Old School Knifeworks Ruple 1 Trapper Natural Stag Folding Knife Review

What You Should Know About the Old School Knifeworks Ruple 1 Trapper Natural Stag Folding Knife

As someone who’s spent over a decade putting gear through its paces in every conceivable environment, from the sterile confines of a lab to the unforgiving elements of the field, I approach new tools with a blend of curiosity and critical assessment. The Old School Knifeworks Ruple 1 Trapper Natural Stag Folding Knife arrived at my doorstep during a period when I found myself constantly reaching for a reliable, no-nonsense cutting tool for a variety of tasks, but without wanting the bulk of a fixed blade. My previous daily carry, a well-worn but ultimately unremarkable lockback, had finally succumbed to a particularly demanding week of workshop projects, leaving a gap that needed filling with something that offered both classic appeal and modern performance. Upon first inspection, this trapper felt substantial, with a natural stag handle that promised good grip and an aesthetic that harked back to a more traditional era of craftsmanship. I had briefly considered a few other well-regarded slipjoint designs, but the allure of VG-10 steel and a genuine stag handle on this particular model pushed it to the forefront. My initial reaction was one of satisfied anticipation; it felt like a tool built to be used.

Real-World Testing: Putting Old School Knifeworks Ruple 1 Trapper Natural Stag Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real hands-on with the Old School Knifeworks Ruple 1 Trapper Natural Stag Folding Knife was in my workshop. I immediately put it to work opening up a series of sealed shipping boxes, a task it handled with a surprising degree of ease. The VG-10 stainless clip blade sliced through packing tape and cardboard cleanly, requiring minimal pressure. I then moved on to stripping some wire for a small repair project, where the plain edge showed its aptitude for precise work. Testing continued outdoors, where I used it to trim some errant cordage and even whittle down a small piece of wood for a makeshift tool. The natural stag handle, despite my slightly grimy workshop hands, provided a consistent and secure grip, even with light moisture from a recent drizzle. There was a very slight initial stiffness in the opening and closing action, a common characteristic of new slipjoints, but nothing that felt problematic.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the ensuing weeks, this trapper became my go-to for a multitude of everyday tasks. I used it for opening mail, slicing food during an impromptu picnic, and even for some minor woodworking adjustments, like cleaning out a tight joint. The satin finish VG-10 blade held its edge remarkably well, requiring only a few passes on a fine ceramic rod to bring it back to razor sharpness after considerable use. There have been no signs of rust or pitting, even after being exposed to some workshop humidity. The nickel silver bolsters show a pleasing patina developing, adding to the knife’s character. Compared to some budget slipjoints I’ve owned in the past, the durability and edge retention of this model are significantly superior. Maintenance has been straightforward; a quick wipe-down after use and an occasional light oiling of the pivot area is all that’s needed.

Breaking Down the Features of Old School Knifeworks Ruple 1 Trapper Natural Stag Folding Knife

Specifications

The Old School Knifeworks Ruple 1 Trapper Natural Stag Folding Knife boasts a 4.13-inch blade length, which is a generous size for a folding knife, offering ample reach for most cutting tasks. It features a clip point blade shape, known for its versatility in piercing and detailed cutting. The VG-10 stainless steel is a highly regarded material, offering an excellent balance of edge retention, toughness, and corrosion resistance, making it suitable for a wide range of applications. This knife is equipped with a plain edge blade, ideal for clean slicing and precise control.

The handle is constructed from genuine stag handle, providing a unique, natural grip that is both aesthetically pleasing and functional. Complementing the stag are nickel silver bolsters, which add durability and a classic look to the knife’s construction. The closed length is 4.13 inches, making it a substantial yet pocketable tool. It also features an inlay shield, adding a touch of refined detail. The manufacturer specifies a leather sheath for carrying, which further enhances its traditional appeal and practical utility.

Performance & Functionality

In its primary role as a cutting tool, the Old School Knifeworks Ruple 1 Trapper Natural Stag Folding Knife performs exceptionally well. The VG-10 blade delivers a clean and efficient cut across various materials, from paper and cardboard to more fibrous items like rope. Its performance excels in tasks requiring precision, thanks to the clip point blade shape and the sharpness of the plain edge. The blade maintains its keenness through extended use, a testament to the quality of the steel.

