I hadn't heard about the split. Wonder what happened. I have a couple original RAT knives, the rat3, the Tak (4.5 inch blade) and an original mod 1 folder. THAT is a nice knife

What I understand it it's a mutual agreement. Both companies want to go in different directions.

I had a HEST folder on pre-order, but have never gotten an email to send payment. It was supposed to be delivered by Christmas, but something happened and they're running behind. I think I'm going to take that money and get the Hogue Extreme knife I've been looking at.

Don't know if I have heard of that, I ALMOST want to say I have but not sure.

This is the one I like:

http://gregcotellc.com/cart/index.php?ma...6391b407c2cb3f1

Ok, I Have heard of it. That's not a bad looking knife!

For an extra $100, you can get it in auto if you have LE or First Responder credentials. Not sure if I'd do that, but I like the option

I met the designer at Blade last year, and was really impressed with the knife.

Designed by Allen Elishewitz, if you've ever heard of him.

Autos are nice but I don't know. I just dont think they are as strong as a regular single blade folder. Maybe because they have to be a LITTLE looser to operate correctly.

I've only got one, and don't carry it. I prefer my Kershaw Blur for a folder, and it opens as quick as my auto.

I've got a Kershaw Leek on the way, just to have a little smaller knife to carry IN my pocket instead of clipped on it. I don't typically worry too much about folders, but been looking at a lot of them lately