Howling Rat vs Bandicoot

xaman

xaman

Joined
Nov 27, 2005
Messages
9,574
I'm about to order my first Rat... I'd like to use it for an EDC type, w/a little outdoors/hunting use too.

I see the obvious differences in tips and blade width - - - but is there a difference in the edges on these 2 knives? I see the HR claims a "double convex edge" but I don't know exactly what that means - - And there's no edge description on the Bandicoot.

If they are different, what are the pros and cons of each?

thanks.
 
My first Rat was the Howler, nice belly in the blade so it is a good slicer/skinner. I have both and like them for different reasons... but no need to get into all the details as to why.

For a first purchase buy the howler, it will exceed your expectations.
 
Hi Xaman,

Since I read your post I've been frantically looking for a graphic that I have which shows what the convex edge is. I have obviously been unable to find it :grumpy:, but I will!

Ultimately, the convex edge is a way to keep more metal and strength at the edge. Rather than a flat "v" shape, the edge is bowed out forming what looks like a rounded "v" with an edge at the bottom. (Dang, I really need that graphic). Both the Howler and Bandicoot have this edge.

The main difference between the two knives is the blade width. It has an effect on the lateral (prying) strength of the blade, the angle of the main grind of the blade, and the blades penetration at the tip. Either of these blades can be modified to give an extremely versatile cutting edge. Peoples preferences typically rely on their uses for the blade.

My preference for my uses is the Howling Rat as I use my knife for splitting wood and prying far more often than slicing or fine tip work. But either knife will soon become your favorite! ;)

Hope this helped answer your questions. BTW, welcome to BladeForums! :thumbup:
 
360joules said:
Hi Xaman,

Since I read your post I've been frantically looking for a graphic that I have which shows what the convex edge is. I have obviously been unable to find it :grumpy:, but I will!
Click to expand...


is that what u where lookin for??

grinds.gif
 
C,

That is the pic I thought of when 360 said he could not find one.

I wish we had something that detailed in the same way all the different edges and blade grinds out there. All of them.

I have both the 'Coot, and the HR. I am constantly torn between which one I should carry. Both will do you well.
 
Since I just ordered the HR, and since most of the stuff that will get chopped and cut up will be primarily wood, and not concrete blocks or hatches to nuclear submarines, which edge would be the best to go with?
 
Another excellent resource is the Rat Chat forum at the Swamp. Do a search for "sharpening" or "edge" or something like that. A lot of information is there by members t1mpani and Thombrogan -- they have tons of experience reprofiling the Rats and maintaining razor blade edges.

My view is that the edge could be thinned quite a bit and still maintain its toughness/sharpness when cutting wood. Frankly, as I have noticed...all splitting wood does to my edge is strop it. My edges barely roll when they hit another blade! :eek:
 
Schuey, you just THINK you will be cutting primarily wood with your HR.
You never know when you will come across a submarine hatch, a building, a barb wire fence, the Howler is just too handy and convienient. Mark my words! Just break no laws and do no harm. Be carefull, That Res-C is loaded with more mind control power than Double D cups!
 
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