Aaron- THANKS for testing my new favorite fixed blade knife. I mentioned this knife in your best fixed blade knives of 2022 video. I bought mine just before the new year. So far, mine has performed amazingly. Thanks for testing your knife to levels that I’d probably not push my knife to. It gives me even more confidence in my knife. It’ll be on my side as my son and I go hunting tomorrow. The only quality control issue I noticed on my RAT-6 was a slightly uneven grind on the edge. I fixed it fairly quickly with my TSPROF K03 knife sharpener. This brings me to my last point. In sharpening the RAT-6, the knife took a great edge and allowed me to reprofile the geometry on the uneven initial grind fairly easily. For S35VN steel, it was surprisingly easy to reprofile and sharpen, which leads me to believe it’s not hardened to a high rockwell # during the heat treating process. I guess this is done to give the knife more durability versus better edge retention, as you mentioned in this video. I have some S35VN folding knives that have a high rockwell index # that take much longer to sharpen. Thanks again for reviewing this knife. My wife and I love your videos and have made numerous purchases based on your recommendations. Keep up the excellent work and we look forward to seeing where your channel goes in 2023.
It’s so hard to beat Ontario Knives in relation to performance and value. The good news with the micarta handles is any hot spots can be easily dealt with.
But can we talk about that blade choil that sits completely forward of the plunge line? Does anyone else have issues with material walking back into that unsharpened portion and stopping the cut cold? I have a folder that I had to quit using because every time I cut cardboard, about halfway through the cut, it would end up in that choil and I’d go from cutting to snow plowing. And who decided I needed a choil on a 3.5” folder anyway. So maybe this knife, clearly having a different use case, it’s okay. Yet in reality, I kind of wish that choil wasn’t there at all. If that portion was sharpened, the blade would be within a fraction of an inch of the handles anyway; you just don’t need it.
@@JohnSmith-gs4lw I personally hate that most knives with a blade choil are set back from the blade. In my opinion, the edge should be right up to the choil. it's super simple to take that back corner off with a file so you can't get a pressure cut. That said, this is a large blade that I wouldn't use for the finer tasks, so I think the choil is useless (for me). I'd carry a small knife for the finer tasks. This size blade doesn't fit into my system at all. I like a 4"-5" blade, and something in the 9"+ range for a big blade. Small one might have a blade choil, depending if it's on the bigger side. The big one wouldn't.
The blade shape on this is so attractive for an all purpose survival/duty knife. It’s a shame it has worse qc than the esee because I prefer the shape of the blade on the Ontario.
I think that's why Ontario is such a successful business. They know that customers are willing to get a knife that has higher end steel and everything else made the easiest, cheapest ways possible, but still good enough to be able to sell so many knives that they don't have to overcharge, to guarantee a profit. Some knife makers charge you a lot more, because their knives, are prettier. But there are some who value looks over function. But that's not a guaranteed market. So you're taking more risk. Which increases the price.
Kinda sad that OKC always want to undercut their competitors and end up with a slightly compromised product. Come on Ontario, get some contoured scales and a decent sheath on that puppy!
OKC doesn't care. They just don't. They are what they are. I always felt it would be cool if they had their regular base models then a higher end line where they actually care. People would pay the extra for that and better sheaths.
Great price! I did get a sweet deal a few weeks ago from State and Union on their model 2. This is basically Kabar’s custom shop. 6” blade, s35vn, kydex sheath, and burlap micarta for 150 shipped.
A normal Buck 119 is about 65 dollars. I've had mine since 1984, and its still going strong. I always carry a hatchet or tomahawk, when I go into the woods. Oh, plus a Stanley Folding Pocket Saw. Yes I am old school. Another good chopper I have already is the Condor Tool and Knife, Hudson Bay knife. A very nice thick blade made from 1075 high carbon steel. I have chopped stuff up to 1 inch id diameter, but thats about as far as I like to go with a knife.
After a good weekend testing the Rat 6 and Esee 6 together, I think Ontario has a hit on their hands. With only a few slight tolerance differences all my parts were interchangeable between the two. My Rat came home with Knife Connection contoured green Micarta scales and Kydex sheath...And yes, with a little touch up...a sharp spine.
Ontario is cool, but for 100 and north I’d probably get a 1095 ESEE or a tops sure it’s not super steel, but their knives have wonderful fit and finish and the warranty on an ESEE is unbeatable.
Looks like a worthwhile purchase ,as soon as my old timer rat 6 breaks I'll be interested . The problems you pointed out on hot spots ,I've not had that problem. I am interested in the new steel rat 6. Happy Trails
I think Ontario should bring back their RD series and expand on it. It’s their own original series and I personally liked them. Instead of pushing the RAT series so hard which is just a second class Esee essentially. Just my thoughts. The RD series with some TKC G-10 grips were really awesome knives
I love s35 vn steel! Super sharp and holds a good edge! Micarta handles are ok. Not my favorite but quality. Pretty big blade. Which i have heard s35 loses its strength the longer the blade?.. i like this sheath too! Looks kinda like a busse or scrap yard knife. My go to knife right now is the treeman pathfinder. But im looking into buying an attleboro knife just cause i want to try something lighter. They feel great in the hand! Love your channel man! You talk the talk and walk the walk! Nice review! Stay safe! God bless!
I think they should have kept the belly at the front, the RAT7 has. This one's doesnt have that much of a belly and is more drop pointy at the front. Also they should have changed the handles to something like Esee is now doing with the 6. If they don't address this, sooner or later The Knife Connection will come up with 3D handles for this, for another $50. Hence, exactly what they are doing for several other Ontarios and were doing for several Esees. Which is laughing all the way to the bank.
Awesome video bro 👍👍 This is a knife that I really would consider to purchase. The uncomfortable handle issue would be easily solved with a file and some sand papper I guess. But that sheath needs to be replaced with one in kydex!!
Ok, wear gloves. There I said it. There’s snow on the ground, it’s cold so every edge is sharper to the touch. If it were warmer then you wouldn’t feel it as much. Also, sand paper does wonders with micarta. There’s my opinion. But a very nice video!
Great timing...my Rat 6’s first real use will be today. And yes, the pommel has already drawn first blood...lol. Awesome Video, love the testing format. What really sold me on this blade was it’s interchangeably with all my Esee 6 stuff...
very solid tests, and good information. as far as "chopping" with a mid sized field knife, if the sapling is as large as my wrist, I would use rosebudding. it will give a better end, and be less stressful on the blade. I do like having either a small hatchet, or saw with me, but sometimes you dont have the luxury of having a full bushcraft kit with you. most of my field knives ( not including Moras, I do have half a dozen of them) are 1095, the only "premium" steel field knife I own so far is the LT Wright bushcrafter in 3V. this blade is not in my budget, but I would love to get the chance some day to do a side by side test with the S35vn Rat 6 against my other field knives.
