Bear & Son Cutlery Rancor II Black 2.88in Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of Bear & Son Cutlery Rancor II Black 2.88in Folding Knife

The Bear & Son Cutlery Rancor II Black 2.88in Folding Knife immediately strikes you as a serious tool, not just another pocketknife. Its black G10 handle and partially serrated S35VN blade give it a tactical feel, while the compact size makes it suitable for everyday carry. I’m excited to see if this knife lives up to the hype.

For years, I’ve struggled to find a folding knife that balances a manageable size with a high-quality steel that can hold an edge. I wanted something I could comfortably carry daily but still trust for tougher tasks when needed. This knife seemed to tick both boxes.

Unboxing the Rancor II was satisfying; the knife felt solid and well-made. The G10 handle provides excellent grip, and the blade arrived razor-sharp. The liner lock engaged positively with no play, reinforcing the impression of quality.

I considered other knives in this price range, including some from Benchmade and Spyderco. I was drawn to the Rancor II because of its S35VN steel and the overall design. The Bear & Son offered a compelling combination of materials and features at a more attractive price point.

My first impression of the Bear & Son Cutlery Rancor II Black 2.88in Folding Knife is positive. I’m eager to put it through its paces and see how it performs in real-world scenarios. This knife seems like a promising contender for my new everyday carry.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Bear & Son Cutlery Rancor II Black 2.88in Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Bear & Son Cutlery Rancor II Black 2.88in Folding Knife on a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The humid conditions and varied tasks provided a good proving ground.

The knife performed admirably when preparing kindling and food. The blade’s partial serrations made quick work of tougher materials like rope and small branches.

Opening and closing the knife was smooth and easy, even with slightly damp hands. The G10 handle provided a secure grip, and the liner lock gave me confidence during heavier use. There were no unpleasant surprises after the initial outing.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of near-daily carry and use, the Bear & Son Cutlery Rancor II Black 2.88in Folding Knife has held up remarkably well. The blade still holds a sharp edge and only requires occasional touch-ups.

The G10 handle shows no signs of wear and tear, and the liner lock remains solid and reliable. I’ve used it for everything from opening packages to more demanding tasks around the house and outdoors.

Cleaning the knife is simple: a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the pivot point are all it needs. Compared to some of my previous folding knives, the Rancor II has exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and ease of maintenance. It consistently outperforms my old Kershaw folder.

Breaking Down the Features of Bear & Son Cutlery Rancor II Black 2.88in Folding Knife

Specifications

The Bear & Son Cutlery Rancor II Black 2.88in Folding Knife features a 2.88-inch modified drop point blade made of S35VN stainless steel. The handle is crafted from black G10, and the knife employs a liner lock mechanism.

The overall length when open is 7.32 inches, while the closed length is 4.38 inches. Additional features include an extended tang, thumb stud for easy one-handed opening, a lanyard hole, and a pocket clip for convenient carry. The use of S35VN steel is a major selling point.

These specifications are crucial for several reasons; the blade length makes it legally compliant in many areas for everyday carry. S35VN steel offers a superior balance of edge retention, toughness, and corrosion resistance. The G10 handle provides a secure and comfortable grip, even in wet conditions.

Performance & Functionality

The Bear & Son Cutlery Rancor II Black 2.88in Folding Knife performs exceptionally well for a knife of its size. The blade’s sharpness and edge retention are outstanding, allowing for clean and efficient cuts.

The liner lock is secure and easy to operate, providing peace of mind during demanding tasks. The thumb stud allows for quick and easy one-handed opening, which is especially useful when you need to deploy the blade quickly. The design truly lends itself to ease of use.

The Rancor II meets and often exceeds my expectations for a folding knife. Its blend of sharp blade, secure lock, and comfortable ergonomics makes it a reliable tool for various tasks. The knife has very few weaknesses in overall functionality.

Design & Ergonomics

The Bear & Son Cutlery Rancor II Black 2.88in Folding Knife boasts a well-thought-out design and comfortable ergonomics. The G10 handle provides a secure and textured grip, preventing slippage even in wet or gloved hands.

The knife’s weight is well-balanced, making it comfortable to carry and use for extended periods. The shape of the handle fits naturally in the hand, and the thumb stud is easily accessible. The design facilitates a secure grip and is a pleasure to use.

There is minimal learning curve to using the Rancor II. Its straightforward design and intuitive features make it easy to operate, even for those new to folding knives. The design facilitates ease of use.

Durability & Maintenance

The Bear & Son Cutlery Rancor II Black 2.88in Folding Knife is built to last. The S35VN blade is resistant to chipping and corrosion, and the G10 handle is virtually indestructible.

With proper care, this knife should provide years of reliable service. Maintaining the Rancor II is simple. Regular cleaning and lubrication will keep the blade sharp and the action smooth.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Bear & Son Cutlery Rancor II Black 2.88in Folding Knife comes with a standard pocket clip. There are limited customization options directly from Bear & Son, but the aftermarket offers a variety of lanyard beads that can be added to the lanyard hole.

While the knife isn’t specifically designed to accept accessories from other brands, the standard size of the lanyard hole allows for some customization. Upgrading the pocket clip is another potential customization option.

Pros and Cons of Bear & Son Cutlery Rancor II Black 2.88in Folding Knife

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Who Should Buy Bear & Son Cutlery Rancor II Black 2.88in Folding Knife?

The Bear & Son Cutlery Rancor II Black 2.88in Folding Knife is perfect for everyday carry enthusiasts, outdoorsmen, and anyone who needs a reliable and durable cutting tool. Its compact size and high-quality materials make it suitable for a wide range of tasks.

Those who prefer a non-serrated blade or require extensive customization options might want to consider other models. However, if you prioritize performance, durability, and value, the Rancor II is an excellent choice.

A quality sharpening stone is a must-have accessory to maintain the blade’s edge. Consider also a good lubricating oil to keep the action smooth.

Conclusion on Bear & Son Cutlery Rancor II Black 2.88in Folding Knife

The Bear & Son Cutlery Rancor II Black 2.88in Folding Knife is a well-designed and thoughtfully constructed folding knife that offers exceptional value for its price. The combination of S35VN steel, a G10 handle, and a reliable liner lock makes it a standout performer.

The price is justified given the quality of materials and craftsmanship. This knife provides a great balance between portability and performance.

I would highly recommend the Bear & Son Cutlery Rancor II Black 2.88in Folding Knife to anyone looking for a dependable everyday carry knife. Don’t hesitate – add this versatile tool to your collection today!