I own several bk9’s, but micarta handles are a must—bringing the cheapest (Black Friday sale) price to $72.50+$40.69=$113.19. The rtak2 was about $65 on sale, kydex sheath on fleabay was $33, making total cost $99. Once you add an aftermarket sheath for the bk9, it’s at least $40 more than the rtak2(unless you get the economical but lower quality big brother sheath for $10-11.)
I believe the knife designer said the choil was not meant to be a true finger choil but more of a sharpening choil—I could be mistaken.
I am curious to try the junglas myself, mainly to find out if rowen’s heat treat makes their 1095 as flexible as Ontario’s 5160. No doubt it will hold an edge longer, and the high saber grind has my attention.(for strength and chopping ability). Plus it comes with a kydex sheath, making it cheaper or about the same price as the bk9 after the upgrades.
I guess what I’m saying is that the rtak2 is a great value, especially if you’re happy with the edge retention. Sanding the micarta handles is easy enough, as long as there is enough material to work with. And of course wear proper mask and work in well ventilated area, if you decide it’s worth it since micarta dust is toxic(not as bad as g10 though.)