New Swamprat announcement

looks pretty slick
http://www.bladeforums.com/forums/showthread.php?t=775989

Pass

I saw RMD LE and thought why bother.

Then I saw the pic. Like the double gaurd wish it was canvas.

I ordered.

why bother trying to stay away? <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/banghead.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/banghead.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/banghead.gif" alt="" />

I wonder if the RMDx will be a whole new offering, or if it will only be available as the RMDx LE.

If they're at Knob Creek so that I can hold one and feel the balance, I'll consider it, but my initial impression is that I don't like the design as well as the classic HRLM or RMD. To each their own, but the RatManDeaux LE just doesn't sing to me.

Something else I noticed. I have Scrapper 5 LE #24 and it was the advertisement pic that Scrap Yard used for the S5 LE. Now this RMDx LE is #24. Guess it could be just coincidence.

Jeff Gordon fans... they're everywhere.

ARRRRGH....didn't think of that. Anybody want a S5LE?

Just kidding.

With the longer blade it is approaching S6 size. I like the full convex as opposed to saber grind. The more I look at it the more I like it. Gonna have to re-evaluate my users.

Hmm, kinda looks like a rat version of the team Gemini

I thought the same thing

Why change the guard shape of the original RMD, IMO that was one of the most perfect blades to come from the Busse-Kin stable....and they change it ?

Sweet combat knife! <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" /> Full convex grind, too. That's a lot of work on 52100 steel, dogs. I like it.

I'm in!!!! <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/cool.gif" alt="" />

The design is interesting, I'm optimistic about it! <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" /> I didn't think I'd be crazy about the Team Gemini but I really like it, the new SR kinda reminds me of that! <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" />

I must admit the full convexed grind does look pretty sweet !

I like it too, so I pre-ordered one! <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" />

I need to go and look for a gander.

me too...too busse combatesque for me...looks more for looking at than using to me. I'll pass.

Wish it had been one of those smaller ones listen in their new release thread.

Yeah, same here

WOW!... That is SWEET!

Good lord, Norcal is a monster. That knife is awesome looking...

I LOVE my RMD and I wouldn't want to change it. My concern is that guard, after I got my regulator I "de-Regulated" it. I choke up on my RMD and de-regulator too much and they both feel great! If the reviews are awesome and they are still available I MAY get one, but the RMD is too great to change.

I like the top guard I Like it on the Regulator too. I I haven't found it getting in the way (except in a batoning case) The top guard was one of the selling points, along with the extra blade length.

I think calling this blade a RMDx is a bit of a misnomer. look at the Busse Mistresses all similar but different. I feel it will fill a different niche.

The new Ratmandeux is just a different knife, based on the original. For all-around field use, I prefer the original, but how many full convex combat knives have you seen? I have not ordered one, but I'm thinking about it. I think it is beautiful.

Go ahead and order one Vic --- you KNOW you want to! <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/rolleyes.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

Stop it, Bruce. You know I'm a sucker for combat knives that I don't need. Black paper micarta handles, satin finish. Yeah, it's my kind of knife alright. I think I like it even better than the Busse Team Gemini.

I took the bait, and ordered one. Or should that be I tried to get the cheese off the rat trap?

Anyway, SR knives are a little pricey (compared to SY) but its a nice looking 6" full height convex so I sent the email. My favorite general purpose knife has become the RMD so this will make a neat companion. I'm also looking forward to having a second satin (to go along with my YKLE).

Thanks for posting the Pic over here too Bruce, So I'll be able to drool over it here as well... <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/laugh.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/laugh.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/loopy.gif" alt="" />

I think I like it a little more every time I look at it... <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/blush.gif" alt="" /> I may wind up liking it a little better than the TG too. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" /> We'll see in 4 to 6 weeks... <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

I like it but I really like my Reg <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> (too similar). Now if it was a Chopweiler LE.... <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/eek.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/ooo.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />

I'm still a non-JYD noob around here, but I think the RMDxLE LOOKS like a perfectly balanced knife. Its a good looking knife IMHO.

It is 3/16" <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/blush.gif" alt="" />

bld - duly noted on judging on appearance only. Its been a very very long time since I've bought equipment on that principle. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/paperbag.gif" alt="" />

The RMDxLE looks generally traditional, but not in a bad way. I love the way my canvas RMD's balance, but my paper RMD's seem "grip heavy". I'm hoping the extra 1" of SR101 will balance it out a little better.

Glad to help <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

I really like it, but I would have absolutely no use for it being that it's pretty specialized as a fighter. If I were still in the service and going to a combat zone.....I still wouldn't get it because it's not coated and SR101 rusts too easily.

Would be great for the collector.

bld - I haven't weighed my canvas vs paper RMD's, but the paper feels significantly heavier. I like the heft of the paper, but I'd prefer a little more 'blade heft' to balance it. As a matter of fact, I'm EDC'g a black/black paper RMD right now, and after pulling it out of the sheath I remembered something else about the differences.

The recent run of RMD's had two blade thicknesses. The canvas blades were a little thinner than the paper. I have a pic of this somewhere on here. I'll try to find it.

