(171) Are Rough Ryder Knives Junk? My Response

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  • Опубліковано 26 січ 2025

КОМЕНТАРІ • 574

  • @badmunkyedc1
    @badmunkyedc1 4 роки тому +67

    Knife shaming has definitely gotten better over the years. I'm a huge sucker for gas station knives, budget knives, expensive knives and just knives overall. That's part of the joy of the hobby, that there are so many different types and styles that appeal to anyone. And regarding the Rough Ryder knives, I've had RRs that were put together better than a Case I paid 4 times more money for. And it used to be a big deal if a knife was made in China, but they've changed a lot in the past 30 years. The quality is on par, if not better than American made most times. Great rant!

    • @Checkmate1954
      @Checkmate1954 4 роки тому +6

      Well said...I would just echo the points you made.

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  4 роки тому +9

      Thank you Badmunky. I had a gaudy gold colored fake Damascus flipper of dubious quality that I would use at work. People would always comment on how good it looked. It wouldn't hold an edge long, but that 5 dollar knife impressed the 💩 out of non knife type people. I finally broke the tip off of it one day trying to use it as a screwdriver. Easy come, easy go.

    • @HollywoodTacticool
      @HollywoodTacticool 4 роки тому +5

      @@WilliamsKnifeLife always use beater knives as screwdrivers lol. And knives we knife nerds think are tacky impress the heck out of Normies, and high end knives we think are exquisite turn zero heads

    • @rustyknifelover4463
      @rustyknifelover4463 4 роки тому +1

      Agree Brother.

    • @carmineredd1198
      @carmineredd1198 3 роки тому +1

      @@WilliamsKnifeLife gold .. i had a pakistan boot dagger Texas Gold. i bought it to pry open buckets of joint compound it was perfect for that use , was it sharp ? i dunno i never tested the edge, i just got tired of bending screwdrivers and it was 4 dollars so ...

  • @chadm8868
    @chadm8868 Рік тому +10

    One of those “junk” knives could last you to your dying day if you keep it clean and sharp. For 12 dollars! That is what pocket knives used to be about.

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  Рік тому +3

      Yep. Before UA-cam, people bought inexpensive knives to use. Nothing wrong with collecting, but many people just need a tool.

  • @charlesmckinney
    @charlesmckinney Рік тому +8

    I own several rough riders. I use them. They work. They look good. Just bought a Seahorse Whittler. It's a great knife. I've already nicked myself with it. Bled just as red as I do when I cut myself with my Case.

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  Рік тому

      That seahorse is a great pattern. I know someone who went to the hospital closing the blade with his leg. Little blades can do big damage.

  • @halcooper6059
    @halcooper6059 4 роки тому +44

    I have about a dozen rough ryder knives. I've had 1-2 that disappointed me. The others I've found to be an excellent value. I can find joy in the simple things and also in higher end things. I doubt the negative comment came from someone with real experience with rough ryder knives.

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  4 роки тому +3

      Thank you Hal.

    • @markcoffman494
      @markcoffman494 3 роки тому +1

      I have had the same experience, I just bought a ton and they all had small things about them I didn’t like, but over all, I had an amazing round up.

    • @johndagostino2451
      @johndagostino2451 3 роки тому +1

      Yeah 2 blade Barlow are my favourites

    • @marty1685
      @marty1685 11 місяців тому +1

      Have tried 3 now, not one was satisfactory, not even for $15.

  • @jamesbarry6248
    @jamesbarry6248 Рік тому +7

    THE OLD IMPERIAL /Hammer Brand budget knives made during the great depression with the plastic shell handles and tin bolsters ,could be considered junk but collectors really respect them with their high carbon steel blades and snap that beats most modern knives.

  • @KnifeChatswithTobias
    @KnifeChatswithTobias 4 роки тому +20

    I block ‘em when they are totally ignorant, using foul language, etc. most of these actually get picked up by the You Tube filters.
    Hopefully the guy was nice enough to give you a 👎. Your channel if popular enough to warrant a thumbs down or two every now and then!
    ( sorry! I gave this one a 👍!)

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  4 роки тому +3

      Thank you Tobias. If you don't get a thumbs down every once in awhile, you aren't trying hard enough. 😃

    • @jgbullen
      @jgbullen 4 роки тому +3

      Tobias, If they start a sentence with Hey Dude, be prepared to hit the block key.

    • @marty1685
      @marty1685 11 місяців тому +1

      You think people should be blocked just because they disagree with you?

    • @KnifeChatswithTobias
      @KnifeChatswithTobias 11 місяців тому

      @@marty1685, disagreeing, no. Trolling, yes.

  • @Coopersboy7
    @Coopersboy7 Місяць тому +4

    I personally prefer collecting German and US made knives, that’s just a personal preference. If someone wants to buy from China that’s their right and their money. If they’re happy with it I’m happy for them. Don’t crap on what people enjoy

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  19 днів тому

      @@Coopersboy7 That's a great approach that more people should adopt.

  • @Pocket_EDC
    @Pocket_EDC 8 місяців тому +3

    Excellent commentary and perspective. I wouldn't have near the number of knives in my collection if it wasn't for RR. Granted, I think RR leans heavily into collectability. I have RR knives that I would not feel safe using and others that I put to work. Some are just so attractive to look at, I would never want to rough them up (even though they may be up to the task). Regardless, a new RR knife in the mail most always makes me happy. Only had one that I returned (blade was t0o warped to cut a straight line). All that said, I've watched enough knife reviews to know that more expensive brands also have quality issues. I've said it before....I'm fine paying RR prices for RR quality but, I would hate to pay, say, Case prices and get RR quality. Cheers.

  • @GabrielDeMfromNY
    @GabrielDeMfromNY 10 місяців тому +3

    Hey dude... Hal... which ONE most popular Rough Ryder knives is the best one of the bunch?

  • @nathanalfaro4783
    @nathanalfaro4783 Рік тому +2

    Bro what rough rider is that to your right the big one,, looks like Grey wood handles.. That looks beautiful...

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  Рік тому +1

      That's the Rough Ryder 25 year's anniversary Jumbo Trapper. They have basically the same thing in the Teddy Roosevelt but with red handles.
      Here is a video on that knife
      ua-cam.com/video/tq6gLixmc7M/v-deo.html

  • @johnkeppeler254
    @johnkeppeler254 Рік тому +2

    Sir,
    Thank you for your video. Where did you get your knife mat that has all the blade types, nomenclature, etc please?

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  Рік тому +2

      i think it was from BladeHQ, but it's probably also available at Knafs website.

  • @toolooselitrek
    @toolooselitrek Рік тому +2

    I've been dying to know what that "anchor sticker" is just off to the left of screen that you're fidgeting with at the beginning of the vid??....I collect anchor stickers!

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  Рік тому +2

      That's a BigRedEDC channel member sticker. I got it and a bunch of other stickers from him when I joined his members thing.

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  Рік тому +1

      youtube.com/@BigRedEDC?si=BIcJC6bgHxzwR7uK

  • @dalecrabtree2382
    @dalecrabtree2382 2 роки тому +2

    Hey, whats your opinion on the marbles gi issue folding demo knife

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  2 роки тому +2

      It's not bad. The original ones are built a little bit better, but those aren't too bad. Pretty good for the price.

  • @fossilimprint2954
    @fossilimprint2954 3 роки тому +9

    In my experience, quality of Rough Ryder is on average about the same as Case. For a lot less cost. My only real beef with Rough Ryder is that their Reserve line knives usually have too hard/strong of a pull for my liking. But that is subjective, I happen to dislike bear trap pull strength.

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  3 роки тому

      I have the Rhino Toe Reserve coming in. I don't collect all of them, but that one looks like a Sunfish.

    • @marty1685
      @marty1685 11 місяців тому +1

      They aren't even close to Case! I have bought over 20 Case knives, never an issue. I have not yet even seen a Rough Ryder without issues, have bought 3, will never buy another.

