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: $149.95 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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Mini rsk
Have several different griptillians and this is in the same class as the upgraded griptillian. Very much worth the money
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Great edc
I am beyond satisfied with the purchase of the mini rsk. Came well packaged, shipped same day. Comes with its own pouch and helps fight for knife rights. The knife itself is just simply outstanding. It has to be the best value in a high quality edc available. The blade shape is amazing. Sharp as a scalpel but has just enough thickness to accomplish virtually all every day tasks. Sharpest knife out of the box I’ve purchased. Materials, workmanship, feel of the g10 all on point. Very impressed. I may buy another to gift and also pick up the full size. You will not be disappointed if you purchase this knife.
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Sharp Cutter!
Love this knife. It is a small one but it feels good in the hand. I'm excited to carry it for a few weeks in place of my usual (para3). The handle has some seriously aggressive knurling that I kinda like. The blade was extremely sharp upon arrival. Sharper than any of the multiple Spydercos I've ordered over the past couple years. Action is smooth as silk and, as a lefty, I really appreciate the lock mechanism. This is a fun knife to play with and to have handy!
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Doug Ritter Mini Rsk - WAY Better than Expected
For weeks now I have been looking for a benchmade doug ritter mini griptilian. All overpriced or very hard to find. I found the mini rsk which was my next option.
First let me start off with what I originally planned to do. I was going to do a blade swap on my 555bk-1 mini griptilian with the knifeworks doug ritter 20cv blade. It did not work for anybody who was wondering because the liners differ between the mini griptilian & the mini hogue ritter. The mini griptilian has full steel liners, where as the mini hogue ritter has partial liners like the full size griptilian & the full size hogue ritter. Another issue with the swap, the tip of the hogue ritter was not fully flush with the scales, it would stick out a good amount of the scale when closed.
At this point after the blade swap shenanigans, I've decided to use the mini rsk as is and it is amazing. Slightly bigger than the mini griptilian & a more ergonomic grip on the scale shape itself. Since receiving my mini rsk, I've retired my mini grip and I carry the hogue mini ritter now and I love it. I highly recommend -
Excellent EDC
Blade centered perfectly and very sharp. Lightweight but still enough size to fit comfortably in hand and carry all day. Thumbstuds have groves which make the smooth blade deployment quick and consistent. Clip is very sturdy. Very happy with my purchase plus quick delivery. Highly recommended.
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Smaller version of a great knife
After purchasing the regular-size RSK, I had to buy the Mini-RSK. The amazing qualities of the larger is now shrunken down into a more compact package, especially if your area has size restrictions. Excellent build quality is what you come to expect from Hogue & this is no exception. Not really any negatives I can think of for this knife.
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Good knife!!
Pretty happy with this knife. Arrived with a very nice, very sharp edge. The action was perfect. Looks very nice. My only complaint is the clip, I had a problem with the clip bending slightly the first week of carrying it. It was just enough to make it unusable. Kudos to knifeworks, I called them and they sent a replacement out right away, free of charge.
This knife would have been 5 stars if it wasn’t for my problem with the clip.
I also wish it was available with the red g-mascus scales. I ended buying the mini in the red and it looks fantastic! -
Ritter Rsk Mini
Absolutely perfect straight out of the box. Action, lock , blade center are flawless.
Blade is Razor sharp. I prefer this over my Zt 609 / 452 and Benchmade 940-01 2004 / mini freak for every day use. 1/2 the cost and better action out of box then all of um IMO. This is a gem. -
Very Nice Knife
I already have the large version of this knife and like it very much, so when I saw this smaller version become available I had to have it. It’s top notch for the price in most every way with the exception of an uneven edge. I did take the time to re-shape the edge and now it’s even and scalpel sharp. This size is perfect for an edc used for light duty daily tasks. G10 scales feel great in the hand. Blade action is smooth with no side or vertical play. Hard to beat.
