RAT-7 in 1095 or D2?

[91bravo]

I am in the market for a good all around use camp knife. I will be chopping small wood, cutting food, and maybe digging up potatoes in the back yard. I have my mind set on the RAT-7 but not sure it I need the 1095 or D2 steel. I don't want anything that's gonna chip because I WILL be beating this knife. I ALWAYS clean and oil my knives after use. I like to take care of my personal belongings. That's what I'm buying it for is a beater camp knife! Thanks for any input!

 

[Fletcher Knives]

Are you going with a plain blade or serrated?

 

[Keith_H]

Welcome to bladeforums! I dont think that the d2 would chip super easy, they are both good! Tough choice!

 

[91bravo]

I am getting the plain edge. I can put scary sharp edges on plain edges, but can't sharpen serrations to save my life. I am partial to plain over serrated/combo edges anyways. I can get the RAT-7 in 1095 with a naked blade for $79 but for $89 I can get it in D2 with a Randall Adventure Training stamp on the blade. I was just wondering if the D2 was worth the extra $10.

 

[Cpl Punishment]

IMO get the 1095.
I have a 1095 RAT-7 and it's one tough blade, it will have no problem doing what you want. FWIW, the only RAT-7s I've seen break, and I mean break were D2 models (bad heat treat, was too hard).

IMO you might want to wait a couple of weeks for the RC-6 to come out, although it will cost considerably more than a RAT-7.

 

[chetmarks]

I have knives of just about every type of steel out there and for what you describe I would get the 1095. I have more knives in that steel and I think it is the best ,hardest working blade steel there is. Just my opinion of course

 

[kgd]

IMO you might want to wait a couple of weeks for the RC-6 to come out, although it will cost considerably more than a RAT-7.

Yeah they aren't out yet. I have an RC-6 on pre-order though. The rat cutlery line fit and finish is impeccable and on par with a custom knife. Thats because Rowan pays attention like a custom knife maker. I soundly recommend conisidering the rat cutlery line. They are more expensive, but not by much and the quality just that much better.

 

[Chris Pierce]

1095 vs D2. Of course D2 is going chip easier since it is harder. That being said, the other day i was battoning some oak molding and didnt realize that there were nails in it still. My rat-7 (D2) went right through, with no problems and no chipping or blade deformation. But also i've convexed the edge as well, so that might have helped.
With either one you choose i'm sure you'll be happy

 

[RUS1095]

take a 1095 one

 

[cody1]

IMO, blades over 6" are not the best for D-2. For what you describe, go with the 1095. No issues will arise. I would agree and say wait a little for the RC, but if you got one coming, and need something now, go 1095.