Building on the success of the first-generation knife introduced in 2004, Knife Rights Chairman Doug Ritter returned to the market with an all-new redesign of his successful RSK Mk1 ambidextrous folding knife. Now, consumers can take advantage of this exclusive, second-generation blade made by Hogue Inc. and available from Knife Works: the RSK Mk1-G2 ABLE Lock Folder.
After the discontinuation of his Benchmade-produced line of knives, Ritter said he entertained offers from a number of manufacturers in the blade industry, finally settling on a partnership with Hogue, Inc.
"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," Ritter said. "They are also committed to helping Knife Rights continue to forge a sharper future for all Americans."
In working with Hogue, Inc. engineers on the design and production of the new RSK Mk1-G2 ABLE Lock Folder, Ritter focused on how to make the already-popular configuration of the RSK knife even better. One design element he noted in particular was the AXIS lock, an ambidextrous mechanism patented by Benchmade. However, the patent expired in 2016, allowing Ritter and the Hogue team to incorporate the design into their new blade.
Therefore, the "ABLE" in the knife's name stands for Ambidextrous Bar Lock Enhanced, noting several improvements added to the design by Ritter's team. First, the internal mechanisms of the lock are built with a smoother finish and improved geometry, all aimed at providing enhanced performance. To this end, Ritter also teamed up with W.C. Wolff Co., a company well-known in the industry for its springs. Wolff provides the springs used in Hogue's line of automatic knives, and the team turned to the company to supply the springs used in the RSK Mk1-G2 locking mechanism.
The other critical element found in the RSK Mk1-G2 blade is the 3.4-inch drop-point blade, the same design featured on the original RSK Mk1 folding knife. The blade is made using Böhler-Uddeholm M390 high-carbon stainless steel and treated with a stonewashed finish. The blade is also treated with a cryogenic-finishing process in order to meet a Rockwell Hardness rating of 61-62.
Other features found on the Doug Ritter RSK Mk1-G2 ABLE folder include black scales machined from G10 laminate with a radial-checkered pattern that offers enhanced grip and an aesthetically pleasing look. The knife also features dual thumbstuds and a reversible, deep-carry pocket clip made of stainless steel. The suggested retail price on the knife is $179.95.
