Elk Ridge ER-947 2.6in Manual Folding Knife Review

Let’s Talk About Elk Ridge ER-947 2.6in Manual Folding Knife

The Elk Ridge ER-947 2.6in Manual Folding Knife is a compact and affordable everyday carry (EDC) option, designed by Elk Ridge to be a reliable tool for various tasks. Its key features include a 3Cr13 stainless steel blade, a C-Tec handle with nickel silver bolsters, and a gift tin presentation. It presents itself as a small, easily portable knife suited for those seeking a backup or a discreet EDC solution.

I was in the market for a compact folding knife to add to my everyday carry. I wanted something small and lightweight that I could easily slip into a pocket or attach to a bag without adding bulk. The Elk Ridge ER-947 seemed to fit that bill perfectly, with its 2.6-inch blade and overall compact design.

Upon unboxing, the knife felt surprisingly solid for its size and price point. The C-Tec handle had a decent grip, and the nickel silver bolsters added a touch of visual appeal. The blade deployed smoothly, although it wasn’t assisted opening, it was easy to operate.

Compared to my Kershaw Leek, which is known for its slim profile and assisted opening, the Elk Ridge ER-947 is smaller and more traditional. It lacks the assisted opening mechanism of the Leek, but the smaller size makes it less noticeable in my pocket. Compared to a larger, more robust knife like a Benchmade Griptilian, the Elk Ridge trades durability and blade length for portability and discretion.

My first impression was a pleasant surprise; it felt like a functional and attractive knife that didn’t break the bank. I was eager to put it through its paces and see how it performed in real-world scenarios.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Elk Ridge ER-947 2.6in Manual Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Elk Ridge ER-947 during a weekend camping trip. It handled tasks such as food preparation (cutting sausages and cheese), opening packages, and whittling small pieces of wood for kindling. The knife felt comfortable in my hand during these tasks, and the blade held an edge well enough for basic camp chores.

The weather during the trip was slightly damp, and the C-Tec handle provided a decent grip even with slightly wet hands. I did notice that the blade became a little harder to open smoothly when moisture was present, suggesting the pivot point could benefit from better weather resistance. There were no major issues after first use, however, I did notice some slight movement of the blade when locked, which was a concern.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a few months of sporadic use, the Elk Ridge ER-947 is showing some signs of wear and tear. The blade finish has some minor scratches, and the pivot point seems to be slightly looser. This can be expected for a knife in this price range, however.

The durability is decent for light tasks, but I wouldn’t rely on it for heavy-duty work. I’ve used it to cut rope, cardboard, and other common EDC tasks, and it’s performed adequately. The knife is relatively easy to clean with soap and water, and a drop of oil on the pivot point keeps it functioning smoothly.

Compared to my experience with higher-end knives, the Elk Ridge ER-947 doesn’t quite measure up in terms of durability and edge retention. However, considering the price point, it provides reasonable performance for basic cutting tasks.

Breaking Down the Features of Elk Ridge ER-947 2.6in Manual Folding Knife

Specifications

• Blade Length: 2.6 inches. This compact blade is ideal for everyday tasks and easy to carry.
• Closed Length: 3.5 inches. This makes it easily pocketable without being cumbersome.
• Blade Material: 3Cr13 Stainless Steel. A budget-friendly steel that offers reasonable corrosion resistance and ease of sharpening.
• Serrated: Plain. The plain edge is versatile for slicing and general cutting tasks.
• Overall Length: 6.1 inches. Provides a comfortable grip for most users.
• Blade Shape: Clip Point. The clip point blade is well-suited for piercing and detailed work.
• Handle Material: C-Tec. Offers a decent grip and a unique aesthetic.
• Handle Finish: Silver. Provides a classic look.
• Blade Finish: Steel. A standard finish that offers basic protection against corrosion.
• Weight: 0.14 oz. Extremely lightweight and easy to carry.
• Opening Method: Manual. Requires manual opening, which might be slower than assisted opening but offers more control.
• Handle Length: 3.5 inches. Comfortable for most hand sizes.
• Blade Type: Folding Blade. Convenient for carrying and storage.

These specifications make the Elk Ridge ER-947 a lightweight, compact, and affordable knife suitable for basic EDC tasks. The choice of materials reflects its budget-friendly price point, offering a balance between functionality and cost.

Performance & Functionality

The Elk Ridge ER-947 performs adequately for basic cutting tasks. It’s sharp enough to handle everyday chores like opening boxes, cutting rope, and preparing food. The blade locks securely, but the slight movement I experienced is a concern, impacting confidence during more demanding tasks.

Its main strength lies in its portability and affordability. Its weakness is its use of lower-grade steel, which requires more frequent sharpening. It meets the expectations for a budget-friendly EDC knife, but it won’t outperform higher-end options.

Design & Ergonomics

The Elk Ridge ER-947 has a classic folding knife design. The C-Tec handle provides a decent grip, and the nickel silver bolsters add a touch of visual appeal. Its lightweight construction makes it comfortable to carry in a pocket or bag.

The knife is generally user-friendly, although the manual opening requires two hands. The lock is easy to engage and disengage, and the handle is comfortable to hold for extended periods. There is minimal learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

The Elk Ridge ER-947 is built with budget-friendly materials, which impacts its long-term durability. Expect to see some wear and tear with regular use. The 3Cr13 steel blade will require frequent sharpening.

The knife is easy to maintain with regular cleaning and lubrication. The simple design makes it easy to disassemble for thorough cleaning.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Elk Ridge ER-947 comes with a gift tin. This adds to its presentation, especially if given as a gift. There are limited customization options.

It may be possible to replace the scales with custom-made ones, but there are no readily available aftermarket accessories.

Pros and Cons of Elk Ridge ER-947 2.6in Manual Folding Knife

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Who Should Buy Elk Ridge ER-947 2.6in Manual Folding Knife?

The Elk Ridge ER-947 is perfect for: those on a tight budget seeking a basic EDC knife; individuals who need a backup knife for occasional use; and those looking for a small, discreet knife for everyday tasks.

Those who should skip this product: users who require a durable knife for heavy-duty tasks; individuals who prefer assisted opening mechanisms; and users who prioritize high-end materials and superior edge retention.

A must-have modification would be a sharpening stone to maintain the blade’s edge.

Conclusion on Elk Ridge ER-947 2.6in Manual Folding Knife

The Elk Ridge ER-947 2.6in Manual Folding Knife offers excellent value for its price. It’s a compact, lightweight, and visually appealing knife that’s suitable for basic EDC tasks. While it doesn’t boast the durability or edge retention of higher-end options, it provides reasonable performance for its budget-friendly price point.

The price is certainly justified, given its functionality and portability.

I would recommend it to anyone looking for an inexpensive and discreet EDC knife. It’s a reliable tool for everyday tasks and a great option for those on a budget. Consider the Elk Ridge ER-947 as a solid, affordable addition to your everyday carry.