Product Description
Doug Ritter Mini-RSK® MK1-G2 Knifeworks Exclusive - G-Mascus® Puple G-10/ Stonewashed Crucible CPM-20CV
NOTE: G-Mascus® handle pattern varies, each is unique and one-of-a-kind, and will not exactly match that shown.
MSRP: $169.95 FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES ONLY - KnifeWorks EVERYDAY LOW PRICE: $159.95 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 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
G-Mascus® is a registred trademark of Hougue, Inc.
* "AXIS" is a registered trademark of Benchmade Knife Company.
Specifications:
| Knife Type | Folding Knife | |
| Brand | Hogue | |
| Product Name | Doug Ritter | |
| Model # | DR54195 | |
| Overall Length (in) | 6.875 | |
| Closed Length (in) | 4.00 | |
| Blade Length (in) | 2.9 | |
| Blade Thickness (in) | 0.094 | |
| Handle Thickness (in) | 0.5 | |
| Blade Material | CPM-20CV | |
| Blade Hardness (HRC) | 61-62 | |
| Blade Type | Drop Point | |
| Blade Edge | Plain | |
| Blade Grind | High Flat | |
| Blade Finish | Stonewash | |
| Handle Material | G-10 Composite | |
| Handle Finish | G-Mascus Purple | |
| Lock Type | ABLE Lock | |
| Clip Position | Tip-Up, Right/Left Carry | |
| Weight (oz) | 2.6 | |
| Origin | USA |
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Sticker Update: Ritter/Hogue Mini-RSK
When I reviewed my KnifeWorks Ritter/Hogue Mini-RSK below I had one small "whine" about my grape colored little buddy — the lack of a STICKER. No, not a Hogue sticker, I got one of those. I'm talking about a KnifeWorks sticker. I didn't get one and as I said in my review, we're all kids at heart and we LOVE stickers.
While exercising yesterday (June 1, 2022) my mind wandered and I started to think about where I wanted to put my Hogue sticker — like on a knife sharpening stand. Then I wished KnifeWorks had included one with my order.
Later on I went out to get the mail and found that KnifeWorks had sent me a letter —
OMG! Jennifer at KnifeWorks' "Five-Star" Customer Service sent me two stickers and a personal note! I was smiling the rest of the day.
Thank you, Jennifer and KnifeWorks. Oh yeah, I'm one happy customer.
Now, what's going on with all that "&#039" stuff in my original review?
No problem. Again, thanks, Jennifer!
Van
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A different level of — Wow!
Bear with me, I'm new at this and still learning the EDC/knife community lingo. Since I was a teen (long ago), I pretty much lived with a Victorinox Super Tinker in my pocket. Way back then (in South Carolina) every high school guy carried a knife at school. All my friends had the large Buck knives but, I loved my Super Tinker. Around 1985 I bought my black skeletal Tekna knife for scuba (if you even know what I'm talking about). Well, that was about it until a friend of mine started showing me his collection and I "got the bug." After doing way too much research and watching loads of Metal Complex and Nick Shabazz YouTube videos, I decided to order a Doug Ritter/Hogue RSK. But what size? I called KnifeWorks and spoke to a very nice lady who put up with all my questions and then suggested the Mini-RSK because I have smallish hands. I went with her idea and ordered a purple one online. For whatever reason USPS was several days slow but when my package finally arrived it was in perfect shape. One thing I liked off the bat was, it came from Roger Claunch NOT KnifeWorks which would have immediately given someone the idea of the packages contents. Inside was a copy of my invoice and a thoughtful note. Packing peanuts protected the Hogue box inside. The box contained a Hogue sticker (I love stickers) and info/warranty slip. My Mini-RSK was inside a nice padded black zippered pouch. It's beautiful and fits my hand perfectly. The Able lock is firm to pull down but the blade falls open (click)and shut (click) just turning my wrist over. It's just — Wow! The stonewash on the perfectly centered blade is gorgeous. The matte silver blade and hardware perfectly compliment the purple G10 handles — I mean scales— which themselves feel amazing. The color/pattern differs knife to knife. I was aware of this. On KnifeWorks' web page the "regular size" RSK is more purple while the "mini" has cream colored areas. My mini has no lighter areas. My knife looks almost exactly like the full sized RSK — all shades of purple. It's stunning and everything oozes quality. Of the Ritter/Hogue Mini-RSK, I have nothing but praise. My only complaints . . . I wish my hands were larger 'cause most of the knives I'm lusting for are about the size of the regular RSK or larger. I'll have to make do. Finally, I watched a YouTube video. The guy ordered his knife from KnifeWorks too but, he got a KnifeWorks sticker and I didn't. Don't forget the stickers KnifeWorks! We're all big kids at heart and love stickers. Maybe next time. I was treated very well and am staying a KnifeWorks customer. Hey, ladies and guys, if you want to make it up to me . . . put my name on one of the knives I'm lusting for when a rare shipment comes in. Let me know and we can forget about the sticker. Thanks again, KnifeWorks.
