First Impressions of Chroma Scales RAT II OD Green Frag Handle Scales
The Ontario RAT II is a legendary knife, known for its affordability and reliability. Replacing the factory scales with the Chroma Scales RAT II OD Green Frag Handle Scales promises an enhanced grip and a personalized aesthetic. Chroma Scales brings a textured nylon PA12 construction to this popular platform, along with a matching bead, making it a potentially worthwhile upgrade for any RAT II owner.
I’ve always appreciated the RAT II’s functionality, but the stock scales felt a bit…plain. I was looking for a way to improve the grip, especially in wet conditions, and add a touch of personal style to my EDC without breaking the bank. The Chroma Scales RAT II OD Green Frag Handle Scales seemed like the perfect solution.
Upon unboxing, my initial thoughts were positive. The OD Green color is a classic tactical choice, and the “Frag” pattern looked aggressive and functional. The weight difference compared to the stock scales was negligible, a definite plus.
Compared to other aftermarket scales I’ve considered (G10, Micarta), the textured nylon PA12 seemed like a good compromise between durability and weight. I specifically chose these over aluminum scales due to nylon’s better grip in cold weather. My first impression was one of cautious optimism – eager to see how they perform in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Chroma Scales RAT II OD Green Frag Handle Scales to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Chroma Scales RAT II OD Green Frag Handle Scales on a weekend hiking trip in the local mountains. The weather was predictably unpredictable, ranging from sunny skies to a brief downpour. The improved grip was immediately noticeable when preparing kindling for a small fire.
Even with wet hands, the textured nylon PA12 provided a secure hold. The factory scales always felt a little slippery when wet, so this was a significant improvement. No issues or surprises presented themselves, and the knife handled precisely as intended during basic camp chores.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Chroma Scales RAT II OD Green Frag Handle Scales are holding up admirably. There are no visible signs of wear and tear despite regular use. Cleaning is simple – a quick rinse under water and a wipe-down are all that’s needed to remove dirt and grime.
Compared to my previous experiences with aftermarket knife scales, these are performing above expectations. The nylon material hasn’t warped or faded, and the grip remains consistently secure. I have full confidence in the durability of these scales for everyday carry and outdoor use.
Breaking Down the Features of Chroma Scales RAT II OD Green Frag Handle Scales
Specifications
- Material: Textured nylon PA12 construction. This provides a balance of durability, lightweight feel, and excellent grip, even when wet.
- Color: OD Green Frag. A classic tactical color with an aggressive, functional texture pattern.
- Weight: 0.02 lb. Extremely lightweight, adding virtually no noticeable weight to the knife.
- Compatibility: Designed specifically for the Ontario RAT II knife. This ensures a perfect fit and easy installation.
- Includes: Matching bead with 0.38in hole diameter. A small aesthetic touch that adds to the overall look.
These specifications are essential for a comfortable, functional, and durable knife handle. The lightweight and grippy material ensures ease of use in various conditions. The precise fit guarantees compatibility with the RAT II, a significant advantage.
Performance & Functionality
The Chroma Scales RAT II OD Green Frag Handle Scales significantly improve the overall performance of the RAT II. The enhanced grip provides better control, especially during tasks requiring precision. The nylon material feels more secure in hand than the stock scales.
The only potential improvement could be a slightly more aggressive texture for even better grip in extreme conditions. Otherwise, the scales meet and exceed expectations, offering a tangible upgrade over the factory handles. The matching bead also makes it much easier to locate the knife in a pocket full of items.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, with a clean and precise finish. The Chroma Scales RAT II OD Green Frag Handle Scales are comfortable in hand, even during extended use. The “Frag” pattern isn’t overly aggressive, providing a secure grip without being abrasive.
The scales are user-friendly and require no learning curve. Installation is straightforward, making it an easy upgrade for any RAT II owner. The ergonomic design complements the RAT II’s existing shape, resulting in a comfortable and functional knife.
Durability & Maintenance
The textured nylon PA12 construction is designed for long-term durability. The material is resistant to wear, tear, and impacts, and it does not easily scratch or fade. The Chroma Scales RAT II OD Green Frag Handle Scales are expected to last for years with proper care.
Maintenance is minimal – a simple rinse with water is sufficient to keep them clean. The nylon material is also resistant to chemicals and solvents, making it easy to remove stubborn stains. This makes them a practical choice for everyday carry and outdoor use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Chroma Scales RAT II OD Green Frag Handle Scales come with a matching bead. This adds a small aesthetic touch but isn’t essential to the functionality. The scales themselves don’t offer additional customization options.
However, they’re compatible with any lanyard or keychain that fits through the 0.38-inch hole in the included bead. Beyond that, the scales’ primary function is to replace the existing handle scales, and they perform this task admirably. No additional accessories are necessarily required for these scales to work.
Pros and Cons of Chroma Scales RAT II OD Green Frag Handle Scales
Pros
- Enhanced Grip: The textured nylon PA12 provides a significantly better grip than the stock RAT II scales, especially in wet conditions.
- Lightweight Design: Adds virtually no weight to the knife, maintaining its excellent carry-ability.
- Durable Construction: The nylon material is resistant to wear, tear, and impacts, ensuring long-term reliability.
- Easy Installation: Simple to install with basic tools, making it an accessible upgrade for any RAT II owner.
- Improved Aesthetics: The OD Green “Frag” pattern adds a touch of personalized style to the knife.
Cons
- Slightly Aggressive Texture: While providing great grip, the texture may be slightly abrasive for some users during prolonged use.
- Limited Customization: Offers limited customization options beyond the included bead.
Who Should Buy Chroma Scales RAT II OD Green Frag Handle Scales?
These scales are perfect for anyone who wants to improve the grip and aesthetics of their Ontario RAT II. This is a great product for hikers, campers, and everyday carry users who need a reliable and secure grip, especially in challenging conditions. Anyone looking for a simple, affordable upgrade to their RAT II will appreciate the Chroma Scales RAT II OD Green Frag Handle Scales.
Those who prefer extremely smooth or heavily customizable scales might want to skip this product. If an owner is content with the stock RAT II scales, then there is little need to upgrade. But for those seeking a functional and affordable improvement, this is an excellent choice.
Conclusion on Chroma Scales RAT II OD Green Frag Handle Scales
The Chroma Scales RAT II OD Green Frag Handle Scales are a worthwhile upgrade for any Ontario RAT II owner. The enhanced grip, durable construction, and easy installation make them a practical and affordable choice. The price is justified by the tangible improvement in performance and overall feel.
I would personally recommend these scales to anyone looking to enhance their RAT II’s functionality and aesthetics. Upgrade your RAT II today and experience the difference a quality set of scales can make!