The CJRB Pyrite Pocketknife: The Full Nick Shabazz Review

Today, we'll take a look at a budget buttonlock from CJRB which is one of the best choices out there for folks on a budget, the Pyrite.

[@artisancutleryknife]

Hey Nick! We're glad to hear that you like our Pyrite model! First of all, don't worry, this design is here to stay for the foreseeable future, we have a large version now and a mini version in the pipeline. I just figured I should clarify a few things about that contoured Ti version that you have there, that was actually a Blade Show west special edition that we sold at $200, and we only ran 2 batches of that particular version. I'll be honest, at the time we did NOT expect to sell out so fast so we only ended up running a few more that were sold on our website and I believe that they are currently all sold out. BUT the demand was so high that we've re-released the contoured Ti version but now it has a CF inlay and S90v steel and is still $200. The $75 version of the Pyrite with RPM9 is actually non-contoured Ti so we're able to make those at a lower pricepoint and still offer titanium without all the CNC machining that goes into the inlayed version.

[@NickShabazz]

Ahh, that makes more sense. Thanks for clarifying, and I'm glad this model's around for the long haul.

[@blindanddead2560]

Hey! I was wondering if the Pyrite is legal in the state of California. Thank you!

[@corymoore2292]

Nick, you have very special qualities that have always made you an amazing and unique KZbinr. Even though your life is busy and I don’t see you as much these days, you will always be my favorite. You have an eye for detail and a way with words that isn’t common these days. Always wishing you the best!

[@VeniVidiVid]

A πrite with a 3.14 inch blade would definitely have been perfection.

[@Yuzuki1337]

In Diet Rite colours?

[@bronco1199]

This unfortunately is where the value is. No steel forged on mars or wood from a Wakandan old growth redwood. Nevertheless a good product for the dough.

[@SpankyK]

"Wakanda Old Growth Redwood" my dad would have laughed at that. I laughed at that. 😂

[@bronco1199]

@@SpankyK I still own and use a buck 110, among others. Cheers 🍻

[@Daniel.Liddicoat]

I have the KC exclusive in brown burlap micarta and titanium bolsters for $73

[@GrimLocke161]

I’ve been eyeing the CJRB Pyrite Alt and the Civivi Vision FG, so I hope you’ll take a look at that, too. Tho, I also wonder if I should just wait for a Pyrite Alt XL. 🙃

[@BladeLabMiami]

I'm obviously in the minority, but I hate the action of the Pyrite. The 'detent' is barely there. It shakes out very easily.

[@cynicalbliss]

This is my chief complaint too. Very easy to wrist-flick it out. That, and compared to the Civivi button lock I have (a Qubit), it seems really easy to accidentally open. The Qubit button has to go beyond being flush with the surface of the handle and a little into its depression to open. The Pyrite (at least mine) will open before that point.

[@MightyRedHat]

Mine isn’t like that at all. Detent is perfect.

[@Adam.297]

I think you got the bad end of variance. Out of the two I have so far, one requires a bunch of effort to flick out (but can still do so) and has a bit of stickiness, and the other I cannot get to flick out at all with zero stick.

[@daveferrance7569]

​@@MightyRedHatsame here

[@not-a-raccoon]

My pyrite detent is excellent.

[@airadaimagery692]

I want the one that I can’t get.

[@MightyRedHat]

lol the “Pi-right”!

[@liamroarke7991]

My only complaint?? The clip. It's SO SHINY.

[@grepora]

How does the CJRB Pyrite compare the the Civivi Elementum Button Lock? The almost look identical.

[@rhombusx]

CJRB also has the Ekko button lock which also has amazing action and a slightly less vanilla Ray Laconico design. I have both the Pyrite and the Ekko in Knifecenter exclusive titanium + black micarta and they're terrific - the Pyrite exclusive is still available for about $70 but unfortunately that particular version of the Ekko is discontinued (though there are still many other models available in the $55 range).

