Lets discuss the Ronin 2

Joined
Jan 14, 2007
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I was unable to make it to Martial Blade Camp this year, which REALLY bummed me out. Even more depressing was the fact that all the other guys in my dojo who are part of the MBC program were going. And on top of that, they would all be recieving a Ronin 2. Our dojo is more a tight knit family of nerds than a chest beating testosterone contest, so it was like missing a family trip.

Anyway, after they returned, some of the guys and myself went out for drinks. Long story short, one of the guys, also a close friend, came in late, and slid his Ronin 2 across the table and said "this is yours brother."

Great people at my dojo. Awesome !

Anyway, i was wondering how many of you carry one, how you like to carry it, and any general thoughts.

As for me, i have tried time and again to carry a concealed fixed blade for EDC, with of course the primary focus being utility. It always turns out to be redundant, as the folder in my pocket is far more familiar and convenient.

With this in mind, i decided once again to give it a try. Still reaching for my folder by default, but i will say, this knife carries so comfortably that you almost forget its there. I usually unload everything when i plan to lounge around, even my folder. I made it a point to experiment with this one, even with pajamas lol. Super low profile.

On some minuses, i will say that, while it would be great for EDC because of its blade shape, its philosophy of use is DEFINITELY focused on defense. The small, thin handle and incredibly thin hollow grind make it not so convenient for extended utility cutting.

If the Ronin 2 had a FFG and larger ergonomic handle, it would be awesome for primary utility use due to the ergonomics. Assuming one could get used to carrying a FB for EDC.

In conclusion, after giving it about a week, i have once again decided that a folder is better for me. However, if i knew i was going to be in a place where the need of a dedicated weapon was likely, then this knife would go with me on my weak side, set up for reverse grip draw.

Thx for reading this long post. Care to weigh in ?
 
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Funny you should start this thread. Today is the first day I'm carrying my Ronin 2. This is my first fixed blade. Yes it's quite easy to carry it. I'm wearing it inside my belt with my sport coat on top and even in the car I barely feel it. I'm not carrying my folder so I can get a true experience. I will say I'm more cautious about pulling it out for utility stuff since it's a more aggressive looking knife compared to my Manix 2 and I work around a lot of women. Time will tell if I continue to carry this to work or just as a evening/weekend knife.
 
I have concealed-carried fixed blades for many years. My take on it is, no matter how small or plain or basic it looks, it always ALWAYS freaks people out when I draw it. The whole idea of a sheathed blade inside the waist band or coat pocket or wherever is simply not something the general public is used to, and is not something most people are comfortable with. I tried carrying a Swick for some time but could never even pull it out to cut tape without everyone in the room going silent and staring at me.

I had the same issue with folders until I started carrying a clipless one (the Air, or a Des Horn with the clip removed). No one usually sees when I get it out, and whenever someone can see, it's so small and discreet it doesn't really matter to them. But I have carried neck knives the same size and get the same dumbfounded reaction, so I equate it to the carry and access method.

Long story short, I carry fixed blades only for situations where it would be used for "problem solving," and use a folder for all the utility work. And if I carry a big folder I always have a small one for utility stuff, to avoid perception problems. Seems to work.
 
I agree with CL. I tried carrying a small fixed blade for quite a while. It was an Esee Izula, which is a very small fixed blade. It's actually significantly smaller than my EDC folding knife (Para 2).

The reactions I got from using a small fixed blade were so much more than from my folder. I have no idea why, because that fixed blade is a few inches smaller than my folder. But when one of my buddies needed a piece of string cut, and I was the only one who could offer a knife, I got a LOT of terrified looking stares when I handed him a sheathed fixed blade (Esee Izula).

Hell, I get less of a reaction pulling out my Spyderco Tuff, which is a dang large knife.

Makes no sense to me.....but for some reason, people are scared of fixed blades.
 
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