First Impressions of CJRB Ruffian Linerlock Purple
The CJRB Ruffian Linerlock Purple immediately catches the eye with its vibrant purple G10 handle and sleek black blade. CJRB has a reputation for delivering quality knives at a competitive price point, and the Ruffian seems to continue that trend. This knife promises a blend of everyday carry practicality and a touch of distinctive style, something I’m always on the lookout for in my collection.
What drew me to the CJRB Ruffian Linerlock Purple was the combination of its blade steel and handle material. I needed a reliable EDC knife that wouldn’t break the bank but could still handle daily tasks with ease. The AR-RPM9 steel and G10 handle seemed like a good balance of durability and affordability.
Unboxing the Ruffian, I was immediately impressed with the overall fit and finish. The knife felt solid in hand, and the action was surprisingly smooth for a knife in this price range. The purple G10 handle provided a secure and comfortable grip, while the black PVD coated blade added a touch of sophistication.
I was considering the Civivi Elementum and the Ontario RAT Model 1 before ultimately choosing the CJRB Ruffian Linerlock Purple. The Civivi Elementum is known for its slim profile, but I wanted something with a bit more visual flair. The RAT Model 1 is a workhorse, but its utilitarian design didn’t appeal to me as much as the Ruffian’s modern aesthetic.
My first impression of the CJRB Ruffian Linerlock Purple was definitely positive. I was excited to put it through its paces and see how it performed in real-world situations. This knife seemed to offer a good balance of style, functionality, and value, making it a promising addition to my EDC rotation.
Real-World Testing: Putting CJRB Ruffian Linerlock Purple to the Test
First Use Experience
I initially tested the CJRB Ruffian Linerlock Purple during a weekend camping trip in the local mountains. I used it for various camp chores, including food preparation, cutting cordage, and feathering sticks for fire starting. The knife performed admirably, holding its edge well and providing a comfortable grip even when my hands were wet.
The weather was mild, but there was some light rain during the trip. The G10 handle provided excellent grip security, even in damp conditions, and the black PVD coating seemed to offer good corrosion resistance. The Ruffian opened smoothly every time and locked up securely.
The CJRB Ruffian Linerlock Purple felt comfortable and intuitive to use right out of the box. I didn’t need any time to adjust to its size or handling characteristics. The thumb pull provided easy one-handed opening, and the liner lock was easily accessible and reliable.
The only minor issue I encountered during my first use was the pocket clip being a bit tight. This made it slightly difficult to clip the knife to my pocket initially. After a bit of adjustment, it became easier to use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the CJRB Ruffian Linerlock Purple has proven to be a reliable and durable EDC knife. I’ve used it for everything from opening packages to more demanding tasks like breaking down cardboard boxes and light yard work. The blade has held up remarkably well, requiring only occasional stropping to maintain its edge.
I’ve noticed minimal wear and tear on the CJRB Ruffian Linerlock Purple after months of use. The G10 handle still looks like new, and the blade coating has held up well against scratches and abrasions. The liner lock remains solid and secure, and the action is still smooth.
Maintaining the CJRB Ruffian Linerlock Purple has been straightforward. I simply wipe the blade clean after each use and occasionally apply a drop of oil to the pivot. The G10 handle cleans easily with a damp cloth.
The CJRB Ruffian Linerlock Purple outperforms my previous budget EDC knives in terms of edge retention and overall durability. It’s become a trusted tool that I can rely on for a variety of tasks. Its performance makes it a stand-out in its price range.
Breaking Down the Features of CJRB Ruffian Linerlock Purple
Specifications
Blade Length: The CJRB Ruffian Linerlock Purple features a 3-inch (7.62cm) blade. This size is ideal for EDC, providing ample cutting surface while remaining compact and easy to carry.
Closed Length: With a closed length of 4 inches (10.16cm), the Ruffian is small enough to fit comfortably in a pocket without being overly bulky. This enhances its portability.
Blade Material: The blade is made of AR-RPM9 stainless steel. This powder metallurgy steel offers a good balance of edge retention, toughness, and corrosion resistance, making it suitable for everyday use.
Handle Material: The handle is constructed from purple G10. G10 is a durable and lightweight composite material that provides a secure grip, even in wet conditions.
Locking Mechanism: The CJRB Ruffian Linerlock Purple utilizes a liner lock mechanism. This is a simple and reliable locking system that provides a secure blade lockup.
Weight: Weighing in at just 0.22 lb, the Ruffian is lightweight and easy to carry without adding unnecessary bulk to your pocket. This makes it comfortable for all-day carry.
Additional Features: The knife includes a pocket clip for convenient carry and a thumb pull for easy one-handed opening. These features enhance its practicality.
