CRKT Ritual Compact, Folding Knife, Plain Edge, Stonewash Black, 3.33 Blade, 12C27 Steel, Assisted Opening with IKBS Bearings, Stainless Steel Bolster, Micarta Handle, Brown Review

What Makes CRKT Ritual Compact, Folding Knife, Plain Edge, Stonewash Black, 3.33 Blade, 12C27 Steel, Assisted Opening with IKBS Bearings, Stainless Steel Bolster, Micarta Handle, Brown Stand Out?

The CRKT Ritual Compact, Folding Knife, Plain Edge, Stonewash Black, 3.33 Blade, 12C27 Steel, Assisted Opening with IKBS Bearings, Stainless Steel Bolster, Micarta Handle, Brown is a unique offering from CRKT, blending modern technology with a nod to classic Persian blade designs. It features a more compact blade length for everyday carry, assisted opening with IKBS bearings, and a striking aesthetic with its micarta handle and stainless steel bolster. This combination of features and style immediately sets it apart in a market saturated with more utilitarian-looking knives.

I was on the hunt for a folding knife that possessed both functional reliability and a touch of elegance. I needed a blade that could handle daily tasks with ease, but also something that wouldn’t look out of place clipped to my pocket during a night out. The CRKT Ritual Compact seemed to promise just that.

Upon unboxing, the Ritual Compact immediately impressed with its solid feel and visual appeal. The stonewash black blade contrasted nicely with the brown micarta handle and stainless steel bolster, giving it a sophisticated, yet rugged look. The weight felt substantial without being cumbersome, and the assisted opening mechanism was smooth and responsive.

I considered the Benchmade Bugout and the Spyderco Para 3 Lightweight before settling on the CRKT Ritual Compact. The Bugout felt too lightweight for my liking, and the Para 3, while incredibly capable, lacked the visual flair I desired. The Ritual Compact offered a unique blend of style and substance that the others didn’t match.

My first impression was excitement mixed with a hint of skepticism. I was immediately drawn to the knife’s aesthetics, but I wondered if its unique design would translate to practical performance in real-world use. The question remained: would this knife be more than just a pretty face?

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Real-World Testing: Putting CRKT Ritual Compact, Folding Knife, Plain Edge, Stonewash Black, 3.33 Blade, 12C27 Steel, Assisted Opening with IKBS Bearings, Stainless Steel Bolster, Micarta Handle, Brown to the Test

First Use Experience

I initially tested the CRKT Ritual Compact during a weekend camping trip in the Ozark Mountains. I used it for various tasks, including preparing food, cutting rope, and whittling small pieces of wood for kindling. The knife handled these tasks with surprising ease, even given its somewhat unconventional blade shape.

The conditions were generally dry, but the early mornings brought heavy dew and the occasional light drizzle. The micarta handle provided a secure grip even when slightly damp, and the stonewash finish on the blade seemed resistant to water spots and minor corrosion. The assisted opening was reliable even with slightly wet hands.

The assisted opening and liner lock were intuitive to use, requiring minimal time to master. The blade deployed quickly and locked securely into place, instilling confidence during use. Releasing the liner lock was equally smooth, allowing for easy one-handed closing.

Initially, I was surprised by the blade’s slicing ability despite its thickness near the spine. The 12C27 steel held an edge well during my initial testing, requiring no sharpening.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the CRKT Ritual Compact has held up remarkably well. It’s become my go-to everyday carry knife, seeing action in everything from opening packages to more demanding tasks around the house and yard. The edge retention has proven to be quite good.

There are some very minor scratches on the stonewash finish of the blade, but overall, the knife shows minimal signs of wear and tear. The micarta handle has developed a slightly darker patina in areas that are frequently touched, which I find adds to its character. The blade remains centered and the assisted opening action is just as smooth as it was on day one.

Maintaining the CRKT Ritual Compact is simple. I periodically clean the blade with a dry cloth and apply a small amount of oil to the pivot point. The micarta handle is easily cleaned with a damp cloth and mild soap if needed. So far, I haven’t needed to sharpen the blade, but I anticipate it will be relatively easy to do so with basic sharpening tools.

Compared to other EDC knives I’ve owned, the CRKT Ritual Compact strikes a better balance between style and function. While some knives might offer slightly superior cutting performance or more robust construction, the Ritual Compact wins in terms of overall appeal and comfortable carry. It definitely outperforms some other knives I’ve owned in terms of the “cool” factor.

