Doug, Any updates on the Benchmade Fixed Blade?

Just curious if there was any new information on when the new Ritter fixed blade that will be made by Benchmade will be out. I'm patiently waiting for this one. OK, well, maybe not so patiently waiting. <img src="/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" /> Thanks!

The first few RSK Mk3s have been completed and I have signed off on it. I had one at Blade Show and Steve is doing the photography as we "speak." The first production run of serialized blades is in production. As soon as Aeromediix takes delivery, they will be available, but there will be no pre-purchase sales or availability until they are in stock and ready to ship. No more pre-order/delivery nightmares, than you very much. <img src="/images/graemlins/frown.gif" alt="" /> I am not allowed to even hazard a guess when that will be. So, please be patient a little bit longer. I think you'll find it worth the wait.

That's great news!!!! Thank you for making my day! I don't suppose you can divulge what the final blade length turned out to be can you? Wow! I'm really happy. I was secretly afraid this one might die a premature death or something. No basis for my fear other than the fact that I really want one of these based on how much my family LOVES the folding Rittergrips.

4.5 inches

Doug

Any word on the RSK Mk2?

20

You may not be aware, but Camillus is having serious problems (financial and labor). How this will eventually all play out is anyone's guess, though if I were a Camillus factory worker I think I'd be looking for another job. The RSK Mk2 is tied up as a result. It's ready for production, but until that sorts itself out... <img src="/images/graemlins/frown.gif" alt="" />

I am REALLY looking forward to this one!!!!

I can HEAR you guys salivating...it's just a knife...you should be ashamed of yourselves! <img src="/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

I bet Aeromedix will be getting a lot more hits with all of us checking the site to see when it's available too <img src="/images/graemlins/cool.gif" alt="" />

I will be sure to post here as soon as it becomes available.

Has a price been set?

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Yes

Doug and others. I was about to do my first purchase for EDC and PSK items by purchasing the: Pocket Survival Pak - Photon Freedom Micro Light
and Mini-RSK Yellow Knife Combo for aeromix

But it appears a new blade is coming out. Is it recommended to wait for that?

Thanks for your interest in the RSK knives. For typical EDC use I think a folder is going to work lots better than a fixed blade in a sheath on your belt for most people, unless you live/work where people commonly wear sheathed fixed blades. The knife is about 9 inches long overall, not something you're going to be able to be subtle about. <g> In most civilian environments, that isn't going to fly. OTOH, if that's not a problem, by all means hang in there a short while longer. Since you are considering the smaller of the two folders, I'm guessing that this even larger fixed blade probably isn't the answer for you.

Definitely get the mini-Rittergrip for regular carry!!! It is very convenient to carry (I carry one EVERY day clipped inside my right pocket) and it is one tough knife (don't let the "mini" fool you).

While a fixed blade has its advantages, you'll here many folks here echo the advice that the best survival knife is "the one you have with you when you need it"... a folder is much more likely to be with you when you need it.

While ordering your gear, consider spending a "few" more bucks to order a Spyderco Sharpmaker to sharpen your knives. It is well work the cost and a great system.

THEN start saving your pennies to buy the fixed blade Rittergrip when it comes available.

Ken

The new knife is definitely not for EDC...at least for most of us <img src="/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

Your plans for ordering sound good to me. I have the three items you mentioned and I've been very happy with them.

Be aware that if you plan to carry the PSK in a back pocket (like I did) that it will take some abuse. I got pencil graphite all over the inside of the kit and actually split open the pouch it comes in...to much of my big toucas pressing against it day after day I guess!

I now carry it in a cargo pocket and I've had no further incidents.

Welcome to the club!

I'll echo what Doug has said. I'm an avid (some would say rabid) fan of the Rittergrips. I'll get a fixed blade too when they come out as well for use in the outdoors and around the house where I prefer a fixed blade. However, a folder is definitely easier to pack around in populated areas. I use both my large and my small Rittergrips equally, depending on where I'm going to be working or socially visiting. My dad on the other hand, sticks to his small Rittergrip and doesn't see any need for a large, but he's never been fond of any large folding or fixed blade knife, whereas I do like the larger folders. I basically only use a small folder when I'm in urban/domestic PHRASECENSOREDPOSTERSHOULDKNOWBETTER. territory and don't want folks to be too startled when I use my knife for some chore of my own or theirs (as they almost never have a knife of their own).

You can basically carry a folder just about anywhere and there are definitely social reasons to have both large and small models. I won't address any legal issues of carry a folder since those laws vary so widely. I don't personally worry so much over laws unless there are armed security people and metal detectors because that indicates to me a general level of hysteric paranoia so I generally avoid those kinds of places or comply strictly with the law when work requires me to be there. I'm more of a spirit of the law kind of person and pretty much do as I will with regard to pocket knife laws and try to respect whatever local social customs exist. Essentially, I act as any reasonable and responsible person would and should, and don't fret over the libraries full of laws that entangle our nation. Beg pardon for my digression.

Anyway, I'd strongly encourage you to at least get a small folding Rittergrip and then get the fixed blade when it comes out. I'd heartily recommend you get small, large and fixed since I think they all have their valid place and use.

Has the photography been completed yet? I could have sworn I saw an upclose picture of this blade at some point in the last few weeks. Am I losing my mind?

Kicking this back up.

Getting very, very close...

Cue: Drum Roll........... <img src="/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

I think I must have the same expression as my 7 month old dog does right before supper whenever this is brought back to the top. (drools)

Doug,
How many RSK Mk3 knives are planned to be serialized and how many will be in the entire first run? TIA

No, you look hungrier..... <img src="/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

The first run is 100 serialized.