Rite Edge Native Earth Linerlock A/O Review

First Impressions of Rite Edge Native Earth Linerlock A/O

The Rite Edge Native Earth Linerlock A/O enters a crowded market of budget-friendly assisted-opening knives. Retailing for under $10, it promises an easily accessible blade with a Native American-inspired aesthetic. Is it a diamond in the rough or another cheap knife destined for the junk drawer?

I’ve always carried a pocketknife; it’s as essential as my wallet. Recently, I needed a beater knife, something I wouldn’t mind losing or abusing while working on a project rebuilding a deer stand. I wanted something cheap, but functional.

My first impression upon unboxing the Rite Edge Native Earth Linerlock A/O was…underwhelming. The ABS handle felt lightweight and cheap, but the assisted opening mechanism did snap the blade open with a surprising amount of force. It was smaller than expected but easy to open with one hand.

I considered a similar Smith & Wesson folding knife at a slightly higher price point, but it lacked the assisted opening feature. A Gerber Paraframe was another contender, known for its lightweight design, but I decided on the Rite Edge for its unique artwork and ultra-low price. Honestly, I was cautiously optimistic, hoping the low price didn’t mean low quality.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Rite Edge Native Earth Linerlock A/O to the Test

First Use Experience

The Rite Edge Native Earth Linerlock A/O saw its first action during that deer stand rebuild. I primarily used it for cutting rope, scoring wood, and opening stubborn packages of hardware. The blade, while not razor-sharp out of the box, was sufficient for these tasks.

Working in the damp, early morning air, the ABS handle offered a surprisingly secure grip, even with wet gloves. The assisted opening was convenient for one-handed operation while balancing on the stand. After initial use, the liner lock seemed reliable enough.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a few weeks of regular use, the Rite Edge Native Earth Linerlock A/O showed some signs of wear. The black finish on the stainless steel blade scratched fairly easily. The assisted opening, while still functional, became a bit gritty, requiring more force to deploy the blade.

Cleaning was simple: a quick rinse and dry followed by a drop of oil on the pivot point. However, I noticed slight blade play developing, indicating some loosening of the mechanism. The knife did its job, but I knew it wouldn’t be a long-term companion.

Breaking Down the Features of Rite Edge Native Earth Linerlock A/O

Specifications

• The Rite Edge Native Earth Linerlock A/O features assisted opening for rapid blade deployment. This is a key feature for anyone needing quick, one-handed access to a blade.
• It has a 3.5″ (8.89cm) black finish stainless steel blade. The blade length is adequate for most everyday tasks, but the stainless steel at this price point is unlikely to hold an edge for extended periods.
• The knife has a 4.75″ (12.07cm) closed length. The compact size makes it easy to carry in a pocket.
• Its handle is constructed from ABS plastic and features Native Earth artwork. The ABS handle keeps the cost down but sacrifices durability compared to materials like G10 or Micarta.
• Other features include an extended tang, lanyard hole, pocket clip, and thumb stud. These additions enhance versatility and carry options.

Performance & Functionality

The Rite Edge Native Earth Linerlock A/O performs adequately for light to medium-duty tasks. The assisted opening is its strongest suit, offering quick deployment. Edge retention is mediocre, requiring frequent sharpening with heavy use.

The liner lock, while functional, feels less secure than higher-end locking mechanisms. It meets expectations for a budget knife, but don’t expect the performance of a premium blade.

Design & Ergonomics

The knife’s design is focused on affordability and aesthetics. The Rite Edge Native Earth Linerlock A/O is lightweight due to its ABS handle, making it comfortable to carry. However, the plastic handle lacks the ergonomic feel of more expensive knives.

The thumb stud and assisted opening are intuitive and easy to use. There is no learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its low price point, the Rite Edge Native Earth Linerlock A/O is not designed for extreme durability. Expect wear and tear to become evident with consistent use. Regular cleaning and lubrication will prolong its lifespan.

Repairs are unlikely to be worthwhile, given the knife’s cost; it’s essentially a disposable tool.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Rite Edge Native Earth Linerlock A/O doesn’t come with any accessories beyond its integrated pocket clip. Customization options are extremely limited. There is no aftermarket support for scales or other modifications for this particular knife.

Pros and Cons of Rite Edge Native Earth Linerlock A/O

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Who Should Buy Rite Edge Native Earth Linerlock A/O?

The Rite Edge Native Earth Linerlock A/O is perfect for: casual campers, occasional users needing a backup knife, or anyone seeking an inexpensive utility blade for light tasks. It also suits those who might lose or damage their knife frequently and don’t want to risk an expensive tool.

This knife should be skipped by: survivalists, serious outdoorsmen, or anyone needing a reliable and durable blade for demanding situations. The Rite Edge Native Earth Linerlock A/O is not a substitute for a quality knife.

Must-have accessories: A decent sharpening stone is essential to maintain the blade’s edge.

Conclusion on Rite Edge Native Earth Linerlock A/O

The Rite Edge Native Earth Linerlock A/O is a budget-friendly assisted-opening knife with a unique design. Its low price makes it appealing, but its limitations in durability and edge retention are significant. It is more of a novelty or backup than a primary tool.

At under $10, the price is justified for what you get, but temper your expectations. I would recommend it for specific, limited use cases, understanding its inherent weaknesses. It’s a “get what you pay for” scenario.

If you need a beater knife that you won’t cry over losing or breaking, then the Rite Edge Native Earth Linerlock A/O could fit the bill. Just don’t expect it to perform like a $50 or $100 knife.