Rats and User Comfort

S

syme6079

Joined
Jun 8, 2004
Messages
94
Hi Everyone,

I've been thinking about this subject ever since the Tactical line came out. My question is are the resiprene handles going to be the first choice when it comes to user comfort and extended use? Would the use of gloves eliminate any advantage Resiprene may have over micarta. I'm particularly interested to hear from people who have used Rat resiprene and Busse micarta.

I can appreciate the need by some for the more durable micarta handle but I am unsure which to get with regards to greater comfort. I'm sure resiprene will be more than durable enough for my needs and comfort is important to me. Unfortunately, the tactical line just has that cool factor about it.

Help me out here, the indecision is driving me made.
 
Resiprine is more comfortable. The new micarta handles are shaped very well, and are flush with the tang, but having just the slight (and I do mean SLIGHT) give to the resprine makes it easier on hands for an extended period. The fact, also, that the resiprine is untextured lends comfort to it. I've used a number of smooth micarta knives, and they are more comfortable than textured/knurled patterns, but they get slippery.

If you're going to use it every once in awhile, and just want a super tough knife by your side, then go with whichever tickles your fancy more. If you're going to be using it for extended periods, I'd go resiprine--especially on the big blades. :)
 
Haven't used the Rats, but I've used the Basics extensively, and much prefer them to the Combat Grade knives with their exposed tangs, and micarta.
 
Another vote for the Res-C. The only micarta I really like is the smooth on the older straight handled Busse knives. Very comfortable but it does get slippery with sweat. If you're wearing gloves the rougher micarta might work well for extended periods. For me, the Res-C is just easier to hang on to when the temps get over 90.

Rob
 
Res-C with a glove works really well. Very tacky and lots of shock absorption.

Camp Tramp is my primary camp knife.

Looking to get a BR and HR soon.
 
wetdog1911 said:
Another vote for the Res-C. the Res-C is just easier to hang on to when the temps get over 90.

Rob
Click to expand...

I’m with Rob here, sweaty hands are safer holding on to the Res-C handles, and the same applies when they are covered in fat and blood.

A tight grip will overcome a smooth hard handle but it’s those times you let your guard down that causes the damage.
Ian.
 
Guys,

Thanks for the replies. Looks like Resiprene is the clear winner. I will look forward to getting some in my hands soon.
 
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