WHICH ONE TO CHOOSE? Ontario or Esee.

[KentuckyBlackBird]

I’m contemplating buying a new user folder. I like the Ontario Rat l and the Esee Zancudo. The Rat is about 25% more than the Esee, and, the Esee comes in D2 for under $25. I’m sure there are some folks out there who have pressure tested both. Which of the two do you guys like better.
Btw, I plan on everyday general use. No hard use. Thanks!

 

[ShaiHulud]

Ontario in magnacut
Have it right here on my life time desk
Its a solid folder
I have also owned the rat 1 in D2
It was a performer, I love the liner lock
I bought the xancudo and got an example that had front and back play, that's just the one knife I bought and could be my bad luck
But the Ontarios I bought were all great.
So my vote is for Ontario, especially the one in magnacut if you can spend a few extra 10's

 

[jbmonkey]

the avispa is closer to the rat 1 in blade length. rat 2 is closer to the Zancudo.


brk has both made.

 

[el gigantor]

I typed up a full paragraph explaining my position, but decided to delete it and just say "get the Rat 1".

 

[DA170]

I’ve had 5 Rat 1s and only 1 Avispa! I’d go with the Rat as my ESEE was a lemon! This one is wearing denim Micarta scales.

 

[DangerZone98]

I’ve had 5 Rat 1s and only 1 Avispa! I’d go with the Rat as my ESEE was a lemon! This one is wearing denim Micarta scales. View attachment 2930215View attachment 2930216

Never owned a Rat since my Spydie Resilience already filled the niche.

Handsome knife there sir. Beautiful micarta.

 

[el gigantor]

Never owned a Rat since my Spydie Resilience already filled the niche.

Handsome knife there sir. Beautiful micarta.

The Resilience is such an awesome knife! I've got two of them. If OP would consider a new option, my vote 100% goes to the Resilience.

EDIT: The S35VN variant specifically.

 

[knarfeng]

I’m contemplating buying a new user folder. I like the Ontario Rat l and the Esee Zancudo. The Rat is about 25% more than the Esee, and, the Esee comes in D2 for under $25. I’m sure there are some folks out there who have pressure tested both. Which of the two do you guys like better.
Btw, I plan on everyday general use. No hard use. Thanks!

The ESEE Zancudo is thinner and is more comfortable in the pocket.
The RAT 1 is thicker and is more comfortable in the hand for heavier cutting chores. It's not uncomfortable in the pocket, but it is thicker.

RAT 1 is available in AUS8, D2, and S35VN. (The S35VN vershion also has G10 handle slabs.)

 

[Terry M.]

RAT 1 gets my vote.

 

[Blue Sky]

I can’t compare the two, but I can say I’ve been very pleased with my Rat 1’s. Fit, finish, lock-up and ergonomics have all been first rate.

 

[DangerZone98]

The Resilience is such an awesome knife! I've got two of them. If OP would consider a new option, my vote 100% goes to the Resilience.

EDIT: The S35VN variant specifically.

Agreed. I’m happy with my 8Cr Ressy, but the S35VN should be “better.” Since we’re all slightly insane in this hobby, I think the jump from 8cr to s35 is worth it. The blue handles are also more interesting than just plain black, if that’s your thing.

Let me brag that I do own the S35vn Tenacious, hehehe.

 

[DangerZone98]

RAT 1 gets my vote.
View attachment 2930429

Sexy red scales, sir.

 

[Bill Siegle]

RAT 1 gets my vote! I’ve carried one for a while and it’s a truly great knife design. It’s relatively inexpensive for sure but it’s a great blade shape and a very comfortable handle. You won’t be disappointed

 

[jmh33]

I will take in hand pics if you want. I have large hands.
John

 

[Delgadonine]

Either of the rejects can be sent to me.

I don't own either. So you can help me with my mild deficiencies.

I appreciate your generosity and gifts.