Let’s Talk About Ontario Knife 8832 RAT II Linerlock D2 CF Folding Knife
The Ontario Knife Company (OKC) has been a staple in the knife world for over a century, known for producing durable, reliable tools for military, law enforcement, and civilian use. The Ontario Knife 8832 RAT II Linerlock D2 CF Folding Knife is a more refined iteration of their popular RAT (Randall Adventure Training) series. This knife blends practical design with upgraded materials, making it an appealing option for everyday carry (EDC) and light-duty tactical applications. It promises a balance of affordability and performance, making it a standout contender in its price range.
My search for a reliable EDC knife that could handle more than just opening boxes led me to the RAT II. I needed something compact, with a blade capable of holding an edge through rigorous use. I wanted better steel and a more comfortable grip than my previous budget folders offered.
The unboxing experience was straightforward; the knife came securely packaged in a standard cardboard box. My initial impressions were positive – the carbon fiber handle felt great in hand, and the blade arrived sharp and centered. The lightweight construction and smooth action immediately signaled a step up from my previous EDC knives.
I considered the Spyderco Paramilitary 3 Lightweight and the Benchmade Bugout before settling on the RAT II. While the Spyderco offered superior ergonomics in some respects, the price point was significantly higher. The Bugout, while incredibly lightweight, felt less robust than I wanted for heavier tasks. The RAT II seemed to strike a perfect balance between cost, durability, and functionality.
I was pleasantly surprised by the Ontario Knife 8832 RAT II Linerlock D2 CF Folding Knife. It exceeded my expectations for a knife in this price range. It feels solid, well-built, and ready for whatever I throw at it.
Real-World Testing: Putting Ontario Knife 8832 RAT II Linerlock D2 CF Folding Knife to the Test
First Use Experience
My first real test of the Ontario Knife 8832 RAT II Linerlock D2 CF Folding Knife came on a weekend camping trip. I used it for various tasks, from food preparation to cutting rope for setting up the tent.
The knife performed admirably in both wet and dry conditions. The D2 steel blade held its edge well even after processing wood for kindling. The carbon fiber handle provided a secure grip, even with slightly damp hands, inspiring confidence in its performance.
The knife was immediately easy to use, requiring no real adjustment period. The liner lock was solid and engaging, and the thumb stud allowed for quick and reliable one-handed opening. I appreciated the thoughtful design.
The only slight issue I encountered was the pocket clip being a bit tight initially. This made it a little difficult to draw the knife quickly from my pocket.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Ontario Knife 8832 RAT II Linerlock D2 CF Folding Knife has proven to be a reliable and durable tool. It’s become my go-to knife for daily tasks.
Despite consistent use, the blade shows minimal signs of wear and tear. The edge retention of the D2 steel is impressive, requiring only occasional stropping to maintain its sharpness. The carbon fiber handle remains in excellent condition, showing no signs of cracking or peeling.
Cleaning and maintaining the knife is straightforward. A simple wipe down with a damp cloth and occasional oiling of the pivot point are all that’s required. It’s a low-maintenance tool, perfect for everyday carry.
Compared to my previous EDC knives, the RAT II outperforms them in nearly every category. Its superior steel, comfortable handle, and robust construction make it a clear winner in terms of performance and durability. I’ve been very impressed.
Breaking Down the Features of Ontario Knife 8832 RAT II Linerlock D2 CF Folding Knife
Specifications
The Ontario Knife 8832 RAT II Linerlock D2 CF Folding Knife features a 3-inch satin finish D2 tool steel drop point blade. D2 steel is known for its excellent edge retention and wear resistance, making it ideal for demanding tasks.
It has a 4-inch closed length, making it compact and easy to carry in a pocket or on a belt. The overall weight is approximately 2.8 ounces.
The handle is constructed from carbon fiber, offering a lightweight yet strong and durable grip. The carbon fiber provides a comfortable and secure hold, even in wet conditions.
The knife features a linerlock mechanism, ensuring a secure and reliable blade lockup during use. This enhances safety and prevents accidental closure.
It includes a thumb stud for easy one-handed opening. The thumb stud allows for quick deployment of the blade, crucial in tactical or emergency situations.
It also has a pocket clip for convenient carry and a lanyard hole for added versatility. The pocket clip allows for tip-up carry, while the lanyard hole offers options for attaching a lanyard or keychain.
