Ontario Knife RAT II Linerlock Orange Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of Ontario Knife RAT II Linerlock Orange Folding Knife

The Ontario Knife RAT II Linerlock Orange Folding Knife is a tool that immediately whispers of practicality and reliability. This isn’t a flashy showpiece designed to impress, but rather a no-nonsense folder from Ontario Knife built for everyday carry and real-world tasks. Its vibrant orange handle hints at its visibility, a crucial feature for those who often find themselves fumbling in low-light conditions. The RAT line has a reputation for punching above its weight class, and I was eager to see if this iteration lived up to the hype.

I was looking for a sturdy, dependable folding knife that wouldn’t break the bank for use in my camping gear. My old knife had a flimsy lock that failed on me during a field dressing task, and I needed a replacement I could trust.

Upon unboxing, the Ontario Knife RAT II Linerlock Orange Folding Knife felt solid in my hand. The FRN (fiberglass reinforced nylon) handle provides a surprisingly secure grip, even with slightly damp hands. The liner lock engaged with a reassuring click, and the blade arrived reasonably sharp. It’s a compact package, easy to slip into a pocket without feeling like I’m carrying a brick.

Compared to my old Kershaw Cryo and a Spyderco Tenacious, the RAT II sits in a sweet spot. The Cryo, while stylish, felt too heavy for EDC. The Tenacious, although a great knife, was a bit too large for comfortable pocket carry. The RAT II seemed to strike a better balance between size, weight, and functionality.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The Ontario Knife RAT II Linerlock Orange Folding Knife seemed well-built for the price, but only real-world use would determine if it could handle the rigors of outdoor adventures and daily tasks. I was eager to put it to the test.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Ontario Knife RAT II Linerlock Orange Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground for the Ontario Knife RAT II Linerlock Orange Folding Knife was a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. I used it for a variety of tasks, including preparing food, cutting rope for setting up my tent, and whittling some tinder for a campfire.

The knife performed admirably in these diverse situations. The blade sliced cleanly through vegetables and fruit. It easily handled the paracord I needed for guylines. The ergonomics of the handle made whittling for extended periods comfortable, even with damp hands.

The only initial concern was the thumb stud. It felt slightly small and required a deliberate effort to fully deploy the blade. However, with practice, this became less of an issue.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Ontario Knife RAT II Linerlock Orange Folding Knife has proven to be a reliable companion. I’ve used it for everything from opening packages to more demanding tasks like processing small game and preparing kindling.

The RAT II has held up remarkably well in terms of durability. There are some minor scratches on the blade coating, but the edge has retained its sharpness with only occasional stropping. The liner lock continues to engage securely, and there’s no blade play.

Maintenance is straightforward; a quick wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth after use keeps it in good condition. The Ontario Knife RAT II Linerlock Orange Folding Knife out-performed my expectations. The knife has proven itself as a worthy contender in my everyday carry rotation.

Breaking Down the Features of Ontario Knife RAT II Linerlock Orange Folding Knife

Specifications

The Ontario Knife RAT II Linerlock Orange Folding Knife boasts a functional design with practical specifications. The blade length is 3 inches, providing ample cutting surface for various tasks. The closed length is 4 inches, making it compact enough for comfortable pocket carry.

The RAT II is manufactured by Ontario Knife, a company known for producing durable and affordable blades. The specifications matter because they directly impact the knife’s usability and suitability for different applications. A compact, lightweight knife is ideal for everyday carry, while a longer blade may be preferred for heavier tasks.

Performance & Functionality

The Ontario Knife RAT II Linerlock Orange Folding Knife excels in its intended role as a reliable everyday carry knife. It offers a good balance of cutting power, ease of use, and portability.

The RAT II‘s strengths lie in its affordability, durability, and comfortable ergonomics. The thumb stud could be slightly larger for easier one-handed opening. Overall, this knife does precisely what it’s designed to do without complaint.

The Ontario Knife RAT II Linerlock Orange Folding Knife meets and even exceeds expectations. Its performance is impressive considering its price point, making it an excellent value proposition.

Design & Ergonomics

The Ontario Knife RAT II Linerlock Orange Folding Knife features a straightforward and functional design. The FRN handle provides a secure and comfortable grip, even in wet conditions.

The knife weighs very little and carries comfortably in a pocket. The liner lock is easy to operate with one hand, although the thumb stud takes some getting used to.

The learning curve is minimal and the knife is very user-friendly. The orange handle provides enhanced visibility that most other knives lack.

Durability & Maintenance

The Ontario Knife RAT II Linerlock Orange Folding Knife is built to last. The AUS-8 steel blade is known for its toughness and edge retention, and the FRN handle is resistant to impacts and abrasion.

The RAT II is relatively easy to maintain. Regular cleaning and occasional oiling are sufficient to keep it in good working order.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Ontario Knife RAT II Linerlock Orange Folding Knife comes with a pocket clip, which can be configured for tip-up or tip-down carry on either side. It also features a lanyard hole for added security and carry options.

Aftermarket accessories are available. You could swap the scales for custom ones, but the FRN grips are good to begin with.

Pros and Cons of Ontario Knife RAT II Linerlock Orange Folding Knife