I know my Black Canvas RMD from the recent run has a thicker blade than my Black G10 RMD from the first time around.

I've been trying to find the pic's, but can't. My two canvas shipped first, and when the black paper arrived (a goodly while later) I remember thinking "this thing is a lot heavier - I LIKE IT!". Afterward, I compared the thicknesses and the paper is easily identifiable as thicker.

I prefer sharpened crow bars so I'm EDC'g a paper now. Its not the one I ordered from the factory, but it was new when I bought it on the 2ndary. It too has a thicker blade.

Not a big deal at all, but interesting nonetheless.

I don't think of the Ratmandeux as a pure fighter, like a Gerber Mk II. It's more of a combat/utility, like the Ka-Bar. I am quite confident it can do a lot of camp and survival chores with that convex grind. The double guard doesn't bother me. Granted, it is a bit shiny for military use, but that could easily be corrected. 52100 takes to bluing and patina well.

When I placed my order I had planned on using the RMDxLE, but after thinking about it for a while it will probably be a Queen.

Had I used it, it would have been a "general purpose" camp/survival knife. As HD said, it could probably serve well in that role.

That full guard makes it a fighter in my book, same with the Ka-Bar. I like to rest my thumb or index finger on the spine of the blade when doing most of my cutting tasks. The only time I don't is when I'm doing heavy cutting, stabbing, slashing, and hammering.

I am confident the RMDx would be a sufficient survival knife, though. It just strikes me as more of a fighter.

I hadn't really considered the full guard, but I keep a full grip on the scales/handle anyway so outside of batoning (which I would keep away from the guard) this is a non-issue to me.

I do, however, see your point based on your style.

After I posted that I thought of something else I should have said:

I don't view any knife as a fighter, because I carry firearms <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/laugh.gif" alt="" />

I find I can wrap my thumb around the top guard and index the choil. This locks everything in and works well for me.

The legendary Ka-Bar was basically a large hunting knife in the Bowie style that was already in civilian use before the Marines adopted it. The knives were used for a lot more than just fighting, but they worked well for that, too. I see the Ratmandeux as that type of knife, but a bit smaller and a lot tougher.

Well said, and much more polite than my comment. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/paperbag.gif" alt="" />

I love the design <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" />!!! [censored]! <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/banghead.gif" alt="" /> I have to stop looking at the pics. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/doh.gif" alt="" />

I've also been considering letting my TTReg go because the guard gets in my way a little, but I probably won't.

It feels like I'm never going to make JYD!

I might have to obtain one of Rainwalker's fine creations for my RMDxLE <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/crossfingers.gif" alt="" />

I feel the same way about the whole JYD thing. Guess we'll make it sooner or later, probably later.

You're a lot closer than I am <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif" alt="" /> ...but...this post took me one step closer <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" />

Keep plugging and chugging guys - you'll get there! <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" />

The first thousand are tough, after that the posts add up MUCH easier.

So true!!! <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" />

Great, this thing's growing on me. I was sitting outside smoking a cheap cigar and I was just thinking how just a couple of little mods would make it ideal for me. I might pick one up and hang onto it to see if a combat grade version comes out. I'll just chop that top guard off and dura coat it.

I'll have to sleep on it.

You KNOW you're going to get one S/P!!! <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/rolleyes.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

mmmmmmmaybe

It is so tempting but I just bought a scrapizashi...

If you don't you'll be SORRRRRRRRRRY! <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/crazy.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/doh.gif" alt="" />...................... <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />

I got my order in the other night. I love the look of it, may mod it, may not.....I just could not let a full convex from the factory pass me by. I find that the Swamp Seel does like to attract moisture and some red face if not taken care of so I have been thinking that I will force patina one for trials--might just be this one.

I like it well enough. What I thought was exciting is that Eric said it was one of the new releases, so hopefully we will have another model offered soon....

hopefully before "two weeks"

My thoughts exactly.The RMDx looks great,but I have no use for it.I've got enough in the 5-8" blade range.
I'm leaning towards the -4" & +9" range of knives nowadays.It will be interesting to see what Jerry offers to the swamp next.

Sumo, if you force a patina please send me some pics and process discription. I'd love for my wife to EDC my YKLE, but I just don't know enough about maintaining satin finishes.

I love it!!! looks perfect to me! I want 2 because one would become a ugly user no doubt. too bad I'm too broke to jump right now. I even just decided i might have to pass on the standard RMD and now this! that's pretty rough....

<img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/eek.gif" alt="" /> Man, that IS rough!!! <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/eek.gif" alt="" />

ah, I guess i knew it was gonna happen... so I did go ahead and snag a M1A knowing that my extra spending was going to have to come to a end soon. I figured I gotta have one bad boy rifle if anything. kinda hard to complain now that I have that one needing to be fed. still this release would be a perfect match once I get out in field with the M1A.

can't have em all! for you guys on the fence I say go for it if the funds allow it. there's always gonna be a guy or two like me who couldn pull the trigger just waiting for right time to free you of your burden.

