The ultimate kit is coming...

These do look sweet. However I'm not sold on the sheath for the RC-5/6. Why for instance does it not retain the knife with out the use of elastic cord? I would like it better with a retaining kydex sheath attached to the pack so when the knife is removed the sheath stays put. Please don't take this as a bashing just MHO.
 
I think I understand what you are saying but it is always so interesting that people have these complaints and they're brand spanking new around here. :)
 
the 5 and 6 are too different to have one kydex sheath that could retain both. to make seperate sheaths would increase costs, and the price.
 
I personally would prefer another means of attachment too, but hey--that's what the new MOLLE back/pouch bits are for! Just slap them on the regular sheath and you're golden. ;)
 
It holds the blade pretty well, the elsatic cord is just a secondary means of retention.

Honestly, I plan on making another sheath to fit into the pouch but it's not really needed, just that I make kydex sheaths for almost everything to match my needs exactly.

The sheath that comes with the kit is a stroke of genius IMO, it holds the 5 and the 6 nicely dispite the very obvious difference in thickness.
 
And the sheath is bolt to the pack, it just swivals. Personally I don't use the cord yet unless i'm traveling distances. It holds both blades well, but not totally locked up
 
And the sheath is bolt to the pack, it just swivals. Personally I don't use the cord yet unless i'm traveling distances. It holds both blades well, but not totally locked up

Yea, it doesn't "click" in like with a typical molded kydex sheath but it has a pretty fair ammount of retention.
 
So Diz, you are using this already?

I ordered one, but am not really sure how I'll use it. It seems like a cool idea and I know I'll adapt it to my needs, but I was wondering how you are using it.

Sounds like you are wearing it.
 
LOL, the mailman just dropped my RAT Pack off a few minutes ago. Well made piece of kit with some very thoughtful design elements incorporated. I like it.

First thing I did was to put a little blue thread locker on the screw that holds the sheath in the pack. Then started to add some bits of kit.

I also was thinking it might go into a pack or be a car kit. Might need to target the contents to the application: little first aid, little fire, maybe add a mirror for signaling. Overall very cool--without too much ninja factor. Be a great kit for those wearing Molle vests.

The bungee retention cord works for me. Easy and straight forward. The bungee could be replaced with just about any small string.

And the RC-6 ain't bad either....
 
the thread lock is certainly needed!

have not fielded mine yet, but just trying to acclimate myself with it, that screw/bolt came undone on me a few times:grumpy:
 
I don't have one yet but I will probably just sew a small strap with a mini-ITW Nexus Fastex buckle on it and be done with that!

So, Beckett, how much would you charge for a custom sheath to fit the RAT Pack Kit container for a RC6?
 
I think I understand what you are saying but it is always so interesting that people have these complaints and they're brand spanking new around here. :)

I knew I was going to get bashed some how for that opinion, which is fine. I was not aware however that having more posts or a members joining date has a direct correlation with ones experience or knowledge. :)

The reason I have a criticism of the cord retention system is simple. What if you needed quick access to your knife? Under stress are you going to be able to fumble with the cord and deploy it quickly and efficiently? One might very well be able to do so, but without physically holding the pack I can't tell. I guess that would be a POU issue for the pack when deciding on multiple vs. single knife carry.

The other thing I would like to see is a snap button on the Velcro top strap because if you’re using this in the snow it’s going to stick to the Velcro and render that strap useless.

Now with that said I still love this compact pack. Will I be purchasing it? Yes, my POU for it will be an addition to my survival pack for Alaska. I'm moving to Bethel in May, which is in a remote area (you can't drive to it). My job requires me to fly in Cesena 208's (which all have survival packs in them) to other small villages. So lots of air travel, lots of weather, and lots of remote area to cover means you had better be prepared if something goes south.
 
I only keep it shock corded in my trunk. Took it for a couple short hikes and the kydex was sufficent to retain the knife, allowing easy access.
 
I knew I was going to get bashed some how for that opinion, which is fine. I was not aware however that having more posts or a members joining date has a direct correlation with ones experience or knowledge.

If you think that was being "bashed," you better buy a helmet if you are going to stay in here. :D
 
Yep, this forum can get pretty hard some times but no harm is meant. With that said, I think budde makes some valid points for his enviornment / occupation. We get so use to building things for tropical and sub-tropical climates sometimes we don't think about cold climates. In fact, since we have zero experience in those climates that's the main reason we don't build gear for them.
 
The other thing I would like to see is a snap button on the Velcro top strap because if you’re using this in the snow it’s going to stick to the Velcro and render that strap useless.

I, too, prefer snaps to velcro--for that reason as well as others. But it's kind of a moot point. I already have an RC-6 and don't have much use for the 5 so I guess I won't be getting one of these packs. I'll be opting for the new MOLLE back and modular pouch instead. :)
 
The molle back and pouch is much sexiness. That setup is more conductive to planned events I'd say. So far for me, the rat pack is a micro survival kit. Small enough to always be around, but not a day to day worker. That may change in time, and I think it would make a good day to day pack for outdoor workers who may get stuck out there.

Jeff- main diffrences in northern gear, dunk your hands in ice water for 20 seconds, then wrap pillows around them. Now, try to use gear. Longer pull lanyards, wider straps. Everything is wet, always. Velcro depends on the type. My marmot and Burton outerwear never has an issue with it, but it's never at a stress point either. And when in doubt, add goretex.
 
Looks like a nice little pack. This would be perfect for my type of use. I carry a small fixed blade normally, but need something bigger for day hikes. With this type of pack I could fit everything that I'd normally have to jam into pockets or put in a silly ass fanny pack! This wouldn't be a true survival kit for me, but something to take a with me on a hike out of camp space. Looks like one could fit most things needed for an emergency situation. It's on my Santa list for sure! Great companion to the RC-3 and a folder!!
 
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