Love your indepth reviews of stuff. In regards to your bushcraft/ survival knife stuff, have you ever thought of adding a fish fillet test? We would chop wood with the knife but also might want to use it on small game and fish as well. Any knife can cut a steak but to work around bones or such is a testimony to the agility of the knife and grind. Keep on with the good videos!
Very interesting change from the other rat knives close to this size but looks very cool Also thanks for the recommendation to send my Cold Steel Ak-47 back in the comment I left a couple videos back. Cold Steel replaced it and sent me a new one with better steel! Excellent customer service
Cool video! I'm sure there's a niche in the market for this knife. OKC are who they are, and that's fine. If they refine their tools more, they will cost more, and then have to compete against higher standards. They are obviously aware of the consumer. S35VN and micarta are very popular, and not as common in that big of a blade.
G'day Aaron, you'll always get my attention with S35, lol. I would prefer a sabre grind and the sheath branding is a bit obnoxious, but definitively value for a decent lump of S35. Main concern is the QC, I'm not really into a 165 USD, (around 250 AUD), gamble. Anyway food for thought, I may yet have a punt. Thanks for showing it mate and the sharpening segment was a worthy addition, though as you say, not particularly surprising in this instance. Cheers Duke.
I own several OKC knives. My question is why is everyone so down on their knife sheaths.? I’ve never had any problems with mine they’re attached to many different kits of mine. No one ever explains why they hate them so much. Mine always work great never have any problems.
Because everyone wants a tacticool kydex sheath to pretend they are a navy seal when they go camping… but same here, never had a issue with OKC sheaths, not the best, not the worst.
your rust test in the snow is interesting. i might recommend you put a control knife in at the same time. show a steel which may rust in the snow and the side by side comparison would have more meaning. just a thought
I am an active hunter, fisherman, back packer etc. I recently bought this knife - I went and lived off grid for an entire year - great blade - the handle only held up for a few months it is not well secured, the “rivets” through the handle came loose and lost two of them and no epoxy used in the handle and It finally fell off. I make knives so I peened in new pins with the handle set in epoxy has held up great now. If you put this knife to heavy work the handle will not hold up, I know I make knives as well.
with the sharpening test. you have to also take into account that you didn't really do any damage to the first inch or 2 of the Rat 5, plus it's shorter, so it should take a lot less time to sharpen...
THE S35VN WILL CUT APPROXIMATELY DOUBLE! YOU'RE BEING TOO KIND when you say the S35VN will cut a little bit longer. From memory, according to the Cedric and Ada rope cut tests, the S30V sample cut approximately DOUBLE the number of times the 1075 or 1095 sample cut. You can extrapolate, estimate, for S35VN.
@@gideonstactical it's what the head of okc said at blade show! I thought it was funny. But with a oscillating bobbin sander I did a cracking job on all my oscillating knives. Ese e charge quite a bit for just their scales. I did mine in 5 mins and look the same as a esee !
I've had several Ontarios in the past with a Bushcraft Woodman as my go to big knife. The quality is hit or miss especially on the SP series do yourself a favor just go with full tang with slabs on each side
Another great video my Christian Brother. I like the look of the new Rat 6 except for the finger choil. It’s to big makes the blade weird looking to me. Typical Ontario Sheath. Not my favorite. S35vn good steel choice. I’ll stick with my 1095 Esee 6 with 1095. The only fixed blade I’d recommend to other people. Esee 6 great heat treatment & great warranty.
I have the SP10 and the SP6. If i had just 1 knife to survive with, I'd chose the SP10. It's the only one with a full steel guard for fighting, it's a great chopper, and it can be used for any sirvival task. When paired with a small knife for carving, it's the oerfect combo.
You go and make this video just DAYS after I bit the bullet and bought the SOG Pillar! I shopped BladeHQ as well, and after 2 months of research comparing datapoints on knife steel, size, made in USA, bushcrafting task assignment, dreams of the "one-tool" option, I'm a Lefty...I should have saved the $$$$, & chosen OKC over SOG. The SOG; questionable if Taiwanese/Chinese steel manufacturing, without a ferro-rod capable spine, and the micarta scales are "oily" feeling. The OKC is undoubtedly USA and i could have gone smaller with the RAT-5, since I am also carrying a camp axe/hatchet. But I'm subbed and I'll keep watching.
Hey Andrew, if the sog hasn’t been used you can always try to return it. my pillar is USA made with cpm-s35vn which is from USA sourced. Not sure if that helps. Thanks for subscribing and being part of the GT family.
Good vid on this blade Aaron! I would still take my Rat 7 in 1095 with aftermarket leather sheath over this one though. 1095 is just a better steel for heavy duty camp/woods work, and you can't beat the price. I think they used the "super steel" in this Rat 6 to satisfy the peeps that just have to have that. By the way, I have at least a half dozen OKC fixed blades, and they are all perfect.
Cpm S35vn “should” and can be with a correct heat treat in mid to high 50s as tough as 1095, battoning or chopping. Your sharpening skills aside,s35vn is a better steel in every way. I do love 1095 too.
Not a knife snob have a few brands with several different steels but 1095 gets dull so quick it doesn't take long before it doesn't cut which is my knives main purpose. S35 vn stays sharp and useful much longer and I haven't done anything stupid enough to break one yet.
A knife that is front heavy, you mean like a Kukri? :) And yes I am getting one in 5160 high carbon spring steel, with a six inch blade. I expect it will be a really good chopper.
Would have liked to see head to head cutting 'till dull comparison with the carbon steel rat 5, or bushcraft woodsman.. How much edge retention are you really getting?
I was shocked when I saw how much bend you were putting in the blade on the fence pickets, and how much torture you were doing with the knife tip in the stump. I didn't think S35VN would handle that, I assumed it was to brittle. Thanks for this review and/or torture test.
Surprised you didn’t mention Lionsteel or Joker Nomad knives as competitive options to this. I’ve bought 3 Rat 7s and the grinds were all off. The knife will work fine but you’re sacrificing some fit and finish for the price. Hopefully OKC will make long term changes to their quality control.
