Product Description
Doug Ritter Mini-RSK® Mk1-G2, Orange 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.
Features
- Blade Material: Crucible CPM-20CV.
- 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.
Specifications:
| Knife Type | Folding Knife | |
| Brand | Houge | |
| Product Name | Doug Ritter | |
| Model # | DR54194 | |
| Overall Length (in) | 6.875 | |
| Closed Length (in) | 4.00 | |
| Blade Length (in) | 2.9 | |
| Blade Thickness (in) | 0.094 | |
| Blade Material | CPM-20CV | |
| Blade Hardness (HRC) | 61-62 | |
| Blade Type | Drop Point | |
| Blade Edge | Plain | |
| Blade Finish | Stonewash | |
| Handle Material | G-10 | |
| Handle Finish | Orange | |
| Lock Type | ABLE Lock | |
| Clip Position | Tip-Up, Right/Left Carry | |
| Weight (oz) | 2.6 | |
| Blade Length (in) | 2-3 |
Product Videos
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Product Reviews
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Mini RSK
Scales were a little abrasive in certain spots, but 30 seconds of light sanding took care of that. Super sharp, superbly well built by Hogue, just a great knife all around. Would definitely recommend!
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Excellent knives
Having missed the original Ritter versions of the Benchmade Griptilian, I have all these KnifeWorks exclusive Ritter/Hogue models in both sizes. They are really excellent knives. I should have written a review before this. I have hundreds of knives and these are among the very best EDC models. I only have one generic and one specific criticism: the very attractive pocket clips on both sizes are too thin and springy. I’ve bent two of them pretty easily. Hogue sent me replacements, but I see KnifeWorks sells then now. Increasing the thickness of the clip material by 20 or 30% should make them both stay in place better in your pocket, and resist bending. The knives are so good I still give them 5 stars, but this is an unfortunate design flaw. I expect to replace them all with aftermarket clips, which given the number of models is going to cost at least $250.
Finally, on the two orange models, I’m wondering why the frame hardware and pocket clips aren’t satin to match the blade? They’re the only two versions that have that discrepancy. Not a big deal, just curious as today they offered a sprint run of 100 of the exact same orange model with a black blade.
Anyway, get one, you won’t be sorry. -
Ritter Mini
The perfect smaller sized edc for people that actually use their knives for their intended purpose.
Slim in the pocket but still feels robust in hand
Great ergos with grippy G10 scales
Great steel & grind that came with an excellent factory edge
Perfect action with ZERO blade play
Good value
Good warranty
Everything you need in a solid edc knife with none of the unnecessary bells and whistles. Like most of us on here I have a lot of knives and when I need a smaller folder that I know will be able to take anything I throw at it this is the one I grab. Thank you D Ritter for making this little bad boy and thanks to Knife Works for putting them in our hands.
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Ritter mini
Huge improvement over the mini grip! The blade on this is pretty much the perfect edc shape and grind. I would have liked it to be a little thinner behind the edge but it still cuts great. I do wish the thumbstuds were removable though. I ordered this on a Thursday and got it on Saturday, amazing shipping and customer service! This will be my first choice for knive purchases from now on. Thanks Knifeworks!
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Just right!
I've been carrying a Bugout Mini for the last few months. It's a great little lightweight knife and a terrific fidget. This Mini is slightly larger than the Bugout and my Mini Griptillian. To me this Mini is just the right size and the blade steel is fantastic. Its heft with the G-10 scales are much better than the other two Mini’s. I realize the Bugout was designed as a lightweight and the scales flex, but it isn't an issue for me. I now have both sizes of orange RSK MK1-G2’s. I am extremely happy with this knife and give it my highest recommendation.
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Doug Ritter Mini-RSK Mk1-G2 by Hogue
This knife is worth every bit of $139, if not more, and thank you to Knifeworks for offering it. Buy one, you won't be sorry.