[@MrSabram07]

love my Ekko, love the thumb flick with button lock

[@iceman5117]

Throw it in the bucket with the rest of the "bugout, but better and cheaper" knives

[@jhakimi69]

my pyrite has a washer on both sides, with caged ball bearings, on each side

[@michaelmoorehouse8440]

the pie-rite joke fuckin got me

[@jeffscalfano3100]

You are very "late to the game" but I watched the whole video because I miss hearing your voice talk about knives.

[@Exarian]

It really is a contender for "standard-issue knife design." Like if you just needed a general all-rounder folding knife as part of a standard-issue kit, this makes a good case of being That Knife. Their only gimmick is that it's basically got no weaknesses.

[@ParasiticPsycho]

Got my daily driver version a couple weeks ago and love it. The pyrite is my new go to gift/recommendation knife.

[@valerianthemackiii5896]

🤩👍 - Nick!

[@PalehorseThirteen]

I recently picked up the CJRB Ekko button lock, which feels like sort of a cousin of Pyrite maybe?, and I love it. The blade shape feels like a hybrid of a sheepsfoot and a drop point, and it's so practical for so many situations. It's become my go-to knife to have on me at work. Not to mention it's also a lot of fun to fidget with between the front flipper, the button lock, and the opening hole that makes the reverse finger flick so easy to pull off.

[@dallasn16]

I've been using the xl version as my work knife for a few months now and it fits that role excellently.

[@jonathanklein7875]

I definitely like the base g10 XL version much better than the original. The ergos work better, and it offers a lot more blade while still being thin, light, and easy to carry.

[@jez76]

Waiting for my titanium/s90v version. I doubt this one will be discontiued, it seems they’re doing all kind of great stuff with the model, incl. XL, Premium and hip colour versions.

[@herbcraven7146]

I'm a big fan of CJRB. I carry a small Feldspar on a daily basis (one of two I own) and it does what I need it to do, opening packages and cutting cardboard with ease. I also own a Maileah, which although small, never feels like a compromise. Both are solid budget knives and CJRB usually their models left-hand friendly. I don't really need a Pyrite, but I'll probably get one to add a button lock to the mix.

[@DullPoints]

Of those knives, which does the best against cardboard?

[@jyknyc]

The pyrite has lefty models too

[@Minntality]

Knife center did a LE collab with CJRB of this knife that is titanium and black micarta for like $70ish that is an absolute chef's kiss.

[@airadaimagery692]

Where do you get the s35vn version?

[@jkn2k]

Marketing gimmick IMO

[@azraelsblade]

I got my Perfect Pyrite from the Kickstarter and holy crap it’s awesome.

[@DullPoints]

What? What makes it perfect?

[@P.W.R.]

​@@DullPoints CJRB called their Kickstarter project the "Perfect Pyrite," not that it is literally perfect. The Pyrite isn't perfect, but it is amazing for the price.

[@azraelsblade]

@@DullPoints thin, slicey, wharnie blade in s90v, contoured Ti handle with CF inlay, beautiful action, all for 199 bones… just really perfect.

[@kalijasin]

CJrB is acronym for China Jiang Ren Blade

[@marksomerville7993]

Hey Nick, thanks for all your amazing work. You should have a look at the Bowie version. Best budget knife I've ever bought

[@Daniel.Liddicoat]

Hey, Vanilla is a great flavor!

[@nandayane]

You know Artisan’s reputation is bad when rather than up-branding The CJRB pyrite to Artisan when they use premium materials they keep it CJRB branded. My only Artisan branded knife is my least safe knife, the detent is so loose than it is unsafe in my pocket.

[@Benroe-yz1nz]

I wasn't fond of the chrome clip on my g10 version. I had an extra Civivi clip so i put it on. I think it looks much better now.

[@SwedishPete]

I'm always intersted in what you have to say, you know the shiznizsch when it comes to knives.

[@happycamper4315]

I just got the Pyrite Bowie and it's brilliant. Just as useful as the original blades but it looks great!

[@TheTextless]

I own 2 of them and i have no washers in either one. Just the barrings

[@lostsailor2498]

I got two, they would both open with a shake, no button press needed. I just didn't feel that was safe.

[@gregm963]

I have the stainless steel version. I think it's a nice looking knife.

