Okay, I ordered a Swamprat

B

bladefoolish

Joined
Mar 26, 2004
Messages
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I posted a thread here a couple of weeks ago about which model Swamprat to order -- it was a tough decision between the Camp Tramp and the Howling Rat, but I finally ordered a Howling Rat today.

Now, recommendations for a sheath? I prefer leather -- just kinda old fashioned, I guess.
 
There is one thing to be aware of with the large Swamp Rats. They are very blade-heavy. I have a Battle Rat, and it is by far the most blade-heavy knife I own. I own several other large bowies, but none come close to having the blade-heavy feel of the Swamp Rat.

I have read that the Camp Tramp is similarly blade-heavy. If that is what you want - fine, but if you are expecting a knife with the balance of a KaBar, the Camp Tramp won't be it.
 
for leather check out leatherman here on the forums. Great work and supper nice to deal with.


Cerberus
 
Just wanted to point out that the blade-heavy aspects of the Battle Rat and Tramp are advantages that I tout all the time, as I do lots more limbing than fighting. ;)

The Howler comes with a good quality leather pouch sheath. However, if you want something fancier (or just built to you specific needs) check out this sheathmaker thread from the Swamp Rat forum. It lists both kydex and leather makers who frequently work with Swamp/Busse knives. Everyone on that list is an excellent choice.

Hope you find what you need.

t1
 
I recently acquired a Camp Tramp (thanks Nic), and will echo what W.T Beck and t1mpani said- it is much more blade heavy than a knife with an exposed full tang. It balances in the center of the choil, so the blade sits right on your index finger when you choke up for fine work.

Jeremy
 
"Just wanted to point out that the blade-heavy aspects of the Battle Rat and Tramp are advantages that I tout all the time, as I do lots more limbing than fighting."

I wasn't trying to say that the blade-heaviness is a fault of the larger Swamp Rats. However, they are different from many other similar length knives in this respect. One can't always find out these kinds of things when looking at pictures on a website and ordering knives online. It needs to be pointed out so buyers will know what they are getting. Descriptions of knives on websites frequently fail to include all significant features.
 
Absolutely right, I didn't even see it as criticism, was just pointing out that it does have benefits. :)
 
Oh, man, just got my confirmaton email from swamprat -- they say it'll be three to six weeks before delivery.

I want instant gratification.
 
bladefoolish said:
Oh, man, just got my confirmaton email from swamprat -- they say it'll be three to six weeks before delivery.

I want instant gratification.
Click to expand...


everyone wants instant gratification! Trust me the wait will be worth it once you see what those rats are made of! They are tougher than just tough! :eek: not to mention the durable coating that takes forever to wear out under everyday use.
 
I think my Battle Rat arrived in closer to three weeks. The good thing about Swamp Rat is that those guys are honest. If they tell you 3 - 6 weeks, you can count on it.

There are both individual makers and companies which not only have far longer waits, but will also repeatedly tell a customer they are about to ship their knife, when in fact it could be weeks, months, or even years before they do so. I don't think you will have this problem with Swamp Rat.
 
Man, I really shouldn't read these threads! Before reading this one, I didn't know what a Swamprat knife was. Now, after reading it, I just ordered a Camp Tramp!!! :eek: Other than a Randall #1-7, all my knives tend to be on the smaller side. I just had to have one of these bad boys! :D Thanks for leading me down the road of no return, fellas!!
 
"Why do I suspect ordering a swamprat is like trying to eat just one peanut?"


I recently got my Battle Rat back. Probably the most regretted knife I let go, but now that I have another in it's place, I can't wait to see what this new line comming out is!

Obviously that answer to the question is that you CAN'T eat just ONE!

Thanks Eric................


Cerberus
 
I found the Swamp nearly two years ago and have never left. It really is a potent disease those Rats carry. You can't cure it, but you can lessen your pain with purchases. :cool:
 
In regards to waiting time, 6 weeks sounds about right at the moment. They are working their butts off getting ready for the rollout of the new line at the Blade show, it seems, and thus are a wee bit backed up. I ordered my first Rat (a howler) a month and two days ago (not that I'm counting or anything) and sent an email yesterday asking about the order status. Eric sent me a reply within 45 minutes telling me that it would probably be another 10-14 days. The knives might be coming a little slow right now, but the customer service is great! :D
 
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