One of the standout strengths of this knife is its impressive edge retention; it consistently outperforms many other knives in its class that I’ve tested. The slipjoint mechanism, while not offering the security of a locking blade, is robust and provides satisfying resistance during use. Its main drawback, inherent to all slipjoint designs, is the need for caution when performing heavy-duty tasks where blade flex could be a concern. For its intended purpose as a daily carry and general-purpose cutting tool, it meets and often exceeds expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this trapper is a harmonious blend of traditional aesthetics and practical functionality. The natural stag handle is the undeniable centerpiece, offering a distinctive look and a surprisingly secure grip. Each handle scale is unique, providing an individual character to every knife. The nickel silver bolsters are smoothly integrated, providing a comfortable place for the hand to rest and offering protection to the front of the handle.

The satin finish on the VG-10 blade not only looks elegant but also helps to reduce glare during use. The inlay shield adds a subtle touch of class without being ostentatious. The ergonomics are excellent; the handle shape fills the hand nicely, and the textured surface of the stag ensures positive control, even if it gets a bit damp. There is a slight learning curve with the slipjoint mechanism for those accustomed to locking blades, requiring a deliberate closing motion, but it becomes intuitive quickly.

Durability & Maintenance

The Old School Knifeworks Ruple 1 Trapper Natural Stag Folding Knife feels built to last. The combination of VG-10 stainless steel, nickel silver bolsters, and a well-fitted stag handle suggests excellent long-term durability. I haven’t observed any significant wear or structural issues after prolonged use, which speaks volumes about its construction quality. The stag handle, while beautiful, requires a bit more care than synthetic materials; avoiding prolonged soaking and applying a light coat of wax or oil can help maintain its integrity and prevent drying out over time.

Cleaning is straightforward; the plain edge blade can be easily wiped down, and the pivot area can be accessed for occasional cleaning or lubrication. The leather sheath is also well-made and should offer good protection for the knife when stored. The primary point to be mindful of with this design is the slipjoint, which, while strong, is not designed for prying or extreme leverage tasks that could compromise its integrity.

Accessories and Customization Options

This particular model comes with a leather sheath, which is a practical and classic accessory that complements the knife’s overall aesthetic. The sheath is well-stitched and features a belt loop, allowing for convenient carry. Beyond the included sheath, the Old School Knifeworks Ruple 1 Trapper Natural Stag Folding Knife is not typically designed for extensive customization in the way some tactical or modern folders are. The beauty of this knife lies in its inherent design and materials, particularly the unique natural stag handle.

However, one could consider aftermarket conditioning products specifically for natural stag or bone handles to ensure its longevity and appearance. For those who prefer a different carrying method, various aftermarket pocket clips or lanyard beads could potentially be adapted, though this would detract from its classic appeal. The VG-10 blade itself is what it is; there are no interchangeable blade options for this specific model.

Pros and Cons of Old School Knifeworks Ruple 1 Trapper Natural Stag Folding Knife

Who Should Buy Old School Knifeworks Ruple 1 Trapper Natural Stag Folding Knife?

This knife is ideally suited for the discerning individual who appreciates traditional craftsmanship, natural materials, and a high-performing cutting tool. It’s perfect for collectors, enthusiasts of classic knife designs, or anyone seeking a reliable and beautiful daily carry knife for non-demanding tasks. If you spend time in workshops, light field environments, or simply want a gentleman’s folder that makes a statement, this model is an excellent choice.

Those who require a knife for extreme leverage, prying, or heavy-duty chopping should look elsewhere, as the slipjoint mechanism is not designed for such abuse. Individuals who prefer low-maintenance materials or budget-friendly options might also find this knife to be outside their ideal parameters. For those who choose this model, a good quality leather conditioner or natural wax would be a worthwhile complementary item to ensure the stag handle remains in excellent condition.

Conclusion on Old School Knifeworks Ruple 1 Trapper Natural Stag Folding Knife

The Old School Knifeworks Ruple 1 Trapper Natural Stag Folding Knife is a remarkable piece of functional art. It successfully merges the enduring appeal of classic design with the tangible benefits of modern materials like VG-10 steel. The unique natural stag handle paired with nickel silver bolsters creates a tool that is as much a pleasure to behold as it is to use for everyday tasks. While its price point places it in the premium category, the quality of materials, meticulous craftsmanship, and overall performance justify the investment for the right user.

I would heartily recommend this knife to anyone who values traditional aesthetics, appreciates the character of natural materials, and seeks a reliable, high-quality folding knife for general utility. If you’re looking for a workhorse for extreme abuse or a budget-friendly option, this might not be your perfect match. However, for those who want a beautiful, well-made knife that performs admirably in daily situations and feels like a piece of heritage in your hand, the Old School Knifeworks Ruple 1 Trapper Natural Stag Folding Knife is an exceptional choice.