I'm already an OKC fan, because they may be literally rough around the edges, but what you get is fundamentally SO solid, and always at such a good price that I don't mind doing a little finishing work on them. And for the RATs, it's really easier to chamfer the edges of the blocky handles - just wear a mask, keep them wet, and use sandpaper for a couple of minutes - huge improvement in the ergos. For my needs in my always hot, always humid, tropical rainforest environment, this is nearly perfect. Honestly, if OKC were to create S35VN versions of the RAT3 and the RAT5, I'd be all over those too!
G'day Charles, yep dont mind some finishing work either, especially for the value, though I wouldn't be wanting an asymmetrical grind like Aaron showed on the 5; not that it'd hurt performance, I just reckon that's crossed the line. Cheers Duke.
@@charlescollier7217 Yes mate, I'm with ya. FYI, the good thing under our consumer law here is "repair, refund or replace" through the point of sale, so if you cop a bad one it only needs to go that far, rather than back to OKC in the US for example, still a pain you'd rather not have, but for the value of this tool in terms of design and materials vs dough, I'm seriously considering pulling the trigger. Do you have one already ?
@@eyeofthetiger4184 I wish that policy were in force where I am! I haven't got one yet, but I'm working on my birthday present list, and this is definitely going on it!
When I'm out in the woods using a knife I don't care if the grinds are not perfect nor do I care about a perfectly flush handle. What I do care about is good steel from a well known USA company for a good price. That is what I get with okc. I like to put the knife to work and not look at how pretty it is so if you want to go pay another hundred dollars for a pretty knife out in the woods more power to you. That being said I like to have a nice well-built good-looking pocket knife for my everyday carry so I get the pleasure out of that oh well so be it
How difficult is it to remove the handle scales completely from the knife. If the scales are removable then maybe those DIY guys like myself can either remove the scales to shape them more comfortable. Or to use some hardwood scales like Hard Maple, Walnut, or Hickory and get the hardwood shaped just the way you want them.
I have a number of OKC knives, both fixed and folding. Overall they make good tools for the price, but they must have a blind man working at the quality control department. Every single knife I've gotten from them has had some sort of quality control issue. They need to get it together. Good video though.
Hi, I have just seen a review on Goat Tools Multi tool, are you planning on or could you do a review on it, just trust your Reviews much more then others, thanks
Great review. Thank you for sharing. Could you review KA-BAR's Snody Big Boss similarly though? I believe it's priced even lower than the RAT6 and has been my 'beater/do all' fixed blade knife for quite some time now.
OKC definitely leaves the sharpening up to the user, and the sheaths are so-so. I actually don't mind the sheaths because of the built in MOLLE. I like this knife, but I just blew my money on a Cold Steel SRK in CPM-3V, before Cold Steel completely goes in the toilet.
@@gideonstactical I know CPM-3V isn't technically stainless. But, if I take care of it, I figure I can just wipe off the rust. I've heard CPM-3V rust doesn't cause putting, provided you take care of it right away. I'm not sure if it's true.
Glad to see they are using stainless. Carbon steel is so overated. It dulls even if you don't use it. Stainless isn't as bad about that. And most stainless is just as easy to sharpen then carbon. Idk who made up the lie carbon was easier because I can't tell a difference.
Would you have any good recommendations for aftermarket scales for this knife? I just ordered one from BladeHQ and am debating either doing a slight reshape on the scales it comes with (done this on other Ontario knives) or replacing them with something more ergonomic for my size medium hands... Your thoughts as always are appreciated. Great video! Got me spending more money on knives. 😀
Thanks so much for watching, glad you enjoyed the video and I hope the knife serves you well. I believe the knife connection does still sell aftermarket handle scales for these tools. hope that helps.
i get the price but why does white river charge so much for their s35vn blades? fit an finish isn't that great, if the hollow pins on the fc series pop loose you're srewed and the angle the blades are ground are so inconsistent i'm talking about 17° to 24° i'm grateful i don't purchased one after hard thinking and i entered the preorder of a gso 5.1 in magnacut for 270$ love your content - keep it up
@@dlrmon1 i get it that the wait left a bad taste in your mouth but i seems like they had harsh problems with "millit" or whatever they are called and since they manufacture now pretty much everything in house other than the handle screws and heat treat, they seem to deliver now on the 90day preorder time. and if not, i will gladly wait 1-2 years for a product which is unmatched in quality for the price point. for example a bradford g3 in magnacut with a pretty much useless sheath costs about 190$ and the for what i have seen their heat treat leaves a lot to be desired for cause i own one. the kydex and pretty much the whole package what survive offers seems to be high end. non native english speaker here, sorry for the grammer ect.
Nah brah scales & sheath are a big letdown. They would need replacing making it a lot more expensive. This costs more outside the USA as well €230 which is around $250. If you're in Europe the manly knives "eagle" takes a big greasy dump all over this. Amazing blade & comes in at €160 vs the €230 for the rat 6. Saber ground 6" blade (no finger choil) in CPM-154, which is virtually identical to S35VN at the same hrc in terms of edge retention & toughness, also sharpening. Thin behind the edge so cuts VERY well. Very ergonomic & textured G10 scales & kydex sheath, thinner kydex but it functions well. Naked blade is 10oz & the kydex/clip brings it to about 12oz total carry weight. Best 6" camp utility blade I have ever used. Best stainless 6" blade as the survive knives GSO-6 is probably my favorite all round fixed blade (3V steel)
The last couple OKC knives knives that I bought are good. But the new sheath they are using now are JUNK. Put on thee sp43 when I got to camp and just fell off stitching not good
I've got several of their blades. I hate the cheap coatings they use. After you've stripped a few of them you'll learn why they use it and why it's so thick. I mostly like their stuff, basically because it's price. If your not good at or don't like refinishing and reprofiling blades stay away from these knives. Unless uneven grinds and rough surfaces don't bother you. It's no little job doing it by hand. It takes hours of sanding and sometimes even a good file is required. I actually think this new one looks pretty good and should stand up to any reasonable tasks one might do with a knife. I'd probably buy it if I didn't already have more big fixed blades than a rational person would likely own. Their sheaths have always sucked imo. All mine live in heavy leather sheaths now and all but one have been refinished.
I like Ontario. My first Rat-5. Blade was warped a good 1/4" , I'm assuming during the heat treat. I've waited over a year. I just bought a replacement. The freaking blade is also warped. Not as bad but, its being returned. I own a Rat-1, 2, 3, &7, and simply want to complete the series. I may pick up the 6 and the RTAK2 and skip the 5. Come on Ontario do better!
Usual Ontario, $165 knife with a $3 sheath. Ontario needs to step up their sheaths. They have some really nice knives but have the cheapest crappiest sheaths.
