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| Photo by A G Russell Knives |
Roper Knives make some interesting traditional folders. The models are the
usual suspects: trapper, stockman, and the like. They are moderately priced and
made in China, nothing too exciting there. Where Roper shines is in its handle
designs. While not a radical diversion, they do represent a welcome departure
from other knife companies’ offerings. Typical is the one pictured above using
two varieties of micarta. They also make a Viper Series, one of which is bumpy
and one of which is inverted bumpy. The designs are inspired by the Old
West/Southwest and also feature a series of Native American motifs. They all
get pretty good reviews and sell in the 20+ dollar range. They offer a line of
modern and sheath knives, neither of which I can speak to with any authority.
Roper also makes some fusion knives, combining modern features with traditional
looks. One, the Pecos Linerlock (RP0011), sports a creamy yellow Delrin handle
with a copperhead top bolster and a powder horn bottom. Looking every bit the
traditional, a closer look reveals a thumb stud and a pocket clip. The steel is
1065 carbon. The blade is a practical clip point. They claim a 3.5” blade,
but personally I think of it as 3” with a 2 3/4” cutting edge. The thumb stud is not
accompanied by bearings but can be easily opened entirely with a fluid motion
of the thumb. The linerlock is easily disengaged.
Those are the facts, but on the subjective side I can proclaim this as one of
the two most companionable knives I own. I’m not entirely sure what I mean by
that, but it’s what comes to mind when carrying this knife. It looks great, is
easy to open and close, and it cuts stuff.
The other fusion knives by Roper are the Buffalo Warrior and Buffalo Scout, which I do not own. They are both traditional looking flippers with wood scales and brass bolsters. I see one in my future. Anyway, look ‘em up and see what you think.
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| Roper Pecos Linerlock Photo by Walmart |
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