Is the Ontario Rat the modern Case Sodbuster?

[SteeleJ1976]

I just got an Ontario Rat2 and I don't know if this has been discussed before but is the Ontario Rat the modern version of the Sodbuster? Both are tough utilitarian knives that have similar blade shapes and are/were popular edc models that just get the job done. Thoughts?

 

[lonestag]

I agree with you. The blade shape of both the rat1 and 2 are nearly the same as the traditional sodbuster pattern. The Ontario's add the benefits of one hand open open and close, pocket clip, flat handle to carry better in pocket among others. The Rat models in d2 steel have worked especially well for me . I like Case sodbusters in carbon steel for the tradition, Ontario rats for working function,though both are classics in their own way.

 

[lonestag]

If we could have the Ontario rats made in the USA with carbon steel and yellow scales,that could be the ultimate evolution of the sodbuster.

 

[BJE]

Yes

 

[jmh33]

John

 

[sabre cat]

I don’t think the two are on the same field. The Sodbuster is just a little bit better. At least it has an slight edge in the ergonomics department.

What I would like to see is a RAT 1.5. The RAT 1 is just a fraction to big and the R2 is a fraction to small. Just personal preference I suppose.

Overall, OKC’s RAT series is an amazing value. Carry a 1 or 2 as your edc and their fixed blade in the field. Or, a R1 during the week and R2 on Sunday. It is a winning combo anyway you pair them.

 

[Dr Rez]

Not sure why people still love the rat. As an owner of 3 rat 1's and 2's they are nice knives but you can objectively do so much better today for the same price. The knife industry has trickled down great materials to the lower prices ranges a ton over the last 5-10 years.

 

[CVamberbonehead]

Wow I never thought about it before but yes they are really similar. They are both "working man" knives too. Interesting idea!

 

[Fire King]

I have a Rat II in Aus 8 that is an incredible knife, especially for the $32 that I paid for it. It holds an edge well in my opinion. When working in the garage on bikes or cars I dont have to worry about it like a 'spensive knife. I am also a sodbuster fan and have many, but they are two handed opening. So yes RAT is a solid modern day work knife.

 

[mobilerd]

Only thing in common really is affordability.

 

[Hashishiin]

More like the modern Buck 110, the way I think of it, and the 110 the modern Mercator.

I think it is a modern classic that will be revered. Can't wait to get scales on it.


I also have a white (rare to find) RAT 2, that I swapped blades with another, giving it a black D2 blade, a true R2D2, but as great as the "stormtrooper" colors are, I have an R2D2 paint job set out for it.

 

[brownshoe]

Different blade shape, the Rat is too wide to be as useful as a sodbuster.