Ripple on sale at Walmart?

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bdmicarta

Joined
Feb 16, 2012
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In one of my local Walmarts today and they had their version of the Ripple on sale for $30, regular price $40. I don't know what differs between the Walmart Ripple and the models that you buy from other people that are considerably more expensive.
 
first, wrong forum, thats a CRKT knife. second, the walmart ripple has a linerlock, alum handles and an 8cr14mov blade. the normal ripple comes it two sizes, has Acuto+ steel, and steel scales along with a frame lock.
 
The Wal-mart Ripple is a less expensive version of the CRKT Ripple. That's the essential difference. They achieve this by using less expensive materials, such as aluminum for the handle scales, and a thinner liner lock. I have one, and it's a decent EDC. The IKBS is as smooth and fast as any spring-assist, the handle feels good in your hand, and the clip seems light, but it holds securely to your pocket. All in all, it's a good value for the money.

Just this, though: once you have one IKBS knife, you'll want another.
 
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Did somebody say Ripple!!??
 
Yes, I just realized that I posted in the wrong forum. Someone was kind enough to move my post to here since there is not dedicated CRKT forum.

I was looking at Kershaw knives as well so that is the source of my brainfart. I was considering buying the WM Ripple but I decided I might buy another Kershaw instead.
 
Shorttime said:
The Wal-mart Ripple is a less expensive version of the CRKT Ripple.
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I know what you meant, but they really both are CRKT Ripples. CRKT is now selling it on their web site.

Certainly seems unnecessarily confusing (not to mention slightly tacky) to have both with the same name, when they are fairly different. SS handle vs. Aluminum, Liner vs. frame lock, etc.
Ain't like CRKT has ever had a problem coming up with new names.:D

Nothing wrong with the "walmart" version, I've got one and its quite decent for the price.
 
I have owned both the steel framelock and the aluminum linerlock, the latter formerly exclusive to Wal-Mart.

I still have the Wal-Mart version.

The steel framelock version had so many hot spots I could have powered a city. Just horrible feeling in the hand, especially if you didn't limpgrip it. The framelock felt quite weak, as well. Columbia River dares give it an MSRP of $135?!

The Wal-Mart version is a far, far better value. Much more comfortable (it's thicker), just as fast, and the blade steel is still formidable. $29.97 in most Wal-Marts, and now available online at most knife retailers.
 
bdmicarta said:
I was looking at Kershaw knives as well so that is the source of my brainfart. I was considering buying the WM Ripple but I decided I might buy another Kershaw instead.
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The Wal-Mart Ripple is the only CRKT I own. Most of my "toys" are Kershaw.
 
I have the Walmart Ripple, and I think it's pretty sweet for 30 bucks and some change. SUPER fast opening, Seriously smooth, nice lockup, and I love the looks. It's probably my second favorite CRKT, after my carbon fiber M1600f. :)
 
themandylion said:
The steel framelock version had so many hot spots I could have powered a city. Just horrible feeling in the hand, especially if you didn't limpgrip it. The framelock felt quite weak, as well.
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That's interesting.
I just got a blue original Ripple and compared it to my Walmart version. Both feel about the same to my hand. The handle edges are about identically finished. The aluminum handles are slightly thicker than the SS (as you noted), which may be why you feel more hot spots.

It's certainly a point worth noting, but I'm not sure how much it will matter to many folks. Depends on how they plan to use it. I consider both more a "gentleman's folder" or light use EDC.

Don't see or feel any weakness in the framelock. Both locks seem adequate.

The Wal-Mart version is a far, far better value. Much more comfortable (it's thicker), just as fast, and the blade steel is still formidable. $29.97 in most Wal-Marts, and now available online at most knife retailers.
Click to expand...

Certainly can't argue with the value of Wally version.
I picked up the blue original out of curiosity and because they have gotten rather hard to find.
Also because the blue is very nice looking:D.
Plus the thought that now that CRKT is listing the aluminum version, they may discontinue the SS.

To me, the original Ripple is the nicer version. Slightly more attractive and better components.
Is it worth somewhat over twice the price? From a practical view, probably not. If the better materials and having the original over the revised version have value to you, maybe.

I have no plans to get rid of either one.


Edit: Spent a bit more time comparing the the two versions. One major difference between the SS and Aluminum version is cosmetic. The "complex ripple textured pattern" on the SS version is much more detailed and finely done. Flipper is also more nicely finished. Making the overall appearance of the SS more attractive and classier.

Both versions are IKBS. The SS has the IKBS stamp, the other does not.
May just be mine, but the SS seems slightly smoother.​
 
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