Rough Rider’s White Smooth Bone (WSB) Knives

 

My Knives with White Smooth Bone handles

Some people like stag, others like pearl. If you would believe the knife makers everyone loves red jigged bone. I think my favorite handle material is white smooth bone (WSB). If it isn't my favorite, it is close to it. Currently, it seems that Rough Rider has made just about every type of knife in the their line with WSB handles, with the exception of two of my favorite knife patterns; the large five inch toothpick and the camp/scout utility. I can only hope they will eventually rectify this gross oversight on their part.

Obviously some knives will look better with white smooth bone handles than others but the fact of the matter is, the large toothpicks, as well as the standard 4 inch toothpick are naturals for the material. Perhaps the camp/scout isn't but I know it would be a big hit with scrimhanders who have friends associated with Scouting.

I think the reason I like white smooth bone is because of its close resemblance to ivory. Obviously, if you compare it side by side, the differences are obvious. And granted, there are imitation ivories on the market that look more like ivory than white bone does, but imitation ivory is plastic. Bone is a natural material. For this reason I prefer it over the plastics.

For the most part, Rough Rider does a great job with its WSB. The knives have a nice polish to them; have a clean ivory white coloration, usually with minimal flecking. With many economy knife makers, little cracks and chips are often noticeable near the pins, bolsters and liners. This isn't the case with the Rough Riders I have purchased. I have been collecting WSB knives for several years yet even with constant use and changes in temperature and humidity I have not seen any signs of chipping or cracking with my Rough Rider knives.

Finally, not all of my White Smooth Bone knives are Rough Riders but to be honest, the only reason I have knives in white smooth bone by other makers is because Rough Rider didn't make it in that exact pattern or i was unable to purchase the Rough Rider pattern at that time.

Barlow (RR 198)

Description:
As traditional knives go, the Barlow has been around for a long time and is seeing a resurgence as of late.  This Rough Rider Barlow is about as traditional as it can get. The knife has a large clip and small pen blade, with the typical large bolster on the top of a bare end tear drop handle.  As with many traditional Barlows, the WSB Barlow lacks a shield.

Both Blades are tight and recess into their own channels separated by a full spacer.  Like many early Rough Riders some may find the blades a bit of nail breaker.  This is due to the short length of the blades. The stamping of the Rough Rider Horseshoe on the bolster is very clean.  The 2 blade Barlow is one of my favorite knife patterns. If you’re a Barlow collector, you’ll be very pleased with this knife.  Despite the very large bolster, the pattern allows for a large piece of bone suitable for scrim work.

Other patterns & handle Materials:
Rough Rider makes the Standard Barlow in almost every pattern and handle material.

Specifications:

  • Pattern: Barlow (standard)
  • Pattern Number: RR 198
  • Length Closed : 3 3/8 inches
  • Main Blade: Clip
  • Secondary: Pen
  • Blade Etch:
  • Tang:
  • Handle: White Smooth Bone  
  • Bolsters: Nickel Silver
  • Lining:  Brass.
  • Pins: Brass
  • Shield : None  
  • Bail: N/A

 

Close up of the closed barlow with a good view of the bolster.

 

Big Daddy Barlow (RR 1035)

Description:
I’m guessing “Grand Daddy Barlow” like “Sodbuster” is trademark protected by someone or maybe Rough Rider just likes to set its five inch Barlow apart from the others.  Either way, the Big Daddy is very big and it is also an excellent build.  The huge four inch clip blade has a nice swedge on the top which just adds to the knives beauty.   Like its smaller brother, the Big Daddy has the Rough Rider Horseshoe stamped in the bolster. 

The big blade features a nice swedge and is razor sharp from the factory.  The blade walks and talks nicely; snapping to the half and full open position.  Stay and place is also exceptional with minimal, if any blade wobble.  Despite a nice strong back spring, the length of blade makes opening and closing very smooth.  SMKW has used this same Barlow frame and clip blade for other trademarks they own, primarily Marbles and Colt including the Marbles Scrimshaw series.

Other patterns & handle Materials:

Specifications:

  • Pattern: Big Daddy Barlow
  • Pattern Number: RR 1035
  • Length Closed : 5 inches
  • Main Blade: 4 inches
  • Secondary: N/A
  • Blade Etch:
  • Tang:
  • Handle: White Smooth Bone  
  • Bolsters: Nickel Silver
  • Lining:  Brass.
  • Pins: Brass
  • Shield : None  
  • Bail: N/A


The slim build and the five inches closed length make the Bid Daddy a nice back pocket knife.
The 9 inches open length and nicely swedge clip blade gives it a nice sleek look.

