D2 steel verses 1095 steel... 1095 will hold an edge better & if heat treated right will be plenty tough & obviously RAT (Rowen) has a very good heat treat process.

Following is some info. comparing 1095 & D2 steels:

10 series - 1095 (and 1084, 1070, 1060, 1050, etc.) Many of the 10-series steels for cutlery, though 1095 is the most popular for knives. When you go in order from 1095-1050, you generally go from more carbon to less, from more wear resistance to less wear resistance, and tough to tougher to toughest. As such, you'll see 1060 and 1050, used often for swords. For knives, 1095 is sort of the "standard" carbon steel, not too expensive and performs well. This is a simple steel, which contains only two alloying elements: .95% carbon and .4% manganese. 1095 High Carbon Tool Steel, is also known as “Cutlery Spring Steel”. This steel is well known for its use in manufacturing commercial saw blades and recognized for its cutting and edge holding ability. It hones to an unbelievable edge (better than any stainless steel), retains its edge (better than most stainless steels) , and easier to sharpen, (compared to stainless steel). Be aware, this steel will discolor over time and is susceptible to rust. It is recommended to keep the blade oiled, but discoloration and/or rust will not affect blade performance.

D-2 is sometimes called a "semi-stainless". It has a fairly high chrome content (12%), but not high enough to classify it as stainless. It is more stain resistant than the carbon steels mentioned above, however. It has excellent wear resistance. D-2 is much tougher than the premium stainless steels like ATS-34, but not as tough as many of the other non-stainless steels mentioned here (such as 1095 carbon steel). The combination of great wear resistance, almost-stainlessness, and good toughness make it a great choice for a number of knife applications.

I hope this helps & I wish you the best!
 
RAT Cutlery is the way to go. Just because their warranty. And the product is better...
 
do yourself favor and get a rat cutlery from knivesshipfree.com youll be glad you bought from a great site and when the knife comes youll be wowed. i own sixnow and they are amazing. you might as well buy an izula wit yor chopper because your gonna get one eventually anyways :D
 
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