Rough Rider Lockback 3 5/8in Folder Knife Review

Let’s Dive into Rough Rider Lockback 3 5/8in Folder Knife

The Rough Rider Lockback 3 5/8in Folder Knife is a classic pocket knife, offering a blend of traditional style and modern affordability. Rough Rider has a reputation for producing budget-friendly knives, and this lockback folder is no exception. It boasts a stainless steel clip point blade and a simple, clean design that appeals to a wide range of users, from everyday carriers to outdoor enthusiasts looking for a backup blade.

I’ve been searching for an inexpensive, reliable knife to keep in my truck’s glove compartment for odd jobs. I needed something that could handle basic cutting tasks without worrying about damaging an expensive blade. This seemed like a great option.

My first impression upon unboxing the Rough Rider Lockback 3 5/8in Folder Knife was that it felt surprisingly solid for the price. The weight was comfortable in my hand, and the materials seemed reasonably well-made. The white handle provides a classic look and feels smooth.

Compared to a Buck 110 or a Case Trapper, both iconic lockback folders, the Rough Rider is noticeably lighter and less refined. I considered those options, but ultimately chose the Rough Rider due to its lower cost, knowing that my use case was primarily utilitarian. I also have a Gerber Paraframe that is more modern looking, but I was looking for a more classic style.

My initial excitement was tempered by the knowledge that this is a budget knife, but I was pleasantly surprised by the overall fit and finish. It’s not a showpiece, but it felt like a functional tool. I was eager to put it to the test.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Rough Rider Lockback 3 5/8in Folder Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Rough Rider Lockback 3 5/8in Folder Knife during a weekend camping trip. I used it primarily for preparing food, such as cutting rope, and whittling small pieces of wood for kindling. It performed adequately in these tasks.

The knife worked in dry conditions, but I intentionally got it wet to test its grip. While the smooth handle became a bit slippery, it wasn’t unmanageable. I found the lockback mechanism easy to operate, even with slightly damp hands. No surprises, but I wouldn’t want to use it in extended rainy conditions without gloves.

The blade came reasonably sharp from the factory, requiring only minor touch-ups. I experienced no immediate issues with the knife’s function or design. It felt like a decent value proposition.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of occasional use, the Rough Rider Lockback 3 5/8in Folder Knife has held up reasonably well. The blade has maintained its edge. It does require periodic sharpening, but that is to be expected with stainless steel at this price point.

I have noticed some minor scratches on the blade and bolsters, but no significant wear and tear. The lockback mechanism still functions reliably, without any play or looseness. The handle has not cracked or discolored.

Maintenance is straightforward. I simply wipe the blade clean after each use and occasionally apply a drop of oil to the pivot point. Comparing it to my older, more expensive knives, the Rough Rider requires more frequent sharpening, but the overall durability is surprisingly good for the price.

Breaking Down the Features of Rough Rider Lockback 3 5/8in Folder Knife

Specifications

• The Rough Rider Lockback 3 5/8in Folder Knife features a stainless steel clip point blade. This blade shape is versatile, suitable for a variety of cutting tasks.
• It has a closed length of 3.63 inches, making it compact enough for comfortable pocket carry. This compact size makes it a convenient option for everyday carry.
• The handle material is not specifically listed, but it appears to be a durable synthetic material with a white finish. This offers a classic look, though the grip could be more aggressive.
• The knife is a folding blade with a lockback mechanism for secure blade deployment. This provides reliable and safe operation during use.
• It features nickel silver bolsters that add to the knife’s aesthetic appeal. These also provide some structural support to the handle.
• The blade finish is plain, offering a practical and understated look. This makes the knife suitable for everyday use.

These specifications matter because they define the knife’s overall utility and suitability for various tasks. The stainless steel blade offers a balance of corrosion resistance and ease of sharpening, while the lockback mechanism ensures safe and reliable blade deployment. The compact size and weight make it a comfortable option for everyday carry.

Performance & Functionality

The Rough Rider Lockback 3 5/8in Folder Knife performs adequately for basic cutting tasks. It is well-suited for opening packages, cutting rope, and light food preparation.

Its strengths lie in its simplicity, affordability, and reliable lockback mechanism. The clip point blade is versatile for various tasks.

The main weakness is the steel’s edge retention, requiring more frequent sharpening compared to premium knives. The handle’s smooth surface could offer better grip, particularly in wet conditions.

Overall, it meets my expectations as a budget-friendly, utility knife. It is suitable for non-critical tasks where a high-end blade is not necessary.

Design & Ergonomics

The Rough Rider Lockback 3 5/8in Folder Knife features a classic, traditional design. The white handle and nickel silver bolsters give it a timeless aesthetic appeal.

The build quality is decent for the price. While the materials are not premium, they are assembled reasonably well. The weight feels balanced in the hand.

The knife is user-friendly. There is no significant learning curve. The lockback mechanism is easy to operate, even for beginners.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Rough Rider Lockback 3 5/8in Folder Knife should last for several years of occasional use. It is not designed for heavy-duty tasks, but it can withstand normal wear and tear.

Maintenance is simple. Regularly cleaning and oiling the blade and pivot point is sufficient.

Accessories and Customization Options

The product description does not list any included accessories. There are likely no specific customization options available directly from Rough Rider.

However, some users might choose to add a lanyard for easier retrieval from a pocket. Due to its simple construction, aftermarket scales from other brands would likely not be compatible without modification.

Pros and Cons of Rough Rider Lockback 3 5/8in Folder Knife

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Who Should Buy Rough Rider Lockback 3 5/8in Folder Knife?

The Rough Rider Lockback 3 5/8in Folder Knife is perfect for casual campers, hikers, and anyone needing a basic utility knife. It is also suitable for those seeking an affordable backup blade or a first knife for learning basic knife skills.

Those who require a high-performance blade for demanding tasks or prefer a more ergonomic grip should skip this product. Also, those prioritizing premium materials and advanced features should look elsewhere.

A must-have accessory would be a sharpening stone or steel for maintaining the blade’s edge. A simple lanyard could also enhance its usability.

Conclusion on Rough Rider Lockback 3 5/8in Folder Knife

The Rough Rider Lockback 3 5/8in Folder Knife offers excellent value for its price. It is a functional and reliable tool that gets the job done.

The price is definitely justified. For under $20, you get a decent knife with a classic design and a reliable lockback mechanism.

I would recommend it to anyone seeking an affordable, no-frills utility knife. It’s a solid choice for everyday carry and light outdoor tasks. If you’re looking for a reliable, budget-friendly knife, the Rough Rider Lockback 3 5/8in Folder Knife is definitely worth considering. Pick one up today and experience its simple, dependable functionality for yourself!