    • @heathen-greaser
      @heathen-greaser 16 днів тому

      @@marty1685 Yeaa I get what your saying but I think rough Ryder are very much capable of competing with case. I love case knives but my one case cost the same price as my 4 rough Ryders and each one of those rough Ryders is just as good as the case knife in my opinion. Rough Ryder could definitely be better but I don’t feel I got £60 more knife over any of the 4 rough Ryders with looks, capability or it’s finish when compared to my case.
      Case knives are beautiful 100% and well worth the money but what you get with rough Ryder for the price you really can’t go wrong

  • @seanrobinson6407
    @seanrobinson6407 9 місяців тому +3

    I like them. I have a Case collection, Bucks, Leatherman, Benchmades Victorinox and lots of nice knives new and vintage. I also like buying the occasional Rough Rider. I've had good experiences with their quality. The fit and finishing has been good. Plus they are fun because you can try different patterns and even weird patters for a low price. I will say that the metallurgy of the blades is a bit soft (but the carbon ones now are ok), but they sharpen up nice. But I get traditional slipjoints from them just for a fun laid back pocket carry.
    When I need a Spyderco I grab one. If I'm camping I'll bring a Mora. But with Rough Riders you can get really nice bone or micarta scaled knife and not worry about carrying it losing it etc. I've even had a ten dollar one that a buddy complemented and I was like "keep it" because it was inexpensive and it was a nice little gift.

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  9 місяців тому +1

      That's the way to do it. I like many different brands and types of knives.

    • @seanrobinson6407
      @seanrobinson6407 9 місяців тому

      @@WilliamsKnifeLife You got nice ones there. That orange one reminds me of my Case muskrat, which is a favorite of mine. I have really enjoyed the Rough Rider blue jean micarta series lately. The canoe pattern denim micarta is awesome looking. I don't understand the haters. If someone is loyal to particular brands, great, but why go to a video about one you don't like just to troll? Plus most of them have probably never had one and are just talking crap. I got nothing to prove. This is my hobby and I'll enjoy it how I want to. Plus budget knives are good for people who may not have a lot of money but can still enjoy the hobby or start out. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and showing off some of your cool knives.

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  9 місяців тому

      @seanrobinson6407 Same here. I don't understand why people say they are junk knives. Sure, occasionally, you will get one that has some issues, but that's true of any knife manufacturer producing in volume. When I made that video, it was after too many comments calling them cheap Chinese junk. They are inexpensive, made in China, but they aren't junk knives.

    • @seanrobinson6407
      @seanrobinson6407 9 місяців тому +1

      Not junk. Years ago inexpensive knives like Ozark Trail used to not be my cup of tea, but they have stepped it up and in the last few years have released 5$ knives that are actually really good like an axis lock one I recently got. Times have changed. I think you are right. It is just old prejudices. I am trying to get my hands on another GEC though. Gotta admit😁

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  9 місяців тому

      @seanrobinson6407 I only have 3 GECs. I got mine right when they started to disappear during release & reappear on eBay for double or triple the release price. After that, I decided not to chase them anymore. They are great knives, but I don't feel like jumping through a bunch of flaming hoops to get one. Good luck with your quest. 👍

  • @canisferris
    @canisferris Рік тому +2

    The only junk knives i know Is tac-force knives, i personally like elk ridge, vortek AND i just bought a rough rider waiting for It to arrive

  • @ihopetowin
    @ihopetowin 2 роки тому +9

    You know what? These knives are not junk. It's true I see some better than others and I think certain issues involving fit and finish are gradually improving. For a person starting out in. the hobby, they are a very pleasing option and some of their patterns are for the moment unique or extremely hard to find, cotton samplers for instance. I recently bought a cotton sampler, hasn't arrived yet and I'll be happy to include it.

  • @KnifeChatswithTobias
    @KnifeChatswithTobias 4 роки тому +11

    Yeah, I get the Chinese junk knives all the time. I always factor the price you’re paying for the knife to be a critical part of the value.
    If you’re not happy with American Companies producing products in China blame our government and its domestic and foreign economic policies. Our government has created this trade imbalance and we just went through an election that has just strengthened it.
    Our trade policies are junk and they have forced American companies to move off shore to survive. I think you know who I am. And the bottom line if you’re looking for a quality traditional pattern knife that the bulk of American can use and afford ; it will most likely be made off-shore.
    Been having this argument for 10+ years.

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  4 роки тому +2

      Thank you Tobias. Well said.

    • @andythebreadbaker9925
      @andythebreadbaker9925 2 роки тому +2

      Just want to add to this discussion that there are worlds of difference between American companies with labor in China and actual Chinese companies largely marketed to mostly Chinese buyers on say dhgate or Ali Express.

    • @andythebreadbaker9925
      @andythebreadbaker9925 2 роки тому +2

      Another thing to add is the racist 'junk' label heaped on Japanese steel back in the 70s and 80s. Imagine saying something like that now. You'd be laughed at and rightly so. Chinese steel (7cr / 8 cr etc) has gotten ridiculously good in more recent years.

  • @BigRedEDC
    @BigRedEDC 4 роки тому +8

    Easy answer....no, they're not! Thanks William!!! I'm sure I've probably heard from this person as well...lol!!!

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  4 роки тому +1

      Thank you JB. That would have been a quick video 😂 The introduction, state the question. Answer No. Roll credits 😅

    • @BigRedEDC
      @BigRedEDC 4 роки тому

      @@WilliamsKnifeLife lol...😂😂😂😂

  • @eldonnparks8059
    @eldonnparks8059 3 роки тому +2

    My opinion of RR knives has been diminished by two recent purchases that
    were defective. One had scale pins that protruded way excessively and the
    other blade scrapes when opening and closing. Both purchased new on eBay
    so who knows where the sellers got them. Are they seconds or is RR lacking
    in quality control? My other 4 RR's are good. Is 4 out of 6 ok?

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  3 роки тому +1

      I have heard their quality is slipping on more recent models, but I haven't noticed it on any of my purchases. I haven't been buying as many of them as I used to, not because of quality but because I have been buying more Case knives. My only issue with Ebay is the return or refund. Usually you can get a refund, but I like to buy my RR's from either SMKW, or Chicago Knife Works.
      I does sound like you got more than average amount of bad ones.

  • @trueblueedits4673
    @trueblueedits4673 Рік тому +3

    The "China bad" sentiment is honestly a really ignorant one to have when considering the fact that a huge portion of products (or parts of products) in the West is Chinese-made. We use these products and don't bat an eye and don't consider it junk. So why should we consider Chinese-made knives junk? Kizer is a knife brand with many products originating in China, yet the knife community generally has high praise for their knives (Kizer Begleiter 2, Kizer Drop Bear, Kizer Sheepdog etc). Ignore the trolls and like what you like regardless of where it's from. As long as it's ethical and does the job you want it to, love what you love.

  • @fredcolon2341
    @fredcolon2341 5 місяців тому +3

    If you like knives, it doesn't matter where they are made, you just enjoy what you like no matter what the price,

  • @JHR1936
    @JHR1936 4 місяці тому +2

    William totally agree, I started with one RoughRider, now I have over 13. I really like them. I've been a long-time Case fanatic, RR has patterns and materials that Case never offers and if they did it would cost hundreds. Enjoyed your video and content. Thanks

  • @jerryjennis6083
    @jerryjennis6083 3 роки тому +3

    I thought they were junk too till i bought the yellow T10 whittler thats just as good or better than the case sea horse whittler that didn't cost noways as much I love this thing that fellow needs to buy one of these that will change his mind about rough rider knives

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  3 роки тому

      That's it Jerry. if we had an easy way of putting on a different shield, many RR haters would think they are a decent knife. Some people just hate China, but don't want to appear racist. i don't like the communist party, but i appreciate a well made knife.

  • @sixgunslingin
    @sixgunslingin 11 місяців тому +1

    I made a video about a rough rider where the backspring exploded out of the back. I don't know if it's a fluke for what. I have another rough rider that i've carried for fifteen years where nothing Happened

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  11 місяців тому

      They do put out an occasional bad one, but that's true of any manufacturer. I think that overall, they are of decent quality for the price paid.

  • @suburbanjackedc9792
    @suburbanjackedc9792 2 роки тому +2

    Great video and topic! my Rough ryder experience has been fantastic I love the reserve and apta line.

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  2 роки тому +1

      thank you suburban jack edc. i haven tried the Apta series yet. i do like the Wharncliffe looking one.

  • @markherrera829
    @markherrera829 4 роки тому +9

    Hi William, I own six rough rider/rough ryder knives. I also own four civivi knives and enjoy every one of them as much as I do my American made blades. I just like a well made tool. Be Well.