Canoe (RR045)

Description:
The Canoe patern is basically a pen knife on steroids. The shape of the handle allows for wider blades allows the user can apply more force when cutting. The reason is simple, a wider blade allows for a thicker spine and thicker spine means a stronger blade. The cut out on the hanlde also reduces weight and allows the blades to recess deeper into the handle allowing for a slimmer knife with wide blades. In short, the Canoe is a very intelligent design and there is small wonder that it very popular.

To date, I own six Canoes. This make it vary small number in my over all collection. Of those six standard Canoes, 5 are Rough Riders and one is made by Case. Only one needed to be retruned to the factory due to a defect and that one wasn't made by Rough Rider! The first canoe I ever bought was for my WSB collection. The knife has nice tight blades, opens smoothly, and the fit and finish are great, The main blade doesn't have as strong a snap as some of my other Rough Riders, however it is on par with the snap of my Case Canoe. I've come to learn over time, that things such as snap, blade rub, and other foibles and characteristics are going to vary from pattern to pattern. Thus you can't expect the same snap from a Canoe that you're going to hear in a Trapper or standard toothpick. In all I'm very pleased with my WSB canoe which explains why I've bought so many other Rough Rider Canoes.

Other patterns & handle Materials:
Rough Rider makes the Standard Canoe in almost every pattern and handle material.

Specifications:

  • Pattern: Canoe
  • Pattern Numbers: RR 045
  • Length Closed : 3 5/8 inches
  • Main Blade: 2.5 inc h Spear
  • Secondary: 1.5 inch pen
  • Blade Etch:
  • Tang:
  • Handle: White Smooth Bone  
  • Bolsters: Nickel Silver
  • Lining:  Brass.
  • Pins: Brass
  • Shield : None  
  • Bail: N/A

The canoe shaped handle allows a wide blade in narrow frame and a comfortable grip for the user.

Congress (RR 050)

Description:
To date Rough Rider only offers the Slimline Congress in white smooth bone. . I've also heard the pattern called a Gentleman or Court House Congress.  The Slimline have slim concave handles with blades that are well recessed into the handles and is popular pattern among whittlers.

I actually prefer the high rise pattern that have a thicker concave handle with wider sheepfoot blades that form noticeable bumps above the handles I've seen this pattern called a High-Rise Congress. 

People who like the Slimline Congress pattern should be very pleased with this one.  The blades have good walk and talk and are easy to open.  Traditional congress blades are also present (Two main sheepfooters, a pen and a coping). I give Rough Rider high marks for keeping the standard blades in place and also the quality of build. Here’s hoping Rough Rider comes out with a High-Rise Congress also with the same blade choices for people like me, who prefers heavier blades.

Other patterns & handle Materials:
Rough Rider makes the Slimline Congressin almost every pattern and handle material.

Specifications:

  • Pattern: Slimline Congress
  • Pattern Numbers: RR 050
  • Length Closed :
  • Main Blade:
  • Secondary:
  • Blade Etch:
  • Tang:
  • Handle: White Smooth Bone  
  • Bolsters: Nickel Silver
  • Lining:  Brass.
  • Pins: Brass
  • Shield : None  
  • Bail: N/A

The slimline design gives the knife an elegant sillouette and very little bulk in the pocket making the knife an ideal gentleman's pocket carry or Sunday Morning go to Meeting knife

 

Deer Slayer (RR 142)

Description:
Essentially a large old fashioned single blade clasp knife, the Deer Slayer is probably the biggest slip joint folder made by Rough Rider.  It comes in three or four handles styles.  The knife makes an excellent back pocket knife and the large and very wide clip blade is larger than many fixed blade knives of comparable length.  The blade can easily be opened, yet the back spring very strong.  There is no play or wobble in the open blade.  The knife has an excellent snap and feels very solid.  Despite having a large handle area, the white slabs of bone are exceptionally smooth and well polished.   The handles silhouette also makes gripping the knife quite easy,   

If you like carrying or collecting back pocket knives, the Deer Slayer would be an exceptional choice.  If you’re a scrimshander, the WSB Deer Slayer gives you a large canvas to work with.

