RC4 the redheaded stepchild?

I knew there was a reason I liked red heads so much..;)
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One thing to consider is what the knives are intended for, the ESEE 3 & 4 have practically identical handle designs and are actually very practical handles well suited to a variety of grips used in bushcraft from choking up the blade with the finger choil, side grips etc in conjunction with bushcraft techniques (using your whole torso, pecs, core muscles for cutting tasks vs just hands/arm power), those handles actually offer more comfort and practicality for their size. I don't own a HEST and although the prybar feature is useful that would actually be in the way for some of the techniques I use. At the end of the day it's what works for you and how you make it work :) I really like my 3 & 4 and my Izzy too... no red headed step childs in my family.
 
jim59 said:
The rc4 in tan is a looker but it is a heavy sucker for it's size. The handle is short the pommel doesn't extented out of my hand. It shows when wearing a untucked shirt. It seems short for spliting wood or chopping. Like the rc5 or 6 whould be a better choice.
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I actually consider the RC-4 my favorite of the whole ESEE line. I find 4.0-4.5 inch blades to be ideal for my outdoor use. Of course, I use an axe or machete if I want to "chop" something, so that ability in a knife is unimportant to me. I also find the RC-5 to be too thick for my tastes and uses (although it may be better for chopping and battoning than the RC-4 or for pry or other tasks I don't typically ask of a knife, anyway)
 
The 4 was my first and still my favorite. It's not a heavy knife at all for a knife its size. Small enough to process game with but large and strong enough in design you can baton wood with it.

The 5 and 6 are neither one choppers. Knive any bigger than the 4 don't see as much use from me, but I am beginning to use them more and more.
 
I think the RC4 is widely reguarded as the best balanced and fit knife of the collection, and fits the biggest niche. Though after handling the HEST the ergo just doesn't add up, that's for sure.
 
I love my RC5..there is no reason it is the red headed stepchild other than it is a harsd use knife and most people obviously dont need that kind of knife. If you want to go do intricate carveing and make feathersticks/general camp chores buy an rc3.rc4.or rc6 or HEST...but when sh*t hits the fan, or you are good enough to make a thick blade work. go buy an RC5...i LOVE thick blades...and although it gives up some in the carveing dept to my RC4 and izula, it makes up for the diference in brute strength and useability.

I own the IZULA, RC 4 and RC 5. Honestly, your best combination of the ESEE lineup is either an IZULA and RC5 or an RC3 and RC5. Best bang for your dollar for sure.

I will never give up my RC5.

-Gaurdian A1
 
I really like these kind of discussions. I just ordered a RC 3 yesterday, wnd hope to add a RC 6 and RC 4 very soon. I have had an Izula for a few weeks now and carried it everyday to work. Convexed the edge last night, anxious to see how that holds up.
 
I have a desert tan RC-4 and absolutely love it. I am wishing that like the RC-4, all ESEE knives came with a kydex sheath instead of the molded plastic. I just like kydex so much better.
 
My rc-4 is my woods knife. I love it. I use it along with my machete. Imo its a great size. Not too big or too small :D
 
I will buy it from you today if you are game. Not joking and I'll give you a good price. PM me if you are game.
 
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