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  4 роки тому +3

      Thank you Mark. I feel the same way.

    • @HollywoodTacticool
      @HollywoodTacticool 4 роки тому +1

      Period. End of sentence!

    • @marty1685
      @marty1685 11 місяців тому

      Civivi and Rough Ryder are not even in the same league. Civivi makes a decent knife, RR looks just like the knives I can find next to the jerky and drug pipes in the gas station.

  • @lompe666
    @lompe666 7 місяців тому +2

    I started collecting them for over 15 years now. I just love them, the looks and finish are super. I just bought a few since the last ones few years back and always get excited when looking for models. To bad they are getting expensive i bought years ago for 10 bucks a nice one. I like the smaller models with multiple blades and the classic look. My collection would be around 35 pcs i think, nicely displayed in a glass cabinet. When looking for new ones i came across your video, nice video and true words.

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  7 місяців тому

      Thank you. I wish I had started collecting them 15 years ago. I'm relatively new to Rough Ryder knives (4 years).

    • @lompe666
      @lompe666 7 місяців тому +1

      What i did noticed i that the brandname is different. It used to be Rough Rider as i remember correctly. But the knives are still beautyfull as they used to be.

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  7 місяців тому +1

      @lompe666 Yes. They started out as Rough Ryder, then changed the name, maybe because people gave them crap for not spelling Rider correctly. IDK. Then, later, they decided to go back to the original spelling. I think they started selling knives in 1995.

  • @SecretSquirrel-et6dl
    @SecretSquirrel-et6dl Рік тому +2

    I refuse to pay more than $20 for any knife I use and carry. My rough ryders are great traditional knives that work well for carry knives. I will agree that they are more likely to have flaws I would want addressed (handle fitment, gouging, blade alignment, pin setting, spring gap, etc…)than randomly ordering a case or a buck online, which is why I only pick up a couple of new ones each Christmas when I’m home and able to walk into SMKW and compare several in person before choosing one. That said, when you pick one that’s to your liking, it stays that way and works as well as any buck or case without breaking the bank. And, American brands are not immune to fitment issues either. I’ve ordered online and wished I’d have purchased in person.

  • @richardweilandt3315
    @richardweilandt3315 Рік тому +2

    I like Rough Ryder knives. I have the Highland large Toothpick. I even have some of those ( junk ) novelty knives, because, I like the art work. No knife is truly a junk knife. That's an individuals perception and lack of knowledge in metallurgy. All steels will sharpen, all steels will cut. All knives look fabulous in a collection. People are snobs and elitists. The various types of steel are named for a reason. There is a metallurgy chart listing steels and their similar steels from other countries. 440A is similar to 1 of our American steels and several European steels.

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  Рік тому +1

      Even paper will cut as I've found out more than once 😆 ouch

    • @richardweilandt3315
      @richardweilandt3315 Рік тому +1

      @@WilliamsKnifeLife yeah, and those actually hurt worse than a knife cutting you 😆 a top metallurgist said it best, all steel is Super Steel. Because it is refined Iron with Carbon and other elements add to improve strength, wear resistance, and rust resistance. Many will say that a $19.95 knife is cheap garbage because you didn't Pay like you said, over $80.00 like if you buy a Case. I have Case knives, and Case Straight Razors. But I won't use them for hard work.

  • @yelnatsipcus2536
    @yelnatsipcus2536 2 роки тому +1

    What is the giant one on the right side?

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  2 роки тому +1

      That's the Rough Ryder 25th anniversary Jumbo Trapper. They have another one just like it with red covers called the Teddy Roosevelt Trapper. SMKW has them for about 40 dollars.
      www.smkw.com/rough-ryder-teddy-roosevelt-trapper

    • @yelnatsipcus2536
      @yelnatsipcus2536 2 роки тому +1

      @@WilliamsKnifeLife thanks

  • @kingsmoke1855
    @kingsmoke1855 Рік тому +1

    What is that big knife on the right side?

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  Рік тому

      That's the Rough Ryder 25th anniversary, Jumbo Trapper. They still have the same knife available as a Teddy Roosevelt commemorative. I'll link my review of it.

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  Рік тому

      Here's my look at it.
      ua-cam.com/video/tq6gLixmc7M/v-deo.html

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  Рік тому

      Here's when I first received it.
      ua-cam.com/video/TjI74pCwawo/v-deo.html

  • @rockd8946
    @rockd8946 Рік тому +3

    I’d like to say - your video could not be more true! EXCELLENT! I immediately subscribed and appreciated your directness in distinguishing junk knives vs quality.
    I also agree… with yes I have a few of the upper class GECs, case, Older US Scharde 3 blades..and even a nice collection of high dollar fixed blades.
    The Rough Riders are well made, as you said many different patterns to appreciate and use them for sure! I have several… Reserve patterns. I think you’re right when folks see China they immediately run the opposite direction without knowing the facts.
    I’ve been collecting, buying and trading ALL kinds of knives since 1977. Enjoyed them all. Knife snobs, steel snobs run rampant these days… I just smile and ignore!
    Thanks again for your video!

  • @KnifeDetector
    @KnifeDetector 4 роки тому +5

    Absolutely brother!! Knife shaming is a real thing!! I've also experienced the same thing by a sales person at a gun store once. I get viewers that say some pretty rude things some times, I usually just block them and move on. I recently blocked someone for getting on my case about doing a video on China knife. He even insulted my weight, saying a need to work on my gut!!! Some folks want to exact political justice on us unsuspecting youtubers. Unfortunately, because we allow comments we give them the opportunity to take the first punch.

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  4 роки тому +1

      Thank you KD. I took a logic class in college & it really helped me understand what logical fallacies are in arguments, or debates, and why people do things like personal attacks, in the example you gave. It's because they know their arguments are weak, or incorrect, and they don't want to admit it. So they go for an insult that they hope will cause you to say something stupid, and forget all about your original argument. Our reasoning abilities go down when angry, and it's a biological fact. We get on that animal level. Fight or flight. I don't look for fights, but I won't back down when I have no choice.
      I will start blocking more comments like that. It's my channel. I'm not going to allow haters to have a free area to spread their disease. They can thumb down all they want, but their little poison pills are not going to get to lie around here for victims to swallow. The world can use a lot less hate, bigotry, xenophobia. I think we have enough to last us several lifetimes out there. No need to add to it.

    • @KnifeDetector
      @KnifeDetector 4 роки тому

      @@WilliamsKnifeLife Yes sir!! I wholeheartedly agree on all points my friend. Backing down is not in my nature either.

  • @alangross2277
    @alangross2277 10 місяців тому +2

    After buying 4 or 5 Rough Riders, I bought a number, maybe as many as 20, of Rough Rider knives about 10 years ago to give as Christmas gifts to my shop guys. They were all very nice knives, well made and sharp. One out all of these knives, a tiny little lock back knife. had a cracked bone scale, so I kept it for myself and I still have it. Recently I watched a UA-cam video comparing sharpness of a Rough Rider Classic Carbon II Stockman against a Case XX Stockman, which cost 5-6 times as much as the Rough Rider...after 100 cut through some large rope, the Rough Rider was the sharper of the two, by a slight margin. Pure junk? I think not.

  • @Pyewack3t
    @Pyewack3t 3 роки тому +2

    I've had RRs tbat have questionable F+F but I'm still buying as the majority are decent. I have bought different brands where I've said "Deffo not buying those again". What's the giant thing on the right by the way? It got my attention for most of that vid.

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  3 роки тому +1

      The monster on the right is the Rough Ryder 25th anniversary Jumbo Trapper. and they weren't kidding about the Jumbo part. Here's the review i did on it. ua-cam.com/video/tq6gLixmc7M/v-deo.html

  • @jamieryall8341
    @jamieryall8341 4 роки тому +6

    Anything made in China is only as good as the quality control, the machines & people making the items. The American knives cost more because the workers make higher wages than their Chinese counterparts. I have Cold Steel, Italian stilletos & Civivi that are better quality than Rough Rider. I like RR for the same reasons you do, William. They're fun to look @ & play with, fidget with them & keep in a knife roll to haul out every once in a while, just as I do with all my knives. There are some RR's, the larger ones that I would & do EDC. I always take comments like you're referring to with a grain of salt & immediately stick it in the junk category of idiotic thoughts. I think there are people who on Utube that scroll all websites & hit the thumbs down on every one of them. Keep up your useful, informative & fun videos, William.

