Rough Rider Quillckiffe Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of Rough Rider Quillckiffe Folding Knife

The Rough Rider Quillckiffe Folding Knife immediately presents itself as a classic, understated tool. With its satin finish Wharncliffe blade and black Micarta handle, it whispers of a bygone era when a knife was a companion, not a showpiece. The stainless steel bolsters and inlay shield add a touch of refinement, hinting at the Rough Rider commitment to quality despite the reasonable price point.

I needed a reliable, everyday carry (EDC) knife that wouldn’t break the bank but could handle a variety of tasks. My search focused on finding a blend of practicality and classic design, so I was drawn to the Wharncliffe blade style known for its precise cutting ability.

Upon unboxing, or rather, upon removing it from its metal tube packaging, the knife felt solid and well-balanced in my hand. The Micarta handle offers a surprisingly good grip, even without aggressive texturing, and the blade’s satin finish is clean and appealing. I was initially surprised by how lightweight it felt, which makes it ideal for everyday carry.

Compared to a more modern, tactical folding knife with a pocket clip and aggressive styling, the Rough Rider Quillckiffe Folding Knife stands out for its simplicity. I considered options like a Spyderco Delica 4 or a Benchmade Bugout, both excellent knives, but I wanted something more traditional and less aggressive in appearance. While both are modern knives, this classic knife is a great addition to a collection.

My first impression was one of pleasant surprise. The Rough Rider Quillckiffe Folding Knife exceeded my expectations for fit and finish, especially considering the price. It’s a handsome, functional tool that feels like it’s built to last.


Real-World Testing: Putting Rough Rider Quillckiffe Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

My first opportunity to test the Rough Rider Quillckiffe Folding Knife came during a weekend camping trip. I used it for various tasks, including food preparation, cutting rope, and feathering sticks for fire starting.

The blade performed admirably in all conditions. Even when wet from rain, the Micarta handle provided a secure grip, and the Wharncliffe blade’s precise tip made it easy to create fine shavings for kindling. No time was needed to get used to this classic, reliable knife. There were no issues and it performed as a great pocket knife.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Rough Rider Quillckiffe Folding Knife has proven to be a reliable companion. It has become my go-to knife for daily tasks around the house, from opening packages to trimming stray threads.

The blade has held its edge remarkably well with only occasional stropping needed to maintain sharpness. There are no signs of excessive wear or tear, and the handle remains solid and comfortable. It’s easy to clean with warm water and a little soap, and a light coat of oil on the blade keeps it rust-free. Compared to some of my previous EDC knives, the Rough Rider Quillckiffe Folding Knife has outperformed them in terms of edge retention and overall durability, especially when considering the price difference.

Breaking Down the Features of Rough Rider Quillckiffe Folding Knife

Specifications

  • Satin Finish Stainless Wharncliffe Blade: The Wharncliffe blade shape offers excellent control and precision, making it ideal for detailed cutting tasks. The satin finish provides a clean look and helps resist corrosion.
  • Black Micarta Handle: Micarta is a durable and lightweight material that provides a comfortable and secure grip, even in wet conditions. It is known for its resistance to moisture, chemicals, and temperature changes.
  • Stainless Bolsters: Stainless steel bolsters add structural integrity and contribute to the knife’s classic aesthetic. These provide a smooth, comfortable transition from the handle to the blade.
  • Inlay Shield: The inlay shield is a decorative element that adds a touch of elegance to the handle. This small detail elevates the knife’s overall appearance.
  • Closed Length: 3.88 in: This compact size makes it convenient for everyday carry in a pocket or pouch. The Rough Rider Quillckiffe Folding Knife doesn’t take up much space, ensuring it’s always accessible when needed.

These specifications matter because they dictate the knife’s performance, durability, and overall user experience. The Wharncliffe blade, for example, is known for its precise cutting ability, while the Micarta handle ensures a secure and comfortable grip.

Performance & Functionality

The Rough Rider Quillckiffe Folding Knife performs its intended job exceptionally well. The Wharncliffe blade provides excellent control for detailed cutting tasks.

The knife’s strengths lie in its simple, reliable design and its comfortable ergonomics. There is room for improvement in the blade steel, as it requires more frequent sharpening than premium steels. It meets expectations for a budget-friendly EDC knife, offering a great balance of performance and value.

Design & Ergonomics

The Rough Rider Quillckiffe Folding Knife boasts a classic, understated design. The materials used are high-quality for the price point, and the knife feels well-balanced in the hand.

The knife is user-friendly and requires no special skills or knowledge to operate. The smooth opening and closing action makes it a joy to use.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Rough Rider Quillckiffe Folding Knife should last for years. The stainless steel blade and Micarta handle are resistant to corrosion and wear.

Maintenance is simple and straightforward. Regular cleaning and oiling of the blade will keep it in good condition.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Rough Rider Quillckiffe Folding Knife comes with a metal tube for storage. There are limited customization options available directly from the manufacturer.

However, the classic design lends itself well to aftermarket modification, such as replacing the inlay shield or adding a lanyard. While there aren’t specific brand-name accessories designed for the Rough Rider Quillckiffe Folding Knife, universal knife accessories like sharpening stones, oil, and sheaths are compatible.

Pros and Cons of Rough Rider Quillckiffe Folding Knife

Pros

  • Excellent Value for the Money: Offers exceptional performance and quality for its price point.
  • Classic Design: A timeless aesthetic that appeals to traditional knife enthusiasts.
  • Precise Wharncliffe Blade: Ideal for detailed cutting tasks.
  • Durable Micarta Handle: Provides a secure and comfortable grip.
  • Lightweight and Compact: Perfect for everyday carry.

Cons

  • Blade Steel Could Be Better: Requires more frequent sharpening than premium steels.
  • Limited Customization Options: Lacks the wide range of customization options available for some other knives.


Who Should Buy Rough Rider Quillckiffe Folding Knife?

The Rough Rider Quillckiffe Folding Knife is perfect for:

  • Everyday Carry (EDC) enthusiasts looking for a reliable and affordable knife.
  • Those who appreciate classic knife designs and craftsmanship.
  • Individuals who need a precise cutting tool for various tasks.

Who should skip this product?

  • Users who require a knife with high-end blade steel for extended edge retention.
  • Those who prefer a more modern or tactical knife design.

Must-have accessories or modifications?

  • A quality sharpening stone or honing steel.
  • Knife oil for blade maintenance.
  • A leather sheath or pocket slip for carrying.

Conclusion on Rough Rider Quillckiffe Folding Knife

The Rough Rider Quillckiffe Folding Knife is a solid choice for anyone seeking a reliable and affordable everyday carry knife with a classic design. Its Wharncliffe blade offers excellent control and precision.

The value proposition is outstanding. For under $60, you get a well-built knife with quality materials and a timeless aesthetic.

I would definitely recommend the Rough Rider Quillckiffe Folding Knife to anyone looking for a budget-friendly EDC option. It’s a great value, performs admirably, and looks good doing it. If you appreciate classic designs and need a dependable knife for everyday tasks, the Rough Rider Quillckiffe Folding Knife is worth checking out. Add it to your cart and experience the quality for yourself!

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