Other patterns & handle Materials:
Other known pattern numbers for the Deerslayer: RR 085 Amber Jigged, RR133- Orange Smooth Bone, RR 134 Buffalo Horn, RR 279 Red Jigged,  RR 353 Im Abalone, RR 524 Sawcut bone, RR554 Long Rifle,

Specifications:

  • Pattern:
  • Pattern Numbers:
  • Length Closed :
  • Main Blade:
  • Secondary:
  • Blade Etch:
  • Tang:
  • Handle: White Smooth Bone  
  • Bolsters: Nickel Silver
  • Lining:  Brass.
  • Pins: Brass
  • Shield : None  
  • Bail: N/A

Over five inches in the closed postion and nine inches open, the Deer Slayer is bigger than some fixed blades
However it is flat enough to make it a comfortable back pocket knife or ideal for the ruler pocket in your overalls.

 

 

Elephant's Toenail (RR 139)

Description:
I don’t have many toenails and probably never will.  I think the pattern looks cool but I just don’t see a use for it.  From what I understand, the Toenail and Sunfish are both types of rope knives.  This would make sense, as the short wide blade would be ideal for cutting heavy rope. 

The toenail is essentially a tear drop shaped sunfish, that is the top bolster is larger than the bottom bolster.  The traditional elephant toenail has a spear master and pen secondary.  The pattern is popular with scrimshanders because it has a large area to work with.
What I’ve noticed about this knife is the blades seem to rub at the pivot point when opening, at least when I first got it.  I’m not sure of the technical term but I call it blade drag. I also noticed this among the Sunfish patterns.

At the time of purchase they had been out of stock at SMKW for some time and this issue may have been a case of “new old stock” as in the blades needed lubricating after a long period of storage.  In any case, big fat blades on a short frame means there isn’t a whole lot of snap when the blade opens or closes.  Don’t get me, wrong, the blades are held solidly in place with the back spring once they are open or closed; you’re just not going to hear a loud snap.  
Blade rub, as in the two blades touching either other or the liners is not an issue.  Both blades are also typically Rough Rider razor sharp.  In short, the Elephant Toenail is a big solid knife. Unfortunately  Rough Rider doesn’t make many toenails.  I would like to see this pattern added to the Stoneworx series


Other patterns & handle Materials:
Known Rough Rider Elephant Toenail pattern numbers:  RR084 - Amber Jigged,  RR277- Red Jigged  , RR355 - imitation Abalone,  RR523 – Sawcut bone,   RR511 – imitation Tortoise,  RR856 – Yellow Comp,

Specifications:

  • Pattern: Elephant Toenail
  • Pattern Number: RR 139
  • Length Closed : 4 inches
  • Main Blade: 2.75 inch Spear
  • Secondary: 2 inch pen
  • Blade Etch: N/A
  • Tang: Rough Rider
  • Handle: White Smooth Bone  
  • Bolsters: Nickel Silver
  • Lining:  Brass.
  • Pins: Brass
  • Shield : None  
  • Bail: N/A

 

 

Hawkbill (RR 1144)

Description:
When I first started collecting white smooth bone knives, I noticed there was no hawkbill in the Rough Rider line-up. I bought a rather sad affair made by Rite Edge that was a mere 3 inches as filler.  I actually emailed Rough Rider and asked why there was no Hawkbill.  Rough Rider had already produced hawkbills in other bone handles but not in white smooth bone. I know most people see the hawkbill as a pruning knife but it is also commonly used as a sailor’s rope knife.   To me, white smooth bone was a natural for this pattern.  (I also feel it is natural for the large toothpick, but Rough Rider continues to ignore my pleas for that one!)

It took a while but Rough Rider finally got around to producing a WSB hawkbilll. Was it worth the wait. Absolutely. The knife is fantastic. It is patterned after the Case Hawkbill with the very large arching blade which makes cutting line a snap. While it is definitely a pocket full it is very flat and has a lanyard hole making it ideal for the back pocket. And when you open it up you have very elegant cutter for all your pruning, carpet, or rope needs. I currently have two of the Rough Rider hawkbills and see more of them in my future.

