Well the old parachord wrap on my Rat (now called ESEE) Izula knife was getting a bit ropey and instead of redoing the parachord I decided to make some scales instead. I used spalted ash to make the scales. For those unfamiliar with spalted wood the wood has become colonised by fungi which gives it the distinctive markings and it is fairly commonly found in ash and beech trees. The fungi has a dark pigmentation which is known as zone lines. After using the knife for a couple of days I can say that it much more comfortable to handle than parachord particularly when using for extended periods.
I know a lot of people that are into lightweight backpacking and do not like carrying knives due to the weight. However, because i tend to use a wood burning stove and quite often fish while backpacking I always tend to carry a knife with me. I used to carry a traditional bushcraft knife but i must admit i found it a little on the weighty side. So I was looking for a tough and light fixed-blade knife for some time. The IZULA from rat cutlery is the smallest knife from Randall’s Adventure and Training (RAT) and like all their knives it's one I really like and the one i most use because it's so small.
It has a total length of 6.25 inches (158 mm) allowing you to carry a fixed- blade knife in your pocket. This knife is designed from 1095 carbon steel which is very strong and can hold a very sharp edge. This model has RATs very durable coating on the entire knife and there is no handle, although you can wrap it with paracord like i have done. I have been using the knife for about a year now and it makes a great survival/bushcraft knife and I highly recommend it to any outdoor person. Comes with RAT lifetime replacement warranty.
Tech specs:
Blade length: 63 mm
Blade Material: 1095 Carbon
Overall length: 158 mm
Sheath: Injection molded
Weight: 57 grams (without sheath)
