Rate XM vs Eklipse

[Carl2023]

I could use some input on XM versus Eklipse folders. Unfortunately, there are no Hinderer dealers in my rural area so I’m not able to handle these knives myself. I’ve always wondered if the Eklipse felt better in hand than the XM. For me, it’s critical that the handle fit very well in my hand as well as the heft and balance. I’ve wanted to get a Hinderer since he started making them, but from what I’ve researched, I can’t get a definite feel for one over the other. Was hoping for some input from owners that have carried and used them. I’ll only get one or the other and I’ll carry it in rotation. Which one has the edge over the other?
Thanks,
Carl

 

[Dadpool]

This is a tough question! They're both great, I don't think you can really go wrong.

The Eklipse feels more nimble and lively in my hand, and locks into my grip in a different way than the XM-18. It feels lighter, despite not being any lighter. The XM-18 feels more robust in my hand (despite not being any more robust!), and something about its handle shape just suits me better.

I've owned both and I no longer own my Eklipse. When I had the option to reach for one or the other, I always reached for my XM-18 3.5.

 

[Carl2023]

This is a tough question! They're both great, I don't think you can really go wrong.

The Eklipse feels more nimble and lively in my hand, and locks into my grip in a different way than the XM-18. It feels lighter, despite not being any lighter. The XM-18 feels more robust in my hand (despite not being any more robust!), and something about its handle shape just suits me better.

I've owned both and I no longer own my Eklipse. When I had the option to reach for one or the other, I always reached for my XM-18 3.5.

Thanks. Excellent input. Maybe it’s because the XM handle seems to drop into more of a curve towards the tail. I was wondering about that.