Other patterns & handle Materials:
Other Hawkbills:  RR305- Red jigged,  RR764 Amber Jigged, RR861 Yellow Comp, RR1143 Black Jigged (Coal Miner), RR11530 - Armor Hide Series

Description:

Specifications:

  • Pattern: Hawkbill
  • Pattern Numbers: RR 1144
  • Length Closed : 4 inches
  • Main Blade: 3 inch Hawkbill
  • Secondary: N/A
  • Blade Etch: N/A
  • Tang: Rough Rider Horeshoe/ RR1144 China
  • Handle: White Smooth Bone  
  • Bolsters: Nickel Silver
  • Lining:  Brass.
  • Pins: Brass
  • Shield : None  
  • Bail: Lanyard hole

 

 

Lady's Leg, Large (RR 151)

Description:
Frankly I bought this knife because it is the closest thing to a large toothpick in Rough Rider’s white smooth bone. The knife is well made, the shoe is a functioning cap lifter, blade opens and closes smoothly with good snap, has excellent stay and play (no noticeable wobble) .  I really like the blade shape and it is absolutely razor sharp.  With all that said, it is a poor substitute for the traditional large toothpick.  Leg collectors will like it. Large toothpick collectors will find it a poor substitute for their collection.

Other patterns & handle Materials:
Rough Rider makes the large Lady's leg in several pattenrs including: RR 088 - amber jigged, .RR 288 - red jigged, RR957 - Bowie Series, RR1121 - Pink Support the Cause, RR1123 - RedSupport the Cause, RR782 - Outdoorsman, RR348 - Imitation Abalone, RR 504- Tortoise shell, RR Orange Smooth, RR1163 - Stoneworx (2 blade), and perhaps others.

Specifications:

  • Pattern: Lady's Leg (large)
  • Pattern Numbers: RR 151
  • Length Closed : 5 inches
  • Main Blade: 4 icnes
  • Secondary: Boot cap-lifter
  • Blade Etch: N/A
  • Tang: RR horseshoe
  • Handle: White Smooth Bone  
  • Bolsters: Nickel Silver
  • Lining:  Brass.
  • Pins: Brass
  • Shield : None  
  • Bail: N/A

 

 

Lock-Back, Small - [Diablo] (RR 137)

Description:
This is one of the coolest little lockbacks I’ve seen.  As many know, I don’t normally collect traditional lock-backs, but the look and feel of this one really impresses me.  I really like the way it looks.  The blade can be pinched open with practice.  The handle shape is similar to a finger grooved hunter. Despite the petite size the finger grooves allows for a sure grip of this small framed knife.   The blade lock is very positive and the razor sharp drop point style blade allows for easy precise cutting.

This knife is one of my favorites.  While too small to be used for skinning or gutting, it is handy for many cutting chores and small enough to carry every day.   Despite the small frame the blade is significantly wider than a blade on a peanut or tiny toothpick. As such it is less prone to breaking; plus it locks in place!      Bone looks great, and the blade closes with a great snap, especially for a knife this small.  In the white smooth bone, the knife makes for nice little gentleman’s lockback.

And yes I have carried and used htis knife on several occasions.Rough Rider hit it out of the park with this one.   Fit and finish is terrific. It really is too good to be locked up just for looks. I’m have plans to not only this knife in other handle materials but also duplicates of the white smooth bone handle. It is just that good.

Other patterns & handle Materials:
Other knives in this pattern: RR 138 - Orange Smooth bone,   RR083 - Amber Jigged, RR276 – Red Jigged. Here is hoping it comes out in other versions in the near future.

Specifications:

  • Pattern:
  • Pattern Numbers:
  • Length Closed :
  • Main Blade:
  • Secondary:
  • Blade Etch:
  • Tang:
  • Handle: White Smooth Bone  
  • Bolsters: Nickel Silver
  • Lining:  Brass.
  • Pins: Brass
  • Shield : None  
  • Bail: N/A

When opened, the Diablo looks like a baby Deer Slayer.
While it is very small, it is easy to grip and can handle many day to day cutting chores.

 

Marlin Spike - Rigger (RR 577)

Description:
The Rigger was a natural for the white smooth bone and was actually the first WSB knife that I bought.  I currently own all of the Riggers made by Rough Rider as well as about 30+ other knives in this or similar patterns. It is one of my favorite patterns.   A brief synopsis follows however for a full review see my review for Rough Rider Marlin Spikes.

