In June 2006, the '185° Rgt. Ricognizione e Acquisizione Obiettivi' (Target Acquisition Regiment) airborne 'FOLGORE' (185° RAO) entrusted Extrema Ratio with the development of a unique knife that would suit the unit's specific operational duties.

This resulted in the RAO: not an oversized folder, but rather a compact survival and field knife with a heavy and reliable blade. Its highly dependable locking system, assisted by an additional safety device, effectively transforms this folder into a fixed blade knife. Opening and closing the knife requires the use of both hands to minimize the risk of self-inflicted injuries, as the weight of the blade makes it akin to a guillotine.

The additional safety device is a steel pin that is hand-screwed through two holes in the guard section of the solid Anticorodal aluminum handle. Its presence between the blade and the hand also provides a significant psychological advantage. The sheath is an integral part of this weapon system, capable of holding a diamond-plate sharpener and allowing the user to carry the knife in either an open position, secured by a cord and two clips, or closed within the front pocket.

The sheath can be attached to tactical vests or regular belts as it is MOLLE system-compliant. Available versions include RAO BLACK, RAO BLACK RUVIDO, and RAO DESERT WARFARE.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS: Weight g.: 335 Weight oz.: 11.8 Blade Length (mm): 119 Blade Length (in): 4.7 Total Length (mm): 263 Total Length (in): 10.4 Blade Thickness (mm): 6 Blade Thickness (in): 0.24 Blade Material: BöHLER N690 STEEL (58HRC) Blade Finishing: MIL-C-13924 BURNISHING Main Grid: FLAT Handle Material: ANTICORODAL ANODIZED ALUMINUM