Product Description
Doug Ritter Mini-RSK® Mk1-G2, Black G10 & Stonewashed Crucible CPM-20CV
MSRP: $204.95 FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES ONLY - KnifeWorks EVERYDAY LOW PRICE: $139.95 with FREE Continental U.S. Ground Shipping
Complete RSK® Mk1-G2 Line-up | ||||||||
Mini-RSK® Mk1-G2 | Full Size RSK® Mk1-G2 | |||||||
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"The hype was 100% legit. What an amazing knife...Just fantastic. Great work and congratulations."
-- m_c_harris87 on Instagram
"It's so much bang for the buck...This gets the number one spot."
-- "Epic Snuggle Bunny" Auston H. (knife reviewer) - Auston's 2019 Top 5 Picks Video
The next generation of survival authority and Knife Rights Chairman Doug Ritter's popular Mini-RSK® Mk1 ambidextrous folder, manufactured by Hogue, is now available EXCLUSIVELY from KnifeWorks. The Mini-RSK® Mk1-G2 (Generation 2) is an upgraded version of the original Mini-RSK® Mk1 that Ritter introduced in 2004. It features a G10 handle, Ritter's highly regarded wide-chord, high flat-ground drop point blade in CPM 20CV, 2.9 inches long, the ambidextrous ABLE™ Lock and other refinements. Ritter said, "I don't believe that you will find a better overall value in a USA-made folder for everyday utility or survival. And, like the original, it's a knife you can bet your life on™."
The Mini-RSK® Mk1-G2 is a compact, more conveniently sized, or more politically correct, version of the highly praised 3.44-inch original. It is a superb utility folder and it will meet blade length restrictions that in some jurisdictions or locations still limit carry knives to a maximum three-inch blade length (albeit fewer than before Ritter started Knife Rights)
"This is a fantastic knife...It's just a great, great utility knife, field knife, tactical knife. Doug Ritter, Knife Rights, Hogue; dynamite combination, dynamite knife...I love the knife."
-- Joe Paranee (knife & sword reviewer, collector, hunter)
Ritter continued, "a number of knife companies approached me after I announced that Benchmade discontinued production, eager to take on this successful line of knives." In the end, Ritter has teamed with Hogue, Inc. to produce the next generation RSK® Mk1-G2 and Mini-RSK® Mk1-G2. Ritter said, "in Hogue I believe I have found a partner who understands my goals, is dedicated to producing world-class knives in the U.S. with customer service second to none. They are also committed to helping Knife Rights continue to forge a Sharper Future for all Americans."
"WOW, this knife!...Awesome!...Probably the one I carried, maybe, arguably, the most...Really an excellent knife, I highly recommend it"
-- "The Knife Junkie" Bob DeMarco (knife reviewer) - Top 10 Most Carried Knives of 2019" Video
Jim Bruhns, Hogue Managing Partner, said, "We couldn't be prouder to partner with Doug to manufacture his highly regarded knives. That this will allow Doug to continue to fight for our rights is just icing on the cake for all of us at Hogue who one hundred percent support Knife Rights."
"Needs must when the devil drives," said Ritter. The question facing Ritter was what would the next generation knife look like; how could he make it better? Over the years Ritter had considered "next gen" versions in various configurations, some even got sketched or spec'd out with Benchmade. However, none ever came to fruition for him.
-- Nick Shabazz (knife reviewer)
-- Nick Shabazz - Nick's 2019 Gear of the Year Video Review
Since Ritter first saw the original Benchmade prototype knife with the ambidextrous AXIS* lock, designed by knifemakers Bill McHenry and Jason Williams, he has been a huge fan. Ritter took note that the patent on that outstanding lock expired in 2016.
Ritter has dubbed the improved version of this lock used in this next generation Mini-RSK® Mk1-G2 the ABLE™ Lock—standing for "Ambidextrous Bar Lock Enhanced." The ABLE™ Lock incorporates superior finish and geometry for smoother operation, a tougher lock bar and Wolff omega springs.
W.C. Wolff Co. is famed worldwide for their superior springs engineered and manufactured in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania. Wolff springs are respected for outstanding durability, thus providing enhanced reliability for the ABLE™ Lock. Wolff also provides the torsion springs used in Hogue's automatic knives.
The ABLE™ Lock liners are secured by two offset screws. The additional screw and offset design provides added strength and rigidity to the knife and lock assembly.
Jimping on the liners, handle and the blade thumb ramp have been redesigned to be more thumb-friendly, while still providing plenty of purchase.
