These are like, a lot cheaper on Amazon, am I missing something? Are they knockoffs? There's an Amazon shop called Ontario Knife with a shitload of products.
OrochiAmazon doesn't have this particular version of the Ontario RAT Model 1. The standard RAT comes with GFN (Glass Filled Nylon) handles...a fancy way to say "plastic" and the blade steel is AUS8. AUS8 is a Japanese origin stainless that's fairly soft and durable but doesn't hold an edge terribly long. The standard RAT is a great knife...for $25...but the steel quality and handle quality hold it back, especially compared to some newer options. It can be found in 2 sizes, a variety of handle colors, coated and uncoated blades and plain or partially serrated. This model has upgraded steel and upgraded handle material. I still think this knife is a little over-priced a $60, but that's nitpicking.
Now, in terms of knockoffs, yes there are knockoffs to the RAT out there. It may seem hard to believe that someone would counterfeit a $25 knife, but they do. When buying any knife from Amazon, try to stick to knives fulfilled from Amazon and avoid Marketplace vendors. Personally, I deal with reputable dealers like Massdrop or some of the other online knife vendors mentioned in these comments.
HackenslashThanks, m8. I didn't realize the standard model would be so much cheaper, but I guess the G-10 does add like 30 bucks in some of the other instances I've seen it as an option.
PNWNativeSo it's mostly worth it, but it still seems a couple of other big retailers are going to be a few bucks cheaper (and likely ship a lot faster). Is that the consensus?
OrochiExactly... Knifeworks has preorder for this knife and is $59.90 with shipping cost
http://www.knifeworks.com/ontarioratmodel1folder35d2bladesteelblackcarbonfiberhandle-limitededition.aspx#.WAZ2_9IzXRZ
New UPDATE: These are expected to be in stock Mid November, We are now taking Pre-Orders
**We expect for these knives to NOT be serialized, however we cannot guarantee this until the knives actually arrive.
The Model 1 features a 4-way clip position, heavy-duty open post construction, upgraded to D2 Tool Steel, full flat grind, reversible thumb stud, precision pivot screw, lanyard hole, and Carbon Fiber handles. This Ontario Model features a 3.5 inch D2 Tool Steel and Black G10 Handle with Carbon Fiber Overlay.
Specifications
Overall Length: 8.5 inches
Blade Length: 3.5 inches
Cutting Edge: 3.25 inches
Blade Thickness: 0.11 inches
Blade Material: D2 Tool Steel
Blade Style: Drop Point
Blade Grind: Flat
Blade Finish: Satin
Edge Type: Plain
Handle Length: 5.00 inches
Handle Thickness: 0.51 inches
Handle Material: G10 w/ Carbon Fiber Overlay
Handle Color: Black
Liner Material: Stainless Steel
Weight: 5.20 oz.
Pocket Clip: Right/Left Hand, Tip-Up/Down
Opener: Thumb Stud
Lock Mechanism: Liner Lock
Country of Origin: Taiwan
OrochiInterestingly, people are posting about receiving these from MD and I still haven't gotten my order from Knifeworks. Looks like Massdrop wins this time.
PNWNativeThat's basically what massdrop was, too, given it was a new model. I eventually got my order, it just surprised me that massdrop managed to ship anything faster than anyone else for once.
OrochiThey have them in stock now, no waiting. It wasn't a new model BTW. They had already sold out their serialized run and were waiting on the new run that wasn't serialized. Same price, with shipping it is still cheaper than MD.