Why would they use S35VN for a 6” fixed blade? I can see it in a 3-4” blade like the RAT-3 but it’s not a great steel choice for a large fixed blade. I’ll definitely pass on this one. Ontario once again has missed the boat.
@@gideonstactical Cold Steel has upped their game with 3V in their classic large fixed blades. S35VN is great for folders and small fixed blades but it lacks the toughness of something like 3V that you want in a large knife. I guess we have to lower our expectations with Ontario though.
@Martin Miller...I have Bark River Bravo 1.5’s in 3v and S35vn. I’ve beat the snot out of both. I tend to use the S35vn version in wet or winter conditions. After years of use I can say the stainless knife looks much better. Other than that I haven’t noticed much of a difference between the two. Also have a CRK Pacific in S35vn that’s proven reliable.
As you saw in the video, great lateral strength, and still not as chippy as I expected it much easier to work with than other premium, stainless steels like M390 or elmax.
@@gideonstactical in impact tests Elmax blew S35VN out of the water even when the Elmax was over 60 and the S35VN was at 57 HRC. The softer Rockwell should have made the S35VN much tougher.
I had to live with the Esee 4 design for a while before I realized that the design is really not as bad as some would say. The reasoning is it has options. The short handle thing is great for scout carry/ concealment. Like they do on some handguns by giving you less magazine capacity/ shorter grip. In this knife the handle doesn’t protrude into clothing. It’s easy to draw. The grip length is easily remedied with the extended grips from TKC in your choice of scale materials, if you insist on having to go that route. Ok, so let’s address the choil thing. I don’t mind it because I seldom use it like many say it’s supposed to be used, as in the index finger in the choil and thumb on the jimping…..What I do is drape my thumb alongside the front of the grip at the ricasso / choil area and never use the jimping. It’s the same technique you described in one of your vids about avoiding the raised jimping hump on the bk 7,9,10 series, etc. Now I can pick up any choiled knife and get right up on the blade with tremendous leverage/control for a long time with no cramping in the thumb or wrist as a thumb to jimping grip would cause in short order. Choils don’t bother me anymore. The tip of the thumb is at the choil now. Splinter worries? Wear a glove. I’ve found the grind on my stock knife feathers almost as well as any scandi. I’ve got tremendous control with that grip and in using it that way I’ve wondered why I purchased the extended grip option from TKC. Just some thoughts after living with that design for a while. My knife is in s35vn also. Sharpen that spine with a diamond stone!!!. It’s become a great low maintenance field knife with options.
@@gideonstactical my Frenzy, that I bought used, just arrived a few days ago. (Not sure if 1,2, or 3 bought at auction) And, just wow. This steel is sharp. Like you said, easier to sharpen than super steel, but terrifyingly sharp. On a somewhat related note, I bought Sitivien st954, in 'm390' . Arrived not sharp, and, am wondering if there is a way to find out if it even is m390. Thoughts? Maybe that's a video idea, but, I don't know.
Aaron- THANKS for testing my new favorite fixed blade knife. I mentioned this knife in your best fixed blade knives of 2022 video. I bought mine just before the new year. So far, mine has performed amazingly. Thanks for testing your knife to levels that I’d probably not push my knife to. It gives me even more confidence in my knife. It’ll be on my side as my son and I go hunting tomorrow. The only quality control issue I noticed on my RAT-6 was a slightly uneven grind on the edge. I fixed it fairly quickly with my TSPROF K03 knife sharpener. This brings me to my last point. In sharpening the RAT-6, the knife took a great edge and allowed me to reprofile the geometry on the uneven initial grind fairly easily. For S35VN steel, it was surprisingly easy to reprofile and sharpen, which leads me to believe it’s not hardened to a high rockwell # during the heat treating process. I guess this is done to give the knife more durability versus better edge retention, as you mentioned in this video. I have some S35VN folding knives that have a high rockwell index # that take much longer to sharpen. Thanks again for reviewing this knife. My wife and I love your videos and have made numerous purchases based on your recommendations. Keep up the excellent work and we look forward to seeing where your channel goes in 2023.
It’s so hard to beat Ontario Knives in relation to performance and value. The good news with the micarta handles is any hot spots can be easily dealt with.
But can we talk about that blade choil that sits completely forward of the plunge line? Does anyone else have issues with material walking back into that unsharpened portion and stopping the cut cold? I have a folder that I had to quit using because every time I cut cardboard, about halfway through the cut, it would end up in that choil and I’d go from cutting to snow plowing. And who decided I needed a choil on a 3.5” folder anyway. So maybe this knife, clearly having a different use case, it’s okay. Yet in reality, I kind of wish that choil wasn’t there at all. If that portion was sharpened, the blade would be within a fraction of an inch of the handles anyway; you just don’t need it.
@@JohnSmith-gs4lw I personally hate that most knives with a blade choil are set back from the blade. In my opinion, the edge should be right up to the choil. it's super simple to take that back corner off with a file so you can't get a pressure cut. That said, this is a large blade that I wouldn't use for the finer tasks, so I think the choil is useless (for me). I'd carry a small knife for the finer tasks. This size blade doesn't fit into my system at all. I like a 4"-5" blade, and something in the 9"+ range for a big blade. Small one might have a blade choil, depending if it's on the bigger side. The big one wouldn't.
@@JohnSmith-gs4lw I think it has a lot to do with being totally comfortable using knives, compared to not being comfortable using them.
The blade shape on this is so attractive for an all purpose survival/duty knife. It’s a shame it has worse qc than the esee because I prefer the shape of the blade on the Ontario.
Thanks Aaron! Now see if the 3D scales on that Esee fit the Ontario and if they do you might really have something there.
It's shorter, but the ESEE 4 S35VN has a better sheath and no-questions-asked warranty, comes in lower in cost, and better QC.
Or go for the 6
I think that's why Ontario is such a successful business. They know that customers are willing to get a knife that has higher end steel and everything else made the easiest, cheapest ways possible, but still good enough to be able to sell so many knives that they don't have to overcharge, to guarantee a profit. Some knife makers charge you a lot more, because their knives, are prettier. But there are some who value looks over function. But that's not a guaranteed market. So you're taking more risk. Which increases the price.
After you use a knife for a year, it never looks brand new again. I love Ontario and spyderco the most I think because of the value of the product.
I love my rat7 and it’s super awesome paired with a good custom sheath. It’s my truck knife.
I appreciate your review of the RAT-6. It helped me make my decision to order one. 👍 I also ordered a set of TKC G-10 Scales for it.
