First Impressions of Rite Edge Three Piece Thrower Set
The Rite Edge Three Piece Thrower Set immediately sparks a sense of curiosity and, frankly, a healthy dose of skepticism. Retailing at just $19.95 for three throwing knives and a sheath, it promises an entry point into the world of knife throwing that’s hard to ignore, but also begs the question: can you really get decent quality at that price? After years of experience with high-end outdoor and tactical gear, I’m always intrigued by budget-friendly options, especially if they can introduce new enthusiasts to a skill.
I was looking for an inexpensive set of throwers to recommend to beginners interested in learning the art of knife throwing without breaking the bank. My goal was to find a set that would be durable enough to withstand repeated throws, balanced well enough to encourage proper technique, and, most importantly, safe to use.
The unboxing experience was unsurprisingly basic. The knives arrived in a simple cardboard box, and the black nylon sheath felt functional but undeniably cheap. At first glance, the Rite Edge Three Piece Thrower Set design is simple – one-piece stainless steel construction with a two-tone finish. The weight is noticeable, but feels appropriately balanced for their size. Compared to throwing knife sets from brands like SOG or Cold Steel, which often feature thicker blades and more elaborate designs, the Rite Edge set appears significantly less robust, yet considerably more affordable. I chose this set for its low price point, making it an attractive option for those new to the sport.
My initial feeling was cautiously optimistic. These knives aren’t going to win any beauty contests or replace my custom-made throwers, but they might just be good enough to get someone hooked on the sport. However, the proof would be in the throwing.
Real-World Testing: Putting Rite Edge Three Piece Thrower Set to the Test
First Use Experience
I took the Rite Edge Three Piece Thrower Set to my backyard throwing range, a setup with various wooden targets at different distances. The first few throws were, predictably, all over the place. I quickly realized the 3.75-inch blade and 8-inch overall length required a specific throwing technique, favoring a shorter, quicker rotation compared to larger knives.
The conditions were dry and mild, perfect for an initial test. The knives felt surprisingly comfortable in hand, although the one-piece construction meant no handle scales for added grip. After about an hour, I noticed the two-tone finish was already starting to scratch and wear off near the points of impact, which I expected given the price point.
The biggest surprise was the frequency of edge rolling after sticking into the soft pine targets. This showed that the stainless steel used in the blades was very soft, and not work-hardened correctly.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Rite Edge Three Piece Thrower Set is showing its limitations. The blades have developed significant dings and dents along the edges, despite being used only on wood targets. Maintenance is simple: a quick wipe down with a cloth after each session is all that’s needed. However, sharpening the rolled edges on this soft steel is proving difficult.
Compared to my experience with higher-quality throwing knives, the Rite Edge set falls short in terms of durability and edge retention. The wear is far more pronounced than on my other knives, even after similar use.
Breaking Down the Features of Rite Edge Three Piece Thrower Set
Specifications
- The Rite Edge Three Piece Thrower Set features an 8-inch (20.32cm) overall length. This size makes them manageable for most adult users, and also relatively light.
- Each knife has a 3.75-inch (9.53cm) two-tone finish stainless steel blade. The blade length and the stainless steel material are entry-level and help keep the manufacturing cost low.
- The knives are of one-piece construction. This enhances strength, but may lead to hand fatigue with extended use, as there are no handle scales.
- The set comes with a black nylon belt sheath. The sheath is practical for carrying, but lacks the durability of leather or reinforced nylon.
- The weight is 0.6 lb. The weight is acceptable for throwing knives of this size.
These specifications highlight the Rite Edge Three Piece Thrower Set as an entry-level option. While they may not excel in any particular area, they offer a basic level of functionality for beginners.
Performance & Functionality
The Rite Edge Three Piece Thrower Set performs adequately for its price point. The knives are capable of sticking into wooden targets with consistent throws, once the user learns the proper technique. The 3.75″ blade is short, and requires a faster rotation that is not the norm in knife throwing.
The set’s biggest weakness is the rapid edge dulling due to the soft stainless steel blade.
The Rite Edge Three Piece Thrower Set meets basic expectations for entry-level throwing knives. However, serious throwers will quickly outgrow their capabilities.
Design & Ergonomics
The Rite Edge Three Piece Thrower Set has a simple, functional design. The one-piece construction is robust, but the lack of handle scales can make the knives less comfortable during extended throwing sessions. The balance is acceptable, although slightly blade-heavy.
The knives are relatively user-friendly. However, beginners may need some time to adjust to the shorter blade and faster rotation.
Durability & Maintenance
The durability of the Rite Edge Three Piece Thrower Set is a concern. The soft stainless steel blades are prone to edge rolling and denting, especially with repeated use. Maintenance is straightforward, consisting of cleaning and occasional sharpening.
However, the soft steel makes it difficult to achieve a truly sharp edge. The set is not designed for heavy use or abuse.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Rite Edge Three Piece Thrower Set comes with a basic black nylon belt sheath. There are no other included accessories. Customization options are limited due to the one-piece construction of the knives.
It is possible to wrap the handles with paracord for added grip, but no other significant modifications are feasible.
Pros and Cons of Rite Edge Three Piece Thrower Set
Pros
- Extremely Affordable: The low price point makes it an accessible entry point for beginners.
- Decent Balance: Despite the basic design, the knives are reasonably well-balanced for throwing.
- Easy to Learn With: The smaller size and lighter weight can be easier for new throwers to manage.
- Functional Sheath Included: The sheath provides a safe and convenient way to carry the knives.
Cons
- Poor Edge Retention: The soft stainless steel dulls quickly and is prone to edge rolling.
- Low Durability: The knives are not built to withstand heavy use and will show wear and tear quickly.
Who Should Buy Rite Edge Three Piece Thrower Set?
The Rite Edge Three Piece Thrower Set is perfect for absolute beginners who want to try knife throwing without a significant financial investment. It is also suitable for casual backyard use and recreational throwing.
Those who are serious about knife throwing or require durable, high-performance equipment should skip this product.
Must-have accessories include a good sharpening stone or sharpening system to maintain the edges, and potentially some paracord to wrap the handles for improved grip.
Conclusion on Rite Edge Three Piece Thrower Set
The Rite Edge Three Piece Thrower Set is a budget-friendly option that serves its purpose as an entry-level introduction to knife throwing. However, its limitations in durability and edge retention are significant drawbacks. The low price is justified by the materials and construction, but buyers should be aware that they will likely need to upgrade to a higher-quality set if they become serious about the sport.
I would recommend it to those who are curious about knife throwing and want to try it out without spending much money. However, I would advise them to manage their expectations and be prepared to invest in a better set if they decide to pursue the hobby further. If you are looking for an affordable way to get started with knife throwing, the Rite Edge Three Piece Thrower Set might be worth a shot. Just don’t expect it to last forever.