Ontario RAT 7 Fixed Blade Knife designed by Jeff Randall - Ontario Knife Models 8604 and 8605

Great, Big Little Knife

Posted by LVPG on 28th Sep 2011

I’ve had the pleasure of using my RAT 7 on 3 outings and am very impressed with it’s handling and overall performance. Better than average balance and good proportions, the RAT 7 feels, elegant in hand. This is a stark contrast to the very ‘utilitarian” feel of my RTAK II and RAT 3.

On paper, the RAT 7 draws a direct comparison to the Recon Scout, though no 2 blades could be further apart in feel. Both have 7 inch blades with similar cutting edge sweep. But, the Recon Scout, with its chunky blade and very top-heavy feel, make it feel like a bigger knife than it actually is. The RAT 7, with its better proportion and balance, feels smaller and more nimble than its capabilities afford.

It is understood that no 1 blade can do-it-all. From my experience, I’ve found the RAT 7 to do all things well. In fact, I have not used a blade that could be better titled, “all-around” knife. True, there are knives that do certain things better, but I haven’t used one that does as many things as well. It is a very comfortable carver [push, pull or hack carving] and good wood splitter. At 3/16 inch thick, the blade slices well and has less tendency to crescent like the RTAK II. But, without the mass, requires more downward pressure with the holding hand when battoning.

Who’s a candidate for the RAT 7? Someone who likes the feel of a good 4-5 inch sheath knife, but wants more capability with chopping and battoning. If you are looking for a “big-knife,” look elsewhere. Though its performance it tops, its nimble and elegant feel will put you off. You will pick it up and believe it is “not enough” knife…although it probably is.

The RAT 7 is a great, big, little knife.