Kinda sad that OKC always want to undercut their competitors and end up with a slightly compromised product. Come on Ontario, get some contoured scales and a decent sheath on that puppy!
And at $150 I would want top quality not budget knife quality.
OKC doesn't care. They just don't. They are what they are. I always felt it would be cool if they had their regular base models then a higher end line where they actually care. People would pay the extra for that and better sheaths.
Ever since Randall left for esee they haven't been the same.
Maybe they'll sell it as a blank to the knife connection so they can sell it with fancy scales.
I find most okc knives are modding knives, you can save some money but end up doing some sanding and a pvc sheath
I've had my eye on this since they announced it. Such an excellent blade
I have their kephart in cpm 154cm and it’s a no complaints great blade very similar looking handles,sheath and blade finish as the rat 6 version.
Niiccceeee
Great price! I did get a sweet deal a few weeks ago from State and Union on their model 2. This is basically Kabar’s custom shop. 6” blade, s35vn, kydex sheath, and burlap micarta for 150 shipped.
A normal Buck 119 is about 65 dollars. I've had mine since 1984, and its still going strong. I always carry a hatchet or tomahawk, when I go into the woods. Oh, plus a Stanley Folding Pocket Saw. Yes I am old school. Another good chopper I have already is the Condor Tool and Knife, Hudson Bay knife. A very nice thick blade made from 1075 high carbon steel. I have chopped stuff up to 1 inch id diameter, but thats about as far as I like to go with a knife.
I don’t need a Rat 6 but I know I would enjoy that full flat grind. Full flats are the only grind on an any make/model I mess with.
After a good weekend testing the Rat 6 and Esee 6 together, I think Ontario has a hit on their hands. With only a few slight tolerance differences all my parts were interchangeable between the two. My Rat came home with Knife Connection contoured green Micarta scales and Kydex sheath...And yes, with a little touch up...a sharp spine.
Nice!!
None of which you should have had to do .....Ontario are like the HD of the knife world.
Ontario is cool, but for 100 and north I’d probably get a 1095 ESEE or a tops sure it’s not super steel, but their knives have wonderful fit and finish and the warranty on an ESEE is unbeatable.
Thank you for this, I love Ontario’s stuff been using it for 20 years or more. It’s nice to see a review because I’ve been wondering about this knife.
Looks like a worthwhile purchase ,as soon as my old timer rat 6 breaks I'll be interested . The problems you pointed out on hot spots ,I've not had that problem. I am interested in the new steel rat 6. Happy Trails
You really took this knife through the paces. Very thoughtful review, as usual.
Love the looks of this blade.
I think Ontario should bring back their RD series and expand on it. It’s their own original series and I personally liked them. Instead of pushing the RAT series so hard which is just a second class Esee essentially. Just my thoughts. The RD series with some TKC G-10 grips were really awesome knives
The RD6 is my all time favorite OKC knife.
Those RD knives were sweet!
I love s35 vn steel! Super sharp and holds a good edge! Micarta handles are ok. Not my favorite but quality. Pretty big blade. Which i have heard s35 loses its strength the longer the blade?.. i like this sheath too! Looks kinda like a busse or scrap yard knife. My go to knife right now is the treeman pathfinder. But im looking into buying an attleboro knife just cause i want to try something lighter. They feel great in the hand! Love your channel man! You talk the talk and walk the walk! Nice review! Stay safe! God bless!
I think they should have kept the belly at the front, the RAT7 has. This one's doesnt have that much of a belly and is more drop pointy at the front. Also they should have changed the handles to something like Esee is now doing with the 6. If they don't address this, sooner or later The Knife Connection will come up with 3D handles for this, for another $50. Hence, exactly what they are doing for several other Ontarios and were doing for several Esees. Which is laughing all the way to the bank.
Yes! Esee have gone 3D handle now, TKC style. I just bought one in black and tan!
Awesome video bro 👍👍
This is a knife that I really would consider to purchase. The uncomfortable handle issue would be easily solved with a file and some sand papper I guess. But that sheath needs to be replaced with one in kydex!!
Dude haven’t even watched the whole vid and I’m so hyped for this one! Thank you, cheers
Glad to hear it!
got a kydex and 6" ferro rod for mine. love how easy it is to pimp it out for my preferences
Ok, wear gloves. There I said it. There’s snow on the ground, it’s cold so every edge is sharper to the touch. If it were warmer then you wouldn’t feel it as much. Also, sand paper does wonders with micarta. There’s my opinion. But a very nice video!
Great timing...my Rat 6’s first real use will be today. And yes, the pommel has already drawn first blood...lol. Awesome Video, love the testing format. What really sold me on this blade was it’s interchangeably with all my Esee 6 stuff...
Will it fit well into the stock Esee 6 polymer sheath?
Works just like the Esee 6. Fits all my sheath’s and handle scales...
very solid tests, and good information. as far as "chopping" with a mid sized field knife, if the sapling is as large as my wrist, I would use rosebudding. it will give a better end, and be less stressful on the blade. I do like having either a small hatchet, or saw with me, but sometimes you dont have the luxury of having a full bushcraft kit with you. most of my field knives ( not including Moras, I do have half a dozen of them) are 1095, the only "premium" steel field knife I own so far is the LT Wright bushcrafter in 3V. this blade is not in my budget, but I would love to get the chance some day to do a side by side test with the S35vn Rat 6 against my other field knives.
Nice! I’m thanks for watching!!
2:32 Someone was having a few drinks at the assembly line that day
Hahah
A handyman could take this 90% good knife, and add that 10% touch and have a dream
Love your indepth reviews of stuff. In regards to your bushcraft/ survival knife stuff, have you ever thought of adding a fish fillet test? We would chop wood with the knife but also might want to use it on small game and fish as well. Any knife can cut a steak but to work around bones or such is a testimony to the agility of the knife and grind. Keep on with the good videos!
Very interesting change from the other rat knives close to this size but looks very cool
Also thanks for the recommendation to send my Cold Steel Ak-47 back in the comment I left a couple videos back. Cold Steel replaced it and sent me a new one with better steel! Excellent customer service
No worries! Glad to hear it!!
Cool video! I'm sure there's a niche in the market for this knife. OKC are who they are, and that's fine. If they refine their tools more, they will cost more, and then have to compete against higher standards. They are obviously aware of the consumer. S35VN and micarta are very popular, and not as common in that big of a blade.