Van
May 9, 2022 -
Very nice.
I have been carrying a Hogue micro flip for years and love it, this Ritter mini is just as awesome. Already thinking about which color I should get next.
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DOUG RITTER MINI-RSK® MK1-G2 KNIFEWORKS EXCLUSIVE - G-MASCUS® PURPLE G-10/STONEWASHED
I LOVE the DOUG RITTER MINI-RSK® MK1-G2 KNIFEWORKS EXCLUSIVE - G-MASCUS® PURPLE G-10/STONEWASHED!!! I also have the red g-mascus and the blue g-mascus. I am amazed at the smooth action on this knife! That is one of the reasons I have three of them. LOL! Another reason is the grippy handle design and the beautiful g-mascus. The size is perfect for me for legal reasons and I have smaller hands. This knife is also very sharp out of the box! I recommend these knives highly!
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Overall Good
Love the knife. All around great! Only piece is that, for me, the scales are a bit too rough. Some guys like the fact that it will leave a wear mark on your jeans… me, not so much. Definitely could be smoother for a perfect 5 stars.
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It's all I want
Perfect fit. Presence. Completely functional. Fidget factor x 1000! I can't say enough good things about it.
Purple scales called me and I couldn't say no. -
god-level knife
this is a truly wondrous knife, with only positive qualities. this was my first experience with the able or axis lock, and it frankly feels like sorcery in the hand. it's effortless to kick the blade out and back in almost immediately out of the box. it fits very neatly in my rather big hands, and the texture/contour of the handle makes it both ultra-grippy and visually distinctive. it has a great blade shape, great steel, it's perfectly centered, light, compact, gorgeous, all for $150. i hate to gush to the point of free advertisement but this knife is apparently flawless and i would recommend it to pretty much anyone.
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Fantastic little knife.
The mini-grip was my first "nice" knife, and I carried it for years as a teenager. This knife (which I recently purchased) is an improvement on that knife in every way - a better looking and feeling handle (scales) made of a higher quality material (g10), a better looking blade, better looking hardware and studs, and overall phenomenal build quality. My only complaint is that when you hold the blade in one hand and the handle in the other and open it slowly, you can feel some grittiness. But in one-handed operation, you will never notice this - it is extremely smooth, and one of the fastest knives, if not the fastest knife, I own. The lock is, of course, brilliant. Overall, a great knife! I will be buying more Hogue stuff in the future now that I know they can make such premium products!
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Worth every penny!
I felt very compelled to review this knife. Mr. Ritter, this is a wonderful design! The ergos are great. My wife (small hands) and myself (XL hands)both love the feel. The fit and finish is on a custom level. Hogue really knocked this out of the park and IMO, are leaving BM in the dust as far as quality per dollar go. Whoever is sharpening these knives at Hogue deserves a raise. This things is hair whittling out of the box. Few production companies are on the same level as Hogue in regards to an edge. This knife also came out of the box with ZERO blade play and the thing just falls shut!
