my my my...oh how quickly they multiply
i was impressed enough with the rc-5 that soon after i just had to order an rc-3.
anyway, i was able to sneak in a few hours of hiking earlier today so out comes the rc-5 with me. i went to a new spot to hike which didn't have much fallen branches to baton with unfortunately. my first impressions compared to my bk2:
- the bk2's curves on the side of the scales is more comfortable than the flat sides of the rc-5.
- the rc-5's subtle, visually barely noticeable downward curving handle is actually very noticeable in use. i can't believe such a subtle change would have a big effect on comfort!
- with bare hands, even slightly sweaty hands, both scales provided enough grip. however, with gloves on the micarta on the rc-5 definitely had a much better grip.
- i'm neutral when it comes to the spine jimping. i could do with our without it.
- both feels well balanced in the hand. before today, i would've been happy with just either one as my only knife and was convinced i was done buying knives (at least for awhile). but i found myself today in a camp site with no branches just fallen, massive logs 8" or larger.
good thing i brought my bk9 along. as much as i love my 1/4" thick blades, it was a huge pain trying to chop a log down into manageable pieces. the bk9's larger blade convinced me it's worth lugging the extra weight on top of having the bk2 or rc-5 but since i like having variety looks like a junglas is in my future!
- visually, i like the bk2's wider, more rounder blade profile but the rc-5's straighter spine gives it that more intimidating, pointier look to it. it probably leads to a stronger tip as well. not sure if dead tree branches get intimidated enough to chop themselves into pieces even before i get to them but i can use all the help i can get
- neutral on rc-5's tougher powder coat finish. i like my knives black and if it wears out i'd just spray some krylon on and call it a day. i do like the rc-5's lack of shine even after i apply a coat of oil. i don't like wood, leather, or shine on my tools and the powder coat on the rc-5 provides that stealthy, low bling look.
in summary, when i bought the rc-5 i was expecting i'd really like one over the other and i'd relegate the other one mostly to collecting dust in the drawer but such is not the case. that speaks highly of both makers and i for one am thankful i have that option, at an affordable price at that! what i'll probably end up doing is mixing it: bring either the bk2 or rc-5 along with either the bk9 or the junglas and have all bases covered
disclaimer: no, i didn't post this review so i can increase my post count and get a rat pack #. up until that garbage post (you know who you are) i didn't even know esee gave away free knives to rat packers. if i wanted an izula i would've ordered it a long time ago and have one by now instead of hoping to win one at a contest. go out hiking more often & enjoy your life instead of worrying what other people post on forums...life's too short otherwise.
...just my humble opinion ofcourse.
anyway, check out harriman state park (just across the border into ny) - it's where these pics were taken. i've only been to it (hiking anyways), high point, wawayanda and stokes forest a few times but harriman is easily becoming my favorite. the drive up is already scenic as opposed to the others you have to pass through very populated areas first.