The Mini-RSK® Mk1-G2 blade retains the same widely acclaimed 2.9-inch drop point profile with a high flat grind as Ritter designed for the original Mini-RSK™ Mk1. It is produced from premium Crucible Industries CPM 20CV powder metallurgy high carbon stainless steel produced in the USA. It has a stonewashed finish to provide added corrosion resistance and which also helps hide scratches. The blade is cryogenically processed to achieve a hardness of HRC 61-62 for an optimum blend of edge-holding and toughness.
The blade rides between phosphor bronze washers for the utmost in simplicity and reliability. The pivot screw is adjustable using a standard Torx driver. Dual thumbstuds, which carry through the tri-wing theme of the ABLE™ Lock lockbar, allow for ambidextrous opening.
-- H. Clay Alders in Jan. 2020 KNIFE Magazine
The blade is laser engraved with Doug Ritter's logo and the steel type on the front and the Hogue logo and "USA" on the reverse.
The handle scales are CNC-machined from black G10 high-pressure laminate aerospace composite. Compared to the original Mini-RSK® Mk1, it provides improved ergonomics. An "index bump" on the underside offers added security and comfort. The radial and checkered pattern machined into the surface combines effective grip with stunning esthetics. Ritter credits a fixed blade handle design by Les George on a Hydra Fighter he donated to Knife Rights' Ultimate Steel 2015 fundraiser as inspiration for that motif. The handle is 0.16 inches (4 mm) longer to allow for the lanyard hole to be located at the tail end of the handle.
The handle incorporates open construction with two standoffs. Compared to the solid back of the original Mini-RSK Mk1, this allows for easier cleaning. The Mini-RSK® Mk1-G2 is neutrally balanced, Ritter's ideal for this size knife. The RSK® Mk1-G2 weighs in at a svelte 2.6 oz (75g) with the clip.
The Mini-RSK® Mk1-G2 carries with a custom stonewashed stainless steel deep-carry pocket clip. The clip is reversible for ambidextrous tip-up carry. While retained by two screws, a standard 3-screw pattern (Benchmade, Spyderco, Emerson, etc.) is provided so that owners can exchange the clip for any of the wide variety of aftermarket and custom clips available. Brass inserts provide secure retention of the clip screws.
The Mini-RSK® Mk1-G2 comes in a zippered pouch embroidered with the Doug Ritter/Hogue logo.
Like every Hogue-built knife, the Mini-RSK® Mk1-G2 is manufactured in the USA and is backed by three generations of manufacturing expertise and is covered by Hogue's recently updated limited lifetime warranty that accommodates owner maintenance and disassembly.
SPECIFICATIONS
Blade Material: Crucible CPM-20CV.
Blade Length: 2.9 inches (7.37 cm)
Blade Thickness: 0.094 in. (2.39 mm)
Blade Hardness: HRC 61-62
Blade Edge: Plain
Blade Finish: Stonewashed / Tumbled
Handle Material: G10 Composite
Closed Length: 4 inches (10.2 cm)
Open Length: 6.875 inches (17.46 CM)
Weight (with clip): 2.6 ounces (75 g)
Lock: Ambidextrous ABLE™ Lock
Liners: 301 Stainless Steel
Pivot Washers: Phosphor Bronze
Opener: Ambidextrous Dual Thumb Studs
Pocket Clip: Stainless Steel, Deep Carry, Reversible
Fasteners: Torx
Specifications subject to change without notice
Doug Ritter is an award-winning journalist and founder of Equipped To Survive with over 30 years of experience reviewing outdoor and survival gear. He is the sole consumer advocate serving on SAE and RTCM committees that develop U.S. and international minimum performance standards and guidance for distress beacons, other emergency signaling devices and all the passenger safety, survival and evacuation equipment used on commercial aircraft. Ritter designs and consults on survival gear, survival kits and outdoor equipment including knives.
Ritter is also the founder and Chairman of Knife Rights (www.KnifeRights.org), America's effective knife owner advocacy organization responsible for the enactment of 32 bills repealing knife bans in 22 states and over 100 cities and towns since 2010.
Hogue, Inc. (www.Hogueinc.com) is home to a proud family tradition of American quality and innovation since 1968. Every Hogue product – from handgun grips to long gun stocks to AR components to specialty knives to gear and accessories – is built in the spirit of fine craftsmanship, attention to detail and complete dedication to the legacy of founder Guy Hogue, carried into the next generation by his sons Aaron and Patrick, by Managing Partner Jim Bruhns, by his grandson Neil, and by each and every employee at Hogue, Inc.
