Elk Ridge Folding Blade ER-A168WD Review

Let’s Dive into Elk Ridge Folding Blade ER-A168WD

The Elk Ridge Folding Blade ER-A168WD is a budget-friendly option in the vast world of folding knives, promising a blend of aesthetics and utility. Elk Ridge markets this knife as a reliable tool for everyday carry and self-defense, boasting a stainless steel blade and a Pakka wood handle. I was keen to see if this sub-$20 knife could hold its own against the rigors of daily use and occasional outdoor tasks.

I’ve always been on the lookout for a dependable yet affordable folding knife to recommend to beginners entering the world of outdoor gear. I needed a blade that wouldn’t break the bank but would still offer reasonable performance for light tasks around the campsite or for everyday cutting chores. I hoped the Elk Ridge Folding Blade ER-A168WD could fit that bill.

Upon unboxing, the knife had a surprisingly decent feel for its price point. The Pakka wood handle added a touch of class, and the weight felt substantial enough to inspire some confidence. My initial thought was: “This looks better than I expected for under $20.”

I considered the Kershaw Cryo and the Ontario RAT Model 2 before ultimately settling on the Elk Ridge Folding Blade ER-A168WD. The Kershaw, while excellent, was slightly pricier. The Ontario RAT, known for its ruggedness, felt a bit too utilitarian for my desire for something with a touch of visual appeal.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The knife certainly looked the part, but I knew the true test would be how it performed in real-world situations.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Elk Ridge Folding Blade ER-A168WD to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the Elk Ridge Folding Blade ER-A168WD was during a weekend camping trip in the local state forest. I used it for basic camp chores like cutting rope, preparing kindling, and opening food packages. The spring-assisted opening was quick and smooth, proving useful when I needed the blade accessible with one hand.

The knife performed adequately in dry conditions, but when the handle got wet, the grip became noticeably slippery. Cutting thicker branches for kindling proved a bit challenging as the blade felt a bit thin for heavy-duty tasks. I was somewhat disappointed that moisture impacted the grip so much.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a few months of occasional use, the Elk Ridge Folding Blade ER-A168WD shows some signs of wear. The blade has developed a few minor scratches, and the spring-assist mechanism feels slightly less snappy than when new. It’s still functional, but the decline in performance is noticeable.

The satin finish on the blade is prone to smudges, and the Pakka wood handle requires occasional cleaning to maintain its appearance. Maintaining the knife is relatively straightforward. I typically wipe the blade with a lightly oiled cloth after use to prevent rust.

Compared to other knives I’ve owned, like my trusty Gerber Paraframe, the Elk Ridge Folding Blade ER-A168WD falls short in overall durability and edge retention. While the Gerber has endured years of abuse, I suspect the Elk Ridge will need replacing much sooner.

Breaking Down the Features of Elk Ridge Folding Blade ER-A168WD

Specifications

The Elk Ridge Folding Blade ER-A168WD boasts a 3.5-inch 3.5MM thick satin stainless steel blade, which is fairly standard for a knife of this size. The brown Pakka wood handle adds a touch of elegance, while the stamped stainless steel bolster provides some structural support. The inclusion of a satin pocket clip is a welcome addition for convenient carry.

The 4.5-inch closed length makes it easily pocketable. The steel blade material is a common choice for budget knives, offering a balance between affordability and adequate sharpness. The satin handle finish contributes to the knife’s aesthetic appeal.

These specifications translate to a knife that is reasonably compact, lightweight, and visually appealing, but perhaps not the most robust option on the market. The steel blade will likely require more frequent sharpening than higher-end steels.

Performance & Functionality

The Elk Ridge Folding Blade ER-A168WD performs adequately for light-duty tasks. The spring-assisted opening is a notable strength, allowing for quick deployment of the blade. However, the blade’s relatively thin profile limits its effectiveness for more demanding cutting tasks.

The knife’s strengths lie in its ease of carry and quick deployment. Its weaknesses are its less-than-ideal grip in wet conditions and its limited durability for heavy use. I think the spring assist is a definite plus.

For its price, the Elk Ridge Folding Blade ER-A168WD mostly meets expectations as an affordable, lightweight EDC (everyday carry) option. It does fall short of being a true workhorse knife.

Design & Ergonomics

The Elk Ridge Folding Blade ER-A168WD features a visually appealing design, thanks to its Pakka wood handle and satin-finished blade. The knife feels relatively comfortable in hand, though the grip could be improved with more aggressive texturing. The knife’s weight is reasonable, making it easy to carry in a pocket or on a belt.

There is a slight learning curve associated with closing the knife one-handed, as the liner lock requires some practice to disengage smoothly. Overall, the design prioritizes aesthetics over pure functionality.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its materials and construction, the Elk Ridge Folding Blade ER-A168WD is not expected to last as long as higher-end knives. The blade steel is prone to dulling relatively quickly, and the spring-assist mechanism may wear out over time. I suspect that with regular use, the knife will need to be replaced within a few years.

Maintenance involves regular cleaning and oiling of the blade, as well as occasional tightening of the screws holding the handle together. Disassembly for deep cleaning is possible, but not recommended unless you are comfortable with knife mechanics.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Elk Ridge Folding Blade ER-A168WD comes with a satin pocket clip, but otherwise offers limited customization options. There are no readily available aftermarket grips or blades. You could potentially modify the handle with sandpaper to improve the grip, but this would void any warranty.

The lack of customization options is a drawback for those who like to personalize their gear. The pocket clip is a nice touch but that is about it.

Pros and Cons of Elk Ridge Folding Blade ER-A168WD