Red Horse Knife Works Hell Razor Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of Red Horse Knife Works Hell Razor Folding Knife

The Red Horse Knife Works Hell Razor Folding Knife arrived, and I immediately understood the name. This isn’t your grandpa’s pocketknife. Red Horse Knife Works has clearly set out to create a tool that’s both elegant and capable, a knife that can handle serious tasks while looking good doing it. I’ve been using and reviewing knives for over a decade, from budget-friendly options to custom-made pieces, and I was eager to see where this one fell.

My search for the perfect everyday carry (EDC) knife has been ongoing for years. I needed something robust enough for light field work, yet refined enough to carry without feeling like I’m lugging around a small axe. The promise of S35VN steel and a G10 handle immediately piqued my interest.

Upon unboxing, the Hell Razor felt substantial in hand. The G10 handle provided a secure grip, and the blade deployed smoothly via the thumb stud. The initial impression was one of quality and thoughtful design.

Compared to my Benchmade Griptilian, the Hell Razor felt a bit more robust, less focused on lightweight carry and more on hard use. Compared to a Spyderco Paramilitary 2, it was less about tactical deployment and more about a refined, solid feel. I chose the Red Horse Knife Works Hell Razor Folding Knife for its combination of quality materials, robust construction, and a blade shape that seemed perfectly suited to a variety of tasks. I was genuinely excited to put it to the test.

My initial reaction was definitely excitement. The Hell Razor seemed to be exactly the kind of knife I’d been looking for: a blend of tactical capability and everyday utility.

Real-World Testing: Putting Red Horse Knife Works Hell Razor Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

The first real test for the Hell Razor came during a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. I used it for everything from preparing kindling for the campfire to slicing through rope when setting up my tent. The knife performed admirably, providing a solid, reliable cutting edge in a variety of demanding situations.

The weather was damp, with light rain throughout the weekend. The G10 handle proved invaluable, maintaining a secure grip even when wet. I was initially concerned about the knife being difficult to manipulate with cold hands, but the secure grip and smooth action of the thumb stud made opening and closing it easy, even with gloves.

The Hell Razor felt natural in my hand almost immediately. The handle ergonomics were well-designed, and the liner lock engaged securely every time. One slight surprise was the blade’s edge retention: it remained remarkably sharp even after repeated use.

I experienced no issues at all during the first outing. The knife performed exactly as advertised and even exceeded my expectations in some areas.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Red Horse Knife Works Hell Razor Folding Knife has become a staple in my EDC rotation. It’s seen everything from opening packages to more demanding tasks like shaping wood and preparing food on the trail. The knife has held up remarkably well.

The S35VN blade still shows no signs of chipping or excessive wear. There are some minor scratches on the G10 handle, but these are purely cosmetic and don’t affect the knife’s functionality. I haven’t had to sharpen the blade yet, which is a testament to the steel’s quality and edge retention.

Maintenance is a breeze. A quick wipe down with a cloth after each use and occasional application of a lubricant to the pivot point is all it takes to keep the Hell Razor in top condition. It definitely outperforms any of my previous knives in terms of edge retention and overall durability.

Breaking Down the Features of Red Horse Knife Works Hell Razor Folding Knife

Specifications

• The Red Horse Knife Works Hell Razor Folding Knife features a 3.5-inch blade, making it a versatile size for both everyday carry and more demanding tasks. This size strikes a good balance between portability and functionality.

• The closed length is 5 inches, making it compact enough to comfortably carry in a pocket. This size minimizes bulk while still providing a substantial grip when open.

• The blade is constructed from S35VN steel, known for its excellent edge retention, toughness, and corrosion resistance. S35VN is a premium steel that justifies the knife’s price point.

• The blade edge is plain, which is ideal for general cutting tasks and allows for easy sharpening. A plain edge offers more versatility compared to a serrated edge.

• It’s categorized as a folding blade, providing safe and convenient carry. The folding design makes it a practical choice for EDC.

• The linerlock mechanism ensures secure blade lockup and easy one-handed closing. Liner locks are generally reliable and easy to operate.

• The handle is made from G10, a durable and lightweight composite material known for its excellent grip, even in wet conditions. G10 provides a secure and comfortable grip.

These specifications are important because they combine to create a knife that’s both highly functional and durable. The S35VN steel and G10 handle are premium materials that contribute to the knife’s overall performance and longevity.

Performance & Functionality

The Red Horse Knife Works Hell Razor Folding Knife performs exceptionally well in a variety of tasks. Its sharp blade makes quick work of everything from slicing cardboard to whittling wood. It’s reliable, easy to use, and feels comfortable in hand, contributing to its excellent performance.

The knife’s strengths lie in its edge retention, solid construction, and comfortable grip. A minor weakness is the pocket clip, which could be slightly deeper for better retention. It definitely exceeds expectations for an EDC knife.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Hell Razor is outstanding. The materials used are top-notch, and the construction is solid. Its comfortable weight and balanced feel make it a pleasure to use.

The design is user-friendly, and there’s no learning curve to speak of. The thumb stud is easy to access, and the liner lock is simple to operate.

Durability & Maintenance

The Red Horse Knife Works Hell Razor Folding Knife is built to last. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is straightforward: keep the blade clean and oiled, and the pivot point lubricated. Sharpening will be required eventually, but S35VN is relatively easy to sharpen with the right tools.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Hell Razor comes with a standard pocket clip for convenient carry. There aren’t many specific accessories designed solely for this knife.

However, the standard design means it will likely be compatible with aftermarket pocket clips. You may also be able to swap out the G10 handle scales, though options may be limited.

Pros and Cons of Red Horse Knife Works Hell Razor Folding Knife

Who Should Buy Red Horse Knife Works Hell Razor Folding Knife?

The Red Horse Knife Works Hell Razor Folding Knife is perfect for experienced knife users who appreciate quality materials, solid construction, and reliable performance. It’s a great choice for outdoorsmen, tactical professionals, and anyone looking for a durable and versatile EDC knife.

Beginners or those on a tight budget might want to explore more affordable options. While the Hell Razor is an excellent knife, its price point may not be justifiable for those who don’t require premium features.

A must-have accessory is a quality knife sharpener to maintain the S35VN blade’s edge. A deep-carry pocket clip could also be a worthwhile upgrade.

Conclusion on Red Horse Knife Works Hell Razor Folding Knife

The Red Horse Knife Works Hell Razor Folding Knife is a standout product in a crowded market. It offers a compelling combination of premium materials, solid construction, and reliable performance.

The price is justified by the quality of the steel, the durability of the handle, and the overall craftsmanship. It’s a knife that’s built to last and perform.

I would definitely recommend the Red Horse Knife Works Hell Razor Folding Knife to anyone looking for a high-quality EDC knife. It’s a tool that will serve you well for years to come. If you value quality and are willing to invest in a knife that can handle anything you throw at it, the Hell Razor is an excellent choice. Don’t hesitate – experience the Hell Razor for yourself.