First Impressions of CJRB Pyrite Green Micarta 3.13in Folding Knife
The CJRB Pyrite Green Micarta 3.13in Folding Knife immediately caught my eye with its clean lines and classic Wharncliffe blade. CJRB has built a reputation for offering high-quality knives at reasonable prices, and the Pyrite seemed like a perfect example of that philosophy.
I was searching for a reliable and versatile EDC (everyday carry) knife that wouldn’t break the bank. I needed something that could handle everything from opening packages to preparing food on the trail. This knife seemed to strike the perfect balance between functionality and affordability.
Unboxing the Pyrite, I was immediately impressed with its solid feel and smooth action. The green canvas micarta handle felt comfortable and secure in my hand, offering a good grip even with wet hands. Compared to other budget-friendly knives I’ve handled, the fit and finish on the CJRB Pyrite felt surprisingly refined.
I considered a few other options, like the Ontario RAT Model 2 and the Civivi Elementum. Ultimately, I chose the Pyrite because I preferred the Wharncliffe blade shape and the button lock mechanism. My first impression was definitely positive – I was excited to put this knife to the test.
Real-World Testing: Putting CJRB Pyrite Green Micarta 3.13in Folding Knife to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the CJRB Pyrite during a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. It saw duty preparing meals, whittling kindling, and opening stubborn packaging.
The Pyrite performed admirably in all conditions, even when my hands were cold and damp. The Wharncliffe blade proved incredibly useful for precise cutting tasks, like slicing vegetables and carving wood. The button lock made opening and closing the knife easy and secure, even with one hand.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the CJRB Pyrite has held up remarkably well. There are minimal signs of wear and tear on the blade or handle. The AR-RPM9 steel has proven to be quite resistant to corrosion, even after being exposed to moisture and dirt.
Maintaining the Pyrite is a breeze – a quick wipe down with a damp cloth and occasional oiling of the pivot point is all it takes to keep it in top condition. Compared to some of my higher-end knives, the Pyrite requires significantly less maintenance. It definitely outperformed my expectations for a knife in this price range.
Breaking Down the Features of CJRB Pyrite Green Micarta 3.13in Folding Knife
Specifications
- Blade Length: 3.13 inches (7.95 cm). This is an ideal length for EDC, providing ample cutting surface without being overly bulky.
- Closed Length: 4.25 inches (108 mm). It’s compact enough to comfortably carry in a pocket.
- Blade Steel: AR-RPM9 Stainless Steel. This powder metallurgy steel offers a good balance of hardness, toughness, and corrosion resistance, making it a great choice for EDC.
- Handle Material: Green Canvas Micarta. Micarta is known for its durability, excellent grip, and resistance to moisture and temperature changes.
- Lock Type: Button Lock. The button lock provides a secure and reliable lockup, as well as easy one-handed operation.
- Additional Features: Lanyard Hole, Pocket Clip. These features add to the knife’s versatility and carry options.
The CJRB Pyrite’s specifications translate to a highly functional and practical knife. The blade steel offers a good compromise between edge retention and ease of sharpening. The handle material ensures a secure and comfortable grip in various conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The CJRB Pyrite Green Micarta 3.13in Folding Knife excels at its intended purpose as an EDC knife. The Wharncliffe blade shape is exceptionally well-suited for slicing, opening boxes, and performing other everyday cutting tasks.
The blade came razor-sharp out of the box and has held its edge surprisingly well. One minor weakness is the lack of a sharpening choil, which can make sharpening the entire length of the blade a bit tricky. Overall, it meets and slightly exceeds my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Pyrite’s design is simple and functional, with a focus on ergonomics. The green canvas micarta handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, even with wet or gloved hands.
The knife feels well-balanced in hand, and the button lock is easy to operate with one hand. There’s a slight learning curve associated with mastering the button lock release, but it quickly becomes second nature.
Durability & Maintenance
The CJRB Pyrite is built to last, thanks to its high-quality materials and robust construction. The AR-RPM9 steel blade is resistant to corrosion and wear.
Maintenance is straightforward – a quick cleaning and occasional oiling are all that’s required to keep the knife in top condition. The simple design also makes it relatively easy to disassemble for more thorough cleaning if needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The CJRB Pyrite comes with a basic black nylon zippered storage case. The lanyard hole allows for the attachment of a lanyard or fob, and the pocket clip provides a convenient carry option.
CJRB doesn’t offer any specific customization options for the Pyrite, but the knife is compatible with aftermarket pocket clips designed for similar knives. While there isn’t a vast array of customization options, the knife is perfectly functional and attractive in its stock configuration.
Pros and Cons of CJRB Pyrite Green Micarta 3.13in Folding Knife
Pros
- Excellent Value for Money: The CJRB Pyrite offers a remarkable combination of quality and performance at an affordable price.
- High-Quality Materials: The AR-RPM9 blade steel and green canvas micarta handle are durable and functional.
- Smooth Button Lock Action: The button lock is secure, reliable, and easy to operate with one hand.
- Versatile Wharncliffe Blade Shape: The blade is well-suited for a wide range of cutting tasks.
- Comfortable Ergonomics: The handle provides a secure and comfortable grip.
Cons
- Sharpening choil is missing.
- Limited Customization Options.
Who Should Buy CJRB Pyrite Green Micarta 3.13in Folding Knife?
The CJRB Pyrite Green Micarta 3.13in Folding Knife is perfect for anyone looking for a reliable and affordable EDC knife. It’s an excellent choice for:
- Outdoor enthusiasts: Campers, hikers, and backpackers will appreciate its versatility and durability.
- Everyday users: Anyone who needs a reliable knife for opening boxes, cutting rope, or other everyday tasks will find the Pyrite to be a great option.
- Budget-conscious buyers: The CJRB Pyrite offers exceptional value for the money.
This knife might not be the best choice for someone who:
- Requires a larger blade for heavy-duty tasks.
- Prioritizes extensive customization options.
A must-have accessory would be a quality sharpening stone to maintain the blade’s edge.
Conclusion on CJRB Pyrite Green Micarta 3.13in Folding Knife
The CJRB Pyrite Green Micarta 3.13in Folding Knife is an outstanding EDC knife that offers exceptional value for the money. Its high-quality materials, smooth action, and versatile blade make it a reliable and practical tool for a wide range of tasks.
The price is definitely justified, considering the knife’s performance and build quality. I would wholeheartedly recommend the CJRB Pyrite to anyone looking for a budget-friendly EDC knife that doesn’t compromise on quality. Pick one up and experience its versatility for yourself!