When it comes to choosing a reliable and durable survival knife, two of the most popular options are the Esee 5 and the Ontario Rat 5.
Both of these knives have gained a reputation for being some of the best on the market, but which one is the better option?
In this article, we will take a closer look at the differences and similarities between these two knives to help you decide which one is the right choice for your needs.
Differences between Esee 5 and Ontario Rat 5:
Blade Design:
The blade of the Esee 5 is made of 1095 high carbon steel and has a full flat grind. It is 5.25 inches long and has a thickness of 0.25 inches.
The blade of the Ontario Rat 5 is made of AUS-8 steel and has a flat grind. It is 5 inches long and has a thickness of 0.16 inches. The Esee 5 has a more robust and thicker blade, while the Ontario Rat 5 has a thinner blade.
Handle:
The Esee 5 has a comfortable and durable micarta handle, which provides a good grip even in wet conditions. The Ontario Rat 5 has a nylon handle that is comfortable to hold, but may not be as durable as the micarta handle.
Sheath:
Both knives come with high-quality sheaths. The Esee 5 sheath is made of Kydex and is more durable than the Ontario Rat 5’s nylon sheath. The Kydex sheath is also more resistant to wear and tear.
Weight:
The Esee 5 weighs around 16 ounces, while the Ontario Rat 5 weighs around 10 ounces. The Esee 5 is heavier due to its thicker blade and micarta handle.
Price:
The Esee 5 is more expensive than the Ontario Rat 5, but it also comes with a more durable and robust blade, handle, and sheath.
Performance:
Both knives perform well in various situations. The Esee 5 is better for heavy-duty tasks such as chopping wood, while the Ontario Rat 5 is better for everyday use.
Maintenance:
The Esee 5 requires more maintenance compared to the Ontario Rat 5 due to its high carbon steel blade. It needs to be oiled and sharpened more frequently to prevent rust and corrosion. The Ontario Rat 5 requires less maintenance due to its AUS-8 steel blade.
Warranty:
The Esee 5 comes with a lifetime warranty, while the Ontario Rat 5 comes with a limited lifetime warranty.
Esee 5 vs Ontario Rat 5 Comparison Table
| Specification | Esee 5 | Ontario Rat 5 |
| Blade Material | 1095 High Carbon Steel | AUS-8 Steel |
| Blade Length | 5.25 inches | 5 inches |
| Blade Thickness | 0.25 inches | 0.16 inches |
| Blade Grind | Full Flat Grind | Flat Grind |
| Handle Material | Micarta | Nylon |
| Sheath Material | Kydex | Nylon |
| Weight | 16 ounces | 10 ounces |
| Price | Higher | Lower |
| Performance | Better for Heavy-Duty Tasks | Better for Everyday Use |
| Maintenance | Requires More Maintenance | Requires Less Maintenance |
| Warranty | Lifetime Warranty | Limited Lifetime Warranty |
FAQs:
Which one is better, Esee 5 or Ontario Rat 5?
Both knives are excellent options, but it ultimately depends on your needs. The Esee 5 is more durable and better for heavy-duty tasks, while the Ontario Rat 5 is better for everyday use.
What is the blade material of the Esee 5?
The Esee 5 blade is made of 1095 high carbon steel.
What is the warranty period of the Ontario Rat 5?
The Ontario Rat 5 comes with a limited lifetime warranty.
Final Verdict:
In conclusion, both the Esee 5 and Ontario Rat 5 are excellent knives, but they have their differences. The Esee 5 is better for heavy-duty tasks and requires more maintenance, while the Ontario Rat 5 is better for everyday use and requires less maintenance.
If you’re looking for a knife that will last a lifetime and can handle heavy-duty tasks, the Esee 5 is the better option. However, if you’re looking for an affordable and versatile knife for everyday use, the Ontario Rat 5 is a great option.
Ultimately, it’s important to consider your specific needs and usage when choosing between these two knives. No matter which knife you choose, you can rest assured that you are getting a high-quality and reliable tool that will serve you well in a variety of situations.
