Ontario Knife RAT IA Linerlock A/O Orange Review

First Impressions of Ontario Knife RAT IA Linerlock A/O Orange

The Ontario Knife RAT IA Linerlock A/O Orange enters a crowded market of everyday carry (EDC) knives. This assisted opener, from the renowned Ontario Knife Company, boasts a vibrant orange G10 handle and a practical AUS-8 steel blade. I’ve spent years evaluating knives, from high-end custom pieces to budget-friendly beaters, and I was particularly interested in seeing how this affordable option holds up to real-world use.

I’ve always appreciated a solid, reliable knife. My previous EDC was a manually-opening blade that required two hands in a pinch, so I was looking for an assisted-opening mechanism to streamline daily tasks. This model’s combination of a proven blade steel, assisted opening, and bright color was a gamble worth taking.

Upon unboxing, the Ontario Knife RAT IA Linerlock A/O Orange made a positive first impression. The orange G10 handle immediately stood out, offering a pop of color and a good grip. The weight felt substantial, inspiring confidence without being cumbersome, and the blade arrived reasonably sharp.

I considered several similar knives before settling on the RAT IA. I looked at a Kershaw Blur, known for its SpeedSafe assisted opening, and a CRKT M16-14SFG, revered for its tactical design. Ultimately, the Ontario Knife RAT IA Linerlock A/O Orange won me over with its balance of affordability, the well-regarded AUS-8 steel, and the eye-catching orange handle, something different from the usual black or grey.

Initially, I was excited by the prospect of a reliable and affordable assisted-opening knife. I also had some reservations about the AUS-8 steel, questioning its edge retention compared to more premium steels. Only time and testing would tell if the Ontario Knife RAT IA Linerlock A/O Orange could live up to expectations.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Ontario Knife RAT IA Linerlock A/O Orange to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground for the Ontario Knife RAT IA Linerlock A/O Orange was a week-long camping trip in the Pacific Northwest. I used it for various tasks, including food preparation, cutting rope for shelter building, and creating feather sticks for fire starting. The wet environment tested the knife’s grip and the blade’s corrosion resistance.

The knife performed admirably in the damp conditions. The G10 handle provided a secure grip even when wet, and the blade showed no signs of rust or corrosion. The assisted opening proved to be quick and reliable, making one-handed operation a breeze. It did take a short time to get used to the liner lock as my previous EDC was a lockback.

Initially, the only minor issue was the stiffness of the pocket clip. It was difficult to clip onto thicker materials, but this loosened up slightly with use. Other than that, the Ontario Knife RAT IA Linerlock A/O Orange performed flawlessly during its first outing.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Ontario Knife RAT IA Linerlock A/O Orange has proven to be a reliable companion. I’ve used it daily for tasks around the house, yard work, and even some light woodworking projects. The knife has become a trusted tool in my everyday life.

The durability has been impressive. The blade has held its edge reasonably well, requiring only occasional touch-ups with a honing steel. The G10 handle remains scratch-free, and the liner lock still engages securely. Despite heavy use, there are no signs of significant wear and tear.

Maintaining the Ontario Knife RAT IA Linerlock A/O Orange is incredibly simple. I clean the blade after each use with a damp cloth and occasionally apply a drop of oil to the pivot point. The G10 handle is virtually maintenance-free. Compared to my previous EDC, which required more frequent sharpening and cleaning, the Ontario Knife RAT IA Linerlock A/O Orange has been a welcome upgrade in terms of ease of maintenance.

Breaking Down the Features of Ontario Knife RAT IA Linerlock A/O Orange

Specifications

The Ontario Knife RAT IA Linerlock A/O Orange boasts a well-rounded set of specifications for an EDC knife. It features assisted opening for rapid deployment.

• Blade Length: 3.5 inches (8.89 cm).
• Closed Length: 5 inches (12.7 cm).
• Blade Material: AUS-8 stainless steel.
• Handle Material: Orange G10.
• Lock Type: Linerlock.
• Opening Mechanism: Assisted opening with thumb stud.
• Pocket Clip: Tip-up, right-hand carry.
• Lanyard Hole: Yes.

The 3.5-inch blade is a versatile length for a wide range of tasks. AUS-8 steel is known for its good balance of toughness, edge retention, and corrosion resistance, making it a practical choice for an EDC knife. The G10 handle provides a durable and grippy surface, even in wet conditions.

Performance & Functionality

The Ontario Knife RAT IA Linerlock A/O Orange excels in its intended role as an EDC knife. The assisted opening mechanism is fast and reliable, allowing for quick one-handed deployment.

The AUS-8 blade provides adequate edge retention for everyday tasks, and it’s easy to sharpen when needed. The liner lock engages securely, providing a safe and reliable locking mechanism. The Ontario Knife RAT IA Linerlock A/O Orange meets expectations for a dependable EDC blade and is capable of handling most daily cutting chores.

One strength is the quick deployment from the assisted opening. A weakness is the blade steel, which requires more frequent sharpening than premium steels.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Ontario Knife RAT IA Linerlock A/O Orange is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The bright orange G10 handle provides excellent visibility and a secure grip.

The knife feels well-balanced in hand, and the handle is comfortable to hold for extended periods. There is a slight learning curve with the liner lock for some users. The overall design is user-friendly and intuitive.

Durability & Maintenance

The Ontario Knife RAT IA Linerlock A/O Orange is built to last. The AUS-8 blade and G10 handle are durable and resistant to wear and tear.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and sharpening. This knife is designed for longevity with proper care.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Ontario Knife RAT IA Linerlock A/O Orange comes with a standard pocket clip. It does not offer extensive customization options.

Aftermarket pocket clips are available, but the design is fairly streamlined. Due to the design, compatibility with other accessories is limited.

Pros and Cons of Ontario Knife RAT IA Linerlock A/O Orange

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Who Should Buy Ontario Knife RAT IA Linerlock A/O Orange?

The Ontario Knife RAT IA Linerlock A/O Orange is perfect for:

• Everyday carry users looking for a reliable and affordable assisted-opening knife.
• Outdoor enthusiasts who need a durable and visible knife for camping, hiking, or fishing.
• Anyone who appreciates a bright and unique knife design.

This product might not be ideal for:

• Users who demand the highest edge retention and are willing to pay a premium for it.
• Individuals who prefer a more traditional manual opening mechanism.

A must-have accessory is a sharpening steel for maintaining the AUS-8 blade.

Conclusion on Ontario Knife RAT IA Linerlock A/O Orange

Overall, the Ontario Knife RAT IA Linerlock A/O Orange is a solid and dependable EDC knife that offers excellent value for the money. It provides a great balance of functionality, durability, and affordability.

The $77.99 price tag is justified by the quality of materials and the reliable performance. I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a budget-friendly assisted-opening knife for everyday use.

If you’re seeking a dependable and visually appealing EDC blade, the Ontario Knife RAT IA Linerlock A/O Orange is well worth considering. Add this to your EDC and never be without a blade!