- Joined
- Aug 16, 2008
- Messages
- 5,911
I just received my Hogue EX01 at noon today from BladeHQ. I'm loving it so far and am carrying it now. I just took these pictures on my break at work. As many have stated already, the fit and finish on these Hogues is impeccable. The 3.5" size is just right for my large hands. The grip sticks about 1/4" past my pinky with my index finger securely in the handle choil. What surprises me is that plunge lock is so rock solid that there is no movement whatsover when I try to wiggle the blade from close to the tip. The button action is very firm and solid. The added slide safety is a nice touch but I doubt I will use it during general use. If I had to mention anything that is questionable depending on individual taste, it would be that it's blade heavy. The balance point is between the choil and the tang on the bolster. I find it perfectly acceptable and it doesn't affect me at all nor does it take away from my delight in this knife so far. Bear in mind I've only carried it for a couple hours now. The way the handle is designed and contructed makes the entire handle assembly amazingly light yet it feels very strong. I can't induce any flex by applying torque or twisting the handle whatsoever. Because the handle assembly is so light, the knife doesn't feel at all like the advertised weight of 4.2 ounces (G10, 4.4 for aluminum). The smooth G10 on the pocket side is a very nice touch and the Piranha texture on the button side is very grippy. It all works. The action is amazing, lockup is rock solid and the fit and finish are amazing. The blade is dead center when closed and there isn't even any blade wiggle when the knife is halfway open which is somewhat uncommon in my experience. The edge grind is the best I've ever seen on a production knife and the edge is almost polished looking compared to other production knifes I own. It came hair popping sharp but I stropped it anyway. My only conundrum right now is whether I should get another in 4" and/or tanto. I may grab a 4" black G-Mascus in either drop point again or "maybe" tanto. I'm just not sure I need a tanto blade in my EDC. I'm extremely happy with this knife and I do fully expect to get another for variety! Here are some pictures with a few next to a Spyderco Pacific Salt I carry in my BOB. Enjoy. I sure am!
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