Hey guys I picked up an Ontario rat two after my boker plus trance conked out on me. I had the model 1 for a while until I lost it and just like the model two I found the scales somewhat lacking. I don't really want to spend more money on custom scales so I was wondering if it is possible to add a scalloped/grooved design into the stock scales. They are already pretty think as it is, so I don't know if grinding material away would be pushing it. Thanks!
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Scalloping stock Ontario rat 2 scales
- Thread starter Tll6
- Start date
I played around with scalloping my Esee Zancudo (also uses FRN scales). The Zancudo's steel frame scalloped well, but the FRN scales don't sand/file like G10. The FRN is softer and it doesn't look like clean file work. Tiny frayed bits are left over because of the rubbery characteristic of the material. IMO, if you're worried about looks, you might want to hold off on that.
If you really need to put something in, you can pick up a Nicholson Hobby File Set at Home Depot. That's what I used... although I used a dremel for an index finger cutout.
I used the round file on the top scalloping (smaller radius) and the semi-round file in the kit on the bottom set (larger radius). If you file at a 45 degree slant to the corners it definitely increases the grip:
I should mention, that although I love my Rat 1, the Rat 2's handle seemed like it was designed for a 10 year old's hand. I like the Zancudo's handle much better than the Rat 2. I did have to mess with it to get it as smooth as the Rat 2 though.
If you really need to put something in, you can pick up a Nicholson Hobby File Set at Home Depot. That's what I used... although I used a dremel for an index finger cutout.
I used the round file on the top scalloping (smaller radius) and the semi-round file in the kit on the bottom set (larger radius). If you file at a 45 degree slant to the corners it definitely increases the grip:
I should mention, that although I love my Rat 1, the Rat 2's handle seemed like it was designed for a 10 year old's hand. I like the Zancudo's handle much better than the Rat 2. I did have to mess with it to get it as smooth as the Rat 2 though.
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Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith
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Moved to Tinkering and Embellishment. It will get more response there.