Hi, I’m Ridge. I’ve been a passionate card collector since I was six years old, starting with baseball cards and falling in love with the hobby during the golden era of Pokémon in 1999. From there, I dove into Yu-Gi-Oh's world of Duel Monsters and, since 2015, have been deeply immersed in UFC and MMA cards—without missing a single fight along the way.

Over the past decade, I’ve also built a strong professional background in microscopy. That combination of lifelong collecting passion and technical expertise is what led me to create this service.

I started Ultimate Grading Science because I believe collectors deserve more clarity and confidence before sending their cards off for grading. Using high-powered stereo microscopy with advanced lighting and contrast techniques, I examine cards at a level of detail that simply isn’t possible with the naked eye or standard magnification. This allows me to identify fine surface characteristics, edge condition, centering nuances, and other details that can influence how a card may perform during the grading process.

My goal is to give you a clear, honest picture of what to expect—so you can make informed decisions that align with your collecting goals. Whether you’re protecting a childhood favorite, chasing a high-grade modern card, or simply wanting peace of mind, I approach every card with the same care and attention I give my own collection.

At its heart, card collecting has always been about more than just grades. It’s about the stories behind the cards, the thrill of the hunt, and the connections we make with other collectors. I’m committed to supporting that spirit by offering thoughtful, transparent analysis while respecting the human side of the hobby we all love.

Thank you for trusting me with your cards. I look forward to helping you gain clarity and confidence in your collecting journey.

— Ridge

Founder, Ultimate Grading Science