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  4 роки тому +3

      Thank you Jamie. You are right. It really comes down to does the person in charge of the company want to make a good quality item, or just want profit. You can do both, but unscrupulous companies go for short term gain, like a con man running a scam in a city. Once word gets around, he doesn't have anymore suckers, and has to move on. In reality, good quality may cost more to implement, but will pay itself back many times with loyal customers.

  • @bigbobg8091
    @bigbobg8091 4 роки тому +5

    I’ve been pleasantly surprised by Rough Rider knives. I own five and like them all. Are they perfect? Probably not but they don’t cost an arm and a leg either. They are an excellent value at their price point. I also own GEC and Case.

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  4 роки тому +1

      Thank you Bigbobg. I'm looking at getting my first Case soon. Have my eye on that new Copperhead release with a Wharncliffe blade.

    • @durango8882
      @durango8882 3 роки тому +1

      And it allows people who like knives that are inexpensive to be able to collect them as a hobby.

  • @rockd8946
    @rockd8946 День тому

    Ran across your vid again… 1 year later. I commented previously- at length… so I’ll keep this brief. You absolutely nailed it.
    Inexpensive DOSENT MEAN CHEAP! !!!
    I have found that a lot if the so called knife snobs are also STEEL snobs… etc etc.
    I recently retired….. as I’ve previously mentioned.. I’ve owned more knives than I really want to know. Having an expanded liking for MANY BRANDS makes one appreciate the patterns, etc. Rough rider is exactly what you said. No investment- their users and fun to collect certain ones YOU like.
    I recently picked up a Celestial large stockman… I seriously cannot find one flaw on it. For $15 dollars !
    Anyway- thanks again for reminding these fellow knife folks to not target a brand until they have ALL THE FACTS.

  • @jdnotariano
    @jdnotariano 3 роки тому +2

    I just found out about these and have a bunch in my shopping cart. What model are those with the rifle logo? Thanks.

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  3 роки тому +1

      They call those the Rifleman series. It's my favorite series of theirs. They aren't made anymore, so you can only find them on the secondary market, like Ebay. I'm giving one away in my giveaway(a muskrat) . I haven't made the entry video yet, but it will be this month. It's Open to all subscribers.

  • @eligarcia215
    @eligarcia215 Рік тому +5

    I have been buying “junk” knives for years off of places like BUDK and other places. With the exception of my whiteknuckler knives, I have over the years acquired several timber rattler, timber wolf, bushcraft, chipaway cutlery, frost cutlery among other brands and let me tell you, with the exception of very few, all have done a tremendous job of not only performing well in the field but also saving me plenty of cash in my pocket. Great video, friend.

  • @jgbullen
    @jgbullen 4 роки тому +3

    I have amazed myself by how many Rough Riders I bought this year from SMKW alone. The first factor is an American company is controlling the quality control of the people who make their products. Cold Steel has knives made all over the place. I subscribe to the monthly SMKW box. I get the $30 edition and last month it included a RR2114 from the black and blue series. If I thru out all the other stuff, including a couple of items made by Gerber, I felt I had $30 worth. You are right about Trolls. A couple of years back to when I was building bass guitars, I built a replica 1963 Fender P Bass and had pictures out on Facebook with certain groups. So 2 guys living together in a basement ,tried to jump all over me for choosing to install Seymour Duncan pickups on it. When can guys like this borrow enough money from mom to buy the parts? They read magazines and Wish, yet critisise those who do. Sorry to write so much.

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  4 роки тому +1

      Thank you John. No need to apologize for writing too much, as I like communication. I learn a lot from my commentors.
      I thought about joining the SMKW care package thing, but I never could figure out what level I'd be happy with joining. I probably should try it once just to see if I'm happy with some stranger buying me some random knife things. I guess they are not complete strangers, but still. It's like hanging outside a grocery store, and asking some stranger to go in there and buy 100 bucks of food for you. Just food, no specific instructions. You might wind up with a lot of stuff that's technically food, but you won't ever eat it. 😂

    • @jgbullen
      @jgbullen 4 роки тому +1

      @@WilliamsKnifeLife Try the box at $30 GI level. I have felt so far every month I get more than that in stuff. plus the shipping. Next level is $100 and my friend JJ Jinks reviews that level every month. Subscribe , he is areal kick in the pants. Then they have a $250 level. I just don't collect the type of blades that come in the upper box. To me they have big price tags but often look like something Chinese on BUDK for ten bucks. When I go big bucks I go for real military weapons, even then looking for a bargain.

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  4 роки тому

      @@jgbullen Thank you for the information. The 100 dollar level would probably be the highest level I would go. If I'm spending 250 bucks, it's not going to be on a high end knife. The 30 dollar level doesn't dent my pocket like those other levels do. And it's kind of nice to be surprised in a good way.

    • @jgbullen
      @jgbullen 4 роки тому

      @@WilliamsKnifeLife The expensive boxes include everything from the lower level has with the addition of one knife worth $70 or if you feel like a General 2 more worth over $125 each. For me nothing there makes me go WOW.

  • @scottmoore5839
    @scottmoore5839 2 роки тому +4

    Rough rider is a perfectly good knifes based on their price. If you compare them to a Benchmade or any other main manufacture yes, they are cheap and their fit and finish can be highly questionable, but you're not paying 150.00 plus bucks for them either. So based on bang for your buck and multiple choices you have in design and size they are a fun affordable alternative if you like that old school look and feel.

    • @marty1685
      @marty1685 11 місяців тому

      RR isn't even good bang for your buck! You can buy a Mora fixed blade or an Opinel folder for the same price as these and they are actually high quality knives!

    • @christripptripp797
      @christripptripp797 10 місяців тому

      @marty1685 that's not true at all. Rough Ryder has been surpassing Case in quality for a while. It sounds like you've never owned or held one.

    • @marty1685
      @marty1685 10 місяців тому

      @@christripptripp797 you want a pic of my knife collection? I have 3 rough ryders, (all have issues, two are the same model, the carbon whittler and the other is the VG10 Stockman), several dozen Case knives from as far back as the 50's to a couple I bought new just this month, and many Benchmade, Spyderco, Civivi, Swiss Army, etc.

  • @wesgriffin9666
    @wesgriffin9666 3 роки тому +3

    Well said. What a true gentleman response. I agree 100 percent with you. It boils down to you get what you pay for and if you want a case knife they are great but rough ryder knives for what you actually do pay for you get more than your money is worth in my opinion. Just ordered some. Great review!

  • @booperez1499
    @booperez1499 Рік тому +1

    I absolutely love your cutting mat. Would you mind sharing where I can purchase one for myself?

  • @SHANECatLovinActivistHistorian
    @SHANECatLovinActivistHistorian 2 місяці тому +1

    are any rough ryder knives made in the usa

  • @haveaknifeday6253
    @haveaknifeday6253 3 роки тому +3

    Own 100+ most of em are pretty well made. Fit and finish are above par for the price range. I agree with your views. Keep em coming

  • @SubUrbanNinja-EDC
    @SubUrbanNinja-EDC 2 роки тому +1

    Totally agree with you. I myself know that MOST Chinese made products are "junk" or used to be "junk" because they are made with cheaper materials, with no quality control, poor precision machinery, and cheap unskilled labor BUT....most of the time those products are NO NAME 100 percent Chinese produced, manufactured, generic brand products that are sold for very cheap.
    But people do not realize that many items we purchase today are made in China that are good quality. Everything from Apple products to name brand fashion is made in China. But because those products are backed by Non Chinese companies, they are tolerated as acceptable quality.
    Now with that said....let's step into a time machine. If you go back 100 to 200 years, most knives of the past are not as well made as today's knives made with precision tooled machinery. If you take a Rough Ryder knife made today back 100 years, it would be held as a well made knife. You can say that a knife is "cheap" because it is made with poor steel, fake materials, and is not sharp but at the end of the day, if you sharpen that cheap steel and not abuse that fake material, it will work for you. You may have to sharpen it more often and it may break on you sooner than better made or quality matieral knives but hey...it cost you only fraction of what that "expensive" knife cost.
    Also, those who shame "POOR", better understand that the general public of the past bought and worked with common man's tools, guns, and knives. Not everybody bought premium products. America was built by workers with common man tools. A ranch hand making only $1000.00 a year is not going to buy a $8 dollar knife of that era, he is going to buy a cheap $1 knife made out of carbon that he will sharpen until the steel is too thin to sharpen anymore.
    Also, a person who works with knives all day and everyday is not going to use an expensive knife. At least not a person who has lost one or two knives in his lifetime. He or she is going to use a utility knife or a cheaper knife made with better quality steel that cuts well.
    Also, Made in China rightly deserve a bad reputation but to prejudge things without having actually dealt with it is just pure hate. Thanks for the video. I total agree with you. By the way I subbed you. :-) I also have a youtube channel and i do knife videos sometimes along with other kinds of videos.

