Ontario Knife Rat II Folder AUS-8 Blade Review

Let’s Dive into Ontario Knife Rat II Folder AUS-8 Blade

The Ontario Knife Rat II Folder AUS-8 Blade is a celebrated everyday carry (EDC) knife from the Ontario Knife Company, known for producing reliable and affordable tools. Its popularity stems from its robust design, practical size, and decent steel, making it a favorite among budget-conscious knife enthusiasts. I was looking for a dependable, no-nonsense folder that could handle a variety of tasks without breaking the bank.

My search began after I lost my trusty old pocketknife during a backcountry hike. I needed a replacement that was both durable enough for outdoor use and compact enough for daily carry. The Ontario Knife Rat II Folder AUS-8 Blade kept appearing in online forums and reviews, praised for its value and performance.

Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the solid feel of the knife. The black nylon handle provides a secure grip, and the blade, though not a premium steel, appeared well-finished. The liner lock engaged with a reassuring click, instilling confidence in its reliability.

Compared to my previous knife (a more expensive model with a fancier steel), the Rat II felt less refined but undeniably more practical. I considered other options like the Spyderco Tenacious and the Kershaw Blur, but the Rat II’s simplicity and affordability ultimately won me over. My first impression was a pleasant surprise – a knife that felt far more substantial than its price tag suggested.

Real-World Testing: Putting Ontario Knife Rat II Folder AUS-8 Blade to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial test involved using the Ontario Knife Rat II Folder AUS-8 Blade during a weekend camping trip. I utilized it for various tasks, including preparing food, cutting rope, and whittling wood for kindling. The knife performed admirably in dry conditions.

The Rat II maintained a decent edge throughout the weekend. However, when I attempted to use it to process some damp wood, the AUS-8 steel required more frequent stropping to maintain its sharpness. The handle provided a secure grip even when wet, a welcome feature.

The knife deployed smoothly and locked up tight. I didn’t experience any blade play or lock failure, even during more demanding cutting tasks. Overall, the first use was positive, with the knife proving to be a capable and reliable tool.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Ontario Knife Rat II Folder AUS-8 Blade has proven to be a dependable companion. I’ve used it for everything from opening packages to more demanding tasks around the house and yard. The edge retention, while not exceptional, is adequate for most everyday tasks.

The Rat II has shown minimal signs of wear and tear. The black nylon handle remains scratch-free, and the blade has only minor scuffs. I’ve found that a simple cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional oiling of the pivot point keeps it in good working order.

Compared to my previous high-end folder, the Rat II requires more frequent sharpening, but its overall durability and reliability are surprisingly comparable. It’s a workhorse that continues to impress, offering excellent value for its price point.

Breaking Down the Features of Ontario Knife Rat II Folder AUS-8 Blade

Specifications

• Weight: At a mere 2.8 oz (0.79 kg), the Rat II is lightweight and comfortable to carry. This makes it ideal for EDC without adding unnecessary bulk.

• Overall Length: The 7 in (17.8 cm) overall length strikes a good balance between usability and portability. It’s large enough to provide a secure grip, yet compact enough to fit comfortably in a pocket.

• Blade Length: The 3 in (7.6 cm) blade is practical for various tasks. It’s a legal length in many jurisdictions, making it a versatile choice for EDC.

• Blade Thickness: The 0.095 in (0.2 cm) blade thickness provides a good compromise between slicing ability and durability. It’s thin enough to make clean cuts, yet thick enough to withstand moderate abuse.

• Blade Material: The AUS-8 steel is a decent budget steel known for its ease of sharpening and good corrosion resistance. While it doesn’t hold an edge as long as premium steels, it’s a practical choice for an EDC knife.

• Hardness: The 58-59 HRC hardness rating indicates a good balance between edge retention and ease of sharpening. This allows for easy maintenance in the field.

• Blade Finish: The satin finish provides a clean and understated look. It also helps to resist corrosion and reduce light reflection.

• Handle Color: The black nylon 6 handle is durable and provides a secure grip. Nylon 6 is a tough and lightweight material, ideal for knife handles.

• Lock Type: The liner lock is a simple and reliable locking mechanism. It’s easy to operate with one hand and provides a secure lockup.

• Country of Origin: The Ontario Knife Rat II Folder AUS-8 Blade is manufactured in Taiwan. This allows for maintaining affordability while upholding decent manufacturing standards.

Performance & Functionality

The Ontario Knife Rat II Folder AUS-8 Blade performs its intended function as a reliable EDC knife remarkably well. Its AUS-8 blade provides adequate edge retention for daily tasks, and its lightweight design makes it comfortable to carry. While it’s not a high-performance knife, its robust construction and dependable lockup inspire confidence.

Its primary strength lies in its affordability and practicality. It’s a knife that you can use and abuse without worrying about damaging an expensive tool. One area for improvement could be the smoothness of the blade deployment, which can be a bit stiff out of the box.

Overall, the Ontario Knife Rat II Folder AUS-8 Blade meets and exceeds expectations for a budget-friendly EDC knife. It delivers reliable performance and solid value for its price.

Design & Ergonomics

The Ontario Knife Rat II Folder AUS-8 Blade features a simple and functional design. The black nylon handle is comfortable and provides a secure grip, even in wet conditions. The overall build quality is solid, with no noticeable gaps or imperfections.

The knife is very user-friendly with minimal learning curve. The liner lock is easy to operate with one hand, and the blade deploys smoothly with practice.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its robust construction, the Ontario Knife Rat II Folder AUS-8 Blade is expected to last for years with proper care. The AUS-8 steel is corrosion-resistant and relatively easy to sharpen, ensuring that the blade can be maintained in good condition.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and oiling. The nylon handle is also durable and resistant to wear and tear.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Ontario Knife Rat II Folder AUS-8 Blade does not come with a plethora of accessories, focusing on the core functionality of the knife itself. A pocket clip comes pre-installed, and is reversible for tip-up or tip-down carry.

Customization options are limited, but aftermarket scales are available, allowing users to personalize the handle. The knife is also compatible with aftermarket lanyards, providing additional carry options. Be sure to use high-quality accessories for optimal performance.

Pros and Cons of Ontario Knife Rat II Folder AUS-8 Blade

Who Should Buy Ontario Knife Rat II Folder AUS-8 Blade?

The Ontario Knife Rat II Folder AUS-8 Blade is perfect for: budget-conscious individuals, first-time knife buyers, and anyone seeking a reliable and practical EDC knife. It’s also well-suited for: campers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts who need a dependable tool for everyday tasks.

This knife might not be ideal for: those who demand premium steel and high-end features. Individuals who prioritize edge retention over ease of sharpening might prefer a knife with a more advanced steel. A must-have accessory would be a quality sharpening stone or system to maintain the blade’s edge.

Conclusion on Ontario Knife Rat II Folder AUS-8 Blade

The Ontario Knife Rat II Folder AUS-8 Blade is an outstanding value for the money. It offers a compelling combination of durability, functionality, and affordability, making it an excellent choice for a wide range of users. The price is definitely justified considering its performance and reliability.

I would personally recommend the Ontario Knife Rat II Folder AUS-8 Blade to anyone looking for a dependable EDC knife without breaking the bank. It’s a proven design that delivers on its promises. Add this workhorse to your collection and experience its functionality firsthand!