Hogue EX01 Green G-Mascus 3.5" Drop Point

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Aug 16, 2008
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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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3.5" drop point black G-10 here :D

Im telling you, it only gets cooler with time! Glad you enjoy your new blade!

Awesome Pictures btw.
 
Am I the only one who sees an influence on the aesthetics of the EX01 from the Alien movies, (particularly the tanto-bladed version)?
 
Awesome pics! I have a 3.5 green aluminum one on the way this week and am even more excited now lol
 
Beautiful knife, love the blade shape too but the handle is just great. This one (same green) is at the top of my to-get list... :thumbup:
 
Very nice. I have the OD aluminum one in 3.5 & the black G-Mascus in 4. Both of mine are Drop-points. I like the tanto, but I traded into both of mine & am fine with the DP versions. Their F&F is excellent.

As to the lock's solidness, I think that is because of its design. If you look at the mechanism, there's a slight slant for wear, so the spring loaded button has additional travel for wear.

I also agree that while the lock bar's nice, I just don't see the need to use it. I don't see a situation where I'd accidentally press the button to disengage it.

Congrats.
 
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I just got the black G-Mascus 3.5" drop point version. It's incredible. Redefines the quality, fit/finish, and value from a factory knife.
 
That is an awesome looking knife. Thank you also for posting pics without that garish yellow knife pickling up the situation. :D


Tostig
 
I have the exact same knife and share your experience and sentiments. It is simply one of the best production knives out there. Very reasonable, actually surprising cost considering what you get. Watch some of the U-tubes. read the article and look at the pics in Tactical Knife magazine, and I don't know how you could pass this baby up. I am very very happy with the knife. As you said at first, the blade seemed heavy, that quickly passed. the tolerancees are just remarkable, stonewash superb, lock up sure and safe. I am a big fan and very impressed. I have had several customs and they are no better honestly, I highly highly recommend this blade. jeff
 
I just ordered another in 4" black G-Mascus drop point. Couldn't help myself.
 
Great knife for sure, I already have 4 and today received 3.5
both green g10 tanto :thumbup:
 
I seem to get in on the tail end of things at times! I am looking at the 4" drop point in black aluminum. If that Gmascus had full liners the thickness of that bolster plate, I would be on it in a flash! As it is, does anyone know the weight for the 4" in aluminum?
 
Great looking knife! I know this is from Hogue, but is Hogue making it or is it being made for them? Where is it made?

Best,

Heekma
 
I believe it's in the 5.6 to 5.8 area.

I seem to get in on the tail end of things at times! I am looking at the 4" drop point in black aluminum. If that Gmascus had full liners the thickness of that bolster plate, I would be on it in a flash! As it is, does anyone know the weight for the 4" in aluminum?
 
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