  • @WhiteTrashTennessee
    @WhiteTrashTennessee Рік тому +1

    I bought a rough rider camp style knife with bone handles. It has the can opener, bottle opener, and two blades i believe. It sits in my work bag and i think a year ago i cut an orange with it and now i cant open any of the blades even with pliars.

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  Рік тому

      Try soaking the knife in vinegar. If it had carbon blades, it would darken them and probably unfreeze it. I had the same thing happen to me with a Victorinox Hiker. I had it in my work bag and salt along with something else freezing all the blades. I tried soaking it in WD40 for 6 months with no luck. I soaked it in vinegar, and it helped. The blades are still stiff, but I can open them without using pliers.

  • @comyf5986
    @comyf5986 4 роки тому +2

    I agree with you , they are not junk imho. But ... in some parts of the world (continental Europe) are not that cheap to buy - almost twice the price (shipping not included). And here, we don't have that option "backed for life" because we're buying from online shops like Heinnie and the return shipping costs (which added, can be more than the price of the knife).
    So, in this situation, if you get a dud, I can see where the frustrations come. And in this part of the world, you could find better alternatives (not traditional patterns, of course) from Boker (made in china), VictorInox.... in the same price range.
    I have 6 RR... 2 are duds: one has a weak backspring (which can be fixed only by replacement) and another one's blade hits the backspring (but I've found a workaround).
    I like that they are using traditional patterns, cool materials (they could improve their steel although) BUT they should improve their QC overall. For 2 -3 $ added at retail price, i think it is doable. BTW..... they should cut the costs for their packaging. For a 20$ knife I don't expect a nice box with magnetic flap.... cmon!
    A little bit offtopic.. I know.
    So back to the subject: I think your commenter was really pist off or just a troll.
    PS: from the design point of view..... the RrR doesn't do it for me. They should stick with the patterns that works.

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  4 роки тому

      Thank you Comy F. Price factors into my "good for the money" equation, but you people in Europe have it much worse when you double the cost, reduce selection, & don't have the "backed for life". They should put an asterisk by that and explain down below "USA ONLY".
      I get an idea of what you would pay for a Rough Ryder when I find one on the secondary market only, & they start off asking at least double the price they came out for. Really makes you look at them harder when there's better options available for less money.

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  4 роки тому

      I agree also about the packaging. You can send my knife in bubble wrap, if it's going to cut the cost down. I don't use the boxes at all. Haven't thrown any away yet, and they take up more space than the knives.

  • @grayintheuk8021
    @grayintheuk8021 2 роки тому +1

    I bought my first Rough Ryder Reserve today and to be honest am really impressed with it.
    It's very well made, fit and finish and looks very good to me.
    It has D2 steel and I wonder how do you find it for edge retention please on these knives.
    Best and thanks - Gray
    PS what is the very large knife to the right of this video please.

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  2 роки тому

      D2 holds an edge quite a bit longer than the 440a Rough Ryder normally uses. The huge knife is the Rough Ryder 25th Anniversary knife. They have the same knife with a different theme in the Teddy Roosevelt
      www.smkw.com/rough-ryder-teddy-roosevelt-trapper

    • @grayintheuk8021
      @grayintheuk8021 2 роки тому +1

      @@WilliamsKnifeLife Thanks it looks massive on camera. I assume it's a functioning knife just a little large on the pocket :)
      I have the Hippo Toe in the green and D2 steel which, strangely, I do rather like.
      I am hoping to get a canoe next and I rather fancy the RR Artisan Wood version.
      As you might remember (depending on how long ago you stayed) we have a non locking 3" or less knife law in public. I think there was an incident and some people were hurt and the law was changed.
      We can have fixed and locking blades at home and only in the public if we have a good reason. Like fishing or work for locking. You cannot goto the pub with a locking/fixed knife.
      Best Gray

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  2 роки тому

      @@grayintheuk8021 It's a fully functional although large Trapper with 7 inch blades I believe if I remember correctly.

    • @grayintheuk8021
      @grayintheuk8021 2 роки тому +1

      @@WilliamsKnifeLife I have a Spyderco Tatanka which is discontinued now and yours seems bigger than that, which I thought was pretty large!
      Best Gray

  • @the_dark_italian
    @the_dark_italian 3 роки тому +2

    I've got about 6 of em, none of em is junk! They got a classic look n I'm rocking them every day as an edc and none failed me!
    Cheers from Germany.
    Johnny

  • @dalelowery907
    @dalelowery907 3 роки тому +3

    Bought my first Rough Ryder a work knife several years ago. Was a little leary of being China made have been very satisfied with them, liked so much i went and bought a second and third one about a week later. I needed something that was usable and inexpensive, if I lost it or broke it , ok no great loss. Still have that first knife and like it. Even have recommended Rough Ryder to other people. No they can lose an edge with a lot of work, a few minutes on a stone and back in business. They are good value for the money.

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  3 роки тому

      They are better than what you would expect from a knife costing so little.

  • @randyblackburn9765
    @randyblackburn9765 4 роки тому +3

    Well I say let them comment but for every opinion there is a counter opinion .My take on RR is that they are very inexpensive and mostly are damn good knives with a few exceptions, my experience with the multi sectional scales that are only glued on and not pinned will freaking fall off when carried . Ordered 3 RR liner locks with tie dye scales and 2 of them jumped the assist open pin and wouldn’t close ( junk) . 440 A or 440 C is very good blade steel in fact I prefer it over the exotic steels . Elk ridge is another good Chinese made knife . I have Case knives that have lost the shield ,why they don’t pin them and charge extra I’ll never know . I did a blade comparison with a 440 A Schatt and Morgan VS a Carbon steel 2001 German Eye Solingen Germany and the 440 A held an edge as long as the Eye while slicing heavy cardboard until my arm gave out .As far as collectible RR YES COLLECT THEM they are inexpensive now but someday won’t be but they will still be quality.

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  4 роки тому +1

      Very good points Randy. The glue they use seems to be rubber cement. Kind of an out dated adhesive in my opinion, but probably dirt cheap.
      The Rough Ryder fixed blades, and flippers are a different story. Some are good, and some are not good.

