Ken Richardson Knives Hunting Knife Combo Review

First Impressions of Ken Richardson Knives Hunting Knife Combo

The Ken Richardson Knives Hunting Knife Combo presents itself as a classic, no-nonsense set for the outdoorsman. Ken Richardson Knives aims to deliver functional tools, and this combo promises just that: a Bowie and a drop point, both with shed antler handles and hand-crafted sheaths. I was intrigued by the promise of quality materials and traditional design at a price point under $200.

My introduction to knives started young, cleaning small game with my grandfather. I needed a reliable set of knives capable of tackling everything from field dressing deer to preparing kindling. I was looking for a set that could handle demanding tasks with a durable blade and a comfortable grip, all while honoring traditional craftsmanship.

Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the weight and feel of the knives. The antler handles, while unique to each piece, offered a solid, comfortable grip, exuding rustic charm. The blades themselves seemed well-shaped, hinting at good edge retention.

Compared to similar sets from brands like Buck Knives or Gerber, the Ken Richardson Knives Hunting Knife Combo stands out due to its natural antler handles and hand-made sheath. While those brands often opt for synthetic materials, the Ken Richardson Knives combo embraces traditional elements. The Ken Richardson Knives Hunting Knife Combo was appealing as it leaned more into old-school appeal and potentially more unique and comfortable handles.

Initially, I was excited. The combo had the aesthetic of quality, functional tools. I was eager to put them through their paces.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Ken Richardson Knives Hunting Knife Combo to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Ken Richardson Knives Hunting Knife Combo during a weekend deer hunting trip in the Ozark Mountains. The Bowie was tasked with clearing brush and creating shooting lanes, while the drop point handled finer tasks around the campsite. Both knives were subjected to damp conditions with early morning dew and light rain.

The Bowie proved to be a capable chopper, making short work of small branches and saplings. The drop point excelled at carving feather sticks for fire starting, its smaller blade offering excellent control. The antler handles remained secure even when wet, providing a confident grip.

There were no immediate issues, though the Bowie’s edge seemed to dull slightly quicker than expected after prolonged chopping. I also noticed the sheath fit was tight, requiring some effort to draw and sheath the blades.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Ken Richardson Knives Hunting Knife Combo has shown moderate wear. The blades hold an edge adequately, but require more frequent sharpening compared to knives with higher-end steel. The antler handles, however, have proven to be remarkably durable, showing no signs of cracking or loosening.

Cleaning the knives is straightforward. I usually wash and dry them after each use, applying a thin coat of oil to the blades to prevent rust. The sheath has loosened slightly with use, making it easier to draw and sheath the knives, but still maintains a secure hold.

Compared to my previous hunting knife, a fixed blade from SOG made with AUS-8 steel, the Ken Richardson Knives Hunting Knife Combo performs similarly in edge retention. However, the natural antler handles of the Ken Richardson Knives Hunting Knife Combo are noticeably more comfortable than the synthetic handle on the SOG, especially in cold weather. The SOG, however, is far easier to disassemble and clean.

Breaking Down the Features of Ken Richardson Knives Hunting Knife Combo

Specifications

The Ken Richardson Knives Hunting Knife Combo features a Bowie knife with an 11.5-inch overall length and a 6.5-inch 1085HC steel blade. The drop point knife has a 7-inch overall length with a 3.25-inch 1085HC steel blade. Both knives sport shed whitetail, mule deer, or elk antler handles.

The combo includes a brown leather belt sheath tanned by Herman Oak in St. Louis, MO. The weight is listed at 1.22 lb. These specifications are important as they define the knives’ intended use and durability.

Performance & Functionality

The Ken Richardson Knives Hunting Knife Combo performs well for general hunting and camping tasks. The Bowie is suitable for heavier tasks like chopping and clearing, while the drop point excels at finer work such as skinning and food preparation. The Manufacturer, Ken Richardson Knives, delivers a capable set for the price.

The Bowie’s large blade and robust construction make it well-suited for clearing brush and chopping small branches. The drop point’s smaller blade and ergonomic handle make it ideal for detailed cutting tasks. The 1085HC steel blade requires moderate sharpening, and the sheath is durable enough to last through years of field use.

Both knives met my expectations for general use. It will not perform as well as high-end knives, but the Ken Richardson Knives Hunting Knife Combo is not intended to. However, the steel’s relatively low hardness means it requires more frequent sharpening compared to high-end steels like CPM S35VN.

Design & Ergonomics

The Ken Richardson Knives Hunting Knife Combo features a classic design with an emphasis on natural materials. The antler handles are aesthetically pleasing and provide a comfortable, secure grip. The full tang construction ensures durability and balance.

The balance point on both knives is slightly forward of the guard, which aids in chopping power. The handle shapes are ergonomic, fitting comfortably in the hand for extended use. There’s a slight learning curve to drawing and sheathing the knives due to the tight fit of the sheath, but it becomes easier with use.

Durability & Maintenance

The Ken Richardson Knives Hunting Knife Combo is built to last, with its full tang construction and durable materials. The 1085HC steel blade is tough and resistant to chipping. The antler handles are naturally durable and resistant to cracking.

Maintaining the knives involves regular cleaning and sharpening. The sheath can be treated with leather conditioner to keep it supple. With proper care, the Ken Richardson Knives Hunting Knife Combo should provide years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Ken Richardson Knives Hunting Knife Combo comes with the brown leather belt sheath tanned by Herman Oak. There are no specific customization options offered directly by Ken Richardson Knives. The antler handles could potentially be replaced with aftermarket options, though this would require significant modification and may void any warranty.

The sheath is compatible with most standard-sized belts. Given that the Manufacturer only provides the knife and sheath, users may consider purchasing aftermarket sharpening stones or honing rods. Also, cleaning supplies and leather conditioner would be a welcome supplement to the Ken Richardson Knives Hunting Knife Combo.

Pros and Cons of Ken Richardson Knives Hunting Knife Combo

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Ken Richardson Knives Hunting Knife Combo?

The Ken Richardson Knives Hunting Knife Combo is perfect for hunters, campers, and outdoorsmen who appreciate traditional design and natural materials. It is ideal for those seeking a versatile set of knives for general use in the field. Those looking for a good-looking and functional set, while not needing exceptional edge retention, would be happy with the Ken Richardson Knives Hunting Knife Combo.

This product may not be the best choice for individuals who require extreme edge retention or prefer modern synthetic materials. Also, people who hunt regularly and depend on their tools daily will not appreciate the lower steel quality when it comes to sharpening and edge retention. Someone needing one knife to do it all should also consider a different model.

Essential accessories include a quality sharpening stone or honing rod and leather conditioner for the sheath. These additions will help maintain the knives’ performance and longevity.

Conclusion on Ken Richardson Knives Hunting Knife Combo

The Ken Richardson Knives Hunting Knife Combo is a solid, functional set of knives with a classic aesthetic. Its durable construction and comfortable antler handles make it a reliable companion for outdoor adventures. The hand-crafted sheath is another welcome touch.

At $196.99, the price is justified for a hand-crafted set with quality materials. However, potential buyers should be aware of the 1085HC steel’s limitations and the initial tightness of the sheath. I would personally recommend the Ken Richardson Knives Hunting Knife Combo to anyone looking for a versatile and aesthetically pleasing set of hunting knives.

If you value tradition, appreciate natural materials, and need a reliable set of tools for general hunting and camping tasks, the Ken Richardson Knives Hunting Knife Combo is a worthwhile investment. Get yours today and experience the classic craftsmanship for yourself!