In short, the knife is excellent and on par with the old Camillus made Riggers, including the Camillus made Case riggers.  Very clean handles and strong double back spring that holds the blade open but allows and easy pull.  The locking marlin spike is firm.  There is no blade or spike wobble whatsoever.  The spike has a good sharpness but isn’t too sharp.  The sheepfoot on the other hand is razor sharp. You will not find a better example of the traditional marlin spike on the market, especially at this price.  Fit and finish is head and overall quality is head and shoulders above the Colonial marlin spike knife which is almost double the price.

Other patterns & handle Materials: See my review for Rough Rider Marlin Spikes.

Specifications:

  • Pattern: Marlin Spike (Rigger)
  • Pattern Numbers: RR 577
  • Length Closed : 4.5 inches
  • Main Blade: 2.5 inches
  • Secondary: 3 inch marlin spike
  • Blade Etch: 440 Razor Sharp (reverse)
  • Tang: RR horseshoe
  • Handle: White Smooth Bone  
  • Bolsters: Nickel Silver
  • Lining:  Brass.
  • Pins: Brass
  • Shield : None  
  • Bail: Nickel/Silver, locking

Peanut (RR 112)

Description:
The first peanut I ever bought was the Rough Rider WSB peanut.  At 2 7/8 inches with the main clip and small pen blade it is as traditional as they come. The slight dogleg slant of the frame makes it easy to hold and pleasing to use.  The blade open quite smoothly, in fact the pen blade is easier to open than the pen blade on my Case Peanuts!  In many ways, I think the Rough Rider Peanuts (and there are lots of them) are probably the best peanuts currently being made, especially for the price you’re going to pay.
I’m going to sum up my WSB peanut in one word:  Flawless.  It is simply a terrific little knife.  If you want a better made peanut, you’re going to have to spend three or maybe four times as much as a single Rough Rider peanut.

Other patterns & handle Materials:
Rough Rider has an extensive selection of Peanuts in most handle materials. As this is a small pattern knife many of the series that feature only medium and large pattern knives omit the peanut due primarily to the complecity of trying to apply a reverse frosted blade etch to the main blade and/or scaling down the shields or bolsters to fit the tiny frames.

Specifications:

  • Pattern: Peanut
  • Pattern Numbers: RR112
  • Length Closed : 2 7/8 inches
  • Main Blade: 2 inch clip
  • Secondary: 1.5 inch pen
  • Blade Etch: RR "Tested Sharp" Anvil
  • Tang: RR Horseshoe
  • Handle: White Smooth Bone  
  • Bolsters: Nickel Silver
  • Lining:  Brass.
  • Pins: Brass
  • Shield : None  
  • Bail: N/A

 

 

Sowbelly (RR 130)

Description:
When it comes to Stockmans, the Sowbelly is my favorite pattern.  The stockman design, is well over a hundred years old and is unique in that the pattern was the first and possibly the only pocket knife developed specifically for sale in the USA. The blades originally planned for the knife were the blades needed by cowpunchers. The clip blade was for general cutting, the sheepfoot, for cutting line and trimming hoofs and spay blade for castrating animals.   Stockmans come in a variety of handle styles with the serpentine handle being very popular.  The sowbelly is a thick bodied, serpentine stockman.  It gets its name from the noticeable curve in the handle. The belly shape allows for a better cutting position of the spay blade when it is in use and an easy grip of both the clip and sheepfoot blades..

One of the negative traits of stockmans is the chance for blade rub; normally between the spay and sheepfoot blades.  I currently own six sowbellies and all of them have a small amount of blade rub. This occurs because the blades share the same channels when in the closed position and, while they don’t actually touch or hit each other when closing, they are normally pressed against each other when you grab the blade with the nail pull and open the blade. I've noticed a similar problem with Case, Bear and Camillus stockmans. What I like most about the Rough Rider Sowbelly is the fullness of the clip blade. Many makers give Sowbellies a long thin clip blade. The Rough Rider is about as traditional as you can get.

As mentioned I own six Rough Rider Sowebellies. The white smooth bone was the first one I bought. I have found the pattern to be consistently well made, with exceptional fit and finish. If you like the Sowbelly pattern or if you've been thinkign about giving the pattern a try, then you should give a Rough Rider Sowbelly and try.

Other patterns & handle Materials:
Rough Rider makes the Sowbelly in almost every pattern and handle material. (However, don't look for it in the Stoneworx, Coal Mnier, or the A Stroke of Luck series. Sigh!)

