Ontario Knife RAT IA Linerlock A/O 3.50 in Assisted Opening Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of Ontario Knife RAT IA Linerlock A/O 3.50 in Assisted Opening Folding Knife

The Ontario Knife RAT IA Linerlock A/O 3.50 in Assisted Opening Folding Knife is a recent addition to the renowned Ontario Knife Company‘s RAT (Regional Assault Team) series. Known for their robust construction and practical designs, the RAT knives have earned a solid reputation among outdoor enthusiasts and tactical users. This particular model boasts assisted opening, a 3.5-inch AUS-8 steel blade, and OD green G10 handles, making it an attractive option for everyday carry and light-duty tasks.

I needed a reliable, assisted-opening knife that wouldn’t break the bank. My old pocket knife’s spring assist had failed, and I was tired of struggling to open it one-handed.

Upon unboxing, the Ontario Knife RAT IA felt solid and well-balanced. The OD green G10 handle provided a secure grip, and the black finish on the blade gave it a tactical aesthetic. Compared to my previous EDC knife, a Kershaw Blur, the RAT IA felt slightly heavier but also more substantial. While the Kershaw excels in speed and slimness, the RAT IA gives an impression of rugged durability. I also considered the SOG Trident AT, but chose the RAT IA for the AUS-8 steel known for its easy maintenance and the RAT IA’s more understated design. I was definitely excited to get this knife out into the field and put it through its paces, however the initial action needed some breaking in.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Ontario Knife RAT IA Linerlock A/O 3.50 in Assisted Opening Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Ontario Knife RAT IA on a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. It performed admirably in a variety of tasks, from preparing kindling to cutting rope for my hammock. The assisted opening was initially a little stiff, but after a few dozen deployments, it smoothed out considerably.

Despite some light rain, the G10 handle remained grippy, offering excellent control. I was impressed with the blade’s sharpness and ability to hold an edge through moderate use.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent carry, the Ontario Knife RAT IA has proven to be a dependable tool. There are minimal signs of wear on the blade finish, and the G10 handle remains in excellent condition. Cleaning is easy: a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually all it needs.

Compared to some higher-end knives I’ve owned, the AUS-8 steel requires more frequent sharpening, however this is expected given the steel type. Overall, the Ontario Knife RAT IA has exceeded my expectations for a knife in this price range, providing reliable performance and solid durability.

Breaking Down the Features of Ontario Knife RAT IA Linerlock A/O 3.50 in Assisted Opening Folding Knife

Specifications

The Ontario Knife RAT IA Linerlock A/O 3.50 in Assisted Opening Folding Knife boasts the following specifications:

• Assisted Opening: Features Tactical Assisted Opening (T.A.O.) technology for rapid one-handed deployment. This is crucial for tactical situations or when you need to access the blade quickly with one hand occupied.
• Blade Length: 3.5 inches. This length strikes a good balance between portability and utility, making it suitable for a wide range of tasks.
• Blade Material: AUS-8 Stainless Steel with a black finish. AUS-8 is known for its good balance of toughness, edge retention, and corrosion resistance, while the black finish provides a non-reflective surface and added protection.
• Handle Material: OD Green G10. G10 is a durable composite material known for its excellent grip, even in wet conditions, and resistance to chemicals and temperature changes.
• Closed Length: 5 inches. This makes it compact enough for comfortable everyday carry.
• Overall Length: 8.6 inches. Provides a comfortable and controllable length when the knife is fully deployed.
• Blade Shape: Drop Point. The drop point is a versatile blade shape suitable for various tasks, from slicing to piercing.
• Blade Grind: Flat. A flat grind provides a good balance of strength and slicing ability.
• Lock Type: Liner Lock. The liner lock is a simple and reliable locking mechanism.
• Opening Method: Flipper. The flipper tab allows for quick and easy assisted opening.
• Pocket Clip: Included for convenient carry.
• Lanyard Hole: Provides an option for attaching a lanyard for added security.
• The Ontario Knife company is known for making durable and reliable knives.

These specifications combine to create a knife that is practical, durable, and well-suited for everyday carry and light-duty tactical use.

Performance & Functionality

The Ontario Knife RAT IA performs its intended job admirably. The assisted opening mechanism provides quick and reliable blade deployment, and the AUS-8 steel blade holds a decent edge through regular use. The G10 handle offers a secure and comfortable grip. While the assisted opening is not as smooth as some higher-end knives, it is more than adequate for its price point.

The knife’s strengths lie in its durability, reliability, and ease of use. A minor weakness is the steel, that will require somewhat frequent sharpening if used heavily.

Design & Ergonomics

The Ontario Knife RAT IA features a practical and ergonomic design. The G10 handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, even for larger hands. The thumb stud and flipper tab are well-positioned for easy one-handed operation.

The knife is well-balanced in hand, making it comfortable to use for extended periods. There is minimal learning curve, and the knife feels natural to use right out of the box.

Durability & Maintenance

The Ontario Knife RAT IA is built to last. The AUS-8 steel blade is durable and resistant to corrosion, and the G10 handle can withstand significant abuse. The liner lock mechanism is reliable and easy to maintain.

Maintaining the knife is straightforward: simply clean the blade and handle with a damp cloth after each use. Sharpening the blade regularly will keep it performing at its best.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Ontario Knife RAT IA comes with a standard pocket clip. There are no factory customization options available, but the knife is compatible with aftermarket pocket clips and lanyards. The Ontario Knife RAT IA is designed to be a reliable, no-frills tool rather than a highly customizable platform.

Pros and Cons of Ontario Knife RAT IA Linerlock A/O 3.50 in Assisted Opening Folding Knife

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Who Should Buy Ontario Knife RAT IA Linerlock A/O 3.50 in Assisted Opening Folding Knife?

The Ontario Knife RAT IA Linerlock A/O 3.50 in Assisted Opening Folding Knife is perfect for:

• Everyday Carry (EDC) enthusiasts: A dependable and affordable option for daily tasks.
• Outdoor adventurers: Reliable tool for camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities.
• Tactical users: Quick deployment and robust construction make it suitable for tactical applications.
• Budget-conscious buyers: Offers excellent value for the money without sacrificing quality.

This knife might not be the best choice for:

• Users who demand premium blade steels and ultra-smooth action.
• Those who prefer lightweight or minimalist knives.

A must-have accessory would be a quality knife sharpener to maintain the AUS-8 steel blade.

Conclusion on Ontario Knife RAT IA Linerlock A/O 3.50 in Assisted Opening Folding Knife

The Ontario Knife RAT IA Linerlock A/O 3.50 in Assisted Opening Folding Knife is a solid and reliable assisted-opening knife that offers excellent value for the money. While it may not have the bells and whistles of higher-end knives, it provides dependable performance and durable construction that will appeal to a wide range of users.

The price is certainly justified given the build quality and functionality.

I would definitely recommend this knife to anyone looking for an affordable and practical EDC option. If you’re in the market for a dependable assisted-opening knife that won’t break the bank, the Ontario Knife RAT IA is definitely worth considering.