How to remove handle slabs on RAT-7?

sharperatio · Aug 23, 2009

How does one remove handle slabs on an Ontario RAT-7? I've spent a lot of time googling for an answer, but I can't find one.

I saw one post in this RAT forum regarding an RC-4. It just said to use two hex keys. But on a RAT-7, if I turn one of the handle screws with a hex key, it just turns and turns, without moving out or turning the screw on the other side.

shunsui · Aug 23, 2009

Sounds like you've discovered another reason people are big Rat Cutlery fans. You'll probably have to drill that screw out with a small drill bit that'll fit the hex depression. Start small and work your way up as needed in bit size. You don't want to damage the rest of the hardware or handle.

smustian · Aug 23, 2009

Definitely sounds like it is stripped. Follow the advice of shunsui and drill it out. If you damage the insert while drilling you will NOT be able to reattach the slab. Maybe the best bet is to either leave it alone.

Snakedoc · Aug 23, 2009

No need to drill... Just use two hex bits, one on either side of the screw you are trying to loosen. There is a threaded brass tube in between the two screws, there should be some thread lock on the screws so they wont just come loose from normal use.

sleevefullofaces · Aug 23, 2009

Snakedoc said:
No need to drill... Just use two hex bits, one on either side of the screw you are trying to loosen. There is a threaded brass tube in between the two screws, there should be some thread lock on the screws so they wont just come loose from normal use.

This.
Or sell it and buy an RC-6!

drew1095hc · Aug 23, 2009

send it to ontario and demand the fix it.......You never know they might make good on it.....Granted i would never want to buy an ontario over a RAT but give them the chance to make it right you might get lucky....Drew

Smash05 · Aug 24, 2009

Not getting into the Ontario v. RC issue, if it is broken, Ontario will make it right. I was pleasantly surprised with the courtesy and respect paid me when I called Ontario with a problem.

texastonydobbs · Aug 25, 2009

drew1095hc said:
send it to ontario and demand the fix it.......You never know they might make good on it.....Granted i would never want to buy an ontario over a RAT but give them the chance to make it right you might get lucky....Drew

I would not demand anything....ask nicely and they may help you in a quick manner , it is not that big of an issue,simple fix in my eyes....
are you using metric or standard hex keys ?,you'll need 2 same size hex keys. if hex key is stripped , will not take much to fix it.
simple design means easy fix.....