Specifications:

  • Pattern: Sowbelly
  • Pattern Numbers: RR130
  • Length Closed : 3.75 inch
  • Main Blade: 2 5/8 inch Clip
  • Secondary: 2 inch Sheepfoot & Spay
  • Blade Etch: RR "Tested Sharp" Anvil
  • Tang: Rough Rider Signature
  • Handle: White Smooth Bone  
  • Bolsters: Single Ring Nickel Silver
  • Lining:  Brass.
  • Pins: Brass
  • Shield : None  
  • Bail: N/A

 

 

Sunfish, Large (RR 120)

Description:
 The Sunfish is a wide bodied equal-end knife with a wide spear- master and secondary pen blade.  Rough Rider makes it in two sizes, small and large.  The large or standard sunfish is 4.25 inches long in the closed position. It is about one inch wide! Like its cousin, the Elephant toenail, it is designed to cut rope.   The knife has a certain amount of blade drag,

As I mentioned in the entry for the Elephant Toenail there is a slight amount of blade drag around the pivot pins on the blades; especially the large wide spear It is more pronounced on the larger frame but not enough to be a problem with opening or closing and definitely not enough to be a deal breaker on the purchase, at least not in my opinion.   As I said, it may be a flaw inherent with the pattern.   It could also be the fact that all of these knives were new old stock that had been out of production and sitting on the shelf for several years.

As my sunfishes are both early production runs they have the “Always Ready” etch on the main blade.  I’m not sure this will be repeated on future releases of the knives.  Not much more to say than they are nice examples of the pattern and priced accordingly. I’m considering getting a few more in some of the more exotic Rough Rider series simply because of how nice they look.  While the blades are razor sharp, and the fit and finish are exceptional I doubt I will ever use these knives but if you’re a user of the pattern, I’m betting you will be pleased with these Rough Riders.

Other patterns & handle Materials:
Rough Rider makes the Standard Barlow in almost every pattern and handle material.

Specifications:

  • Pattern: Large Sunfish
  • Pattern Numbers: RR120
  • Length Closed : 4.25 inches
  • Main Blade: 3.25 inch Spear
  • Secondary: 2 inch pen
  • Blade Etch: RR Always Ready
  • Tang: RR singature
  • Handle: White Smooth Bone  
  • Bolsters: Singe Ring Nickel Silver
  • Lining:  Brass.
  • Pins: Brass
  • Shield : None  
  • Bail: N/A

 

 

Sunfish, Small (RR 116)

Description:
The Sunfish is a wide bodied equal-end knife with a wide spear- master and secondary pen blade.  Rough Rider makes it in two sizes, small and large.  The small or baby sunfish is 3 inches long in the closed position. It is about one inch wide! Like its cousin, the Elephant toenail, it is designed to cut rope.

As I mentioned in the entry for the Elephant Toenail there is a slight amount of blade drag around the pivot pins on the blades; especially the large wide spear.  It is indeed a minor flaw and I have experienced in other more expensive knives, including USA made Bear & Son and Case knives.  At least for me, this minor amount of blade drag would not be deciding factor against purchasing.

As my sunfishes are both early production runs they have the “Always Ready” etch on the main blade.  I’m not sure this will be repeated on future releases of the knives.  Not much more to say than they are nice examples of the pattern and priced accordingly. I’m considering getting a few more in some of the more exotic Rough Rider series simply because of how nice they look.  While the blades are razor sharp, and the fit and finish are exceptional I doubt I will ever use these knives but if you’re a user of the pattern, I’m betting you will be pleased with these Rough Riders.

Other patterns & handle Materials:
Rough Rider makes the Small Sunfish in the following handles/series:


Small and large sunfish.

Specifications:

  • Pattern:
  • Pattern Numbers:
  • Length Closed : 3 inches
  • Main Blade: 2 inch spear
  • Secondary: 1 inch pen
  • Blade Etch: RR Always Ready
  • Tang: RR Signature
  • Handle: White Smooth Bone  
  • Bolsters: Single Ring Nickel Silver
  • Lining:  Brass.
  • Pins: Brass
  • Shield : None  
  • Bail: N/A

 

 

Toothpick, Small (RR 060)

Description:
The small toothpick goes by many names, including Texas Toothpick, Baby Toothpick, Tiny toothpick, etc. Depending on who makes them they usually measure between 3 to 3.5 inches, with 3 inches being the norm.  The knife normally features a single California clip blade making the knife a very petite, slender knife, hence the name “toothpick.”