  • @stevehuffman7453
    @stevehuffman7453 2 роки тому +2

    Not "junk" and not "cheap" - They are "inexpensive". There is a difference. Remember the Cadillac Seville? It was NOT "inexpensive", but it WAS "cheap". Basically a Chevrolet Citation with a few "luxury" options and "Cadillac" badging. 👎
    I only have around 60 Rough Rider/Ryder knives. Three have had "issues". Two had cosmetic issues: The shield of a "Twisted Bone" canoe remained in the box when I removed the knife. A drop of super glue fixed it. A large (5 inch closed) single blade white smooth bone Coke Bottle/Swell Center pattern had a cracked cover at the center pin. A drop of super glue worked into the crack fixed it. It is not unusual for bone to crack at one of the pins. Both Case and GEC are known to have that "defect" occasionally. (From what I've seen on the knife forum I hang out on, Case appears to have this issue more often than Rough Rider/Ryder does.)
    My latest, a (yellow) Classic Carbon canoe, has a true defect that affects functionality: The pulls are a bit shallow, making it difficult to open the pen blade. I haven't decided if I'm going to exchange it under warranty, or deepen the pen blade pull with my Dremel.
    RR is great for trying new patterns without bankrupting the bank. You can always "upgrade" to a different brand if you like the pattern.
    "People" say "Case makes a lot of different patterns!" RR has more patterns in regular production. For example, Case does not currently produce a Barlow. They took the Barlow pattern "out of the vault" in 2019 or 2020, produced it for a year, the "put it (back) in the vault".
    I believe the last time they "took it out of the vault" before was in the 1990's Who knows if Case will produce a Barlow again before 2040?
    Rough Rider currently produces the Barlow -- in AT LEAST THREE sizes, both single and double blade versions, with different primary blades.
    Why Case wants to send their potential customers into the arms of their competition, I have no clue. Bear & Sons, Moor Maker, Böker, RR, Marbles, and others have the Barlow (and other patterns) as regular production, that Case has "In The Vault" and out of production.
    Another that Case has "in the vault" is the large sunfish/elephant toe/whaler/"British Rope Knife"/Pocket axe/emergency spatula/ or whichever of the 70 odd names the pattern is known as... RR has an equal end in production, with a choice of two or three different cover materials, and a large sleeve board in production. Marbles also has at least one equal end in production with different covers than the RR.
    As for build quality, all my RR are AT LEAST as good as the five Case knives I have. Most challenge the three GEC (none are "seconds") I have in build quality.
    I'll stick with RR. They cost a lot less than Case, and I've heard from the Case Fan Boys that buying a current production Case sight unseen online is "risky" -- Case's QC has been hit or miss the last few years.
    (Case also claims (quote) Blade Rub on a two spring three blade stockman is to be expected, and goes with the pattern. Blade rub on these knives are not covered under warranty." (end quote) The stockman is one of my favorite and most carried patterns. Case is "honest" and warns potential customers their three blade two spring stockmans WILL have blade rub, and even if it is severe enough to make it near impossible to open one or more blades, it IS NOT covered under warranty! 👎
    Oddly enough, my eight RR Large and Extra Large sockman (most of which cost under $10 shipped), and offshore Old Timer 858OT, and 858OTB, vintage 1978 to 1984 US made Old Timer 858, and GEC 82, all of which are a two spring three blade stockman, have blade rub. Yet according to Case, "Blade rub goes with the pattern. It can't be helped; it's unavoidable!" 🙄👎

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  2 роки тому

      Thank you for your very well thought out response. 👍

  • @KFairchild77
    @KFairchild77 Рік тому +3

    Great knives at a great price has been my experience

  • @bluetoad2001
    @bluetoad2001 3 роки тому +4

    actually i have several Rough Riders, never had a bad one. i visited Smoky Mountain years ago when Rough Rider was becoming available. i got to personally examine each and every knife in the display case that caught my eye. blew my mind really. the salesmen/ladies were more than helpful.
    the only hick up was i ran out of money and had to borrow some cash from my wife. oooops. i bought a beautiful smooth green bone four blade congress that is as nice as they come.
    yes, i have a few GEC’s and Case.

  • @silvanigra
    @silvanigra 3 роки тому +3

    Rough Rider is one of those almost unknown little gems. I came to know these knives when I received one from a friend in the States and I was pleasantly surprised with how nicely they were crafted. I hadn't known they even existed before.
    Admittedly, there are a lot of poor quality items from China, but Rough Rider knives really seem nicely done and a lot of users confirm on forums they are durable as well. And they really look great, too!
    I would buy one any time without hesitation!

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  3 роки тому +1

      Thank you FlorinU. They are decent knives for a great price. We get them fairly cheap here in the states averages around 15 dollars for one.

  • @jeroenvoss6231
    @jeroenvoss6231 4 роки тому +5

    My Rough Riders are really well made, fit and finish are good, bladesteel isn"t disappointing. I like them just as much as my more expensive knives, American, European knives. Just the fact that they are from China doesn"t mean they are junk. Buy one check it out for yourself, try another one and if you don"t like them buy other knives. Where they are made or what they cost doesn"t make them super or junk. I bought knives that looked nice on a picture , but when I handled them, they weren"t what I expected. That"s how you learn what you like and what not. Have a good weekend William. love your video"s a big thumbs up

  • @TheMartialist
    @TheMartialist 4 роки тому +1

    I’ve had SOOO many rough riders and only a handful of lemons. Sometimes the shields pop off tho. But to me, that doesn’t matter for a budget trad knife.

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  4 роки тому +1

      I keep telling myself I don't need another Rough Ryder just because the covers are different, & wind up buying another one just because they are affordable, & available. I found a shield that popped off & replaced it using Superglue gel. I used too much gel, so some oozed out when I pressed down, but that puppy won't pop out again.

  • @mrdillon7655
    @mrdillon7655 Рік тому +1

    I just purchased three yesterday, two from the Spades series Coke Bottle and Swell Center. Also, a Copper Black smooth bone trapper. I'm anxious to get them because I have never had any "junk" knives from this brand. My grandson loves the ones I've given to him thinking wow what a great thing to get from my Pepere. If he takes one out to use it and possibly loses it, I can hopefully replace it and it's not a huge price to pay. I remember watching my grandfather sharpen his jacknife as we called them and thought I was finally a big boy when he gave me my first. It was a Rough Ryder! The troll was being an ignoramus plain and simple. Great vid, thanks.

  • @genoedcknifecollecter1538
    @genoedcknifecollecter1538 3 роки тому +2

    I don't think rough rider are junk and paddy potatoe peeler I'm sure would agree to. I love Chinese made knives I got usa, China and eve Canadian and the quailty has been awsome. Great video. Only thing that didn't hold up for me is a Leatherman sidekick but I got a surge and charge that are great. Subbed

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  3 роки тому

      Thank you Geno. I carried a Leatherman Wave for many years. I lost it at work a few years ago, and never replaced it. Great tool.

  • @timwilliams8343
    @timwilliams8343 3 роки тому +2

    These trolls "Show their Asses" by expressing these ignorant statements. Rough Rider/Ryder knives are the best knives for the money......Bar None!!!

  • @josephdolderer6113
    @josephdolderer6113 Рік тому +2

    I think Rough Rider’s are beautifully made , old time knives that are hard to come by at similar price point. It’s interesting to come across this video, since I’ve been trying to source American made tools recently, which is very difficult. We hear- “buy American” all the time- but rarely do we get a justification other than “their products are crap,” or “they take away American jobs.” All legitimate concerns - yet few have an issue buying German or French made. I think for me the biggest moral concern is that the purchase supports workers who’re probably not being treated right and so therefore I feel like I’m taking advantage of a system that values commodity over moral values.. It’s a real issue though- because I’m a novice woodworker and just getting the right tools is hard to do without a China stamp. I have no problem with Chinese people , but it gives me trouble thinking that the poor guy who helped build my 20 dollar product can likely barely afford to feed his family. Those are the real facts. Of course it’s not nice to shame anyone who is trying to enjoy something- and I totally agree- just pointing out an aspect that has nothing to do with the knives themselves. Like ganzo knives, which are made beautifully and rival much more expensive ones- you have to ask.. what are you trading for having more- someone else’s misery ? That’s the real issue and I wish we could do something about it.

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  Рік тому +1

      For issues like trade relations with communist countries, we Americans rely upon our government to do the right thing. It's not a great situation because politicians can be bought or influenced heavily by "donations" to their campaigns. The working conditions for someone working at a Rough Ryder factory 🏭 are unknown to me. I doubt that they have no freedom whatsoever or are using slave labor. It wouldn't make much difference in the scheme of things if I stopped buying Chinese knives. Our government gave China the Most Favored Trading Status and almost everything is made in China. Due to their increasing aggressive approach to Taiwan & the south China sea area, many companies are pulling out of China. That's why I believe in the future the days of inexpensive Chinese made knives are numbered if they continue to threaten war. In the meantime, I will continue to buy knives from whatever country of origin I like as long as it is well made.

  • @jibshreder
    @jibshreder 4 роки тому +2

    Ive got a GEC in a Rough Rider slip too haha. I agree with your video, its not about the cost of the knife that make it special!

  • @Feanor821
    @Feanor821 3 місяці тому +1

    A while back my dad gave me a whole bag of Frost Cutlery folders with multicolor wood scales, made in Pakistan from mystery “Solingen” steel. A few had weird designs, a couple more had loose blades, but the rest are keepers. One is a little mini keychain sized knife with “Bear Hunter” stamped on it. I love em. They look great, sharpen up nice and they cut things. I just ordered a couple of Rough Riders, the RR81 and RR1964. Gotta be careful, they’re so cheap and look so pretty I might order 5 or 6 more before I know it. I’ve got a pretty extensive knife collection going, but one could make the argument it’s stupid to buy a Benchmade when I could have 15 Rough Riders for the same price.

