CMB Made Knives Red Hippo D2 Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of CMB Made Knives Red Hippo D2 Folding Knife

The CMB Made Knives Red Hippo D2 Folding Knife immediately grabbed my attention with its bold red G10 handle and the promise of D2 tool steel performance. As someone who’s spent over a decade navigating the world of outdoor and tactical gear, I’m always on the lookout for a reliable folding knife that can handle anything from everyday tasks to unexpected wilderness challenges. This knife seemed to strike a balance between ruggedness and affordability, a sweet spot I’m keen to explore.

I needed a sturdy, reliable folding knife to replace my old beater that finally gave up after years of abuse. I was specifically looking for a blade with good edge retention and a handle that offered a secure grip, even in wet conditions.

The Red Hippo arrived in a simple, black zippered case. My initial impression was positive; the knife felt solid and well-built in my hand, with a reassuring weight that suggested durability. The stonewash finish on the D2 blade looked both practical and appealing, hinting at its resistance to wear and corrosion.

Compared to my Spyderco Paramilitary 2, which is a premium option, the Red Hippo doesn’t have the same level of fit and finish, but it’s significantly more affordable. Against a Kershaw Blur, another popular D2 steel option, the Red Hippo stands out with its unique handle design and beefier feel. I chose this over other knives primarily because of the D2 steel, the attractive price point, and the overall positive look and feel from online images.

My first impression was definitely excited. I was eager to see how this budget-friendly knife would perform in real-world conditions, and whether it could live up to the hype surrounding D2 steel.

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Real-World Testing: Putting CMB Made Knives Red Hippo D2 Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the CMB Made Knives Red Hippo D2 Folding Knife during a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The tasks ranged from preparing kindling and food preparation to cutting rope and making minor gear repairs.

The weather was damp, with occasional rain showers, providing an opportunity to test the grip in wet conditions. The knife was easy to deploy with the thumb pull, and the G10 handle provided a secure and comfortable grip, even when my hands were wet. I noticed the blade held its edge well while slicing through cardboard and wood. There were no initial issues, but the action felt a bit stiff out of the box, requiring some breaking in.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, including daily carry and a couple more camping trips, the CMB Made Knives Red Hippo D2 Folding Knife has proven to be a reliable tool. There are minimal signs of wear and tear on the blade, and the stonewash finish helps to conceal any minor scratches.

The D2 steel blade requires occasional honing to maintain its sharpness, but it holds an edge significantly longer than cheaper stainless steel knives I’ve used in the past. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. This knife outperforms similar budget options in terms of edge retention and overall durability.

Breaking Down the Features of CMB Made Knives Red Hippo D2 Folding Knife

Specifications

• The CMB Made Knives Red Hippo D2 Folding Knife boasts a 3-inch blade made of D2 tool steel, known for its excellent edge retention and wear resistance. This is crucial for maintaining a sharp cutting edge even after extended use in demanding conditions.
• The knife has a closed length of 108mm (approximately 4.25 inches) and weighs 0.44 lbs. This provides a comfortable and manageable size for everyday carry without being overly bulky or heavy.
• The handle is constructed from red G10, a durable and lightweight composite material that provides a secure grip, even in wet conditions. The G10 is resistant to chemicals and temperature changes, which contributes to the knife’s overall longevity.
• Additional features include a thumb pull for easy one-handed opening, an extended tang for added strength, a pocket clip for convenient carry, and a lanyard hole. The pocket clip provides a secure and easily accessible carry option, while the lanyard hole offers versatility for attaching lanyards or fobs.

Performance & Functionality

The CMB Made Knives Red Hippo D2 Folding Knife performs admirably for its price point. The D2 steel blade offers impressive edge retention, making it suitable for a variety of cutting tasks.

While the action isn’t as smooth as premium knives, it is reliable and the thumb pull allows for quick and easy deployment. A minor weakness is the initial stiffness of the action, which requires a bit of break-in. It meets expectations, delivering solid performance at a budget-friendly price.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is surprisingly good for a knife in this price range. The red G10 handle feels solid and comfortable in hand, providing a secure grip.

The Red Hippo has a simple and effective design that requires minimal learning. It is an ergonomic design that fits well into the average hand.

Durability & Maintenance

The use of D2 tool steel and G10 ensures good durability. The knife is built to withstand regular use and outdoor conditions.

The CMB Made Knives Red Hippo D2 Folding Knife is easy to maintain. A quick wipe down and occasional honing of the blade are all that’s needed to keep it in top condition.

Accessories and Customization Options

The CMB Made Knives Red Hippo D2 Folding Knife comes with a black synthetic zippered storage case. There are no readily available aftermarket scales designed specifically for this model.

While the knife is not explicitly designed for extensive customization, the standard hardware should be compatible with some generic knife parts, such as screws or pocket clips. Customization options are limited, but the knife is functional and well-designed in its stock form.

Pros and Cons of CMB Made Knives Red Hippo D2 Folding Knife

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Who Should Buy CMB Made Knives Red Hippo D2 Folding Knife?

The CMB Made Knives Red Hippo D2 Folding Knife is perfect for budget-conscious outdoor enthusiasts, campers, hikers, and anyone needing a reliable everyday carry knife. It is also suited for tactical users.

Those seeking a high-end, customizable knife with an ultra-smooth action should skip this product. A must-have is a honing steel or sharpening stone to maintain the blade’s edge.

Conclusion on CMB Made Knives Red Hippo D2 Folding Knife

Overall, the CMB Made Knives Red Hippo D2 Folding Knife is an impressive value. It delivers excellent performance and durability at a price that won’t break the bank.

The price of $57.99 is definitely justified given the quality of materials and construction. I would personally recommend this knife to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable EDC option. Pick up the CMB Made Knives Red Hippo D2 Folding Knife today and experience the difference a quality blade can make!