While I never set out to collect small toothpick, I have managed to acquire about a dozen of them, with the overwhelming majority of them being made by Rough Rider. In every case, the knives have superb fit and finish. The blade opens and closes smoothly, with no wobble and is absolutely razor sharp. The thin design also makes the tip needle like meaning it will easily poke just about anything.   The blade looks delicate but it should be able to handle must light cutting duties.  Because of its slender design, the blade can also do a limited amount of work as a punch or awl; however this is not its intended design. It does not have the thick spine of most awls, and repeated twisting will probably lead to blade wobble and/or a broken blade, especially if you‘re punching through thick pieces of leather. 

As I mentioned in the beginning, I never set out to collect the small toothpicks.  It just happened.  The first of my small toothpicks was the one in the Stoneworx Series, I bought it as a companion for my Large Stoneworx Toothpick.  I liked it so much, that I decided to buy one for my WSB collection. The quality was so high and the price was so low, that I just kept buying them.   And seeing as Rough Rider continues to make them in a variety of handle styles, I assume there will be more small toothpicks in my future.

Other patterns & handle Materials:
Rough Rider has an extensive selection of small toothpicks.in most handle materials. As this is a small pattern knife many of the series that feature only medium and large pattern knives omit the small toothpick due primarily to the complecity of trying to apply a reverse frosted blade etch to the main blade and/or scaling down the shields or bolsters to fit the tiny frames.

Specifications:

  • Pattern: Small Toothpick
  • Pattern Numbers: RR 060
  • Length Closed : 3 inches
  • Main Blade: 2.25 inch California Clip
  • Secondary: N/A
  • Blade Etch: 440 Razor Sharp Stainless
  • Tang: RR Horsehoe
  • Handle: White Smooth Bone  
  • Bolsters: Nickel Silver (triple ringed bottom bolster)
  • Lining:  Brass.
  • Pins: Brass
  • Shield : None  
  • Bail: N/A

 

 

Trapper (RR 22034W)

Description:
No doubt, the Standard Trapper is the most popular and most collected of all Traditional Slip joint patterns.  As such Rough Rider produces a Trapper for just about every series of knives and every handle material they make.  Surprisingly, it took them awhile to get around to producing in white smooth bone!

As many people know, I don’t really collect Trappers. My problem with the standard Trapper is the spay blade. I have no use for it and it frankly gets in the way of holding the knife when the clip blade is in use. I currently own three Rough Rider Trappers.  I don’t know if I will buy more Trappers but the decision will not be based on quality.  As with all Rough Riders, the knife is priced substantially lower than other knives of the same or even better quality.  They are great for building a collection or for everyday use.  What I’d like to see is more variety in the Trapper line. Perhaps some “slimline” single blade trappers or a Rough Rider Buzz-saw Trapper with a saw blade instead of a spay.  At one time Camillus made a Bartender Trapper that replaced the spay blade with a combination can-opener, bottle-opener, screwdriver blade. That would be de something I definitely buy.

Of course, this is just me. For all of you Standard Trapper collectors, you can’t go wrong with a Rough Rider.   On a final note however, if you’re going to buy the Trapper with the WSB handles, don’t be fooled by the picture displayed at the SMKW website and most other places selling this knife.  The knife will definitely come with the Rough Rider single ringed bolster.  Most images show it with smooth bolsters.  Frost knives use smooth bolsters.  Most standard Rough Riders come with single ringed nickel silver bolsters.

Other patterns & handle Materials:
Rough Rider makes the Standard Trapper in almost every pattern and handle material. The White Smooth Bone Trapper is used for many promotional and fund raiser knives for SMKW such as Paws & Stripes and Graduation days, Father's Day and other special occasions.

