Rough Rider Neck Knife With Kydex Sheath Fixed Blade Knife Review

Let’s Talk About Rough Rider Neck Knife With Kydex Sheath Fixed Blade Knife

The Rough Rider Neck Knife With Kydex Sheath Fixed Blade Knife is a compact and budget-friendly option for anyone seeking a discreet and readily accessible blade. Manufactured by Rough Rider, it boasts a simple yet functional design, making it an attractive option for everyday carry or backup use. The combination of a small, stonewashed blade and a secure Kydex sheath suggests a tool designed for quick deployment and ease of carry.

I needed a small, lightweight knife that I could easily carry concealed for tasks like opening packages, cutting cordage, or as a last-ditch self-defense tool. I’d been looking for a neck knife that wouldn’t break the bank and offered a secure carry option. The Rough Rider Neck Knife seemed to fit that bill perfectly.

Upon unboxing, the knife felt surprisingly solid for its size and price. The black G10 handle provided a decent grip, and the black stonewash finish on the blade gave it a rugged, understated look. The Kydex sheath felt secure, with a satisfying click when the knife was inserted.

I considered the CRKT Minimalist and the Gerber Ghostrike Punch Knife as alternatives. I ultimately chose the Rough Rider due to its lower price point, making it a less risky investment for a neck knife experiment. The simple drop point blade also appealed to me more than the more aggressively styled blades of the other options.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. It wasn’t the fanciest knife I’ve ever handled, but it seemed like a solid, functional tool that could be a valuable addition to my everyday carry. The low price definitely tempered my expectations, but I was eager to put it to the test.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Rough Rider Neck Knife With Kydex Sheath Fixed Blade Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place during a weekend camping trip in the local state park. I used the Rough Rider Neck Knife for various camp tasks, such as preparing kindling, opening food packages, and cutting rope for setting up my tent. The knife performed adequately, though its small size limited its usefulness for larger tasks.

The weather was dry, so I didn’t get a chance to test the knife in wet conditions. However, the G10 handle provided a secure grip even with slightly sweaty hands. The knife was easy to deploy from the Kydex sheath and felt comfortable to use for extended periods.

I didn’t experience any major issues with the knife during my first outing. The only minor annoyance was the relatively small handle, which made it slightly difficult to maintain a secure grip when applying a lot of force. Still, for a knife of its size, it performed well.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of occasional use, the Rough Rider Neck Knife has held up reasonably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the blade or handle. The Kydex sheath still retains the knife securely, and the stonewash finish has proven to be resistant to scratches.

The blade hasn’t lost its edge particularly quickly, though it’s not made of a premium steel. I’ve sharpened it a few times with a basic sharpening stone, and it’s easy to bring back to a functional sharpness. The G10 handle hasn’t faded or cracked, and it continues to provide a reliable grip.

Maintenance is simple: I just wipe the blade clean after each use and occasionally apply a small amount of oil to prevent corrosion. Compared to some of my higher-end knives, the Rough Rider requires minimal upkeep. It doesn’t outperform my more expensive knives, but for its price point, it’s a surprisingly durable and reliable tool.

Breaking Down the Features of Rough Rider Neck Knife With Kydex Sheath Fixed Blade Knife

Specifications

• Overall Length: 4.88 inches. This compact size makes it easy to conceal and carry.
• Blade Length: 2 inches. The short blade is suitable for smaller tasks and makes the knife legal to carry in many jurisdictions.
• Blade Material: Stainless steel with a black stonewash finish. This offers decent corrosion resistance and a non-reflective surface.
• Handle Material: Black G10. G10 is a durable and grippy material that provides a secure hold, even in wet conditions.
• Blade Style: Drop point. The drop point blade is versatile and suitable for a variety of tasks.
• Tang: Full tang. A full tang provides added strength and stability to the knife.
• Sheath: Black Kydex neck sheath. Kydex is a durable and lightweight material that provides a secure and discreet carry option.
• Weight: Lightweight. The low weight makes it comfortable to wear around the neck for extended periods.

These specifications are important because they determine the knife’s overall functionality and suitability for its intended purpose. The small size, durable materials, and secure sheath make it a practical choice for everyday carry and self-defense.

Performance & Functionality

The Rough Rider Neck Knife performs adequately for its intended purpose: small cutting tasks. It’s not designed for heavy-duty use, but it can handle everyday tasks like opening boxes, cutting rope, and preparing food. Its small size makes it easy to maneuver in tight spaces.

The main strength of this knife is its portability and ease of carry. Its small size and lightweight design make it comfortable to wear around the neck, and the Kydex sheath ensures that it’s always readily accessible. The main weakness is its limited blade length, which makes it less suitable for larger tasks.

The Rough Rider Neck Knife meets expectations for a budget-friendly neck knife. It’s not the highest-performing knife on the market, but it’s a reliable and functional tool for its price.

Design & Ergonomics

The Rough Rider Neck Knife features a simple and functional design. The black stonewash finish on the blade and the black G10 handle give it a tactical look. The knife is lightweight and well-balanced, making it comfortable to hold and use.

The ergonomics of the knife are decent, though the small handle may be a limiting factor for those with larger hands. The G10 handle provides a secure grip, and the lanyard hole allows for added security. There is a slight learning curve associated with drawing the knife quickly and smoothly from the Kydex sheath.

Durability & Maintenance

The stainless steel blade and G10 handle are relatively durable and should last for a reasonable amount of time with proper care. The Kydex sheath is also very durable and should withstand years of use.

Maintenance is minimal: simply wipe the blade clean after each use and occasionally apply a small amount of oil to prevent corrosion. The knife is easy to sharpen with a basic sharpening stone.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Rough Rider Neck Knife comes with a black Kydex neck sheath. There aren’t many customization options available for this knife, due to its simple design and low price point.

While there are no specific Rough Rider accessories beyond the included sheath, some users may choose to add a decorative lanyard or replace the neck chain with a different material. Due to its simple construction, aftermarket modifications are limited.

Pros and Cons of Rough Rider Neck Knife With Kydex Sheath Fixed Blade Knife

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Who Should Buy Rough Rider Neck Knife With Kydex Sheath Fixed Blade Knife?

The Rough Rider Neck Knife With Kydex Sheath Fixed Blade Knife is perfect for:

• Individuals seeking an affordable and discreet everyday carry knife.
• Hikers and campers looking for a lightweight backup blade.
• Anyone new to neck knives and wanting to experiment with the carry style without a large investment.
• Those who need a small, easily accessible knife for basic cutting tasks.

This product may not be suitable for:

• Individuals who require a large, heavy-duty knife for demanding tasks.
• Those with larger hands who may find the handle too small.
• Users seeking a knife made from premium materials with superior edge retention.

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

Conclusion on Rough Rider Neck Knife With Kydex Sheath Fixed Blade Knife

The Rough Rider Neck Knife With Kydex Sheath Fixed Blade Knife is a surprisingly capable little tool for the price. It’s not going to replace your primary survival knife, but it provides a discreet and accessible option for everyday cutting tasks. It offers good value for its modest price, making it a worthwhile consideration for budget-conscious users.

I would recommend the Rough Rider Neck Knife to anyone looking for an affordable and functional neck knife. While it has its limitations, it’s a reliable and durable tool that will likely exceed your expectations, especially given the low cost. Give it a try – you might be surprised!