First Impressions of Rough Rider Old Southwest Trapper Folding Knife
The Rough Rider Old Southwest Trapper Folding Knife immediately evokes a sense of classic Americana. This isn’t some high-tech, space-age blade; it’s a throwback to simpler times, promising reliable utility with a touch of southwestern flair. The Rough Rider brand is known for providing affordable, traditional knife patterns, and this trapper seems to fit that bill perfectly. My first impression is cautiously optimistic – can a knife at this price point truly deliver on its promise of solid performance and lasting value?
I’ve been searching for a dependable everyday carry (EDC) knife that wouldn’t break the bank. I wanted something that could handle basic tasks around the house, light bushcraft duties, and perhaps even cleaning small game while hunting. The trapper design has always appealed to me because of its versatility, with two blades catering to different cutting needs.
The initial unboxing was straightforward. The knife felt surprisingly solid for its price, with a good heft in the hand. The Old Southwest handle material, with its subtle variations and textures, gave it a unique and appealing look. The fit and finish appeared decent at first glance, though a closer inspection would be necessary to assess the overall build quality.
Compared to a similarly priced Buck Knives 110 Folding Hunter, the Rough Rider is significantly lighter and less bulky. I also considered a Case XX Trapper, but the price difference was considerable, making the Rough Rider Old Southwest Trapper Folding Knife a more appealing choice for my budget. The Rough Rider seemed to offer a classic design without the premium price tag.
My initial excitement was tempered with a bit of skepticism. Could this inexpensive knife truly compete with more established brands in terms of durability and edge retention? Only real-world testing would reveal the truth.
Real-World Testing: Putting Rough Rider Old Southwest Trapper Folding Knife to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Rough Rider Old Southwest Trapper Folding Knife on a weekend camping trip in the local state forest. The primary tasks included food preparation (slicing vegetables and cheese), cutting rope for setting up the tent, and whittling small pieces of wood for starting a fire. The knife performed adequately for these tasks, with both blades offering reasonable sharpness out of the box.
While processing firewood, the clip point blade sliced smaller kindling sticks with moderate ease, yet I noticed the blade needed more force than my higher end knife. A little bit of moisture from the morning dew created no issues. The knife was easy to grip despite the wet handle. There were no immediate issues after the first use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Rough Rider Old Southwest Trapper Folding Knife has held up better than expected, though not without some noticeable wear. The blades have required more frequent sharpening than my knives made with premium steel. Small rust spots appeared on the blade after being left in my truck toolbox after a minor water leak.
Cleaning is fairly simple, involving a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth and occasional application of mineral oil to the joints. Compared to my previous EDC knife, the Rough Rider requires slightly more maintenance to prevent rust and maintain a decent edge. While not exceptional, its reliability is acceptable for its price point.
Breaking Down the Features of Rough Rider Old Southwest Trapper Folding Knife
Specifications
- The Rough Rider Old Southwest Trapper Folding Knife has a closed length of 4.13 inches, making it a relatively compact and pocket-friendly option for everyday carry. This size is ideal for carrying in a pocket without being too cumbersome.
- The manufacturer is Rough Rider, a brand known for producing traditional knife patterns at an affordable price point. This makes it accessible to a wide range of users.
- It comes boxed, ensuring it arrives in good condition and ready for use. A box also makes it suitable for gifting.
Performance & Functionality
The Rough Rider Old Southwest Trapper Folding Knife performs reasonably well for general cutting tasks. The two blades – a clip point and a spey blade – offer versatility for different applications.
The clip point is better suited for slicing and piercing, while the spey blade is traditionally used for skinning, but can be useful for other tasks requiring a duller point. The edge retention is average, requiring frequent sharpening with regular use.
Design & Ergonomics
The handle of the Rough Rider Old Southwest Trapper Folding Knife is made of what Rough Rider calls “Old Southwest” material, which gives it a unique and rustic look. The knife’s weight and balance feel comfortable in hand, and most people will find it ergonomically sound. There’s a slight learning curve to opening and closing the blades smoothly, which is typical for traditional slip-joint knives.
Durability & Maintenance
The durability of the Rough Rider Old Southwest Trapper Folding Knife is decent for its price. With proper care and maintenance, including regular cleaning and oiling, it should last for several years of moderate use. Rust can be an issue if the blade is exposed to moisture, so it is essential to keep it dry and oiled.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Rough Rider Old Southwest Trapper Folding Knife doesn’t come with any accessories beyond the box it’s packaged in. Customization options are limited, mainly focusing on aftermarket sheaths or lanyards. It’s not designed for extensive modifications, but the classic design allows for some personalization.
Pros and Cons of Rough Rider Old Southwest Trapper Folding Knife
Pros
- Affordable Price: The Rough Rider Old Southwest Trapper Folding Knife is very budget-friendly, making it accessible to almost anyone. This makes it a great option for a first knife or a backup.
- Classic Design: The trapper pattern is a timeless design that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The Old Southwest handle material adds a touch of rustic charm.
- Versatile Blade Combination: The clip point and spey blades offer versatility for a variety of tasks. From slicing food to whittling wood, this knife can handle a wide range of applications.
- Compact Size: The 4.13-inch closed length makes it easy to carry in a pocket or on a belt. It’s a comfortable size for everyday carry without being too bulky.
- Good Starter Knife: Its low cost of entry makes it a good knife to learn how to sharpen and perform other maintenance tasks. Because you aren’t worried about destroying a high-end blade, you can freely practice your blade maintenance skills.
Cons
- Average Edge Retention: The steel used in the blades doesn’t hold an edge for very long, requiring frequent sharpening. This can be a drawback for users who need a knife that stays sharp for extended periods.
- Potential for Rust: The blade is prone to rusting if not properly maintained, particularly in humid environments. Regular cleaning and oiling are necessary to prevent corrosion.
Who Should Buy Rough Rider Old Southwest Trapper Folding Knife?
The Rough Rider Old Southwest Trapper Folding Knife is perfect for: individuals seeking an affordable, classic-style EDC knife. It is also well-suited to casual campers, hikers, and anyone needing a basic utility knife for light tasks.
Those who should skip this product include: users who require a high-performance knife with exceptional edge retention or those who need a knife for heavy-duty tasks. Also, people who prefer modern knife designs or features should look elsewhere.
A must-have accessory would be a sharpening stone or sharpening kit to maintain the blade’s edge. A leather sheath would also be a nice addition to protect the knife and add to its classic aesthetic.
Conclusion on Rough Rider Old Southwest Trapper Folding Knife
The Rough Rider Old Southwest Trapper Folding Knife is a decent option for those seeking a budget-friendly, traditional pocketknife. Its classic design, versatile blade combination, and compact size make it a practical choice for everyday carry. While it doesn’t offer the same level of performance or durability as higher-end knives, it provides good value for its price.
The price is definitely justified for what you get. For around $34, you can’t expect a premium steel blade with exceptional edge retention.
I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for an inexpensive and reliable knife for general use. If you are looking for an affordable entry into traditional pocketknives, this is a great choice. Give the Rough Rider Old Southwest Trapper Folding Knife a try!