Man, I didn't need to order another knife at this time but i went ahead and plaed my pre-order. I have no will power. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/laugh.gif" alt="" />

The Force is STRONG in Bussekin! <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/eek.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" />

Beautiful knife, but for me it would likely be a queen. Naked SR101 and paper are not my choices for the field. I have limited use for a combat style knife and my Regs fill that need very nicely. [censored] sexy though - that satin convex is so hard to ignore.

ARCH: You can use several things to force a Patina. Taters, just cut a spud and rub it liberally all over the blade and repeat evry half hour or so, just experiment. You can use Ketchup, Mustard and if you want an even finish drop it in vinegar. OR you can soak some paper towels in vinegar and wrap the blade. a Mater might even work. I think it was JJ or Elcaca that did a streak of ketchup, a streak of mustard, alternating for a tiger strip look.

Maybe this will get you started.

I am passing on this release. I have a bunch o' swamp rats. I am holding out for a different blade. I just dropped far to much on some firearms. So saying no was a lot easier this time.

Nice looking blade...I love the full convex grind.

SH, thanks for the info. I didn't realize vinegar would work.

Ren Wax. I have a little YKCG that will make a good bag carry.

Not for me. that double guard destroys the ability to use a forward grip that is so useful on the RMD.

Every knife I buy gets a coating of RenWax immediately! <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />

Tom I remember you telling me that now. I need to order some RenWax!

Gary - you can probably find some at Knob Creek. It runs $22.00 to $25.00 for a jar that will probably last you the rest of your life. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

Tom - I'll look for it over there (save shipping).

Bruce - very good info, because we use our knives for that purpose <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/crazy.gif" alt="" />

Yet again something I learned at the Yard. I didn't know you could use mineral oil as a knife blade preservative.

Man, I spent WAY too many years focusing on guns only <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smirk.gif" alt="" /> .

Speaking of food prep blades, the Bird Dog and Scrap Muk excell at that. While I really like the SR101 steel, the 154CM is really better for pretty "LE" satin blades, IMO. With the Busse heat treat, it's plenty tough for me. Imagine a Ratmandeaux in 154CM. That would be sweet. Near as I can tell, Busse's 154CM holds an edge about as well as the SR101 does.

Know the feeling

I do like the 154CM better than the SR101 for ease. BTW, what doesn't kill ya makes ya stronger!

Mineral oil is a laxative and has a bland flavor. I like that aromatic and spicy taste of WD-40. JK. I think people worry too much. If you knew all the non-food trace substances you already consume, you'd be suprised. Just wash the blade before slicing food and then oil it again before storage. WD-40 makes an excellent men's cologne. It's a manly smell.

That's certainly what Red Green would say! <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" />

The only 154CM blades I've owned was a pair of Benchmade Fixed Griptilians. I was not even remotely impressed by those knives. It really didnt' have anything to do with the material though - I hated the "flat" feeling grip design.

Another small (3.5" x .125" ???) 154CM from the Yard would most certainly find its way into my collection.

About three weeks ago my wife was struggling with her Cutco Kitchen knives so I pulled out my HD convexed UM and finished the job. After dinner (while cleaning up) my wife commented on how she likes using her S5 and my UM for food prep while camping. Later that night she mentioned that when we need new kitchen knives we should go all Bussekin <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/bowdown.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" />

No, all she needs is the HD edge. BTW, there's nothing wrong with Cutco's 440A steel. But I must admit, my 16 year old daughter worked for "Vector Marketing" this past Summer, selling those over priced cheap a$$ knives! A set of SYKCO kitchen killers would be awesome. I want the Psycho "Shower Scene" Chef Knife first.

My wife's Cutco's are from her selling them during college. I looked online after we started dating, and her Cutco's were in the same facility as Ka-Bar. Or at least the addresses were the same.

I'm not impressed by them, and am certainly not going to pass up an opportunity to add some "needed" Busse steel in the future. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/laugh.gif" alt="" /> . When we first dated she thought really highly of the Cutco's, but after I introduced her to my first Bussekin (S5CG's) she very quickly realized that those things she sold were massively overpriced junk. She has since claimed two of my S5's, and my only SOD.

Vic - massive +1 on the SYKCO Kitchen Killers! Heck, I'd go door to door selling those. "Excuse me ma'am, would you like a set of kitchen knives that could be used to cut through your cast iron sink if necessary?". <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/blush.gif" alt="" />

I just received my pre-order confirmation email from the Swamp. It says 4-6 weeks for shipment <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/laugh.gif" alt="" /> .

Gary, me too!

Got mine too. Now I need that email from LMIW.

I know, LMIW has a few things my DFLE and B11 could use. I am ready to see what I have so I can configure a pack, a PSK, etc. I would love LMIW to do a run for the Yard too as my DFLE would not ride in a sheath that has a hog but a DOG patch.

I would like a "Hedgehog" sheath for my Regulator. Shorter and fatter!

I found myself ogling the 870 in the background more than the knife, lol... I'll have to pass on this one.

I guess we will know "soon".

It's not bad, but I'd had to grind off that top guard if I got one.