G'day Aaron, you'll always get my attention with S35, lol. I would prefer a sabre grind and the sheath branding is a bit obnoxious, but definitively value for a decent lump of S35. Main concern is the QC, I'm not really into a 165 USD, (around 250 AUD), gamble. Anyway food for thought, I may yet have a punt. Thanks for showing it mate and the sharpening segment was a worthy addition, though as you say, not particularly surprising in this instance. Cheers Duke.
So far I'm good with my SOG pillar and seal pup elite....those knives do a decent job splitting wood 👍👍
Good call!
If anyone is interested I have this knife and the after market scales from an ESEE 6 (knife connection) fit this blade also.
Good to know thanks for sharing!
I'm one of the guys who love okc handles and older Esee handles. I love the wide flat handles
Nice!!
I own several OKC knives. My question is why is everyone so down on their knife sheaths.? I’ve never had any problems with mine they’re attached to many different kits of mine. No one ever explains why they hate them so much. Mine always work great never have any problems.
Because everyone wants a tacticool kydex sheath to pretend they are a navy seal when they go camping… but same here, never had a issue with OKC sheaths, not the best, not the worst.
I love that design. I hope they come out in 1095.
Are you going to review any of the OKC knives from their 2023 catalog? Especially interested in the Ti Equinox and their folding kitchen knives.
Also their Bushcraft Woodsman knife which is a bit cheaper looks like a compelling option
your rust test in the snow is interesting. i might recommend you put a control knife in at the same time. show a steel which may rust in the snow and the side by side comparison would have more meaning. just a thought
Thanks for the feed back
Looks good to me I'll add it to the collection thanks
I am an active hunter, fisherman, back packer etc. I recently bought this knife - I went and lived off grid for an entire year - great blade - the handle only held up for a few months it is not well secured, the “rivets” through the handle came loose and lost two of them and no epoxy used in the handle and It finally fell off. I make knives so I peened in new pins with the handle set in epoxy has held up great now.
If you put this knife to heavy work the handle will not hold up, I know I make knives as well.
with the sharpening test. you have to also take into account that you didn't really do any damage to the first inch or 2 of the Rat 5, plus it's shorter, so it should take a lot less time to sharpen...
For sure 👍
Your video helped me make another informed purchase.
Great to hear!
Love the new review style!
thank you!
THE S35VN WILL CUT APPROXIMATELY DOUBLE!
YOU'RE BEING TOO KIND when you say the S35VN will cut a little bit longer.
From memory, according to the Cedric and Ada rope cut tests, the S30V sample cut approximately DOUBLE the number of times the 1075 or 1095 sample cut. You can extrapolate, estimate, for S35VN.
They make the scales chunky so you can shape them to fit! Customise them!
Haha that’s one way to look at it.
@@gideonstactical it's what the head of okc said at blade show! I thought it was funny. But with a oscillating bobbin sander I did a cracking job on all my oscillating knives. Ese e charge quite a bit for just their scales. I did mine in 5 mins and look the same as a esee !
I've had several Ontarios in the past with a Bushcraft Woodman as my go to big knife. The quality is hit or miss especially on the SP series do yourself a favor just go with full tang with slabs on each side
I think in a true survival knife situation the last thing I want to deal with his rust on my knife I think S35 is a great choice
Another great video my Christian Brother. I like the look of the new Rat 6 except for the finger choil. It’s to big makes the blade weird looking to me. Typical Ontario Sheath. Not my favorite. S35vn good steel choice. I’ll stick with my 1095 Esee 6 with 1095. The only fixed blade I’d recommend to other people. Esee 6 great heat treatment & great warranty.
OMG looks great 😍
Thanks for the video
Saludos Amigo
I have the SP10 and the SP6. If i had just 1 knife to survive with, I'd chose the SP10. It's the only one with a full steel guard for fighting, it's a great chopper, and it can be used for any sirvival task. When paired with a small knife for carving, it's the oerfect combo.
You go and make this video just DAYS after I bit the bullet and bought the SOG Pillar!
I shopped BladeHQ as well, and after 2 months of research comparing datapoints on knife steel, size, made in USA, bushcrafting task assignment, dreams of the "one-tool" option, I'm a Lefty...I should have saved the $$$$, & chosen OKC over SOG.
The SOG; questionable if Taiwanese/Chinese steel manufacturing, without a ferro-rod capable spine, and the micarta scales are "oily" feeling.
The OKC is undoubtedly USA and i could have gone smaller with the RAT-5, since I am also carrying a camp axe/hatchet. But I'm subbed and I'll keep watching.
Hey Andrew, if the sog hasn’t been used you can always try to return it. my pillar is USA made with cpm-s35vn which is from USA sourced. Not sure if that helps. Thanks for subscribing and being part of the GT family.
Good vid on this blade Aaron! I would still take my Rat 7 in 1095 with aftermarket leather sheath over this one though. 1095 is just a better steel for heavy duty camp/woods work, and you can't beat the price. I think they used the "super steel" in this Rat 6 to satisfy the peeps that just have to have that. By the way, I have at least a half dozen OKC fixed blades, and they are all perfect.
S35VN is a terrible choice for fixed blade knives this size but I agree OKC made this one for the steel snobs.
Agree with the 1095 for sure. My rat-7 has gotten honest hard use camping and it’s been great
What stainless steel would be better? I had my doubts but from my use and testing in this video on the steel front zero issues with the heat treat.
Cpm S35vn “should” and can be with a correct heat treat in mid to high 50s as tough as 1095, battoning or chopping. Your sharpening skills aside,s35vn is a better steel in every way. I do love 1095 too.
Not a knife snob have a few brands with several different steels but 1095 gets dull so quick it doesn't take long before it doesn't cut which is my knives main purpose. S35 vn stays sharp and useful much longer and I haven't done anything stupid enough to break one yet.
The steel on the rat5 is only 3/16" thick. Yet somehow the plunge line is 1/4" off?
Did you know that in Europe custom supers steel knives costs 60 % less than in USA ? So why to buy in shop ?
You should try the Outer Limitless channel TFK17 knife. This Okc knife kind of reminds of it.
A knife that is front heavy, you mean like a Kukri? :) And yes I am getting one in 5160 high carbon spring steel, with a six inch blade. I expect it will be a really good chopper.
Sounds like it!
Would have liked to see head to head cutting 'till dull comparison with the carbon steel rat 5, or bushcraft woodsman..
How much edge retention are you really getting?
Most tests you will find is that you will get twice the edge retention over 1095 with s35vn.
Great video good knife.