[@mathewa.4032]

Kizer’s Azo Begleiter XL is a MUCH better purchase in comparison. I own 2 of them. Both 154CM black stone washed blades with black micarta scales. You get more steel/cutting edge, an additional deployment method with a flipper tab, and ceramic roller bearings for only $30 more. Blade comes perfectly centered and wicked sharp. Blade HQ should do an exclusive run with it in a higher grade steel. It’s such a great knife for the price. Feels like $180 to $200 for a little over $90.

[@chimps4gimps]

In the UK the Kizer Azo is priced at £125 the CJRB Pyrite £55. Not sure I could justify the difference.

[@juniorjohnson5961]

Do you review watches ?

[@NickShabazz]

DO NOT GET INTO WATCHES

[@Thrael72008]

​@@NickShabazzwhat about flashlights

[@SigogglinJack]

I like the pocket clip. Beauties!

[@teamhonn]

Thank you so much for review

[@fmafieldmediaascension9220]

1st! Thanks for the review as always!

[@syafiq271]

i own the wharncliffe version and it's very sleek

[@MrArlenBrazill]

I wish they would make these in a liner lock.

[@PowerfulFupa]

Nick you sound like Italian bugs bunny

[@RobNC-OG]

Love all my Pyrites with AR-RPM9 steel. People can say what they will about the steel but in my use it has held up very well. It is surprising what it will do ONCE you find the correct sharpening angle and method. Want a toothy edge? It can do it with ease. Want a mirror edge? It can do that too. Just a great knife design to boot!

[@Orochi_001]

I wonder where the Ti/S35VN edition was sold at that price. The Artisan site lists it at $200, which is the same price as the current full-dress model.

[@kevola5739]

I do not understand limited runs. Creating a demand for something the consumer can’t get? This just wastes everyone’s time.

[@airadaimagery692]

Is that the s35vn version you speaking of? That’s what I want...

[@jakass]

FOMO gets easy sales (Fear of missing out)

[@NickShabazz]

I have a video on FOMO marketing. But it's a psychological trick, nothing more.

[@kevola5739]

I am a research oriented consumer so this type of marketing has no appeal to me. The only one missing out is the company accessing my wallet. I once spent 10 minutes online with Olight and then hung up and bought a Thrunite.

[@april44]

@@kevola5739couldn’t agree with you more! Don’t make me wait… I’ll take my hard earned $ elsewhere!! PS- I feel Thru-night is a far better light than anything Olight offers… considering cost and quality- imho

[@tkindschi]

As far as just the LOOKS go, I will say it's a heck of a lot better looking than the Rat-2. So they cleared that low bar.... 😅

[@moto-fl3rd]

I'm not familiar with button locks. How easy are they to push on accident and close up on your hand?

[@sharpends4279]

Who's Tony?

[@buckaroobunnyslippers]

I ended up going with the Civivi Qubit over this one, as I dug the aluminum handles and it's ridiculously thin and slicey. Would be interested to hear your thoughts on it, and comparison to the Pyrite.

[@alexsomeing8192]

My Pyrite came dull to the point it could not cut the paper. Resharpened, stays sharp since then. also without that washer (steel version)

[@Nordraw]

I’ve been carrying one daily the last month and I love it. Fifty bucks? A steal to say the least

[@Thrael72008]

Everytime someone mentions USD prices I get depressed. I paid 81 euros on Lamnia for it.

[@soslan1812]

Hey Nick, may I ask what car you are driving? Just curious about your choice :)

[@emesser7087]

The thing you was searching for was the bearings run directly on the non hardened liners 😁 if they would use nested with hardened washers or compete hardened liners.. It would be a gem

[@BIGbirdG]

I loke the simplicity of the knife its weird how manyy companies try and reinvent the wheel on a knife this is a tried and true shape and it does the job well

[@pauljosephbuggle3722]

Great value! I just wonder if that choil is safe. It looks like it might bite.

[@MightyRedHat]

It’s my one complaint, it’s just a little too small for my finger. But if I’m choking up and and my finger is turned a little it’s not so bad as long as I’m being conscious of what I’m doing.

[@xplorerman105]

I have large hands and mine would definitely bite my finger if used as a finger choil.

