I've been a big fan of ESEEs for a while (and still am), EDCing an ESEE 3 or 4. Although I like a well-designed choil for enhanced control when woodworking, I didn't want a choil on my general-purpose, EDC fixed blade. Then, I recently happened onto Justin King's work in this forum and was smitten. I ordered his "Practical Field Model" about a month ago, and got it in a couple of weeks. Justin was very helpful in helping me tailor it, and here she is...
Blade length = 4.25" (good compromise between the ESEE 3 and 4)
Blade thickness = 3/16"
Steel = CPM3V
Handle material = G10
The practical field model typically comes with large through-holes in the scales, which are fastened with steel tubing. Although the tang still has the holes, I prefer solid scales that I can remove (also looks better IMO). I played around with forcing a Patina, but this steel (as Justin advertises) is relatively stain resistant, so I'm sticking with the satin, Scotch-Brite finish (this knife has already had some light stains easily removed with Scotch-Brite).
I really like the jimped thumb ramp (enhances control), and this thing provides a great reverse grip for deploying from my weak side. I also wanted the glass-breaker with lanyard hole which, while common on Justin's larger models, I understand was a first for the practical field model.
Using the Spyderco Tri-Angle Sharpmaker and unloaded leather strop, I was able to somewhat slowly but easily bring the edge to hair-shaving sharp.
The sheath is very nice, and Justin's Kydex belt clip is very secure. With a sweater on, the whole package is easily concealed and very comfortable* on my belt (OWB--I don't like to carry knives IWB). If you don't mind the pommel protruding a bit from your front pocket, you can carry it there but, until I can save up enough money to buy a shortened version for pocket carry (during warmer weather), I'll be returning to my ESEE 3.
* The jimped glass-breaker can bite a tad, but that's to be expected and a necessary compromise given my druthers.
Blade length = 4.25" (good compromise between the ESEE 3 and 4)
Blade thickness = 3/16"
Steel = CPM3V
Handle material = G10
The practical field model typically comes with large through-holes in the scales, which are fastened with steel tubing. Although the tang still has the holes, I prefer solid scales that I can remove (also looks better IMO). I played around with forcing a Patina, but this steel (as Justin advertises) is relatively stain resistant, so I'm sticking with the satin, Scotch-Brite finish (this knife has already had some light stains easily removed with Scotch-Brite).
I really like the jimped thumb ramp (enhances control), and this thing provides a great reverse grip for deploying from my weak side. I also wanted the glass-breaker with lanyard hole which, while common on Justin's larger models, I understand was a first for the practical field model.
Using the Spyderco Tri-Angle Sharpmaker and unloaded leather strop, I was able to somewhat slowly but easily bring the edge to hair-shaving sharp.
The sheath is very nice, and Justin's Kydex belt clip is very secure. With a sweater on, the whole package is easily concealed and very comfortable* on my belt (OWB--I don't like to carry knives IWB). If you don't mind the pommel protruding a bit from your front pocket, you can carry it there but, until I can save up enough money to buy a shortened version for pocket carry (during warmer weather), I'll be returning to my ESEE 3.
* The jimped glass-breaker can bite a tad, but that's to be expected and a necessary compromise given my druthers.
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