However may i recommend the
kizlyar supreme survivalist x
Up for review ? 😁 Thanks 🙏
I will check it out
I was shocked when I saw how much bend you were putting in the blade on the fence pickets, and how much torture you were doing with the knife tip in the stump. I didn't think S35VN would handle that, I assumed it was to brittle. Thanks for this review and/or torture test.
For sure! I was really surprised too
Knowing OKC they HT high 50’s
Too
I love the knife look
A knife with potential... Good steel, needs a little work on the handle to make it your own... Good to go for decent price... I think I like it.
Makes me cringe when you do extreme stress testing on a nice blade, but nice to know these tools can take it. Thanks Aaron for the great review.
Thanks for watching!
Surprised you didn’t mention Lionsteel or Joker Nomad knives as competitive options to this. I’ve bought 3 Rat 7s and the grinds were all off. The knife will work fine but you’re sacrificing some fit and finish for the price. Hopefully OKC will make long term changes to their quality control.
Ya so many options but was trying to stay in the s35vn world and 🇺🇸 made
I'm already an OKC fan, because they may be literally rough around the edges, but what you get is fundamentally SO solid, and always at such a good price that I don't mind doing a little finishing work on them. And for the RATs, it's really easier to chamfer the edges of the blocky handles - just wear a mask, keep them wet, and use sandpaper for a couple of minutes - huge improvement in the ergos. For my needs in my always hot, always humid, tropical rainforest environment, this is nearly perfect. Honestly, if OKC were to create S35VN versions of the RAT3 and the RAT5, I'd be all over those too!
Nice!!
G'day Charles, yep dont mind some finishing work either, especially for the value, though I wouldn't be wanting an asymmetrical grind like Aaron showed on the 5; not that it'd hurt performance, I just reckon that's crossed the line. Cheers Duke.
@@eyeofthetiger4184 Hey Duke! Yeah, that was more than being unfinished - that was defective. I'd probably send that back and insist on a replacement.
@@charlescollier7217 Yes mate, I'm with ya. FYI, the good thing under our consumer law here is "repair, refund or replace" through the point of sale, so if you cop a bad one it only needs to go that far, rather than back to OKC in the US for example, still a pain you'd rather not have, but for the value of this tool in terms of design and materials vs dough, I'm seriously considering pulling the trigger. Do you have one already ?
@@eyeofthetiger4184 I wish that policy were in force where I am! I haven't got one yet, but I'm working on my birthday present list, and this is definitely going on it!
When I'm out in the woods using a knife I don't care if the grinds are not perfect nor do I care about a perfectly flush handle. What I do care about is good steel from a well known USA company for a good price. That is what I get with okc. I like to put the knife to work and not look at how pretty it is so if you want to go pay another hundred dollars for a pretty knife out in the woods more power to you. That being said I like to have a nice well-built good-looking pocket knife for my everyday carry so I get the pleasure out of that oh well so be it
Very nice! Might have to pick one up!
Wish it was more of a drop point. More like the lionsteal t6
How difficult is it to remove the handle scales completely from the knife. If the scales are removable then maybe those DIY guys like myself can either remove the scales to shape them more comfortable. Or to use some hardwood scales like Hard Maple, Walnut, or Hickory and get the hardwood shaped just the way you want them.
Super easy to remove
I have a number of OKC knives, both fixed and folding. Overall they make good tools for the price, but they must have a blind man working at the quality control department. Every single knife I've gotten from them has had some sort of quality control issue. They need to get it together. Good video though.
Hi, I have just seen a review on Goat Tools Multi tool, are you planning on or could you do a review on it, just trust your Reviews much more then others, thanks
Thank u so much and yes it is on the docket
Great review. Thank you for sharing. Could you review KA-BAR's Snody Big Boss similarly though? I believe it's priced even lower than the RAT6 and has been my 'beater/do all' fixed blade knife for quite some time now.
Lord Almighty I think I'm in LOVE!!! 🤩🥰🤪😍
I think I'll stick with Esee, Tops, and Bark River.
There handles are always clunky and two wide from top tp bottom to wrap my fingers around easily.
OKC definitely leaves the sharpening up to the user, and the sheaths are so-so. I actually don't mind the sheaths because of the built in MOLLE. I like this knife, but I just blew my money on a Cold Steel SRK in CPM-3V, before Cold Steel completely goes in the toilet.
Good choice too
@@gideonstactical I know CPM-3V isn't technically stainless. But, if I take care of it, I figure I can just wipe off the rust. I've heard CPM-3V rust doesn't cause putting, provided you take care of it right away. I'm not sure if it's true.
Glad to see they are using stainless. Carbon steel is so overated. It dulls even if you don't use it. Stainless isn't as bad about that. And most stainless is just as easy to sharpen then carbon. Idk who made up the lie carbon was easier because I can't tell a difference.
Would you have any good recommendations for aftermarket scales for this knife? I just ordered one from BladeHQ and am debating either doing a slight reshape on the scales it comes with (done this on other Ontario knives) or replacing them with something more ergonomic for my size medium hands... Your thoughts as always are appreciated. Great video! Got me spending more money on knives. 😀
Thanks so much for watching, glad you enjoyed the video and I hope the knife serves you well. I believe the knife connection does still sell aftermarket handle scales for these tools. hope that helps.
i get the price but why does white river charge so much for their s35vn blades? fit an finish isn't that great, if the hollow pins on the fc series pop loose you're srewed and the angle the blades are ground are so inconsistent i'm talking about 17° to 24°
i'm grateful i don't purchased one after hard thinking and i entered the preorder of a gso 5.1 in magnacut for 270$
love your content - keep it up
Thanks so much!!
@Raving Badger...Good luck getting a GSO...been waiting 3 years for mine...
@@dlrmon1 when did u order yours?
@Raving Badger... August 2018...months after the blade started their “so called” production...
@@dlrmon1 i get it that the wait left a bad taste in your mouth but i seems like they had harsh problems with "millit" or whatever they are called and since they manufacture now pretty much everything in house other than the handle screws and heat treat, they seem to deliver now on the 90day preorder time.
and if not, i will gladly wait 1-2 years for a product which is unmatched in quality for the price point.
for example a bradford g3 in magnacut with a pretty much useless sheath costs about 190$ and the for what i have seen their heat treat leaves a lot to be desired for cause i own one.
the kydex and pretty much the whole package what survive offers seems to be high end. non native english speaker here, sorry for the grammer ect.
Nah brah scales & sheath are a big letdown. They would need replacing making it a lot more expensive. This costs more outside the USA as well €230 which is around $250.