[@xplorerman105]

I wish the standard titanium version had the full ti scales like the limited but unfortunately they still have the steel liners under the thin ti scales.

[@KnifeHandleSupply]

That depends on which titanium version you have. The base titanium model with the flat scales, and cheaper steel has liners. The more expensive, sculpted titanium versions with cpm-s90v don’t have liners.

[@P.W.R.]

Where did you get your Pyrite? I bought mine straight from CJRB and the handle is full Ti with no steel liners. I specifically got this one because I wanted a cheap Ti knife to anodize for my first try. I bought the grey/raw Ti for for 79 bucks. My guess is the full Ti handle is a newer version of the Pyrite.

[@P.W.R.]

​@@KnifeHandleSupply Then what version do I have? I bought the base Ti model for 80 dollars straight from CJRB and it has no contouring. Flat scales but it's full Ti. 🤔

[@KnifeHandleSupply]

@@P.W.R. Oh, interesting. They must have updated it. I purchased both direct from CJRB. I have the flat scaled, titanium version with steel liners, and a limited edition, contoured S90V/gold shred CF version. Both were purchased more or less right when they released.

[@davidmarshall7752]

The blade is nearly identical to the QC Drift... not that that's a bad thing.

[@Adam.297]

I bought my first one a week or so ago and already have a third on the way. I fell in love with the pyrite, and button locks in general. Honestly, I would argue the "vanilla" factor is a pretty big part of the success. Nothing strange with the ergonomics or aesthetics to throw people off.

[@markifi]

a 3 ounce 3 inch knife isn't light. the opinel 8 is 1.5 ounces

[@mpmassacre91]

I love mine took me forever to get one when I got it I wish I got one sooner

[@bobcrane812]

Reminds me of the mass drop gent a lot.

[@tonysculimbrene3781]

Delay was worth it. Great review!

[@jedimike7689]

“2.69 ounces , nice”

[@chancelebron3975]

good to see another review

[@DonFarmer-sh7ml]

omg, not the pi rite!!🤣

[@robojimtv]

2.69 lbs is indeed a very nice weight

[@NickShabazz]

I told them to avoid that neutron-star-matter washer...

[@neiljudell1437]

I got so soured by the one I bought from DLT. At the time, the only one they had was black PVD blade, black PVD handles. First thing out of the box - the bearings were bad, bad, bad. Grinding, rumbling. Disassembled, the one washer was gouged. Polished up the washer, reassembled. Nope, still grinding. Bought a pair of skiff bearings. Much better, but, meh. Then. The blade. Oy. The grind was grossly uneven from heel to tip and left to right. Had to reprofile the blade. Discovered that was really hard - the PVD was rubbery and kept fouling the stones. Ended up having to microbevel the edge in order to get it sharp - thereby avoiding the PVD issue. It was so much work and cost to turn that thing into a useable knife at all that it just soured me on the whole thing.

[@mathewa.4032]

Nick, get your hands on a Kizer Azo designed Begleiter XL. You’ll love it. You might have an issue with the size but for the price you need to get your hands on one and review it.

[@ryngrd1]

🔥Scared of button locks. Especially for self defense. The button can be pressed, causing injury, in high stress situations 🔥

[@ryngrd1]

Oh, also, you gotta give me an inset pocket clip in 2023!

[@vincentferreira1135]

There’s a plain Ti version that doesn’t have the inlay, but also doesn’t have steel liners. Mine came with steel liners when I ordered from Blade HQ. I wonder why they did that. Also, CJRB (idk who else sells them) sells a milled Titanium clip for those who want one.

[@vincentferreira1135]

Also, that Ti version you have there is $200 and limited to something like 70 knives or round about there.

[@danpennella]

Excellent review! I own 4 different versions of this knife but none of the “premium” versions. They are all amazing and I use them a lot. You actually made a very good point about companies not sticking with an evergreen these days but the nice thing is CJRB/Artisan definitely noticed the success of the pyrite. They have a bunch of new versions on their website now that carried over from their Perfect Pyrite program. They are going to milk this cow for a long time I think and I can’t wait to get a few more models in my collection! Thanks as always Nick!