Howdy, I've been perusing the internet for a fixed blade to use for hard tasks around the house and out in the woods. I've been looking at the ESEE-4 uncoated and if I can find one, the Cold Steel Leatherneck in SK-5. Any recommendations that has a good cutting geometry and toughness?
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A good general use fixed blade
- Thread starter gosuto
- Start date
Sounds like you have a decent budget so this may underwhelm you...
...but you might check out an original DPx HEST fixed blade by Rowen. Best knockaround fixed I know of. DPx has them for sale again.
If you're wanting better steel they have an extensive line of fixed blades and folders. They're great for what you're wanting.
...but you might check out an original DPx HEST fixed blade by Rowen. Best knockaround fixed I know of. DPx has them for sale again.
If you're wanting better steel they have an extensive line of fixed blades and folders. They're great for what you're wanting.
If you're looking at the EESE 4, you should also at least consider the Becker BK16. Its similar in size (slightly thinner blade stock), but with generally considered better handles (shape, and length. Some say the EESE 4 has to short of a handle). Anyway, its at least worth considering/looking into.
And maybe check out survive knives, they can be had in cpm-3v, and are quite popular.
Good luck
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And maybe check out survive knives, they can be had in cpm-3v, and are quite popular.
Good luck
.- Joined
- May 10, 2015
- Messages
- 5
I have a Condor Bushlore that I love. It's a really tough knife, but more of a bushcraft-style blade and may not be what you're looking for. I like the hardwood/leather look though, and it saves you some money if that matters to you.
Mora Companion (about $25 delivered), then Condor Kephart (about $35 delivered).
Buy cheap to start with, find out through experience what works with your style(s) of outdoor activity. Then buy expensive if the situation calls for it. (Odds are that if you actually try them, one or the other will do you just fine.)
Buy cheap to start with, find out through experience what works with your style(s) of outdoor activity. Then buy expensive if the situation calls for it. (Odds are that if you actually try them, one or the other will do you just fine.)
I think the ESEE 4, BK Tweeeners, Survive 4.1 are about as good as knife as any. I would go for the optional handles from TKC though for the ESEE though. When I simplified my fixed blade collection I went with the Swamp Rat Howling Rat which I love.
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SALTY
Gold Member
- Joined
- Mar 19, 2000
- Messages
- 5,809
ESEE knives are fine; I an a Becker fan and it sounds like one of their medium (in between) sizes or "Tweeners" as they are called would serve your purposes. The BK16 is certainly a sweet knife that will serve you well. I am partial to the BK15 as a great outsdoorsman's knife and worlds best steak knife.
1095 CroVan is a great steel that allows for ease in maintaining a keen edge and is surprisingly strong and resilient. Keep a swipe of mineral oil on uncoated surfaces and you will be set.
1095 CroVan is a great steel that allows for ease in maintaining a keen edge and is surprisingly strong and resilient. Keep a swipe of mineral oil on uncoated surfaces and you will be set.
My around the house beater knife is a Hultafors craftsman HVK GH. SK5 steel is tough, takes the sharpest edge I have on any knife and holds it longer than my big 1095 woods knife does. It's light, carries easy and the edge lasts forever. It's real affordable too. Best around the house knife I've had and it ain't afraid to do work.