RC-4 replacing TAK

Rotte

Rotte

Joined
Aug 30, 2008
Messages
3,214
As luck would have it, my new RC-4 arrived today. I got the RC-4 to replace my TAK. Nothing realy wrong with the D2 TAK, I just preferred the 1095 steel in the RC-4 and wanted to try out one of the RC knives.

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I must say that the fit and finish of the RC-4 is head and shoulders above TAK, first rate. The edge of the TAK was never very well shaped, but repetative sharpening efforts have resulted in a good edge. The RC-4 was very sharp right out of the wrapper.

I prefer the blade shape of the RC-4 as well--it has a more pronounced drop point that is nicely designed.

The one area of concern for me is the handle size. It's a bit small and the integral guard seems a bit obtrusive. This is something I may get used to, but I generally prefer a big handle on my knives.

I opted for the leather sheath; unfortunately the retention strap was made a bit short and won't snap closed. :mad: The discoloration on the handle is from the oils in the leather sheath--I tried to wrestle the knife into the sheath for a bit before giving up on it.

Overall first impression is that the R-4 is an outstanding knife that is really well made. I'm looking forward to messing around with it soon.

Now I've got a slightly used TAK looking for a good home. Comes with a custom Semper Paratus sheath in OD. First "I'll adopt that orphaned RAT" can have it.
 
Hi Rotte,

Congrats on the RC-4. The comment on the handle size is one that is often stated among first impressions. Trust me that the same thoughts rang in my head when I first grabbed hold of mine also. However, what the RC-4 and its identical handled RC-3 have is a very compact but usable handle. Try using and using hard for a few days. For myself, I found I not only adapted to the dimensions of the RC-4's handle but I came to prefer the thinner and shorter ergos. So much so, that when I ordered my JK Kephart, I had John thin the scales to the same thickness as the RC-4. Well at least give it a shot for a little while.

Its kind of like a stiff bed versus a soft mattress. When you climb into the softmattress all that give provides you with this sense of comfort until you wake up the next morning. The RC-4 has a stiff mattress feel. Your hand appreciates it during a bit work.

Good luck finding a taker on your TAK :D It looks like you put a lot of love into convexing it:thumbup:

edit - p.s. I'm positive that Derrik will take care of your sheath issue straight away!
 
The RC 4 is a great blade, and trust me, the handle will grow on you. I thought the same thing when I first got mine.
 
I appreciate the feedback guys. My first Koyote knife had a short handle, but I came to like it too. I expect this one will grow on me. I really like the RC-4: it seems like an ideal size for an outdoors knife.

Din --

PM me a shipping address and I'll send the TAK off to you. This TAK still has a lot of life left in it--may it serve you well. Here's a pic of the TAK in the Semper Paratus pants.

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In re the sheath: I'm stretching the retention strap to get it to snap. Apparently being a bit short is the norm so that the strap will "stretch to fit" like a pair of Levi's (only in reverse). ;)

The leather sheath is very nice and treated to resist early decay in harsh environments. I bet this means it shouldn't be boiled for soup in a true survival situation. :D
 
I think we already exchanged emails, but just in case it was with someone else...

The straps are very tight at first. You just have to muscle it snapped once. Then let it sit for a couple hours and then it will fit like a glove.

The waterproofing does darken the handle. It washes off with dish soap and water.

If you can't get the strap working, just let me know. We'll get you squared away. :)
 
No worries--it's stretching as I write. Not at all worried about the handle--this baby is a user! :D And thanks for the great service Derrick--much appreciated. This is my second knife from y'all and your service has been top notch. KnivesShipFree is my go-to source now.
 
Wow did you just give away that knife! That is REALLY cool!

Good Karma for you!:thumbup:
 
I totally agree on the handle size issue. I own a TAK which is a hard-work mate. a friend of mine has a RC4, and I wish in the future we could see a "fusion" of the two... maybe a RC4 with "full size" handle?
 
dilettante said:
I totally agree on the handle size issue. I own a TAK which is a hard-work mate. a friend of mine has a RC4, and I wish in the future we could see a "fusion" of the two... maybe a RC4 with "full size" handle?
Click to expand...

The RC boys had a TAK project on the table but I believe it is on the back burner for now with the other projects on the go. Personally I think if you want to step in size you can go for the RC-5.

I think you really get to appreciate the RC-4 for its compactness as you do for its versatility over time. I like to think of the RC-4 as almost EDC. It is still primarily a belt knife, but when on the belt you hardly know it is there.
 
The RC-4 is lighter and takes up less space. For my needs this is a big plus. The TAK is a substantial knife, but the RC-4 seems like it will fill that role well.
 
The TAK is a tank. The RC4 will do everything and stand up to everything just as well, but it feels like a sports car in comparison.
 
thanks so much for the giveaway, rotte! I hope you enjoy your RC-4 as much as I've been enjoying mine.
 
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