First RAT/ESEE knife?

N

Night_Owl

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Feb 14, 2010
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Hey guys, I've been looking into some RAT knives and am trying to decide which one I should buy for my first. I'm looking for something no longer than 7 inches in overall length with a blade that's 2-3 inches. I have a few in mind, but I just wanted to get the opinions of some experienced owners who have put theirs through the paces. Thanks!
 
Well, I carry a snody menace for EDC which is probably what I'd do with the rat/esee..or just switch off. I'd like a knife that would do well with cutting/skinning small game, hence the 2-3 inch blade. Skinning is easier with a blade that has some rounding towards the tip so that's a desirable feature as well.
 
I think the RC-3 (ESEE-3 now?) is the best of ESEE's smaller knives. The 1/8" thick blade slices better than any of their other knives IMO, and the bigger handle compared to the Izula is worth the extra size for the improved ergonomics if the knife is going to see a good amount of work
 
Izula with scales or RC-3. Which ever one you decide you like better for your use.

Izula is nice and small for EDC, but the 3 gives you the abilities of a larger knife.

Can't go wrong either way. You'll own both eventually. :D
 
+1 what Adam said.
Either one will do you good on small game and general purpose tasks.
The ESEE3 will have better leverage for other tasks because of the larger scales, the Izula weighs less and can disappear in a pocket for ultralight carry.
 
I was in a similar position as you were, mulling over whether I should buy an Izula or RC3 first. I decided to purchase the Izula because I've heard nothing but good things about them and figure it'll be a good introduction into RAT/ESEE knives.

When I feel the need for a slightly larger fixed blade (which I surely will), I can go through it all over again, except with the RC3 and RC4:D
 
Izula and RC-3 are both excellent - I think an RC-3 may feel more substantial in-hand because of the heft and slightly larger size. If you compare an RC3 and non-scaled Izula the difference will be more dramatic.

That said, you can't go wrong with either, you may come to want both anyway, and if you get one and it's not quite what you wanted, there are tons of people (some on this forum) that would eagerly take it off your hands.

I started off looking for a larger ~5" blade bush/survival knife - I was down to the Gerber LMFII ASEK and the SOG SEAL PUP. I went with the Gerber. As soon as it arrived I was disappointed - the knife ended up getting returned & refunded for a material defect and I had to pick another knife (Amazon refunded, not Gerber). Now I was considering the Fallkniven line - then I came across ESEE knives. The thought of getting a Tom Brown Tracker crossed my mind, but with people SO polarized on this design, I didn't want to gamble on being on the losing end of that spectrum. After reviewing this forum a bit, looking at a BUNCH of review videos on YouTube, and reading the warranty policy, the decision was easy for me.

ESEE knives rocks - the product (ROWEN), the company, and their support of their goods and the outdoor enthusiast/military/LEO/survival communities at-large.
RC-5 was the right size for my needs.
Got the knife and have been happier with it than I anticipated - it exceeded my expectations, and the community of owners has been very helpful, supportive and encouraging... albeit a bit zealous sometimes... I'm surprised there isn't an ESEE Knives Tatoo thread yet (this is NOT a dare, people!)
 
It looks like I might have to buy both and see, but for now I think I'll go with the RC-3. Thanks to everyone who posted in force. I'll be sure to post some pictures when I get it. :thumbup:
 
Very soon I will be ordering a RC3MIL. I can't wait. Only reason I'm getting it over the regular 3 is because it comes with the molle backing, boot clip and goodies.
 
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