Rite Edge Framelock Blue Review

First Impressions of Rite Edge Framelock Blue

The Rite Edge Framelock Blue is a budget-friendly folding knife that immediately catches the eye with its vibrant blue handle. This compact knife, manufactured by Rite Edge, promises utility and portability, making it seem like a practical everyday carry (EDC) option for those who aren’t looking to break the bank.

I found myself in the market for a backup knife; something I wouldn’t be too worried about losing or damaging. I was looking for a tool that could handle basic cutting tasks without needing to be babied.

Upon unboxing the Rite Edge Framelock Blue, I was struck by how lightweight it felt. The blue TiNi finish on the stainless steel handle gives it a distinct look. Initial handling revealed a smooth opening action and a secure lockup of the blade. I was pleasantly surprised.

I considered a few other budget knives in a similar price range, like the Ozark Trail basic folding knife and some generic gas station knives. I chose the Rite Edge Framelock Blue primarily for its framelock design, which, at least on paper, promised a more reliable lockup than cheaper liner locks.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. I wasn’t expecting a premium knife, but the Rite Edge Framelock Blue seemed to offer decent functionality for its price point.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Rite Edge Framelock Blue to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Rite Edge Framelock Blue was a weekend camping trip. I used it for various tasks, including opening food packages, cutting rope for the tent, and whittling some kindling for the fire. The knife performed adequately, although the blade did seem to dull rather quickly.

The knife handled basic camp chores, but it struggled a bit when cutting thicker materials. The smaller blade made it more suitable for detail work than heavy-duty tasks. No surprises arose beyond the need for fairly frequent sharpening.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a few months of intermittent use, the Rite Edge Framelock Blue has held up reasonably well, considering its low price. The blade has developed some minor scratches, and the blue finish on the handle shows some wear around the edges. The frame lock, however, still engages securely, which is a plus.

The durability is acceptable for a budget knife, though I wouldn’t expect it to last for years under heavy use. Maintenance is simple – a quick wipe down after use and occasional sharpening are all it needs.

Compared to my experience with higher-end knives, the Rite Edge Framelock Blue is noticeably less robust and requires more frequent sharpening. It’s a decent tool for light tasks but doesn’t compare to the performance and longevity of more expensive options.

Breaking Down the Features of Rite Edge Framelock Blue

Specifications

• The Rite Edge Framelock Blue features a 2.5-inch black finish stainless steel blade. This blade length makes it compact and easy to carry.
• The knife has a 3.5-inch closed length, making it very pocketable.
• The handle is made of stainless steel with a Blue TiNi finish. This gives it a distinctive look and provides a decent grip, though it can be slippery when wet.
• It weighs in at 0.2 lbs, so lightweight as to be unnoticeable in your pocket.
• Additional features include an extended tang, thumb stud, lanyard hole, and pocket clip. These add to the knife’s functionality and versatility.

These specifications indicate that the Rite Edge Framelock Blue is designed for portability and light-duty tasks. The materials and construction reflect its budget-friendly nature.

Performance & Functionality

The Rite Edge Framelock Blue performs adequately for basic cutting tasks. It’s sharp enough out of the box to handle everyday chores like opening boxes and cutting cordage. The thumb stud allows for easy one-handed opening, and the frame lock provides a secure lockup.

The knife’s primary weakness is the quality of the steel; it dulls relatively quickly and requires frequent sharpening to maintain a decent edge. While the framelock is secure, the overall construction feels somewhat flimsy compared to more expensive knives.

It meets basic expectations for a budget knife, but it doesn’t exceed them. It provides a functional cutting tool at a very affordable price.

Design & Ergonomics

The Rite Edge Framelock Blue features a simple, straightforward design. The stainless steel handle with the blue TiNi finish gives it a unique look.

The knife is lightweight and comfortable to hold, though the smooth stainless steel can become slippery when wet. The pocket clip is functional, allowing for easy and secure carry.

Durability & Maintenance

The durability of the Rite Edge Framelock Blue is acceptable for a budget knife. The stainless steel blade is resistant to rust, but it is prone to scratches and dulling.

Maintenance is straightforward; regular cleaning and sharpening are all that’s needed. The simple construction makes it easy to disassemble for thorough cleaning if necessary. I suspect it would be difficult to repair any parts.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Rite Edge Framelock Blue doesn’t come with any accessories. The only customization option is adding a lanyard through the lanyard hole.

Due to its simple design and low price point, there are no aftermarket accessories specifically designed for the Rite Edge Framelock Blue. You could potentially replace the pocket clip with a generic one if needed.

Pros and Cons of Rite Edge Framelock Blue

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Rite Edge Framelock Blue?

The Rite Edge Framelock Blue is perfect for:

• Casual campers or hikers who need a basic cutting tool for light tasks.
• Anyone looking for an inexpensive backup knife to keep in their car or emergency kit.
• Those who want an affordable EDC knife that they won’t worry about losing or damaging.
• People who are new to knives and want to try out a framelock design without spending much money.

Who should skip this product?

• Serious outdoorsmen or survivalists who need a durable and reliable knife for heavy-duty tasks.
• Anyone who requires a knife with excellent edge retention and high-quality materials.
• Users who demand a comfortable and secure grip in all conditions.

Must-have accessories or modifications?

• A good quality knife sharpener to maintain the blade’s edge.
• A lanyard for added grip and control.

Conclusion on Rite Edge Framelock Blue

The Rite Edge Framelock Blue is a surprisingly capable little knife for its incredibly low price. While it’s certainly not a premium tool, it offers decent functionality and a secure framelock mechanism.

The value proposition is strong. It’s hard to argue with the affordability of this knife.

I would recommend it to anyone looking for a budget-friendly option for light-duty tasks. It’s a decent knife for the price, but don’t expect it to perform like a high-end model. If you need something that you are not worried about losing, or need a backup to a more reliable blade, the Rite Edge Framelock Blue may just fit the bill.