RSK® is a registered trademark of Douglas S. Ritter
* "AXIS" is a registered trademark of Benchmade Knife Company.
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Product Reviews
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First Impression
Out of the box very sharp and beautifully ground blade. The action is butter smooth. Solid lock up and dead on center. The scales provide a nice texture but not too aggressive of a grip. I also have the Deka Wharncliffe and am very impressed with the quality and ergonomics of both knives. Hogue knifes are an outstanding product and great value.
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Doug Ritter Mini-RSK® MK1-G2
Love the original in M390 and there isn't anything to not love about the mini the knife comes razor sharp and holds an edge well with it's comparable 20CV steel, no hot spots for me and super light weight perfect as my around the house knife. I believe these knives are the best you can get for the price and happy with my purchase.
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Ritter mini RSK
Wow fit,finish,action,ergonomics why would anyone by a mini griptillian when this gem is on the market if you don't have one get one you won't be sorry!
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Ritter and Hogue just moved the bar higher, and did it with a USA made blade!..
When you look at the EDC market these days, a buyer is absolutely inundated with options all over the price and materials range.
This is bang on the best value, quality, execution of design and combination of materials!
I picked the mini up for a smaller, less threatening-looking folder for my work carry, and was worried that it would not be big enough for my hands, I wear an XL glove, but I still had plenty room for all four fingers in my grip. It not only allows for a full four-finger grip, but the jimping is perfect and lands write under my thumb.
I had heard the handle was rough on pockets, that was not the case at all with mine. I am able to remove it on even my thicker Duluth fire hose pants with no issues.
Even if you are a bit of a steel snob, like me, it is hard to argue against the choice of 20cv and Hogue seems to have done an exceptional job on the heat treat. Especially with how well the grind is done on this blade. It is thin enough behind the edge to pass easily through most things you would cut on a daily basis and not have to worry about edge deflection of chipping. Out of the box it was easily in the top 3 sharpest factory edges I have ever had.
If you are looking for a great all around carry on the smaller size, I don't think you are going to find a better choice. In a vast world in all shapes, sizes and materials for someone looking for a great EDC blade, this one stands out in all categories. I can easily see myself buying the bigger version to take the place of other my full-size knife made by that other company.
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Holy cow!
I love this knife so much that I have now turned around and ordered the large size too! A great looking user with fantastic steel. The action came out of the box perfect. The texturing on the handles was a bit rough for my taste (and for my pants) so I hit it with some sandpaper and knocked it down a bit. The looks of the knife are unchanged but now it comes out of my pocket much more smoothly and won’t tear up my pocket eventually. Fit and finish is otherwise flawless in every way, and came out of the box much sharper than just about any knife I’ve ever purchased. I can’t say enough positive about this knife. Thank you Mr. Ritter!
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Ritter/Houge MK1 G2 Knives
I'm a collector and I consider the Ritter knives excellent knives. I recently purchased two of the mini's and one full size. They are my favorites in my collection.
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Exceptional Design
Probably the best knife you can buy if you're looking for something with: practical EDC size and shape, great steel, smooth manual open, G10 scales, good ergonomics, fantastic build quality, and a reasonable price. The ABLE lock is fun. You can open the knife just by depressing the lock and flicking your wrist. I read and watched a bunch of reviews before buying this knife and it has lived up to everything people said about it. Clearly a lot of thought and effort went into the design, and it's been perfect for me.
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The best knives I own.
I presently own eight of the Ritter/Benchmade minis and just purchased two of the Ritter/ Hogue minis. I consider these knives to be the best in my collection. I have over one hundred knives in my collection some factory produced and many custom made. The Ritter knives are by far my favorite. An excellent knife for the price. I forgot, I also have three of the full size Ritters in my collection.
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Thank you to Doug Ritter & Hogue.
I am happy to now have the Mini-RSK. I was truly and completely impressed with everything about the RSK. Everything said about the RSK is true of the Mini, comfortable ergonomics, cutting ability, superb steel, fit, finish and outstanding quality. The smaller knife feels better in my hand and has a greater ease of carry. The source of my two criticisms is the pocket clip. The pocket clip is same size on both versions. First, I think a smaller clip would have better aesthetic. Second, it does not create hot spots or discomfort in my right hand but it does in my left hand. (I keep my knife in my right pocket and set up for right hand carry but I am left handed.) I have ordered a smaller clip aftermarket to address this. Despite my opinion on the pocket clip this is a great knife and is worthy of a Five Star Review!