Ontario RTAK

DrOpPoInT1110

DrOpPoInT1110

Joined
Jan 28, 2009
Messages
2,687
I just got an original RTAK over on the exchange forums. This will be the largest knife in my collection thus far. Since I have never carried a knife that's 16" overall on my belt, I was wondering how you guys carry yours on hikes, camping or whatever. Could you shoulder-mount it comfortably? I also wanted some feedback as to how the original compares to the RTAK II which seems to be pretty popular. There seem to be only subtle differences in overall shape and the scales are slightly different (partially due to the shape change). I'd imagine they perform almost identically but since I haven't received it yet I can't be sure. Any input would be great. Thanks guys.
 
I always thought the original looked so much more like a carnal, gnarly beater than a refined piece of cutlery, and I like it that way. Based on cosmetics alone I'd have preferred an original. I've got a handful of blades this size now-mostly I mount them vertically on my pack where I can reach the handle and draw over-the-shoulder on the go, if needed. You CAN get away with scout carry at the nape-of-the-back if your ass is shaped right and you've got a good belt to hold up that kind of weight. My handle protrudes 4-5 inches but it doesn't bother me much, it doesn't seem to get caught on anything. Unless the sheath is designed perfectly, all they do is bounce around on your leg and drive you nuts, hit you in the kneecap if you wear them vertically on your belt. The other option is Baldric carry or a MOLLE vest. A baldric is an over-the-shoulder belt used for utility purposes. You could mount it in the front or in the back if your torso is long enough and the handle isn't in your face.
 
Thanks for the reply! I agree, the original is more "primitive" and rugged looking...not sure if i like that more or not yet. I'll have to seewhen i get it in hand. I think i'm just going to fix it vertically. anymore input?
 
Belt carry is fine with a nice wide belt and a leg strap.

Most of the time I carry the real big heavy knives and hand axes strapped to the side of my pack. You have to take the pack off to get to them, but this isn't really a problem since I only use them when I'm making or at camp.

Some folks like a baldric type rig. It seems to be the way to go, but I've yet to try one.
Right up there with the baldric is the frog sheath.
 
I think i'm going to look into a baldric rig...between the two responses so far and research i've done, its seems to be pretty popular. anyone use both models? how do they compare?
 
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