Product evaluated: CJRB Rampart Folding Pocket Knife with Clip, Liner Lock, 3.5 Inch Drop Point Blade, Gray G10 Handle
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Data basis: I analyzed dozens of written reviews and several video demonstrations collected between 2020 and 2026, with most feedback coming from written user reports supported by a smaller set of hands-on videos and Q&A posts.
| Outcome | CJRB Rampart | Typical mid-range pocket knife |
|---|---|---|
| Build stability | Mixed reports of wobble and inconsistent pivot tension. | Usually stable out of box with minor tuning possible. |
| Lock reliability | Higher-than-normal risk of liner lock slip or softness under repeated use. | Lower risk — locks hold reliably in most mid-range models. |
| Fit & finish | Inconsistent tolerances and occasional blade-centering problems. | Consistent fit and centering expected from competitors. |
| Maintenance | Requires tools for fixes, which many buyers noted as a hidden step. | Less upkeep — typical mid-range knives need little immediate adjustment. |
| Regret trigger | Loose lock or hardware during normal carry or first few uses. | Minor tuning is the most common regret for mid-range choices. |
Why might the lock feel unsafe on first carry?
Regret moment: Users commonly report noticing a soft or slipping liner lock during first uses, which feels unsafe for pocket carry.
Pattern: This is a recurring report across written reviews and hands-on videos rather than a one-off complaint.
When it shows up: It usually appears on first setup or after a few openings, and can worsen with daily flipping.
Category contrast: This is worse than typical mid-range knives where locks hold solidly after minimal tuning.
Why does the blade develop side-to-side play?
- Early sign: Buyers notice a small wobble immediately or after a week of use.
- Frequency tier: This is a secondary issue that appears repeatedly in reports, not universal.
- Cause clue: Reports point to loose pivot or inconsistent assembly tolerances as common causes.
- Usage anchor: The play is more noticeable when cutting with lateral stress or prying motions.
Why does the edge dull faster than expected?
- Primary impression: Several users noted quicker edge wear during normal tasks, like cardboard or rope cutting.
- Pattern statement: This is a persistent pattern among written feedback and is not an isolated comment.
- When it shows: Edge loss is commonly reported after days to weeks of standard use.
- Category contrast: It feels worse than many mid-range steel options, which keep an edge longer between sharpenings.
- Impact: Faster sharpening cycles add time and tools for users who expected low maintenance.
- Fixability: Users can restore the edge with stones, but this adds ongoing effort compared with peers.
Why do screws and the pocket clip need constant attention?
- Early sign: The clip or scale screws can loosen after a few carry cycles.
- Scope signal: Multiple buyers across review types reported re-tightening as a common first-week task.
- Hidden requirement: Fixing the pivot or clip typically needs a specific driver, creating an unexpected repair step.
- When it worsens: Frequent pocket carry and rough handling accelerate loosening.
- Attempts: Some users replaced screws or used threadlocker to reduce recurrence.
- Impact: Ongoing hardware checks are more upkeep than most mid-range alternatives demand.
- Category contrast: This level of recurring hardware maintenance is higher-than-normal for affordable knives, causing more regret.
Illustrative excerpts (not real quotes)
Excerpt: "Lock felt soft first day, made me stop using it for carry." — primary pattern
Excerpt: "Clip screws loosened after two days of pocket carry, needed a driver." — secondary pattern
Excerpt: "Blade edge needed touch-up after about a week of light use." — secondary pattern
Excerpt: "Slight blade wobble, tolerable but annoying for precision tasks." — edge-case pattern
Who should avoid this
- Daily carry with heavy use: Avoid if you expect a carefree, maintenance-free EDC knife.
- Users needing absolute lock security: Avoid if a soft liner lock would cause safety worries for your tasks.
- Non-tools owners: Avoid if you lack small drivers or sharpening gear; fixes require tools and time.
Who this is actually good for
- Budget hobbyists: Good for those willing to tune hardware and accept occasional sharpening to save money.
- Light occasional users: Good if carry is infrequent and you can check screws before use.
- Tool-equipped owners: Good for people who already own drivers and stones and expect to maintain knives.
Expectation vs reality
Expectation (reasonable for category): A mid-range folding knife will need minor tuning out of the box.
Reality: This model often needs more than minor tuning, including repeated screw tightening and sharpening.
Expectation: Liner locks on affordable knives generally secure blade for everyday tasks.
Reality: The Rampart's lock can feel soft or slip, creating a higher safety concern than typical peers.
Safer alternatives
- Check lock before buy: Prefer knives with confirmed solid lock engagement in written tests and videos.
- Choose verified fit: Look for mid-range models noted for tight pivot and centering to avoid blade play.
- Prioritize steel performance: Seek steels with better edge retention to reduce sharpening frequency.
- Pick tool-friendly designs: Buy models that use common driver sizes or include spare hardware to avoid hidden needs.
The bottom line
Main regret: The most frequent trigger is a loose or soft liner lock combined with inconsistent fit, which reduces safe everyday carry confidence.
Why it matters: These faults require more maintenance and tools than typical mid-range knives, creating avoidable hassle and safety concern.
Verdict: Avoid this model if you want a low-maintenance, reliably locking EDC knife without extra adjustments.
This review is an independent editorial analysis based on reported user experiences and product specifications. NegReview.com does not sell products.