If you're in Europe the manly knives "eagle" takes a big greasy dump all over this. Amazing blade & comes in at €160 vs the €230 for the rat 6.
Saber ground 6" blade (no finger choil) in CPM-154, which is virtually identical to S35VN at the same hrc in terms of edge retention & toughness, also sharpening. Thin behind the edge so cuts VERY well. Very ergonomic & textured G10 scales & kydex sheath, thinner kydex but it functions well.
Naked blade is 10oz & the kydex/clip brings it to about 12oz total carry weight. Best 6" camp utility blade I have ever used.
Best stainless 6" blade as the survive knives GSO-6 is probably my favorite all round fixed blade (3V steel)
The last couple OKC knives knives that I bought are good. But the new sheath they are using now are JUNK. Put on thee sp43 when I got to camp and just fell off stitching not good
I've got several of their blades. I hate the cheap coatings they use. After you've stripped a few of them you'll learn why they use it and why it's so thick.
I mostly like their stuff, basically because it's price. If your not good at or don't like refinishing and reprofiling blades stay away from these knives. Unless uneven grinds and rough surfaces don't bother you. It's no little job doing it by hand. It takes hours of sanding and sometimes even a good file is required. I actually think this new one looks pretty good and should stand up to any reasonable tasks one might do with a knife. I'd probably buy it if I didn't already have more big fixed blades than a rational person would likely own. Their sheaths have always sucked imo. All mine live in heavy leather sheaths now and all but one have been refinished.
I like Ontario. My first Rat-5. Blade was warped a good 1/4" , I'm assuming during the heat treat. I've waited over a year. I just bought a replacement. The freaking blade is also warped. Not as bad but, its being returned. I own a Rat-1, 2, 3, &7, and simply want to complete the series. I may pick up the 6 and the RTAK2 and skip the 5. Come on Ontario do better!
I have a 7 with custom scales and sheath but I hate the coating on the blade so this might be my fix if you locate a good sheath please let us know.
R Bagwell on EBay. He sells many custom sheaths and that’s where I got mine. Plus there’s other rat7 reviews that got a sheath from him as well.
@@cherokeefit4248
I got kydex sheaths from him for my OKC RD6 & RAK & Mora bushcraft black.
@@cherokeefit4248 thanks for the info I will look into it.
try the KABAR PLAIN LEATHER SHEATH FOR THE NON VETERAN VERSION OF THE MARINE (ET AL) FIGHTING KNIFE.$12.00 AND FITS THE RAT 6 PERFECTLY.
Usual Ontario, $165 knife with a $3 sheath. Ontario needs to step up their sheaths. They have some really nice knives but have the cheapest crappiest sheaths.
It would be good to see better sheaths, but this isn’t bad for a nylon offering.
Why would they use S35VN for a 6” fixed blade? I can see it in a 3-4” blade like the RAT-3 but it’s not a great steel choice for a large fixed blade. I’ll definitely pass on this one. Ontario once again has missed the boat.
Interesting take, I am impressed with the steel choice
@@gideonstactical Cold Steel has upped their game with 3V in their classic large fixed blades. S35VN is great for folders and small fixed blades but it lacks the toughness of something like 3V that you want in a large knife. I guess we have to lower our expectations with Ontario though.
@Martin Miller...I have Bark River Bravo 1.5’s in 3v and S35vn. I’ve beat the snot out of both. I tend to use the S35vn version in wet or winter conditions. After years of use I can say the stainless knife looks much better. Other than that I haven’t noticed much of a difference between the two. Also have a CRK Pacific in S35vn that’s proven reliable.
Hey Azza which would you pick, rat 6 or sog pillar?
Pillar for most situations
@@gideonstactical I have to get it now cheers bra
I would love to see you make an episode where you torture test a bunch of walmart flashlights and knives.
OKC knives are not a good deal because the sheaths need replacing. Only a few years ago, they had very functional plastic/kydex.
S35Vn is not what I would pick for a hard use knife. It tends to be brittle and chippy.
As you saw in the video, great lateral strength, and still not as chippy as I expected it much easier to work with than other premium, stainless steels like M390 or elmax.
@@gideonstactical in impact tests Elmax blew S35VN out of the water even when the Elmax was over 60 and the S35VN was at 57 HRC. The softer Rockwell should have made the S35VN much tougher.
£272.99 or $340.73 in the UK!! ....Revolution Time!!
Why do I never see any reviews over any geo teck knives. From Spain.
Full flat grind on a survival knife, interesting choice
Send it to Joe X for test on the iron rod.
Hahah
Great info.
My s35 esee 4 was $120
Yeah, but I hate the design of the esee4
I had to live with the Esee 4 design for a while before I realized that the design is really not as bad as some would say. The reasoning is it has options. The short handle thing is great for scout carry/ concealment. Like they do on some handguns by giving you less magazine capacity/ shorter grip. In this knife the handle doesn’t protrude into clothing. It’s easy to draw. The grip length is easily remedied with the extended grips from TKC in your choice of scale materials, if you insist on having to go that route. Ok, so let’s address the choil thing. I don’t mind it because I seldom use it like many say it’s supposed to be used, as in the index finger in the choil and thumb on the jimping…..What I do is drape my thumb alongside the front of the grip at the ricasso / choil area and never use the jimping. It’s the same technique you described in one of your vids about avoiding the raised jimping hump on the bk 7,9,10 series, etc. Now I can pick up any choiled knife and get right up on the blade with tremendous leverage/control for a long time with no cramping in the thumb or wrist as a thumb to jimping grip would cause in short order. Choils don’t bother me anymore. The tip of the thumb is at the choil now. Splinter worries? Wear a glove. I’ve found the grind on my stock knife feathers almost as well as any scandi. I’ve got tremendous control with that grip and in using it that way I’ve wondered why I purchased the extended grip option from TKC. Just some thoughts after living with that design for a while. My knife is in s35vn also. Sharpen that spine with a diamond stone!!!. It’s become a great low maintenance field knife with options.
That's fast becoming my favorite steel.
I like it more than m390
I do prefer it over m390 and 20cv as well. Tougher and still hold a good edge and easier to resharpen
@@gideonstactical my Frenzy, that I bought used, just arrived a few days ago.
(Not sure if 1,2, or 3 bought at auction)
And, just wow. This steel is sharp. Like you said, easier to sharpen than super steel, but terrifyingly sharp.
On a somewhat related note, I bought Sitivien st954, in 'm390' .
Arrived not sharp, and, am wondering if there is a way to find out if it even is m390.
Thoughts? Maybe that's a video idea, but, I don't know.