Ontario Rat II Linerlock OD Green

The RAT II is one of those iconic edc knives that I have wanted for some time. They call it a 'budget ' knife because of the price - @ $50 but there is no compromise quality -it's size, weight, basic thumb stud mechanics and ergonomics all work for my medium size hand. Everything works the way it is intended on this tried and true pocket knife. There are many other great quality knives out there that cost more, are prettier, etc but as a baseline, the RAT II/D2 steel is a must have for any serious knife owner/collector. It is a simple working knife that really 'works' and which I am not afraid to actually use on a regular basis. I have other knives that I treasure but when it comes to everyday duty I go with this handy, versatile, sturdy folder. Economical and super sturdy, this knife will be working with you /for you for a long time. I keep my Giant Mouse in the drawer for special occasion use and carry the RAT II most days. It comes pretty close to being my all time/all around favorite.

This is my third RAT II - they are the underdog champion of EDC knives.I keep one on me for day to day tasks as well as backpacking. I was originally looking for a cheap blade to take out in the field so that I wouldn't wreck my precious Spyderco's. Something that wouldn't mind being sharpened by coarser stones, sandpaper, or a file, and wouldn't make me cry to see dinged up.The factors that led to this knife:- Affordability ($30-40)- Weight (2.8 oz)- Fully flat ground blade for slicing- Steel (D2 or AUS-8 in cheaper models)- Company reputation (Ontario has made knives for 130 years)- Made in a democratic country (Taiwan)Given the price, I have no complaints whatsoever! I purchased one of the D2 models and two of the AUS-8 models for my various uses. D2 goes out camping since the steel is harder, and AUS-8 stays urban for tasks like opening things and slicing food.Sharpening is straightforward. I haven't had issues with D2, although I hear some people find it difficult.Discovering this knife, I tried the RAT I but found it too big and too heavy. This is closest to a Spyderco Delica, but half to a third of the price. There are few knives this light that feel sturdy and have a solid reputation. I looked at the Benchmade Bugout Mini but the price would make me never seriously use it, and there are complaints about the handle flexing.

Could not be happier with this folder. I researched this knife very well before I made this purchase and I must say that the Rat 2 lives up to the positive reviews and then some. Not only is this knife a great value it is a fantastic knife. You can’t go wrong with the Rat 2 in D2 steel. The knife is sturdy and you can tell by the feel it is a quality product. It came very sharp right out of the box and the blade is centered perfectly. I really like the size of the Rat 2 as well. It’s not a tiny knife, but not too large either. It’s very light and easy to carry. The clip is tight, so there is no worry of the knife accidentally falling out of your pocket. The blade deploys easily with the flick of your thumb. The Rat 2 is now my favorite everyday carry pocket knife. Thanks Ontario for your craftsmanship!

What else can I say that hasn't been said before? It's a Rat2 in D2 steel. It has become my favorite EDC blade, and I own a lot of knives, in all price ranges. Far from the nicest looking, or fanciest knife I own, but it's not so expensive that I'm afraid to scratch or ding it up, it's tough as nails, holds a fine edge for a long time, and is VERY comfortable in the hand. The thin blade in a full flat grind makes it an incredible slicer. .I live in a city that has a 3" carry limit, otherwise I would have grabbed the RAT1 in D2, but I've gotten used to carrying the shorter blade. A knife would have to be very special to knock this out of my pocket as far as work knives go.A true classic, in an upgraded steel. To me, it's a no brainer. If you have been thinking of picking one up, do yourself a favor, and do it. You will not regret it.

Blade came very sharp with perfect centering. Fit/finish is stellar. Action is smooth on the bronze washers. Lock-up is tight with no play in any direction. Knife is a joy to handle and use. I'm amazed at the level of quality control exibited, at this price point, and with a D2 blade. I'm a persnickety designer, machinist, fabricator. It's an understatement to say that everyone involved in making this little treasure has my respect.

I wont give this 5 because I haven't owned it long, and havent really got to see what it can handle yet. I'm pleased so far though...the d2 is sharp, it seems durable, and its a good size...the Rat I is just too big for me, it takes up too much pocket space...the Rat II is just right for EDC size.It doesnt have assisted open (I'm in MA, amazon wont ship anything assisted here),but thumb stud let's me get a quick one handed release/lock each time.I wish it was serrated, and I probably shouldve got a darker colored handle because the green has been getting dirty, but who cares...I did choose the plain finish over the black blade because on the Rat I I had w/ black blade, it looked cheap...it was the type of black that'll scratch off quick. I dont know if the black d2 is different than the black aus8, but that was my opinion.For <$40, this is a good EDC...CRKT makes some great stuff in this range, but I cant order assisted open, and this seemed like best bet for me

I been a fan of the Ontario rat sis for yrs and now I went with the D2 version and once again straight out the box it just belongs in my hand it’s a beautiful knife for the price point. I don’t buy $200 blades my rat ll is just fine ! Look no further

The Ontario rat II is a great knife for the price. It fits well it hand, comes with D2 steel, and has a way better action then it should. It makes a light and well balanced knife perfect for a budget edc, or for anyone who abuses their knives.