Drop Forged Battle Ring II, 1st Impressions

[Tenbeers]

Got it in the mail today.
Very nice! This is the first DF model I've purchased with the new coating and I think it's a great improvement. I own the entire DF line and this is the first one that isn't shaving sharp out of the box. It will cut but is nowhere near as sharp as the Boot-knife or Push-dagger from this line. The sheath and clip are solid as usual.
As I've done with my other DF models, I wrapped the handle with Renfrew stretch-grip tape.
it doesn't add any bulk and offers a lot of stability in handling.

I like the design concept of the Benchmade SOCP but wanted something more substantial.
The Battle Ring II definitely fits the bill and is less expensive! Fans of the SOCP may prefer it's lighter weight but some may appreciate something a bit larger.
I'm hoping the edge on this one is an anomaly. The edges on my other DF models are some of the best I've seen in many years.

All in all another great addition to the line!

 

[Brhowser87]

Thanks for the review. Can you post up pics when u get a chance? I'd like to see that wrap.

 

[Tenbeers]

My photo skills are limited but hopefully you can get some idea of what it looks like.
The wrap isn't pretty but it works.
Self-adhesive so no residue if you want to change or remove it.

 

[Brhowser87]

My photo skills are limited but hopefully you can get some idea of what it looks like.
The wrap isn't pretty but it works.
Self-adhesive so no residue if you want to change or remove it.

View attachment 1117297

Nothing wrong with that. Trust me I have crappie photography skills so to me u look like Ansel Adams. Lol recently my fiance was using that "kt tape" stuff on her elbow, we'll come to find out it makes great grip tape also.

 

[Tenbeers]

One of the advantages of this particular grip tape is that won't interfere with the sheath openings on some of the DF line like the Survivalist.
You can wrap it all the way to the guard and it won't bind up. Even with more than one layer applied.
The tape is fairly durable. I put it on my cane which gets used daily and it weathers fairly well. It gets even more ugly but I'm more concerned with function over form.

 

[WTF]

wow 60 bucks..... I got the hunter for 35 US new on ebay and free shipping. why so expensive?