Rough Rider Easy Open Tear Jerk Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of Rough Rider Easy Open Tear Jerk Folding Knife

The Rough Rider Easy Open Tear Jerk Folding Knife immediately sparks a sense of nostalgia mixed with modern functionality. From Rough Rider, a brand known for its affordable yet surprisingly capable knives, comes a design that blends classic aesthetics with user-friendly features. The combination of D2 tool steel blades and an ebony wood handle, at a price point of $69.99, caught my attention as potentially a great value for everyday carry.

I was on the hunt for a gentleman’s knife that wouldn’t break the bank but still offer decent steel and a touch of class. I’ve carried everything from high-end custom folders to budget-friendly options, and I was curious to see if the Tear Jerk could bridge the gap between affordability and quality. The easy-open feature and unique blade configuration (spear and Wharncliffe) sealed the deal.

Upon unboxing, the knife felt solid and well-balanced in hand. The ebony wood handle offers a classic, refined feel. Initial inspection revealed a good fit and finish for a knife in this price range, and the blade’s satin finish was clean and even. Compared to similar knives like the Buck 55 or the Case Trapper, the Rough Rider stood out with its D2 steel and the distinct Wharncliffe blade, offering a different level of utility.

I was pleasantly surprised by the initial impression. While I wasn’t expecting a custom-grade knife, the Rough Rider Easy Open Tear Jerk Folding Knife presented a well-made, aesthetically pleasing package that genuinely excited me.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Rough Rider Easy Open Tear Jerk Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Rough Rider Easy Open Tear Jerk Folding Knife on a weekend camping trip in the Ozark Mountains. The primary tasks involved food preparation, light camp chores (like feathering sticks for fire starting), and some general utility cutting. I encountered moderately wet conditions, as a light rain persisted throughout the weekend.

The “easy open” feature lived up to its name, even with slightly damp hands. The spear point blade proved useful for general cutting tasks, while the Wharncliffe blade excelled at controlled slicing and detail work. After the initial use, I noticed the action was a little stiff, but it began to smooth out with repeated opening and closing.

There were no immediate major issues, but the knife did require a quick wipe-down after each use to prevent potential corrosion on the D2 steel.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Rough Rider Easy Open Tear Jerk Folding Knife has proven to be a reliable companion. I’ve used it for everything from opening packages and cutting rope to preparing kindling and cleaning small game during a recent hunting trip. The knife has held up admirably.

There are minor scratches on the bolsters and some slight patina developing on the D2 steel blades, but these are cosmetic and expected with use. The edge retention on both blades has been quite good, requiring only occasional stropping to maintain sharpness. Cleaning is straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth after use keeps it in good condition. It has exceeded my expectations for a knife in this price range.

Breaking Down the Features of Rough Rider Easy Open Tear Jerk Folding Knife

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Rough Rider. This brand is known for budget-friendly knives with classic designs.
• Closed Length: 4 inches. This makes it compact and easy to carry in a pocket.
• Blade Steel: D2 Tool Steel. D2 steel is known for its good edge retention and decent toughness, offering a solid balance for everyday use.
• Handle Material: Ebony Wood. Ebony provides a classic aesthetic and comfortable grip.
• Blade Types: Spear and Wharncliffe. The combination of these two blades offers versatility for a variety of tasks.
• Bolsters: Stainless Steel. These add durability and a touch of elegance.
• Additional Features: Teardrop shape, Lanyard Hole. These contribute to the knife’s overall aesthetics and functionality.

These specifications highlight a knife that balances classic design with functional materials. The D2 steel is a significant upgrade from typical stainless steel found in knives at this price point, and the dual blade configuration provides versatility.

Performance & Functionality

The Rough Rider Easy Open Tear Jerk Folding Knife performs admirably for its intended purpose as an everyday carry knife. The spear point blade is well-suited for general cutting tasks, while the Wharncliffe excels at precise slicing and controlled cuts.

The edge retention of the D2 steel is a definite strength, allowing for prolonged use between sharpenings. A minor weakness is the stiffness of the action out of the box, which requires a break-in period. It meets, and even slightly exceeds, expectations for a knife in this price bracket.

Design & Ergonomics

The Rough Rider Easy Open Tear Jerk Folding Knife boasts a classic, timeless design that feels comfortable in hand. The ebony wood handle provides a secure and pleasant grip, and the teardrop shape fits nicely in the pocket.

There’s minimal learning curve involved; it’s easy to open and close, and the blade selection is intuitive.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Rough Rider Easy Open Tear Jerk Folding Knife should last for years. The D2 steel requires occasional oiling to prevent rust, but the overall maintenance is minimal.

Replacement parts may be difficult to source, but with reasonable use and maintenance, major repairs shouldn’t be necessary.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Rough Rider Easy Open Tear Jerk Folding Knife doesn’t come with any specific accessories.

However, the lanyard hole provides an option for adding a personal touch. Aftermarket scales or custom bolsters could be fitted with some modification, but this is generally not recommended due to the knife’s value proposition.

Pros and Cons of Rough Rider Easy Open Tear Jerk Folding Knife

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Rough Rider Easy Open Tear Jerk Folding Knife?

The Rough Rider Easy Open Tear Jerk Folding Knife is perfect for:

• Everyday Carry (EDC) enthusiasts looking for an affordable and stylish knife.
• Those who appreciate classic knife designs and quality materials without breaking the bank.
• Individuals who need a versatile tool for general cutting tasks.

Who should skip this product?

• Those who require high-end steel and demanding performance from their knives.
• Users who prefer one-hand opening mechanisms.

A must-have accessory would be a good quality knife oil to protect the D2 steel from corrosion.

Conclusion on Rough Rider Easy Open Tear Jerk Folding Knife

The Rough Rider Easy Open Tear Jerk Folding Knife is an excellent option for those seeking an affordable, stylish, and functional everyday carry knife. The combination of D2 steel blades, an ebony wood handle, and a user-friendly design makes it a standout value proposition.

At $69.99, the price is more than justified for the quality and features offered. I would absolutely recommend this knife to anyone looking for a reliable and attractive EDC option.

Don’t hesitate; grab the Rough Rider Easy Open Tear Jerk Folding Knife and experience the perfect blend of classic style and modern functionality!