These specifications are significant because they contribute to the knife’s overall functionality, durability, and ease of use. The AR-RPM9 steel ensures the blade stays sharp, the G10 handle provides a secure grip, and the liner lock offers reliable blade security. Its lightweight and compact size makes it perfect for EDC.
Performance & Functionality
The CJRB Ruffian Linerlock Purple performs its job exceptionally well, providing a sharp and reliable cutting tool for a variety of tasks. Its AR-RPM9 steel blade holds an edge well and is easy to sharpen. The liner lock provides a secure lockup, giving confidence during use.
The strengths of the Ruffian include its excellent edge retention, comfortable grip, smooth action, and secure lockup. A potential weakness is the pocket clip, which some users may find too tight. This tightness can be adjusted for comfort.
The CJRB Ruffian Linerlock Purple meets my expectations for an EDC knife in its price range. It delivers reliable performance, good ergonomics, and a touch of style. It proves to be a worthy investment for anyone seeking a dependable everyday carry option.
Design & Ergonomics
The CJRB Ruffian Linerlock Purple boasts a well-thought-out design with excellent ergonomics. The purple G10 handle provides a comfortable and secure grip. The knife feels balanced in hand, making it easy to control during use.
The CJRB Ruffian Linerlock Purple is user-friendly with no significant learning curve. The thumb pull allows for easy one-handed opening, and the liner lock is simple to operate. Its intuitive design makes it a great choice for both experienced and novice knife users.
Durability & Maintenance
The CJRB Ruffian Linerlock Purple is built to last. The AR-RPM9 steel blade is durable and corrosion-resistant, and the G10 handle can withstand daily wear and tear. With proper care, this knife should provide years of reliable service.
The CJRB Ruffian Linerlock Purple is easy to maintain and repair. The blade can be sharpened with standard sharpening tools, and the handle can be cleaned with soap and water. The liner lock is robust and unlikely to fail, and the knife’s simple construction makes it relatively easy to disassemble and reassemble for cleaning and maintenance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The CJRB Ruffian Linerlock Purple comes with a standard pocket clip for convenient carry. There are no other included accessories.
While there are no specific customization options offered directly by CJRB, the Ruffian can be customized with aftermarket pocket clips and lanyards. The knife is compatible with many universal pocket clips designed for liner lock knives.
Pros and Cons of CJRB Ruffian Linerlock Purple
Pros
- Excellent Value: The CJRB Ruffian Linerlock Purple offers outstanding performance and features for its price point, making it a great value for budget-conscious buyers.
Cons
- Pocket Clip Tightness: Some users may find the pocket clip too tight initially, making it difficult to clip the knife to their pocket, though it can be adjusted.
- Limited Customization Options: While it’s compatible with some aftermarket accessories, there are no official customization options offered by CJRB.
Durable Blade Steel: The AR-RPM9 stainless steel provides a good balance of edge retention, toughness, and corrosion resistance, ensuring the blade stays sharp and functional for a long time.
Secure G10 Handle: The purple G10 handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, even in wet conditions, enhancing control and safety during use.
Smooth Action and Reliable Lockup: The knife opens smoothly and locks up securely, thanks to its well-tuned liner lock mechanism, providing confidence during use.
Stylish Design: The combination of the purple G10 handle and black PVD coated blade gives the CJRB Ruffian Linerlock Purple a distinctive and stylish look.
Who Should Buy CJRB Ruffian Linerlock Purple?
The CJRB Ruffian Linerlock Purple is perfect for everyday carry enthusiasts, budget-conscious knife buyers, and those who appreciate a blend of style and functionality. It is also a great option for campers, hikers, and anyone who needs a reliable cutting tool for general tasks.
Those who prioritize high-end materials, advanced locking mechanisms, or extensive customization options might want to skip this product. This knife is geared towards practical performance and value rather than premium features.
A must-have accessory for the CJRB Ruffian Linerlock Purple is a sharpening stone or strop to maintain the blade’s edge. A paracord lanyard can also be added for enhanced grip and personalization.
Conclusion on CJRB Ruffian Linerlock Purple
The CJRB Ruffian Linerlock Purple is a fantastic EDC knife that offers an excellent balance of performance, durability, and style at an affordable price. CJRB has truly delivered a knife that exceeds expectations for its price point.
The value proposition of the CJRB Ruffian Linerlock Purple is undeniable. It provides features and performance comparable to knives costing significantly more. The AR-RPM9 steel, G10 handle, and smooth action make it a joy to use.
I would personally recommend the CJRB Ruffian Linerlock Purple to anyone looking for a reliable and stylish EDC knife that won’t break the bank. It is a fantastic tool that I am confident will provide years of reliable service.
If you’re looking for a dependable and affordable EDC knife with a touch of personality, the CJRB Ruffian Linerlock Purple is an excellent choice. Grab yours today and experience the quality and value that CJRB has to offer!