The 'Ratel' EDC/Hunter - Bog Oak
The 'Ratel' - a general purpose EDC or hunting knife. On this design I have gone back to basics to provide a compact and lightweight workhorse for everyday or in the field. The 4" blade is big enough for most tasks and with a drop point is excellent for dressing game. At 3mm thick at the spine (just under 1/8") it is light-weight, has a fine geometry and cuts superbly.
The blade is crafted in Bohler N690 stainless steel - a great all-round knife steel that has become the standard for custom knives in Europe. The stabilized Bog Oak (2000 - 5000 years old) handle scales are secured with two Corby bolts and it has a useful lanyard loop at the back. The stabilization process impregnates teh wood with a specialist resin which is then cured - this makes the wood generally stronger, water resistant and a lot less likely to crack or warp.
A veg-tanned leather sheath made by my hands with saddle stitching and some toolwork compliments the piece and will keep your Ratel secure and at-hand.
A practical tool with a functional finger guard, sharpening notch and jimping on the spine. Like it's namesake, the 'Ratel' (pronounced Rah-tel) or Honey Badger is a compact, tough, no nonsense tool that will serve you well for many years.
SPECIFICATIONS
Blade: Bohler N690 stainless steel (+/- 61 HRC)
Blade thickness: 2.9mm (0.12")
Blade depth: 31mm (1.2")
Blade length: 97mm (3.8")
Overall length: 213mm (8.3")
Weight: 132g (4.6oz)
Weight with sheath: 298g (6.8oz)
Handle material: Stabilized Bog Oak with vulcanized fibre liners
Fittings: Nickel Silver Corby bolts and lanyard tube