Ratmandu in G10 vs Micarta

C

CloudsRest

Joined
Feb 26, 2014
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Does anyone have Ratmandu's in both G10 and micarta? I'm considering ordering an RMD with G10 scales, but was hoping to hear people's opinions on how the G10 and micarta versions compare. I've always been a fan of micarta on larger knives and G10 on folders, but I'm considering going with G10 to make cleanup easier in the backcountry after cleaning fish. The RMD scales seem pretty textured, and more than anything I'm wondering how comfortable they will be after extended use if they are a hard material like G10. Has anyone used the G10 version, or both?
 
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I don't have a Ratmandu in both, but I have Ranger Knives RD-6's with one having micarta, one having G10. I like the micarta better on those. It feels warmer in the hand, and grippier.
Also, I don't know about fish cleaning, but on knives that I've used on deer with blasted micarta scales, the micarta cleans up pretty well under running water. Although I'm not in the back country, but deer fat is sticky. But I'm guessing if you're someplace that has fish, there's probably plenty of water, too.

To me, the G10 LOOKS better, especially with the texturing on the SRKW knives. But after realizing how much more I like the micarta than G10 on my larger knives, I'm sticking with micarta. Like you, though, I prefer G10 on folders. Just seems WRONG to have micarta on those.
 
I have used RMDs in canvas micarta, G10, and bone handles.

For a hard user i prefer micarta. I just think it feels better in my hands. G10 looks cool, so i do get G10 on some of my knives as well... But for a knife your going to use HARD, its HARD to beat canvas micarta. No matter how wet or oily my hands get i still have plenty of grip, and i never had an issue cleaning canvas micarta.

Some people think the canvas micarta has TOO much texture though... but thats an easy fix with a little sandpaper by hand in just a few minutes.
 
+1 ^^ -- this guy knows what he's talking about. I just might add that for a classic knife that champions near perfect ergos -- what could seal the deal better than a texture that refuses to let go?! Now that being said, get both!
 
Both are great choices. Have several RMD's in both. G10 is tougher/stronger as a material whether we are talking knives or industrial usage. Micarta is more porous, which is sometimes beneficial depending on the application and as stated above-it is usually more comfortable for any extended usage. Both would work great, but since you mentioned quick cleanup ie blood n guts... I'd go with G10 for a few bucks more. No wrong choice here whatever you decide.
 
+1 ^^ -- it appears this gentleman knows a thing or two also. Cheers to blood n guts -- may it be spilled on any canvas you deem worthy.
 
This one is answered. For blood-n-gut cleanup ease G10 is the choice. For a "user" RMD it's very difficult to beat canvas micarta...the most grippy option. Paper can get slippery.
 
I have had both. I did not care for the G-10. I will vote canvas. The feel of the RMD is outstanding however, with the G-10 it did not have that feel to it. I understand there could be times when G-10 would be better. I am going strictly with the famous feel the RMD is known for and is only my personal preference.
 
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Love my canvas. The grip actually gets better when it gets wet. It will absorb oils from you hands but I have found that washing the handles with dishsoap and hot water every now and again brings back the "like new" look.
 
Just got a red and black g10 . Seems like a good grip on a woodsmans knife, the ridges allow a firm grip .Just buy one each :-)
Jake
 
Thanks for all the responses! I did the responsible thing and ordered both :D I can always sell one on the exchange if I don't like it, but after holding a Ratmandu, I realized it's the mid-sized fixed blade I've always been looking for. I don't mind owning a couple of them.
 
CloudsRest said:
Thanks for all the responses! I did the responsible thing and ordered both :D I can always sell one on the exchange if I don't like it, but after holding a Ratmandu, I realized it's the mid-sized fixed blade I've always been looking for. I don't mind owning a couple of them.
Click to expand...

You will keep both.
 
I find G10 to have no less grip than a Canvas Micarta handle. I do not care for paper micarta at all though, it really is quite slick and one of the last materials I would choose for a working RMD. That said, my RMD wears G10 after being rescaled from the paper micarta it originally wore. YMMV.
 
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