My knife taste is evolving is an ESEE 6 the result

TheDandyLion

TheDandyLion

Joined
Mar 27, 2013
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My main blade for two years has been a becker BK-7 but recently I have been craving a bit nimbler of a knife, a more refined slicer and cutter but still capable of batoning through medium wood. In sort I'm looking at a finer bushcraft knife on steroids (one that can do light chopping a medium splitting). After a lot of research it seems like a viable option is an ESEE 6. Is this a wrong choice? What are other "beefed up bushcraft knives" are out their that won't leave my wallet in critical condition.

Thanks,
~Jake
 
The ESEE 6 is a fine knife...I don't know that I would call it a "refined slicer". TBH, you're looking for a knife that doesn't really exist - as a knife becomes more geared toward slicing,it becomes less suited for chopping and batoning.
 
I habe the esee 6, and it is an awesome knife. That being said, I pair it with a spyderco bushcraft and an axe...

If you are looking for something nimbler, try the esee 4 or perhaps a propper bushcraft knife. Used in conjunction with the bk7 and you should be good to go.
 
The Condor Bushlore is a beefed up bushcraft knife and would be capable doing the tasks you describle. I would say it's not as sexy as the ESEE 6 or ESEE 5.
 
You may want to buy different handles over time. Seems like that's the way main criticism of the blade. I like the handles. The aftermarket ones are Purdy doe
 
I would consider the ESEE 4 more of a bushcraft knife on steroids, although it isn't really a chopper at all.
 
I did briefly consider the ESEE 4 but decided that it was just a bit too short, and yes I realize a fine slicer won't baton or chop as well but I feel like the ESEE 6 would be the "Jack Of All Trades''. I also know that the 6 isn't exactly a chopping blade but I would like the capability to cut down saplings or de-limb small trees for shelter craft a kindling harvesting. Is that too much to ask? I do also carry a machete or tomahawk for chopping but its strapped to my pack and when I'm leaving basecamp I don't bring it with me so I would like to not be crippled by leaving my machete/hawk behind. (the reason I leave basecamp is to scout out the region for resources and if I'm hunting, game trails. I move much faster with less weight and not having a long tool on my belt hitting my legs so bring very little on these ventures)
 
After owning the Becker line, the ESEE 6 just seemed too expensive and not as solid as the BKs. I use it anyway, but I would grab a BK over it in almost any scenario. YMMV.
 
spydercobenchmadekai said:
After owning the Becker line, the ESEE 6 just seemed too expensive and not as solid as the BKs. I use it anyway, but I would grab a BK over it in almost any scenario. YMMV.
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The way I see it is this-
ESEE 6 + (factory) Kydex sheath + Factory Micarta= 120$-130$ as a package

Becker BK-7 (80$) + micarta (40$) + decent but simple Kydex (40$)= 160$ from separate dealers so more shipping (also this is a simple setup, high end micarta and some serious kydex and you have over 200$ spent.)

In short are the ESEE's really any more expensive than the beckers? I think in the long run they're a bit cheaper so cost isn't an issue to me. I like a project knife now and then but sometimes its nice to get a knife knowing I won't have to replace or supply the accesories.
 
ESEE 6 is a great choice. So is the Becker BK-16. ESEE has a better sheath; I found the handle scales more ergonomic on the Becker.
 
I have an ESEE-3 that has go with me everywhere from Camping & Hunting ~~ & to the Store.! It is like my Delica ZDP189 ~~ I don't leave home with-out them.**
 
TheDandyLion said:
The way I see it is this-
ESEE 6 + (factory) Kydex sheath + Factory Micarta= 120$-130$ as a package

Becker BK-7 (80$) + micarta (40$) + decent but simple Kydex (40$)= 160$ from separate dealers so more shipping (also this is a simple setup, high end micarta and some serious kydex and you have over 200$ spent.)

In short are the ESEE's really any more expensive than the beckers? I think in the long run they're a bit cheaper so cost isn't an issue to me. I like a project knife now and then but sometimes its nice to get a knife knowing I won't have to replace or supply the accesories.
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I can agree with your point to the extent that you intend to change the handles and you don't like the factory sheath. I find factory nylons okay overall for field use where as I find the plastic sheath for the BK-14 or BK-24 lacking and feel you almost have to at least put handles on them to use them beyond opening a box or letter. I also find the Becker factory handles very comfortable overall.
 
TheDandyLion said:
I also know that the 6 isn't exactly a chopping blade but I would like the capability to cut down saplings or de-limb small trees for shelter craft a kindling harvesting. Is that too much to ask? I do also carry a machete or tomahawk for chopping but its strapped to my pack and when I'm leaving basecamp I don't bring it with me so I would like to not be crippled by leaving my machete/hawk behind.
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It's not asking too much if you want to take the time and energy to do it. You can cut down lean-to poles and process firewood (that term sucks) with a Boy Scout knife if you want to spend the time doing it. I would rather assign those tasks to the right piece of equipment like the hatchet or ax. I know, what I find myself in some fantasy crisis and I have to make shelter and a fire? I'd spend that money on a good GPS or compass and not get lost and find myself in that situation to began with. Don't shoot yourself in the foot by buying a large knife just to do poorly what a small ax would do well.
 
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