First Impressions of Rough Rider Panthera Folding Knife
The Rough Rider Panthera Folding Knife arrives with a subdued elegance, a stark contrast to some of the more aggressively styled tactical folders on the market. This isn’t a knife that screams for attention, but rather one that whispers quality and classic design. Rough Rider, known for producing affordable knives with surprisingly good fit and finish, has aimed for a blend of traditional aesthetics and modern functionality with the Panthera. I was looking for an EDC (Everyday Carry) knife that felt substantial in hand but wouldn’t break the bank, something reliable for daily tasks and outdoor excursions without the fear of excessive wear and tear on a high-end piece.
My previous EDC was a bit too modern for my taste, all blacked-out steel and aggressive angles. I wanted something with a touch of old-world charm. The ebony wood handle and satin-finished blade of the Rough Rider Panthera Folding Knife immediately appealed to me more than the polymer-handled, tanto-bladed options I was considering. I was choosing between this, a Case Trapper, and a Buck 110. While the Case offered similar traditional appeal, the Panthera’s locking blade and seemingly more robust construction gave it the edge for my intended use. The Buck 110, while a classic, felt too bulky for everyday carry.
Unboxing it, the knife felt surprisingly solid. The weight, substantial but not cumbersome, suggested a quality build. The ebony wood handle felt smooth and comfortable in my hand. Initial inspection revealed no glaring flaws, and the blade arrived reasonably sharp. I was pleasantly surprised; this Rough Rider Panthera Folding Knife appeared to offer excellent value for its $59.99 price tag.
Real-World Testing: Putting Rough Rider Panthera Folding Knife to the Test
First Use Experience
My first real test of the Rough Rider Panthera Folding Knife was during a weekend camping trip. I primarily used it for food preparation, whittling kindling, and general camp chores. The satin finish of the blade made it relatively easy to clean after slicing vegetables and preparing meat. The knife felt comfortable to use even after extended periods of cutting, and the blade maintained a decent edge throughout the weekend.
The weather turned unexpectedly damp, providing a real test for the ebony wood handle. Despite being exposed to moisture, the handle remained grippy and didn’t show any signs of swelling or warping. The opening and closing action remained smooth, even with slightly wet hands. There was a tiny bit of rust after a while, I’ll admit.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Rough Rider Panthera Folding Knife has proven to be a reliable EDC option. I’ve used it for everything from opening packages and cutting rope to more demanding tasks like carving wood and preparing meals while hiking. The blade, while not made of premium steel, has held its edge surprisingly well. Regular honing has been sufficient to keep it sharp.
The only noticeable wear and tear is some slight scratching on the stainless steel bolsters. The ebony wood handle has held up remarkably well, showing no signs of cracking or fading. Maintenance has been minimal; a quick wipe down after each use and occasional oiling of the blade are all that’s required. Compared to my previous experiences with more expensive knives, the Rough Rider Panthera Folding Knife holds its own surprisingly well. While it might not outperform a high-end blade in terms of edge retention or corrosion resistance, it offers excellent value for its price.
Breaking Down the Features of Rough Rider Panthera Folding Knife
Specifications
The Rough Rider Panthera Folding Knife boasts a satin finish stainless spear blade. The blade material is not specified, but its performance suggests a decent quality stainless steel. The handle is crafted from ebony wood, lending the knife a classic and refined aesthetic.
The knife features stainless bolsters, adding to its durability and visual appeal. An inlay shield on the handle provides a subtle touch of elegance. The Closed Length is listed as both 10.2 inches and 4 inches, so 4 inches is most likely the correct measurement when folded.
Performance & Functionality
The Rough Rider Panthera Folding Knife performs admirably for its intended purpose as an EDC knife. The spear point blade is versatile, suitable for a wide range of cutting tasks. The locking mechanism provides a secure and reliable lockup, preventing accidental blade closure. The edge retention is acceptable, requiring occasional honing to maintain sharpness.
The knife’s strengths lie in its comfortable ergonomics, durable construction, and classic design. A potential weakness is the steel type of the blade since the exact steel is not provided. It meets expectations for an affordable and reliable EDC knife, exceeding them in terms of aesthetic appeal.
Design & Ergonomics
The Rough Rider Panthera Folding Knife offers a pleasing blend of classic and functional design. The ebony wood handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, even in wet conditions. The weight is well-balanced, making the knife easy to handle and control.
The knife is user-friendly, with a smooth opening and closing action. No significant learning curve is involved. The classic design, with the smooth wood, is simple, rugged, and elegant.
Durability & Maintenance
The Rough Rider Panthera Folding Knife is built to last, with durable materials and solid construction. The stainless steel bolsters and ebony wood handle are resistant to wear and tear. With proper care and maintenance, the knife should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and oiling. Sharpening the blade with a whetstone or honing steel is also recommended. A little bit of rust can appear so it is crucial to keep it cleaned.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Rough Rider Panthera Folding Knife comes with no additional accessories. Customization options are limited, given its classic design and fixed handle scales. However, aftermarket pocket clips may be available to enhance carry options.
Given the affordable price point, customization is less of a priority compared to more expensive knives. The knife is intended to be functional and attractive out-of-the-box.
Pros and Cons of Rough Rider Panthera Folding Knife
Pros
- Classic and elegant design with ebony wood handle and satin finish blade.
- Solid and durable construction for long-lasting reliability.
- Comfortable ergonomics for extended use without fatigue.
- Secure locking mechanism ensures safe blade operation.
- Excellent value for the price at $59.99.
Cons
- Blade steel type not specified, potentially impacting edge retention and corrosion resistance.
- Limited customization options compared to other EDC knives.
Who Should Buy Rough Rider Panthera Folding Knife?
The Rough Rider Panthera Folding Knife is perfect for individuals seeking a reliable and aesthetically pleasing EDC knife at an affordable price. It’s well-suited for casual campers, hikers, and anyone who appreciates a classic design. This is an excellent knife for someone who needs a good knife, but isn’t necessarily a “knife guy”.
Those seeking a knife with premium steel or extensive customization options should skip this product. A must-have modification might be a higher quality pocket clip if the factory clip is not to your liking.
Conclusion on Rough Rider Panthera Folding Knife
The Rough Rider Panthera Folding Knife is a surprisingly impressive offering from Rough Rider. It provides a blend of classic design, durable construction, and reliable performance at a very attractive price point. The price is definitely justified.
I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a dependable and stylish EDC knife without breaking the bank. If you want a knife that looks as good as it cuts, the Rough Rider Panthera Folding Knife is worth considering. Add it to your collection today!