Trapper 2

Specifications:

  • Pattern: Standard Trapper
  • Pattern Number: RR 22034W
  • Length Closed : 4 1/8 inch
  • Main Blade: Clip, 3 1/8 inches
  • Secondary: Spay, 3 1/8 inches
  • Blade Etch:
  • Tang: RR horseshoe all blades, pattern # reverse side
  • Handle: White Smooth Bone  
  • Bolsters: Ringed, Nickel Silver
  • Lining:  Brass.
  • Pins: Brass
  • Shield : None  
  • Bail: N/A

Toad Sticker (RR 1202)

Description:

The blade on the Toad Sticker is a very slender and tapers evenly from tang to tip.  This is unlike the typical melon tester which is normally a long spear blade that for most of its length is the same width from spine to edge.  The blade is 4.5 inches long At just 3/8 of an inch wide at the tang, you can imagine how pointy the blade is.  The Match striker pull is located around mid spine and the blade opens smoothly with little effort. Because of the thin profile of the blade, I was able to penetrate heavy cardboard almost effortlessly. It was also quite easy to push the knife through an inch thick uncooked pork chop and the side of 7 inch blue gill which stood in for a bullfrog.  The blade is also razor sharp but because of how thin the blade is, I’m reluctant to cut anything more than paper or cooked meat. I would not use it for carving or whittling. The blade is not designed for such work.  I also would not try pushing the blade into anything like wood as this in not a leather punch or awl. I suspect the tip would bend or break.  Nor is the knife an ice pick. You can use it to poke melons and/or frogs!

WSB toadsticker

Specifications:

  • Pattern: melon knife
  • Model Number: RR1204
  • Length Closed: 5 3/8 inch
  • Main Blade: 4.5 inch modified spear
  • Secondary: N/A
  • Blade steel: 440A Stainless.
  • Bolster: NA
  • Tang Obverse: Rough Rider Horse Shoe
  • Tang Reverse: Pattern number/ China
  • Liners: Brass
  • Pins: Brass
  • Handle Material: White Smooth bone

The Toad Sticker comes in a very limited number of handle styles. RR1203 Blue Swirl Toad Sticker, RR1204 Purple Swirl Toad Sticker

 

Known WSB Rough Rider Knives

While I can't say for certain, I beleive the table below identifies every folding knife that Rough Rider has issued with a White Smooth Bone handle. Rough Rider white smooth bone knives have also been used for numerous laser scrimshawed knives produced for Smoky Mountain knife Works such as annual graduation knives, #1 Dad or # Son, Religious themes, the celebration of Bin Laden's death, Paws and Stripes, etc.

Number

Description

Own

RR 003

  3.5 inch Stockman

 

RR020

 3 inch Lockback

 

RR040

 3.75 inch traditional  Copperhead

 

RR 045

 3 5/8 Canoe

*

RR050

 3 5/8 Congress

 

RR 055

 2.75 Mini Canoe (Butterbean)

 

RR 060

 3 inch  Small Toothpick

*

RR067

 5 inch lockback folding hunter (Similar to Buck 110)

 

RR 100

 3.5 inch  mini-Trapper

 

RR104

 3.75 inch Doctor’s knife (Spear and Pen blades)

 

RR108

 3.5 inch Whittler (Carpenter style, no coping)

 

RR 112

 2 7/8 inch Peanut

*

RR 116

 3 inch Baby Sunfish

*

RR 120

 4.25 inch Large Sunfish

 

RR 127

 4 inch Muskrat

 

RR 130

 3.75 inch Sowbelly Stockman

*

RR133

 3. 5/8 inch drop point lockback (similar to Case Mako)

 

RR135

 3.75 inch lockback (similar to Buck 112)

 

RR 137

 3 inch lockback [Diablo]

*

RR 139

 4.5 inch Elephant  Toenail.

*

RR 142

 5 7/8 inch Deer Slayer (folding hunter)

*

RR 145

 5 7/8 inch Coke Bottle (back pocket knife)

 

RR148

  3 1/8 inch Small Lady Leg

 

RR 151

 5 inch Large Lady Leg

*

RR 164

1 inch key chain knife

 

RR165

1/18 inch keychain knife

 

RR 166

  (Unknown, may not exist.)

 

RR 167

 1 5/8 inch keychain knife

 

RR 192

 3.75 inch clip point lockback

 

RR 198

 3 3/8 inch Standard  Barlow

*

RR 206

3 7/8 inch Stockman (Serpentine)

 

RR 211

3.75 inch Stockman (Swell Center)

 

RR 248

3.25 inch Stockman

 

RR 254

3 5/8 inch Six Shooter

 

RR 577

4.5 inch  Marlin Spike (Rigger)

*

RR 1035

5 inch Big Daddy Barlow

*

RR1144

4 inch Hawkbill

*

RR1202

5 3/8 in Toadsticker

RR 22034W

4 1/8 inch Trapper

*