These specifications matter because they contribute to the overall performance and usability of the knife. The D2 steel provides excellent edge retention, while the carbon fiber handle offers a comfortable and secure grip. The linerlock mechanism and thumb stud enhance safety and ease of use.
Performance & Functionality
The Ontario Knife 8832 RAT II Linerlock D2 CF Folding Knife excels at its intended purpose as a versatile EDC knife. Its D2 steel blade holds an edge exceptionally well, making it suitable for a wide range of tasks, from cutting rope and opening packages to food preparation and light wood processing.
The knife’s strengths lie in its robust construction, excellent edge retention, and comfortable ergonomics. The blade is sharp and easy to sharpen, while the handle provides a secure and comfortable grip.
The only area that could be improved is the initial stiffness of the pocket clip. It takes some breaking in to allow for easier drawing from the pocket. Overall, the knife meets and exceeds my expectations for a knife in this price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Ontario Knife 8832 RAT II Linerlock D2 CF Folding Knife is impressive, considering its price point. The materials used, including D2 steel and carbon fiber, are durable and high-quality.
The knife feels well-balanced in hand, with a comfortable grip that accommodates various hand sizes. The lightweight design makes it easy to carry for extended periods without causing fatigue.
The design is user-friendly, with intuitive controls and a smooth action. There is virtually no learning curve associated with using this knife, making it suitable for both experienced knife users and beginners.
Durability & Maintenance
The Ontario Knife 8832 RAT II Linerlock D2 CF Folding Knife is built to last. Its robust construction and high-quality materials ensure that it can withstand years of regular use.
Maintaining the knife is easy and straightforward. Regular cleaning and occasional oiling of the pivot point are all that’s required to keep it in top condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Ontario Knife 8832 RAT II Linerlock D2 CF Folding Knife comes with a standard pocket clip. There are aftermarket pocket clips available for deeper carry or different mounting positions.
While the knife doesn’t offer extensive customization options, the aftermarket offers replacement scales, screws, and thumb studs to personalize the knife to your liking. These options allow you to tailor the knife to your specific preferences and needs.
Pros and Cons of Ontario Knife 8832 RAT II Linerlock D2 CF Folding Knife
Pros
- Excellent edge retention due to the D2 steel blade. This ensures that the knife remains sharp for extended periods, even with heavy use.
- Lightweight and comfortable carbon fiber handle. This provides a secure and ergonomic grip, reducing fatigue during prolonged use.
- Solid linerlock mechanism for safe and reliable blade lockup. This enhances safety by preventing accidental closure during use.
- Compact size and convenient pocket clip for easy everyday carry. This makes it easy to carry the knife in a pocket or on a belt, ensuring it’s always within reach.
- Affordable price point without compromising quality. This makes it an excellent value for money, offering high-end features at a reasonable price.
Cons
- Pocket clip can be stiff initially. It may take some breaking in for smoother draw from the pocket.
- D2 steel is not as corrosion-resistant as stainless steel. This requires more diligent maintenance in humid or wet environments.
Who Should Buy Ontario Knife 8832 RAT II Linerlock D2 CF Folding Knife?
The Ontario Knife 8832 RAT II Linerlock D2 CF Folding Knife is perfect for:
- Everyday carry (EDC) enthusiasts looking for a reliable and versatile knife for daily tasks.
- Outdoor adventurers and campers who need a durable and sharp blade for various cutting tasks.
- Tactical users seeking a lightweight and easily deployable knife for self-defense or utility purposes.
Who should skip this product? Someone who prioritizes extreme corrosion resistance above all else might consider a knife with a stainless steel blade. Someone who needs a heavy-duty fixed blade for demanding tasks should also look elsewhere.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A quality knife sharpener to maintain the D2 steel blade. A paracord lanyard for added grip and retention is also useful.
Conclusion on Ontario Knife 8832 RAT II Linerlock D2 CF Folding Knife
The Ontario Knife 8832 RAT II Linerlock D2 CF Folding Knife is an exceptional value for the money. It combines high-quality materials, a robust design, and excellent performance in a compact and affordable package.
The price is definitely justified by the quality of materials and construction. This knife provides impressive performance and reliability without breaking the bank.
I would absolutely recommend the Ontario Knife 8832 RAT II Linerlock D2 CF Folding Knife to anyone looking for a reliable and versatile EDC knife. It’s a fantastic tool that will serve you well for years to come.
Get yours today and experience the quality and performance of the Ontario Knife 8832 RAT II Linerlock D2 CF Folding Knife! You won’t be disappointed.