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  3 місяці тому

      Watch out. You can get addicted to buying Rough Ryder knives 😅 I know.

  • @2ndchancegeorge
    @2ndchancegeorge 2 роки тому +1

    I say away from those comments just say ok thanks for watching.. For some reason China sets off people....but if you like me on a bugetbtgese RR are awesome love thier stuff. Another great video buddy. Keep em coming.

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  2 роки тому

      Thank you 2nd Chance George. Rough Ryder's are a great way to get into traditional knives.

  • @DaveLikesKnives
    @DaveLikesKnives 3 роки тому +1

    My main kitchen knife is a rough rider chef folder, terrible QC and not well made but it’s probably my most used knife and I love it. Good video and I appreciate the discussion.

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  3 роки тому +1

      Thank you Dave. I have the Sous Chef & I use it as my main kitchen knife. It doesn't have any f&f issues. Would be kind of large for carry, but that folding blade comes in handy in my small kitchen.

    • @DaveLikesKnives
      @DaveLikesKnives 3 роки тому +1

      That’s what I have. Biggest problem is blade wobble but it’s cutting apples and sandwiches, so the instability is purely pedantic.

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  3 роки тому +1

      @@DaveLikesKnives Try tapping the bolster with a hammer. I have fixed blade wobble that way.

  • @mike3020
    @mike3020 2 роки тому +1

    How long has China been making blades ? I like rough Ryder. They cool looking blades.

  • @aarondalton2223
    @aarondalton2223 Рік тому +3

    I’m impressed with the quality of RR especially with the low cost. I’ve bought Case knives that I’m not happy with.

  • @very5ick112
    @very5ick112 22 дні тому +1

    i bought a bear edge and it literally fell apart the zytel handles broke and i was only opening and c;losing it too bad i really like the turquoise camo real tree handles

  • @johnelder4273
    @johnelder4273 2 роки тому +2

    I don't own any novelty knives but I can see why someone would collect them. They are a reflection of the times they were produced in and are rightfully part of history and interesting.

  • @Eliel7230
    @Eliel7230 Рік тому +2

    Thank you for posting this. It needed to be said.
    The quality of craftmanship is more important to me than provenance or price.

  • @bushcraftsupply7407
    @bushcraftsupply7407 2 місяці тому +1

    I really like the quality and attention to detail of RR knives, but ive found that many times theres issues with blade rap, which is frustrating when you take time to sharpen the knife and it dulls itself against the back spring. But in all fairness, I run Into this issue often with case knives as well. I wish companies across the board would pay closer attention to this issue.

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  2 місяці тому

      Blade rap is one of the worst issues to get on an RR. I've fixed a few that had that issue by raising the kick with something like epoxy or careful filing of the mainspring where it hits. Nowadays, I would return it rather than mess with fixing it.

  • @reggierico
    @reggierico Рік тому +1

    I don't own a RR knife, yet. But, I understand the skepticism surrounding the quality or lack thereof RR knives. Their price is extremely reasonable, and their perceived finish appears really good. What do most knife collectors look for in knife selection? Fit, finish and primarily blade steel type. Carbon steel is one of the lower quality blade materials, but is acceptable for RR and Case so I don't think I'll have any issues, I hope, when I buy my first RR.

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  Рік тому +1

      I think they are good for seeing if you like traditional knives without having to spend a lot of money.

  • @jordancoleman714
    @jordancoleman714 19 днів тому +1

    If that orange canoe ever needs a home, I will adopt it.

  • @yelnatsipcus2536
    @yelnatsipcus2536 2 роки тому +1

    My only problem with rough Ryder is they make knives in the wrong patterns and materials, like I really want a knife with vg-10 blades with bone handles like they make all the stuff I want but it's all on different knives

  • @allstate125
    @allstate125 3 роки тому +2

    Oh cool my young daughter bought me an Annie Oakley similar to your novelty knife about 20 years ago!! I carry it still it’s part of my carry rotation. I used it yesterday and opened some mail and a box with it.😀

  • @wesgriffin9666
    @wesgriffin9666 3 роки тому +2

    I received my brown bone stag barlow in the mail today. I must say what I've heard about there quality is true. Came in a great box that holds the knife in place. No gaps in the backs what so ever beautifully polish blade and handle no wiggle to the blade centering was perfect. Definitely a win win! Surprisingly I've actually got some case knives out of the box that were way off centered.

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  3 роки тому

      i think what happens to some people is the very first Rough Ryder they get has some issues & they think all of them will be like that. I've bought over 100 of them & I'd say 2 or 3 had some major issue like blade rap. For a 15 dollar knife, on average, they are built way better than one would expect.

  • @EdDanaGuitar
    @EdDanaGuitar Рік тому +1

    I'll pick Rough Ryder or Rite Edge over Case every time! You can get OVERCHARGED for a name. It happens with everything. Look at Gibson and Martin guitars!

  • @Daves_Man_Cave
    @Daves_Man_Cave Рік тому +1

    Rough Ryder are ok for the money. The Rough Ryder RESERVE line though, is excellent and beats anything made in the US under the $100 price point. It's not even close...

  • @davidcooper6704
    @davidcooper6704 3 роки тому +2

    I acquired a couple of USA made Scrade Old Timers. I didn't know much about these knives but I treasure them. Firstly because they were a gift from a good friend and secondly because I actually like them. I know they are not expensive and are now made in China and I too have been told that they are not as good as they were and are now crap. Your video has tempted me to buy a a Chinese made one and judge for myself. I try, if I have nothing good to say, to say nothing. It doesn't always happen - we all need a rant sometimes.

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  3 роки тому +1

      Thank you David. i agree. buy it & make your own decisions. sometimes people have an agenda telling you what to buy. my only agenda is to inform as much as I can, why i like something, and not hide flaws when I find them.

  • @ROE1300
    @ROE1300 Рік тому +1

    👍 Excellent video topic.
    Admittedly I am a Rough Ryder fan. Two of my favorite folding knives are the Buck 110 and the Rough Ryder Reserve Common Stock (for different reasons). I own a few Rough Ryders and truthfully some I did not care for because the style lost its appeal, not because they are junk. Good quality knives. Excellent quality for the price.
    While they would not be my normal EDC, I have a few novelty knives because they are keepsakes of TV shows I watched as a child.
    All knives are beautiful in their own way and attract different owners. I agree shaming anyone for any knife is shameful. Not trading my favorite Buck 110 or my Hopalong Cassidy novelty knife for anything.

  • @wesgriffin9666
    @wesgriffin9666 3 роки тому +4

    I also love how adventurous rough ryder is with there traditional folders. More so than some other traditional folder companies.

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  3 роки тому +2

      They do bring out some older patterns that are not seen much. Marbles does that too.

  • @christophwilhelm6431
    @christophwilhelm6431 7 місяців тому +1

    My main gripe is off center blades and this is almost 100% of the time due to blade warp. Often times the blade will be close to centered bc it's a potato chip, double warped. Other than that I like them.

  • @mangojack1
    @mangojack1 3 роки тому +3

    Yep, You tell em! I love My RR knives. I have only ever had one issue and it was due to it being damaged in shipping, not SMKW or RR knives fault. I am on a fixed budget and collect them simply because I dig them. I own other brands and a few pricey knives like Case but the bulk of my collection is and will remain RR knives. Thanks for the videos William good stuff! 👍

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  3 роки тому +3

      Thank you Scot. RR's are the way to go if you want to try out traditional knives. I don't know how many I have maybe 150 or so, and I was able to get them in a year & a half on my social security retirement income, which isn't much.

  • @FrugalShave
    @FrugalShave Рік тому +1

    I actually use my knives so I judge them based on how they function and only on function. I have a bunch of Rough Ryder knives that all perform perfectly well. I have gotten a few stinkers but that's what returns are for.

  • @slick_slicers
    @slick_slicers 2 роки тому +1

    The question in my mind is, are these any ‘worse’ than any other factory made traditionals, like Case, GEC etc? OK, they’re not genuine, traditionally made, artisan knives, but neither are Case or GEC. I’m pretty sure that they are only ‘worse’ because they’re made in a Chinese Factory rather than an American one. Certainly, compared to the Richard’s shell knives that I grew up with, RR’s are great. And, 40 years on, people pay stupid money for them now.
    Asa regards how to deal with this sort of commenter, I think that everyone is entitled to their opinion, so as long as they’re not rude or offensive, I’d leave them to it.

