My first RAT

Joined
Sep 17, 2006
Messages
160
Hey guys. I've been lurking here for a while eyeing fine blades. Its come time to purchase my first RAT and I only have the cash for one. My question is would you get the RC-3 or the Izula? My intended use is to keep it in my EDC bag because I already carry a folder. I really like both, and I am sure I will eventually have both, but right now I can only afford one. I have never had the chance to handle either one, so I'm not sure if ergonomics come into play here. FWIW I am sure this knife will also go camping and hiking with me in the future. Which would you get?
 
If it's EDC in your bag I would get the RC-3, little more blade for camping and hiking and if you only have the one for now it will do everything you need it to, Then you can get the Izula later. I think you already know which one you're getting.
 
In my opinion, of the two for your purpose, I'd go with the RC-3. Plus, since the Izula is a steal @ $50-$55, it'll be "easier" to add later. :)
 
Well......here's the thing......the advice given is sound thinking.
However if you got the Izula....you may soon find that folder in a
drawer or where ever you store your knives and the Izula in your right
front pocket or on your belt (as your EDC).
 
I was in your position not too long ago and decided on a plain edge RC3 in Desert Tan. It's a great knife - I'm hooked and looking for my next Rat!!
Good luck and let us know what you decide.............

Regards,
Ranger325
RP#544
 
If it is going to be solely a Bag Knife, id go for the RC-3

However, if you go with the Izula, you might like EDCing it. I know some people EDC an RC-3, but the Izula is a nice transition from a folder if you want to try it.
 
I'd go with the 3 since you already carry a folder. For it's size, the RC-3 is one of the best bushcraft knives I've used.
 
I don't have an Izula so I can't really help you there, but I just picked up a RC3 through a trade and I just bought a RC4. For a EDC in the pack I would opt for the bigger of the two, which for me is the RC4. If I was carrying it on my person, I would rather be toting a smaller knife, which in your case my be the Izula. In my humble opinion, a bag is where you want to carry a bigger knife.
 
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I would go with the Izula. Mainly because I think it's a knife with no equal. There are plenty of other good knives in the same category as the RC-3 but IMO the Izula is the essence of RAT knives and everyday carry steel in general. Either way, you'll be happy.
 
My vote would be for the -

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i would get the izula, and later maybe a rc4, or a rc3 ? ...tough for me too, but until i would get all the RATS, i would start with an izula
 
Six weeks ago, I was in the same position... but I got an RC-4 as a gift (WOW!) for Christmas, and with a birthday coming up... ;)

Then, if the production waits long enough... Izula folder for Christmas THIS year!!! Bwahahahaha
 
I'm new too, but jumped off the deep end and bought an RC-5, Izula, and RC-3 last week. Got the RC-5 in the mail today, and I'm extremely impressed with it. Can't wait to order an RC-4, RC-6, and some arrow heads for my birthday at the end of the month.
 
The Izula can be had for 46.52 shipped from one of the guys on the forums the-knife-connection that has an online site. Just some advice. the-knife-connection.com

I'd go with the RC-3 because there is a 440c version of the Izula coming out. Not sure when, but maybe by the time you are ready to get the Izula, you will have the option of picking the 1095 or the 440c.
 
I debated the same choice and ended up getting the Izula. It really came down to the Izula being a cheaper starting point. I figured and I would give it a try and go from there. Now I am hooked and trying to figure out what to get next. Right now, the HEST has really grabbed my attention.
 
If its sitting in a bag for some time,alone,neglected, something in a stainless would be my first choice.
 
I would and did start with the RC-3. Using it exactly as you described with no regrets what so ever. Easy recommendation.
 
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