Rat 2 Aus 8 vs buck 420hc

U

UpstateRuger

Joined
Jan 11, 2017
Messages
16
I know this topic has been covered but here is my dilemma. I am considering purchasing a rat2. I own many higher end spyderco and zero tolerance knives. How does Aus8 in this model compare to say a buck bantam or spitfire, maybe even the kershaw cryo 2 in 8cr13mov? I know the d2 is a better steel but right now the aus8 version can be had for 20 bucks vs 50 on Amazon. Just looking for some input. Probably would use this knife mostly for cardboard, shrink wrap, marshmallow sticks, etc... If the edge retention is similar to my kershaw and buck knives, I could live with that.
 
I've got a RAT-1 in Aus8 and I'd say it stands up alongside Buck's 420hc. I like both brands.
 
Buck's 420HC will hold an edge slightly longer than aus-8. The rat 2 is a classic though, so I'd go with that. $20 for a superb knife, love my tan variety.
 
I bought an AUS8 Rat 1 for $20 off the exchange, and I have been quite happy with it. I agree that the edge won't last quite as long as higher end steels, but AUS8 touches up so easily it's not a problem. Where the RAT really shines is in the quality of the rest of the knife. Fit and finish are good, no blade play, nice lockup--usually there is a trade-off at this price point, but nothing about the RAT screams "cheap." I also got a D2 RAT 2 off the exchange as well, and the D2 was a nice upgrade with the same solid construction to the rest of the knife. For $20, you are really going to like a RAT.
 
I guess I will try the aus8 version first then. I have several cheaper buck knives and a couple Kershaws in this knife category. Honestly, I do not carry them often. I usually carry my pm2, para3, or 940. I basically want to add this classic knife to my collection. Not to say it won't get any use, I just can't justify the extra 30 bucks for d2 when I have so many other better options. If the knife really grows on me I can also get both. I just wanted to make sure the aus 8 would be comparable to bucks'420hc or kershaw's 8cr13mov. Easy to sharpen and holds an edge long enough.
 
If you usually carry other knives, you will probably wind up with one more knife you don't carry. Not to say the design isn't worth trying out. They are great knives.
 
You shouldn't be disappointed, they say Aus8 is on par with 8cr13mov and both should be exceeding bucks 420hc. Bucks 420hc has such a great rep because it's a an exceptional heat treat taking full advantage of an "entry level" steel to make a nice well rounded blade.
 
Bob6794 said:
You shouldn't be disappointed, they say Aus8 is on par with 8cr13mov and both should be exceeding bucks 420hc. Bucks 420hc has such a great rep because it's a an exceptional heat treat taking full advantage of an "entry level" steel to make a nice well rounded blade.
Click to expand...
Yes. As I recall, the fellow who was the boss of the heat treat company Buck uses retired, but that boss’s name is still associated with Buck knives. If only I could remember the name of the boss...

;)

PS Just got a Buck 110 in 20CV, same HT company :D
 
Just a comment about buying a knife on Amazon: there are lots of cases of Amazon Marketplace vendors selling clones. Proceed with caution and ask yourself “if it seems too good of a deal...”

Try to stick with authorized sellers.
 
Agree with using supporting sellers for this forum. Just looked on Knifeworks, the Rat 2 with d2 steel is 33 dollars. For that difference, I d definitely get the d2 version. The Rat 1 with d2 is 37 dollars. A big upgrade for that price difference.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top