CNET Editors' review
Much like ZIP files, RAR files are a type of compressed archive file that allows users to transmit large amounts of data in a more compact format. Also like ZIP files, RAR files need special software to be opened. RAR File Open Knife - Free Opener is a basic RAR utility that lets users open RAR files quickly and easily.
The program's interface is basic and a little goofy, featuring a large image of a knife with an ornately carved handle. To un-RAR a file, users simply drag and drop the file onto the program's interface, right-click the file to access RAR File Open Knife from the context menu, or double-click the file to start RAR File Open Knife automatically. The program worked just fine, quickly unpacking everything we threw at it. The built-in Help file is quite lengthy and is really just an unorganized FAQ, although it does provide plenty of information about RAR File Open Knife and RAR files in general. There's even a link to a video tutorial. Our only real complaint about the program was that it's being used as an advertising vehicle for its creator's other projects; three tabs in the interface labeled Gifts, Thanks, and Appreciation contain links to screensavers, e-books, and wallpaper. Although all of this is free, it takes up more space in the program's interface than the program's actual features do. A less cluttered and more professional interface would be an improvement.
RAR File Open Knife installs and uninstalls without issues. We recommend this program to all users.
Publisher's Description
From Philipp Winterberg:
RAR File Open Knife is not a Swiss Army Knife. It is rather like a precious steak knife: very specialised and efficient. The tool only opens RAR archives. As fast as possible. One can open a RAR file by drag'n'drop, double click or shell integrated context menu. To speed the process up, RAR File Open Knife has the option to define a default output folder and a default password. If selected, RAR File Open Knife automatically creates new subfolders for each RAR archive it opens. The new folders are named automatically after the archive being opened.
What's new in this version: Version 3.5 includes RAR algorithm and user interface updates.
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All versions:
3.6 starsout of 24 votes
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Current version:
3.2 starsout of 6 votes
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My rating:
Write review
Results 1-6 of 6
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"A scam to install other things"
Version: RAR File Open Knife - Free Opener 3.5
Pros
Seems to work.
Cons
When you install it, it tries to take over your life. It tries to get you to install RealPlayer. I told it not to. Then, without my permission it changed my homepage on all my browsers and installed the Ask.com toolbar. I was able to uninstall those "extras," but I'm disappointed that CNET would allow this stuff on their site.
Summary
If you don't mind entering an epic battle for the control of your computer, go for it. The software itself works once you've slain the dragon.
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"Very useful - once "extras" skipped & help unravelled!"
Version: RAR File Open Knife - Free Opener 3.5
Pros
Excellent value for no money at all... thank you.
Cons
I only wanted the opener and it took some time to convince the instal beast of my determination. For a simplistic mind like mine, the guide was not quite as helpful as it should have been. Please think of us all as "absolute beginners". Those who aren't will understand, I'm sure.
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"Nice program"
Version: RAR File Open Knife - Free Opener 3.5
Pros
small and lightweight
Cons
free to use
Summary
i ended up using 7 zip
used 7 zip
<a href="http://easyguyevo.hubpages.com/hub/How-to-open-rar-files-on-windows">How to open rar files</a>
Updated on Apr 12, 2013
http://easyguyevo.hubpages.com/hub/How-to-open-rar-files-on-windows -
"Did not work well for me."
Version: RAR File Open Knife - Free Opener 3.5
Pros
did now work for me.
Cons
did not work .
Summary
I unstall it.
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"Worked Great"
Version: RAR File Open Knife - Free Opener 3.5
Pros
Does what it is supposed to and can't beat the price
Cons
None that I could find
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"It Works. Easy. Free."
Version: RAR File Open Knife - Free Opener 3.5
Pros
Easy as 1-2-3. Click the "Unrar..." button, choose your file and you are done. RAR File Open Knife opens them all:
* Opens all standard RAR files (including latest RAR file format version 4+).
* Opens all multipart/splitted/multivolume RAR files (.r00, .r01 etc. and .part1.rar, part2.rar etc.).
* Opens all self-extracting RAR files.
* Opens all password protected/encrypted RAR files.
* Opens even hidden RAR files like .cbr and others...
If you want to open a rar file - this is your tool. ;-)Cons
Does not have an automatic update routine, but I see that rather as pro, since it does not annoy me all the time with update pop ups.
Summary
Easy. Free. Works. :-)
Results 1-6 of 6


