Rough Rider Patriarch D2 Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of Rough Rider Patriarch D2 Folding Knife

The Rough Rider Patriarch D2 Folding Knife enters a crowded market of budget-friendly, everyday carry (EDC) knives. Manufactured by Rough Rider, it immediately strikes a chord with its classic sheepsfoot blade design and denim micarta handle, a combination that speaks to both functionality and understated style. I was particularly drawn to the promise of D2 tool steel at this price point, a material typically found on more expensive knives.

My need for a reliable, easily-sharpened knife for general outdoor tasks drove my search. I wanted something that could handle basic camp chores, package opening, and even light food preparation without breaking the bank. I was looking for a practical tool, not a showpiece.

The knife arrived in a simple box, and my initial impression was positive. The denim micarta handle feels surprisingly good in the hand, providing a secure grip. The weight is substantial without being cumbersome, and the satin finish on the D2 blade gives it a clean, functional aesthetic.

I considered the Ontario Rat II and the Civivi Elementum before settling on the Rough Rider Patriarch D2. While the Rat II is a proven workhorse, its AUS-8 steel didn’t excite me. The Elementum, while aesthetically pleasing, was pushing my budget higher than I wanted to go for a purely utilitarian knife. The Patriarch D2 offered a middle ground: a decent steel with a classic design at an appealing price.

I was pleasantly surprised. The Rough Rider Patriarch D2 Folding Knife exceeded my initial expectations. It felt more solid and refined than I anticipated.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Rough Rider Patriarch D2 Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I put the Rough Rider Patriarch D2 Folding Knife to the test on a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The terrain was varied, and the weather shifted from sunny to drizzly throughout the weekend. I used the knife primarily for preparing food, cutting rope, and whittling small pieces of wood for kindling.

The sheepsfoot blade proved exceptionally useful for food preparation, providing excellent control when slicing vegetables and trimming meat. Even with wet hands, the micarta handle offered a secure grip. I did notice that the blade required a quick wipe after cutting acidic foods to prevent potential staining.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Rough Rider Patriarch D2 Folding Knife has held up surprisingly well. There are some minor scratches on the blade from regular use, but the edge retention remains impressive. I’ve only needed to touch it up a few times with a strop.

The handle shows no signs of wear or loosening, and the blade still locks securely. Maintaining the knife is relatively straightforward; I simply clean it with a damp cloth and apply a thin coat of oil to the blade after each use. Compared to some of my other EDC knives, the Rough Rider Patriarch D2 has proven to be a reliable and capable performer, even in demanding situations.

Breaking Down the Features of Rough Rider Patriarch D2 Folding Knife

Specifications

• The Rough Rider Patriarch D2 Folding Knife features a satin finish D2 tool steel sheepsfoot blade. D2 steel is known for its good balance of hardness, wear resistance, and toughness, making it a solid choice for a working knife.
• The handle is crafted from denim micarta, a durable and attractive material that provides excellent grip, even when wet. The blue color adds a touch of style.
• It has stainless steel bolsters, which enhance the knife’s overall strength and aesthetic appeal. Stainless steel is resistant to corrosion.
• The closed length is 4 inches (10.2 cm). This is a comfortable size for pocket carry.
• It features a lanyard hole for added carry options. This allows for easy attachment to a keychain or lanyard.

Performance & Functionality

The Rough Rider Patriarch D2 Folding Knife performs its intended tasks admirably. The sheepsfoot blade excels at slicing and controlled cutting, making it ideal for everyday tasks and outdoor chores. The knife’s solid construction and secure lockup inspire confidence during use, and the D2 steel provides a good balance of edge retention and ease of sharpening.

While the blade steel isn’t a premium, high-end option, it’s a significant upgrade over cheaper stainless steels often found in knives at this price point. One potential weakness could be the D2’s corrosion resistance in extremely humid environments, so regular cleaning and oiling are recommended. Overall, the Rough Rider Patriarch D2 meets expectations for a budget-friendly EDC knife and even exceeds them in some areas.

Design & Ergonomics

The Rough Rider Patriarch D2 features a classic and functional design. The denim micarta handle is comfortable and provides a secure grip, even in wet conditions. The knife’s weight is well-balanced, making it comfortable to carry and use for extended periods.

There’s a slight learning curve associated with the sheepsfoot blade shape if you’re primarily used to drop-point or clip-point blades. However, the added control and safety it offers are worth the adjustment. The blade deploys smoothly and locks securely with minimal blade play.

Durability & Maintenance

The Rough Rider Patriarch D2 Folding Knife is built to last. The D2 steel blade is durable and resistant to wear, and the denim micarta handle can withstand considerable abuse. The stainless steel bolsters provide added strength and corrosion resistance.

Maintaining the knife is relatively simple. Regular cleaning, drying, and oiling of the blade will help prevent corrosion and maintain smooth operation. The micarta handle can be cleaned with a damp cloth and mild soap.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Rough Rider Patriarch D2 Folding Knife does not come with any included accessories beyond the standard packaging. Customization options are limited due to the knife’s construction and design. Aftermarket scales or clips might be challenging to source.

The lanyard hole provides some degree of customization, allowing users to add their own lanyards or keychains. While extensive customization is not a strong point, the Rough Rider Patriarch D2 is perfectly functional and aesthetically pleasing in its stock configuration.

Pros and Cons of Rough Rider Patriarch D2 Folding Knife