I am a collector and user of fine, precision-made knives. For several months, I have been using the Work Sharp Professional Precision Adjust (PRO PA) Elite Knife Sharpening System and achieved excellent results for all of my blades.
After realizing Work Sharp was also manufacturing knives for EDC/personal carry, outdoor use, camping/adventure, etc., I decided to give one a go. With a price point of around $149.95, the RMX Drop Point Blackout / Reserve Series was my choice.
The 7.5” knife (3.2” blade and 4.3” handle) is surprisingly innovative and sleek in design. With an integral magnesium handle and blade forged from M390 super steel, its light weight at approximately 2.5+- ounces with exceptional corrosion resistance and edge retention. The conveniently cut out finger choil for control and jimping on the spine for traction make the knife easy to use. The black Cerakote RMX just feels great in your hand.
Two things made a significant impression on me. The first is the sharpness of the blade. I immediately tested it on my Sharp Electronic PT50A Edge-On-Up Industrial Edge Tester to evaluate the sharpness of the blade and received readings averaging 162 grams for force. It arrived wicked sharp, and I frankly would expect no less from a manufacturer of premium sharpening systems. Out of curiosity, I clamped it on my Pro PA and ran it through some of the finer abrasives and secured an improved average reading of 132 grams. This is one sharp blade.
The second thing was the highly innovative interchangeable pivot mechanism allowing you to convert the knife from manual to auto. Understanding the world we live in, the knife is shipped in manual mode. Should you live in a state where auto knives are allowed, you are able to convert the RMX to auto. Tip: After taping and angling the blade at 45 degrees, and loosening the pivot screw located at the back pivot to remove the manual pivot and bearing, lightly push the pivot screw into the back pivot to assist in the conversion. After inserting the auto pivot as shown in the instructions and turning it with the supplied wrench tool to position 1 for slow blade deployment, apply slight upward pressure on the pivot screw and continue turning the auto pivot to position 2 for faster blade deployment. I learned this after several attempts, and I will be recommending this tip be considered for addition to the instructions for converting it from manual to auto.
Verdict? This innovative knife is a no-brainer for any collector. After putting the RMX Drop Point / Blackout through my obsessively detailed analysis, I will say it punches well above its weight and is a rare find at its current price. If you have tried one, share your own thoughts.
by MarksmanPA
1 Comment
What have you been using it for in the month of ownership. What negatives have you observed with the knife/design during practical use? Where does it fall short?
One negative I can offer regarding the the RMX series is that I find the standard colorway to be a bit hideous. The limited all black is nice and so is the newer Blue limited run.