Rite Edge Gun Soldier 3.75in A/O Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of Rite Edge Gun Soldier 3.75in A/O Folding Knife

The Rite Edge Gun Soldier 3.75in A/O Folding Knife immediately catches the eye with its distinct soldier handle artwork and assisted opening feature, promising both functionality and a touch of unique style. Priced at a modest $14.95, this knife from Rite Edge aims to deliver dependable performance in a compact and easily accessible package. Does this budget-friendly blade cut it in the competitive world of everyday carry knives?

I was looking for a lightweight, easy-to-carry folding knife for general utility tasks around the campsite and during short hikes. I wanted something that wouldn’t break the bank but still offered reliable performance.

Upon unboxing, the Rite Edge Gun Soldier felt surprisingly solid for its price point. The green ABS handle provides a decent grip, and the blade deploys quickly thanks to the assisted opening mechanism. The soldier artwork on the handle adds a bit of character, though it might not appeal to everyone.

Compared to my usual EDC knife, a CRKT Drifter, the Rite Edge is a bit lighter and the assisted opening is noticeably faster than manually opening the Drifter. I also considered a Gerber Paraframe Mini, but the Rite Edge Gun Soldier’s unique design and assisted opening swayed me. My initial excitement was cautiously optimistic, tempered by the budget price point, but intrigued by its features.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Rite Edge Gun Soldier 3.75in A/O Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I first put the Rite Edge Gun Soldier to work during a weekend camping trip in the nearby state forest. I used it for various tasks, including cutting rope for setting up the tent, preparing kindling for the campfire, and opening food packages. The assisted opening was particularly useful when I needed one-handed access to the blade.

The knife performed reasonably well in dry conditions. However, when I tried using it to cut some wet rope, the blade required a bit more force, and the grip became slightly slippery. There were no major issues, but I noticed the liner lock felt a bit flimsy compared to more expensive knives.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, the Rite Edge Gun Soldier is showing some minor signs of wear and tear. The black finish on the stainless steel blade has scratched a bit from regular use, and the assisted opening mechanism is slightly less smooth than when it was new. It still functions, but the initial “snap” has diminished.

Maintaining the knife is relatively simple. I’ve cleaned the blade and pivot point with a bit of WD-40 and a soft cloth. So far, there is no rust or corrosion, which is a positive. Compared to my higher-end Benchmade Griptilian, the Rite Edge Gun Soldier falls short in terms of overall durability and long-term reliability, but this is expected given the price difference.

Breaking Down the Features of Rite Edge Gun Soldier 3.75in A/O Folding Knife

Specifications

• Blade Length: 3.75 inches (9.53 cm). This blade length is ideal for everyday carry and general utility tasks.
• Closed Length: 4.75 inches (12.1 cm). The compact closed length makes it easy to carry in a pocket.
• Blade Material: Black finish stainless steel. Stainless steel offers decent corrosion resistance, while the black finish provides a tactical look.
• Handle Material: Green ABS. ABS plastic is lightweight and durable, but lacks the premium feel of materials like G10 or Micarta.
• Lock Type: Linerlock. The linerlock is a common and functional locking mechanism, though it can sometimes be less secure than other lock types.
• Additional Features: Assisted Opening, Pocket Clip. The assisted opening provides fast blade deployment, while the pocket clip ensures easy carry.
• Manufacturer: Rite Edge. Rite Edge is known for producing budget-friendly knives.

These specifications suggest a knife that is designed for convenience and ease of use, prioritizing portability and quick deployment over heavy-duty performance. The choice of materials reflects the budget-friendly nature of the knife.

Performance & Functionality

The Rite Edge Gun Soldier performs adequately for light to medium-duty tasks. The blade is reasonably sharp out of the box and holds an edge well enough for everyday use. However, it’s not ideal for tasks requiring significant force or precision. The assisted opening works reliably, allowing for quick one-handed deployment.

The linerlock engages securely, but it does feel a bit thin. This gives me some concern for long-term durability under heavy use. Overall, it meets expectations for a knife in this price range but doesn’t exceed them.

Design & Ergonomics

The green ABS handle provides a comfortable grip, even with wet hands (though it can be a bit slippery). The Rite Edge Gun Soldier feels lightweight and well-balanced in hand. The soldier artwork is a unique design element that some users may appreciate.

There’s no significant learning curve with this knife. It opens and closes easily, and the pocket clip is functional.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the materials used, the Rite Edge Gun Soldier is not expected to last as long as a higher-end knife. However, with proper care and maintenance, it should provide reasonable service for everyday tasks. Regular cleaning and lubrication are recommended.

Repairing this knife might be difficult due to the lower-cost construction and readily available replacement parts are unlikely. If a major component fails, replacement rather than repair is the most likely course of action.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Rite Edge Gun Soldier 3.75in A/O Folding Knife doesn’t come with any additional accessories. Customization options are limited due to the design and construction of the knife. Aftermarket scales or blades are unlikely to be available.

While the pocket clip is removable, there are no alternative clips provided by Rite Edge. It is unlikely to be compatible with clips from other brands due to variations in mounting hole patterns.

Pros and Cons of Rite Edge Gun Soldier 3.75in A/O Folding Knife

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Rite Edge Gun Soldier 3.75in A/O Folding Knife?

The Rite Edge Gun Soldier 3.75in A/O Folding Knife is perfect for casual campers, hikers, or anyone looking for an inexpensive and readily available utility knife. It’s also a good option for someone who needs a backup knife or a disposable blade for messy tasks.

Those who require a heavy-duty, highly reliable knife for demanding tasks should skip this product. Survivalists, experienced outdoorsmen, and professionals needing a dependable tool should invest in a higher-quality option. A sharpening steel or a small bottle of lubricant for the blade are must-have accessories to maintain the knife’s performance.

Conclusion on Rite Edge Gun Soldier 3.75in A/O Folding Knife

The Rite Edge Gun Soldier 3.75in A/O Folding Knife delivers adequate performance and functionality for its budget-friendly price tag. While it may not be the most durable or high-performing knife on the market, it offers a decent value proposition for casual users seeking an affordable and easily accessible tool.

At $14.95, the price is certainly justified. Just don’t expect it to replace your high-end knife.

I would cautiously recommend it to someone looking for a very inexpensive utility knife. If you’re on a tight budget and need a basic knife for light tasks, the Rite Edge Gun Soldier could be a suitable option. But if you can afford to spend a bit more, a higher-quality knife will likely provide better performance and longevity.