Esee 4 vs fallkniven f1

Another vote for the F1 - mainly because of the the edge geometry, quality of materials used and lack of coating on the blade.
Like it was mentioned already, no contest between the two really.
 
Another vote for the F1 - mainly because of the the edge geometry, quality of materials used and lack of coating on the blade.
Like it was mentioned already, no contest between the two really.
+1. I have both (along with all the others mentioned), but the Fallknivens end up being the ones I take with me.

The ESEE is a tough mother of a blade, and certainly works, but the F1 is just plain sweet. The convex blade is easy to keep exquisitely sharp, which I like, and the handle is more comfortable for long use. I also find the tip profile of the F1 a little easier to do precision work with.
 
I own an f1 , but not an rc4,but i do have a rowen made essee rat 3. Of the two i'd take the F1 any day .
 
I'm in Perth. Don't overlook the cold steel srk , or a becker knife. Also if you want to know of some great Aussie suppliers , send me a visitor message.

If you ever plan to slice stuff with your knife (say, food prep, veggies, etc.) take the grind into account. Convex (F1), ok. Full Flat (ESSE), ok. Saber grinds (SRK)... not so much!

At least that's my opinion. If you plan on carrying another knife with a thinner blade like a SAK of some sort or a cheap Opinel, this might not be an issue.

I own both knives you mention and I like them both. I think I use the F1 more even if it rattles a bit in the original sheath.

Mikel
 
I think I use the F1 more even if it rattles a bit in the original sheath.

Mikel

Heat up the plastic tensioner piece (the only flexible part on the sheath actually) and push it in before it cools off. Say god-bye to rattle. Easy fix:thumbup:
 
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To Student762:
If you decide to go for the F-1, keep your eyes peeled for fakes. Get it from a trusted source, as lately e-bay is flooded with them.
 
I own both. The ESEE 4 is a tough blade and it is made better with some TKC aftermarket scales. I still prefer the F1 for most of my woods and outdoor time. Good luck with your choice!
 
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To Student762:
If you decide to go for the F-1, keep your eyes peeled for fakes. Get it from a trusted source, as lately e-bay is flooded with them.

We were wondering where all the full tang F-1's went... now we know. Nice.
 
I don't mind a choil and carbon vs stainless is not a problem. I have to buy these knives sight unseen because my nearest dealer lives 400km away from me so going up there would be too difficult to arrange. So sight unseen would you go for the esee or the f1? After this knife I probably won't be buying another knife so I want to get this right. All it will be used for is carving and skinning the odd roo or sheep. Battoning may occur but if so it will be small stuff or the occasional swipe at a 25mm branch.
I don't think you would choose the Esee o skin a roo or sheep. The F1 would be perfect for everything you mention.
 
Take a look at scrapyard a 511 is an outstanding light weight blade, will take an hold a better edge, tougher, comfortable handle, best warranty in the business. Nutnfancy has a good video on scrapyard knives,

From the two you are asking about.... ease....
 
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To Student762:
If you decide to go for the F-1, keep your eyes peeled for fakes. Get it from a trusted source, as lately e-bay is flooded with them.
Thanks, I will keep the ole radar up for fakes :thumbup: I have decided to go for the F1 as it seems to get some really positive comments. Cheers for all of the help and advice guys:thumbup: :):):):D
 
If you ever plan to slice stuff with your knife (say, food prep, veggies, etc.) take the grind into account. Convex (F1), ok. Full Flat (ESSE), ok. Saber grinds (SRK)... not so much!

At least that's my opinion. If you plan on carrying another knife with a thinner blade like a SAK of some sort or a cheap Opinel, this might not be an issue.

I own both knives you mention and I like them both. I think I use the F1 more even if it rattles a bit in the original sheath.

Mikel
Cheers. I am a knife knut so it's a rare day when I don't have my modded opinel8, SAK hunter xt, SAK camper or charge tti in my pocket:D I have a lot f pocket knives but sheath knives have always seemed a little beyond the price range (tti was a present so I didn't pay for it) :D
 
only have the esee of the two but it is a great knife and I would not hesitate to recommend it. I have a gerber lmf2 which is a bit larger and works well. the esee gets way more use though as I prefer it for most tasks one could ask of a 4-5" blade.
 
The F1 (VG10) rubber handle didn't feel 'right' in my medium+ sized hands, while ESEE-4 did - with it's stock Micarta scales - even if just barely - go figure. Also, that blade steel means it was made in Japan, while the ESEE was made in the US for an Alabama company - and I like to keep my fellow Alabamians employed. My choice for a 'bushcraft' knife was a Buck 192 Vanguard for many years - before my 'enlightenment' ( That was when I was informed as to what a proper bushcraft knife should have as attributes... and began my expensive quest for said knife!). Actually, that Buck is a decent performer - and the Mora Robust and Companion models are even less expensive - and perform well above their cost. I don't see how you could go wrong with either of your choices, but I'll vote for the ESEE-4. Besides, if I wanted a convex ground edge, I'd grab a Bark River Gameskeeper or Fox River - I have and love them both. My ESEE-4 has been a go-to knife, I'll say that for it. I've certainly not 'baby-ed' it. Throws great sparks from a ferrocerium rod, too - as good as a carbon steel Mora.

Stainz
 
Given the choice, I'd go with the Fallkniven.

But I usually carry a Bark River in the woods myself.



Big Mike
 
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