After initially asking about the Emerson Reliant, I got one a couple of months ago and have used it extensively. I write this as I've noticed others have asked the same questions I asked about the Hardwear line.
The knife first impressed me with its ergonomics. They were great and the handle provided an adeaquate hold for me. The ridges allowed for a good grip while cutting. The finger choil near the blade allowed me a bit of control for detail work. The reversible pocket clip was a bit better than average as it stay clipped to my pocket with little to no slipping while walking around.
The blade itself is great. I stabbed at boxes (regular and broken down ones stacked together), cut braches, sliced foods, ropes, twine, old clothes and hard plastics. The blade held up and kept a nice edge after a couple of months of abuse. I regret there was noticeable, but tolerable blade plae after hard use. To me, the millimeter to either side was neglible. I touched up the blade witha Spyderco Shaprmaker. It needed very light sharpening after all my whacks and cuts. The blade's grind seemed, to me at least, more sharpening friendly and better for cutting as opposed to the flat chisel grind of the Emerson Specwar.
I think the knife is great for those wanting a 'beater' or a general purpose knife for an admirable cost (mine cost 40.00 on ebay from Razorsharpknife). It has become a daily carry for me for those abusive and messy jobs. If tis knife were from Benchmade, it would definitely be in the Red Class series. For the occasional knife buyer, this one is great for low cost and high servability. For experienced knife knuts, it offers the same qualities and a nice beater to save on the more extravagant pieces. Hope this helps the next knut thiking about getting one.