Ruger’s Powder-Keg Knife by CRKT ~ Review

by Dennis Johnson MD, PhD. Capt USN (Ret) and Carolyn Johnson, RN

United States -(AmmoLand.com)- This year’s SHOT Show had superior knife displays but we thought CRKT’s Ruger series had the best blade array.

We liked the simplicity and durability of the RMJ Tactical design, fixed blade survival knife featuring a black stonewashed 4.60 inch plain blade with a rubber over mold, full-tang handle inset with a Ruger medallion and leather sheath. They call it the “powder-keg” and it was designed by Ryan Johnson.

We took this blade home and used it on our ranch in Tennessee. The 8Cr13MoV 58-59 steel blade held its edge after severing a variety of materials. Ranch life puts unusual demands on knives from wedging nails out of fence posts to cutting coarse rope. We found this knife more than up to the task.

I like to throw knives and I found this balanced blade and sturdy construction perfect for this practice. The old oak tree in our back yard was an ample test of this knife’s durability and sharpness. I know that it wasn’t designed for such juvenile activity but I always felt this procedure was a great test of a knife’s ability to endure the harshest treatment!

We will carry this knife with us on daily chores. It is a reliable tool in outdoor life and I just like the feel of its sure-grip handle. We’re still looking for a job this blade won’t dispatch but it’s clear that won’t happen.

Features and Specifications:

• Model number: R1401K
• RMJ Tactical Designed/Ryan Johnson
• Type: Fixed blade
• Blade type: Drop point
• Blade length: 4.60 inches
• Blade width: 1.31 inches
• Blade thickness: 0.185 inches
• Blade grind: Hollow ground
• Blade finish: Black stone washed
• Blade material: 8Cr13MoV
• Full-tang handle
• Handle Grip: Rubber overmold
• Reinforced leather sheath
• Hardness: 58-59 HRC
• Overall length: 9.44 inches
• Weight: 7.7 ounces
• Country of origin: China
• 2016 MSRP: $99.99

This is just another of the long line of superb Ruger CRKT Knives. They just keep coming up with winners and we were lucky to have tested this one.

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