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  2 роки тому

      Thank you Eric. I've found that 99 percent of people who leave a comment like "Chinese knives are junk," really don't have a major issue with quality of the knife. They have issues with the Chinese government. So do I. When I hit them with "where is your phone made?", you can see the dancing around going on with their answers, if they answer. If I'm supporting the Chinese government by buying a 15 dollar knife, what are they doing when they buy thousands of dollars worth of a Chinese phone? Yeah, I thought so. Hypocrites the lot of them!

  • @bluetoad2001
    @bluetoad2001 3 роки тому +3

    lol, brings back memories, honestly I’ve said Novelty knives were junk, lol, now when i see them i smile and realize how good the steel is in most of them and what history there is behind them. i don’t have one but maybe someday. Rough Riders wow, the asian cutlers have really stepped up their game. we could learn something from their manufacturing model. Rough Riders are the only knives i could ever sell and make a buck, also never had a customer come back with a complaint about Rough Riders. i don’t have any of the carbon series but hope to try them in the near future. knife on William✅👍😎✌️☮️

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  3 роки тому +1

      Thank you buzz. Some people will only invest in Case, or GEC, but if you look at some RR models, some of them double in price, or more, when out of production.

  • @LandoniousRéX077
    @LandoniousRéX077 9 місяців тому +1

    Thank you, sir. There’s all these fancy people out there with fancy knives and then I got a bunch of China stuff whatever it’s nice. I went to my grandpa‘s friends house. And he had some case knives he had some really nice Damascus knives and then he had some really cheap ones. Just really nice to see…

  • @jeffreybarton1297
    @jeffreybarton1297 2 роки тому +2

    I've only bought 2 rough riders. The first one was many years ago, and at first seemed ok. I didn't use the knife, I just kept it in a storage box, where I keep all my other knives. After a year or so, I was looking through the collection, and picked out the rough rider to use. I was disappointed to discover rust spots, on what I assumed was stainless steel. I cleaned it up and gave it away.
    About three years ago, I bought another rough rider. So far it's very good. No rust, good fit and finish.
    I will buy more. I suspect the older rough rider may have one if the first few they produced. It was no match in quality compared to the new models. Cheap feeling plastic handles, plus the rust problems.
    The newer model was bone handles and brass liners, good sharp blade. Nice!

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  2 роки тому +1

      Thank you for that information. I think if your first knife is a failure for whatever reason, it doesn't matter if 99 out of 100 are good. If you get a lemon 🍋 when you are looking for an orange 🍊, you will probably be disappointed.
      It took awhile before I ran into my first defective Rough Ryder. It was a small congress and 3 of the 4 blades would get a little half moon dent when closed under spring tension. I didn't return it & sharpened the blades. As soon as I let them fall again, the dent came back. That's when I learned you can either raise the kick with a little epoxy, or something stuck underneath the tang, or you can file down the hump on the backspring. So that defect taught me something. To me blade rap is one of the worst things to get on a pocket knife. It directly affects the cutting edge. Rough Ryder has a backed for life policy, so next time that happens, I'll just return it.
      Considering the number of knives they make, I think they do a decent job on quality.

    • @jeffreybarton1297
      @jeffreybarton1297 2 роки тому +1

      @@WilliamsKnifeLife I'm happier with my Rough Ryder 'Sodbuster' style knife than a lot of my folders. It beats my Buck Canoe, for edge holding. It also has very nice red bone handles, and a brass liner lock.
      I might go for one of their Bowie knives, too. They make one that's got nice old styling. I could make a fancy leather sheath for it.
      Like your vids, so I'll sub 😊👍

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  2 роки тому +1

      @Jeffrey Barton thank you. Rough Ryder came out with a Bowie recently that has been getting rave reviews. It's the black rubber handle one for around 25 dollars.

    • @jeffreybarton1297
      @jeffreybarton1297 2 роки тому

      @@WilliamsKnifeLife I spotted that one. I'll find some reviews on it 🙂

  • @dougglaus9256
    @dougglaus9256 Рік тому +1

    I will admit. I was not a fan of Rough Rider knives. I bought one with a long skinny blade to throw in my belt tackle box when I trout fish. I have to admit. It surprised me on how well a 14 dollar Chinese made knife was made. I’ve used it for around 2 years now it has served me very well at the trout stream. The knife is very well made. I’m not a big fan of 440 stainless steel. This knife has surprisingly held an edge very well and with a few strokes through a 4 dollar ceramic knife sharpener. It always comes back to life quite nice. Do I own knives that are better. Certainly I do. I also payed the cost of those knives out the wazoo. Rough Rider knives are made in China. That is true, there is no denying that fact. The way I’m looking at it is. The folks at the knife factory who make Riugh Rider knives have to eat also. They are just ordinary working class stiffs like I am. They go to work, clock in, complain about their boss, look forward to the weekend, just ordinary working class people. It’s not their fault they live in China. They probably have no desire to hurt me. They just want to live their lives as best the can. Just like me. They make a decent product for a decent price. Sure it’s not hand fitted and hand polished. Mine cost me 12.99 plus shipping off of eBay. If my tackle box gets lost or stolen. Which has happened to me twice now. One came loose from my belt and the other was stolen out of the back of my truck. I’m only out 16 dollars in my knife.

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  Рік тому

      That's the way I look at it, too. Would we want to be judged by our governments actions or inaction?

  • @r1ckgr1m3s8
    @r1ckgr1m3s8 3 роки тому +2

    I've gotten case knives that are far from perfect

  • @michaelgentile6418
    @michaelgentile6418 4 роки тому +2

    I have lots of rough ryder knives , case, and gec, i enjoy rough ryder knives, usually Good quality for the price, and longs you don't abuse them, they will last a long time, and take care of you., great video William, !, thanks again.

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  4 роки тому +1

      Thank you Michael. I realize this video is kind of like preaching to the choir. 😃

  • @redfernguitar
    @redfernguitar Рік тому +1

    I use mine every day, but my hand did break however I found it was really easy to fix.

  • @richardweilandt3315
    @richardweilandt3315 2 роки тому +1

    You make a valid point. I don't own a lot of Rough Ryder knives, but the ones I do own are excellent. I got the Highland series that I'm collecting right now. That large 5" Toothpick is a real gem. Slice an apple....... no problem. Got some twine that needs cutting........ done. I got a few junk knives to.

  • @mwillblade
    @mwillblade 4 роки тому +2

    Before they were well known they were junk. They improved their game. My first one could not get sharp to save its life, my second one the back spring snapped. I bad-mouthed them for years the channel Vinniesdayoff influenced me to buy one again. I just love them now!

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  4 роки тому +1

      Thank you mwillblade. I only started buying them a couple years ago.

  • @razgrizbird4562
    @razgrizbird4562 Рік тому +1

    So I'm going to play both sides. I have a Rough Rider Mini Canoe. The fit is okay, the finish was slightly wavy and the knife was over dyed. That said, the darn thing has found its way into my pocket more times than any of my high end knives, including my ZTs. Are they good knives from a material standard, not really. Are they the best fit and finish, not really. Are they 80-90% of a knife that is 10X as expensive, and can I sharpen them on the bottom of a coffee mug, absolutely!

    • @WilliamsKnifeLife
      @WilliamsKnifeLife  Рік тому +1

      I think of these as the same niche that my first pocket knife in the 60s filled. An inexpensive work knife. They can be collected, but I think their main function is to be affordable so they can be used.

  • @keykleen2010
    @keykleen2010 3 роки тому +2

    👍 it’s all about the collector. Personally I don’t like Rough rider knives but don’t knife shame those who want them. I love my Buck 110 , GEC American Jack and my Case Trapper. I’ve never owned a Rough rider but I’ve held quite a few of my friends. For me it came down to the feel/Fit and finish . Anyways 👍 thanks for your honesty. RC

  • @SharpChronofighter
    @SharpChronofighter 2 роки тому +1

    When something I purchase brings me joy, I usually value it as a good investment, no matter the cost. Only recently I've add few RR to my collection, and I'm happy with them. Another excellent vid man! Take care.