Smaller might be better, but is it small enough?

D

dartfrogger

Joined
Sep 2, 2007
Messages
27
Now I'm in a quandary. I just got an RC-3 and am mightily impressed. The problem is in taking it with me into the "field." I work in what you might call the "environmental" side of things. I monitor endangered bird species. The problem is, the birds -- and my work sites -- are mostly on beaches that are under the authority of the military but to which the public has access. I'm concerned that in my encounters with the public, which usually involve me telling them that they can't do something they are doing (it's a military training site as well as a nesting site for federally and state protected birds), the fact that I have my RC-3 attached to my pack will make me more "threatening" to them, or will generate further hostile feelings.

But I love my RAT! I can always put it inside my pack, but then it's a pain to access.

Naturally I'm thinking of an Izula, but never having seen one, I don't know if it's appreciably smaller and would be appreciably less conspicuous. Photos I've seen don't usually include the sheaths, so I have no idea of the dimensions and comparison to the RC-3 in its sheath. Also, what's the best way to carry it? In other words, have it ready to use but not noticeable? Is it bulky or uncomfortable around your neck? Bulky in the pocket? I already carry a folder in my pocket, so that method seems redundant.

I've looked through many threads but haven't seen this specific issue. Opinions?
 
I dont think you'll have an issue with the RC3 I am in Sales of aircraft parts and I carry an RC3 in the KSF leather britchets on my Belt... no problem...
 
The Izula is not bulky in pocket or belt /Neck carry ,on belt you barely notice it...
Izula in JRE sheath
IMG_2299.jpg

RC3MIL in KSF sheath
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RC blades laid out w/sheathing from Izula,RC3,RC4,RC5,RC6
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Izula with factory sheath with added TEK-LOC option
IMG_1278.jpg
 
Throw your RC-3 in your pack and carry a slip joint like a Case sodbuster in you pants pocket for the times you really need a knife. adn when you need a REAL knife go to your pack :D

Or just get a Izula I have one its GREAT! its small but not to small its perfect, get it! I wear it on my belt because its easy to get to. I dont like the neck carry because it gets in the way but thats the same with all neck knives to me.
 
Are you on the emerald coast? I am on public trails on a daily basis and usually have no problems with people freaking out about the 5 inch knife I carry on my shoulder strap. You should be fine.
 
texastonydobbs - Nice pics. Have you used a HEST yet? Does it carry as nicely as an Izula?
 
As long as you are legally allowed to carry the knife, and you don't do or say anything threatening, the RC-3 should be fine. People who are threatened by the mere fact that others are carrying knives need to loosen the fuck up, and we shouldn't have to cater to their fears.
 
Yeah what is legal size in your state? I wouldn't worry because your on duty:) But if you want something smaller I would want a HEST just because it's slightly bigger and probably legal??. The Izula is small and a nice knife but IMO if I'm working with it I want the biggest knife I can carry for the particular job. But if you are just caring a knife to cut what?? Paper ,small branches/twigs, twine? The Izula will work great.
 
jsdvnc said:
People who are threatened by the mere fact that others are carrying knives need to loosen the fuck up, and we shouldn't have to cater to their fears.
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QFT

OP:
the izula rides nicely in right front pocket. i work in retail (lowe's), where it's a serious offense, up to and including termination, to use (or even carry) a knife other than the cheap worthless box knife you're issued. carry my 'zula there daily. but, this is s/e oklahoma...
 
I've heard the Izula sheath is a bit too bulky for neck carry, but I think it'd be pretty well accepted by the public because of it's smaller size. If you wrap the handle in orange paracord, that'd certainly take away alot of the tactical looks an entirely black knife would have. Just my $0.02
 
Otis Williams said:
FT

OP:
the usual rides nicely in right front pocket. i work in retail (Lowe's), where it's a serious offense, up to and including termination, to use (or even carry) a knife other than the cheap worthless box knife you're issued. carry my 'Ula there daily. but, this is s/e oklahoma...
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Thats sucks. When I tell Ppl at work to cut the plastic or cut that box or rope and if they say they don't HAVE or can I BORROW your knife. I tell them to tool up and they better have a KNIFE tomorrow :D. For my trade it's a tool
 
ironmike86 said:
Thats sucks. When I tell Ppl at work to cut the plastic or cut that box or rope and if they say they don't HAVE or can I BORROW your knife. I tell them to tool up and they better have a KNIFE tomorrow :D. For my trade it's a tool
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yeah, i've been "reminded" a couple of times that's it's against the rules to use a knife that isn't "lowe's-approved", but i usually just smile and say my boxknife isn't sharp enough. the day i get fired for carrying a pocketknife is the day i laugh my way to the employment line.

had to palm my izula the other day. our new "loss prevention specialist" popped up, and i'm not sure what her stance would be. her last job was at a prison, and she may see me as more of an inmate than an employee.
 
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I hear ya. Not like your pulling out a RC4 or larger. The Izula is a small knife. Smaller than a box cutter. Makes no sense. :(
 
Here's a pic of my RC-3 and my two Izulas. The pink is really very sheeple-friendly. During the week, I carry my RC-3 in my EDC bag (Max Lunada) my Izula in my LFP and a Spyderco folder in my RFP. All cutlery bases covered in a non-threatening, sheeple-friendly way...and then some.:thumbup::D
rats08.jpg
 
Far more important than what knife you carry, IMO is your "bedside manner". If you can warn people off with a sense of humour, so that they understand why they should not be doing what they are doing, carry what you want.
It's not the knife that's threatening, but the person who carries it.
 
Billy516 said:
Here's a pic of my RC-3 and my two Izulas. The pink is really very sheeple-friendly. During the week, I carry my RC-3 in my EDC bag (Max Lunada) my Izula in my LFP and a Spyderco folder in my RFP. All cutlery bases covered in a non-threatening, sheeple-friendly way...and then some.:thumbup::D
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Still new here, so be gentle. But please define RFP and LFP. I've got EDC down pat. :-)

Oh, an RC-3, Izula and Syderco folder (Military) are in my gear too. Good choices.

Thanks.
 
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