Breaking Down the Features of CRKT Ritual Compact, Folding Knife, Plain Edge, Stonewash Black, 3.33 Blade, 12C27 Steel, Assisted Opening with IKBS Bearings, Stainless Steel Bolster, Micarta Handle, Brown

Specifications

• Blade Length: 3.33 inches. This makes it a compact and easily carried knife, suitable for various EDC tasks without being overly large or intimidating.
• Blade Material: 12C27 Steel. 12C27 is a Swedish stainless steel known for its good balance of hardness, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening, making it a practical choice for an everyday carry knife.
• Serrated: Plain Edge. The plain edge design allows for clean, precise cuts, making it ideal for slicing, whittling, and general utility tasks.
• Blade Shape: Plain. The blade shape itself is not considered a specific shape, meaning that the blade edge is a standard, continuous cutting surface.
• Handle Finish: Stonewashed. The stonewashed finish gives the handle a rugged look and provides a bit of extra grip.
• Blade Finish: Stonewashed Black. This finish helps to hide scratches and fingerprints, maintaining the knife’s aesthetic appeal over time, and offers some corrosion resistance.
• Handle Color: Brown, Black. The brown micarta and black bolster create an attractive contrast and contribute to the knife’s overall visual appeal.
• Additional Features: Folding Knife/Assisted Opening. The assisted opening mechanism allows for quick and easy one-handed blade deployment, a valuable feature for everyday use.
• Package Type: Box. This is standard for knives of this type.
• Color: Black. This applies primarily to the blade.
• Finish: Stonewashed, Black. The stonewashed finish on both the blade and handle provides a durable and aesthetically pleasing appearance.
• Case Finish: Stonewashed. Although not a “case” as such, this refers to the bolster finish on the handle, contributing to the overall aesthetic consistency.
• IKBS Bearings Assisted Opening, with Liner Lock. The IKBS bearings ensure a smooth and fast blade deployment, while the liner lock provides a secure and reliable blade lockup.

These specifications combine to create a stylish and practical everyday carry knife. The blade steel offers a good balance of properties, the assisted opening provides convenience, and the micarta handle offers a comfortable and secure grip.

Performance & Functionality

The CRKT Ritual Compact performs admirably for its intended purpose as an EDC knife. It’s sharp out of the box and holds an edge well under normal use. The assisted opening mechanism is fast and reliable.

The knife excels at slicing tasks due to its blade geometry. However, the blade’s thickness near the spine might limit its performance when processing tougher materials. The liner lock is secure, but requires a deliberate action to disengage.

The Ritual Compact largely meets my expectations. It isn’t a heavy-duty survival knife, but performs admirably for daily tasks with a bit of flair.

Design & Ergonomics

The CRKT Ritual Compact is well-designed and feels comfortable in hand. The micarta handle provides a secure grip, even when wet. The stainless steel bolster adds a touch of elegance and helps to balance the knife.

The knife is relatively easy to use, with a smooth assisted opening mechanism and intuitive liner lock. The clip carries comfortably and securely in the pocket. There is no real learning curve with the Ritual Compact.

Durability & Maintenance

The CRKT Ritual Compact appears to be reasonably durable, thanks to its 12C27 steel blade and micarta handle. The stonewash finish on the blade helps to hide scratches and minor wear. The overall build quality feels solid.

Maintaining the knife is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. The 12C27 steel is relatively easy to sharpen. With proper care, the CRKT Ritual Compact should last for many years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The CRKT Ritual Compact doesn’t come with many accessories, beyond the standard packaging and paperwork. Aftermarket customization options are limited due to its unique design, although replacement pocket clips might be available.

Due to its unique shape, generic sheaths might not work very well. Blade replacement is not something commonly done with folding knives.

Pros and Cons of CRKT Ritual Compact, Folding Knife, Plain Edge, Stonewash Black, 3.33 Blade, 12C27 Steel, Assisted Opening with IKBS Bearings, Stainless Steel Bolster, Micarta Handle, Brown

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Who Should Buy CRKT Ritual Compact, Folding Knife, Plain Edge, Stonewash Black, 3.33 Blade, 12C27 Steel, Assisted Opening with IKBS Bearings, Stainless Steel Bolster, Micarta Handle, Brown?

The CRKT Ritual Compact is perfect for those who appreciate a stylish and functional everyday carry knife. It’s ideal for those who want a knife that can handle everyday tasks with ease and has a unique aesthetic appeal. It would also be a good choice for casual campers or hikers who prioritize style as well as utility.

Those who need a heavy-duty knife for demanding tasks or prefer a more tactical design should skip this product. Additionally, those who value extensive customization options might be disappointed by the limited aftermarket support for the Ritual Compact. A sharpening stone or system would be considered a must-have accessory.

Conclusion on CRKT Ritual Compact, Folding Knife, Plain Edge, Stonewash Black, 3.33 Blade, 12C27 Steel, Assisted Opening with IKBS Bearings, Stainless Steel Bolster, Micarta Handle, Brown

The CRKT Ritual Compact, Folding Knife, Plain Edge, Stonewash Black, 3.33 Blade, 12C27 Steel, Assisted Opening with IKBS Bearings, Stainless Steel Bolster, Micarta Handle, Brown is a stylish and functional EDC knife that offers a unique blend of aesthetics and performance. While it might not be the most robust knife on the market, it excels at everyday tasks and is a pleasure to carry.

At $94.99, the price is justified for the quality of materials and unique design. It is more expensive than some basic EDC options, but less expensive than some premium offerings.

I would personally recommend the CRKT Ritual Compact to anyone looking for a stylish and capable everyday carry knife. It is a conversation starter that also gets the job done. If you’re looking for something a little different, give the Ritual Compact a try – you might be pleasantly surprised.