Some Thoughts On the Upcoming ESEE-3/F

Horn Dog

Horn Dog

Joined
Sep 9, 2005
Messages
4,363
I guess by now the basic design is set in stone. It will be a framelock. I really like the shape and simple design. It will be much like the HEST/F in construction without the bells and whistles and a smoother more rounded look. I suppose that ever since Chris Reeve came out with those pretty framelocks, that is what everybody wants now. But I really like a good linerlock just as well. Actually, I still like the old RAT-1 folder. I used mine a lot (I bought two when they first came out). I ended up giving a friend in law enforcement that one. I still have a pristine 1st Production Run one.
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The Model 1 has great ergonomics. And it has scales on BOTH sides. I would prefer a deeper carry pocket clip, but that's not a big deal to me.

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Blade-Tech used to make a titanium linerlock called the Rijbak. It is light, and has nice thick liners with G10 scales on BOTH sides. I like that. I also prefer a thumb hole to a stud for opening. Nothing to come loose and easy to operate. And a linerlock would not require all the machine work of the titanium framelock. And it would be pretty on both sides, too. :D

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So is the current prototype from Lion Steel going to be the final model? Or is a nice beefy linerlock a possibility?
 
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I greatly prefer framelocks, but the RAT1 is a damned impressive knife for the price and a great design.

Im pretty sure that its not G10 though.
 
Tripton said:
I greatly prefer framelocks, but the RAT1 is a damned impressive knife for the price and a great design.

Im pretty sure that its not G10 though.
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Darn, you are right. I just check the specs. All this time I thought it was G10. The scales are Nylon. Whatever. They are textured and feel good. :foot:
 
Horn Dog said:
Darn, you are right. I just check the specs. All this time I thought it was G10. The scales are Nylon. Whatever. They are textured and feel good. :foot:
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I know its nitpicking, but oh well...:p



You are correct though. They sure feel nice...and are plenty tough for that application. Probably a good deal cheaper too.
 
When all the folder talk first started, I thought all Jeff and Mike were doing was looking for a US maker for the RAT model 1. But so many things have happened since then, I suppose a brand new model differnent from Ontario's is needed. I like the look of the prototype ESEE-3/F. I'd like it better with scales on both sides, but that is more cosmetic than anything. I have been using a borrowed HEST folder for a few days and it feels just fine in my hand. The new folder will be a hit, I'm sure.
 
HD, I have an identical 1st Production Run Model 1 folder.
It felt great in the hand all those years ago and still does.

RAT Pack # 177
 
Horn Dog said:
I suppose that ever since Chris Reeve came out with those pretty framelocks, that is what everybody wants now. But I really like a good linerlock just as well. Actually, I still like the old RAT-1 folder. I
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I'm a huge fan of framelocks as well, but there are some beefy and durable linerlocks out there that are worth it.

My zt0350 is a stout linerlock that is rock solid.
 
The only framelock I have is my ZT 301 and I'm a fan. I'm guessing the -301 is a lot beefier all around though.
 
also browsing the forum i've seen photo's of an Izula folder. that would be my go to folder if it got made.
 
I really like the framelock on my seb, cant wait for the HEST/F to finaly arive here..
 
Between this folder, the Lazer Strike and the new firekit, my income is shot. Strangly, I cannot wait. Thanks for the pics!
 
I can't wait for the ESEE folder. I'm pretty sure it's going to kick my ZT right out of my pocket. I'm trying my best to be patient, but this is tough work. As for the Rat1 folders. I still have one in my main go bag and I still love that design. That is, in my opinion, one of the best folders I've ever owned in terms of comfort, usability, and price vs. value.
 
I agree about scales on both sides. I carried a heavy duty folder with an aluminum handle for years, then discovered how much more I liked the textured plastic-like feel of G-10 or nylon. That knife hasn't gone back in my pocket since.

And I'm also a fan of liner locks, but I guess that's blasphemy when talking about hard use folders. I've never had even a crappy liner lock fail, but I've also never tried to pry open a door with my knife, or used it to chip away at a granite wall. Somebody out there must really be beating the crap out of their knives to increase the apparent need for stronger locking mechanisms.

BTW, I didn't realize just how short and stubby the HEST was until you posted the picture of it with a Model 1.
 
should be interesting. it would be nice to see a more "exotic" steel. ELMAX, CTS-XHP, etc.
 
Horn Dog said:
I knew Lionsteel backed out, but I assumed the design was pretty much set, except for the rotolock. I hope Jeff can get Rowen to make the new ESEE folder.
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I have not heard anything new but I am sure the ESEE Gang is cooking something up :D
 
texastonydobbs said:
I have not heard anything new but I am sure the ESEE Gang is cooking something up :D
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I am sure that is the case. I have been using one of Jeff's personal HEST production folders that he lended me for testing, and I love it. The one I bought had some problems, so I sent it to DPx for repair or replacement. I assume that the construction of Jeff's Lionsteel-made ESEE-3 prototype folders is similar. This HEST is one heck of a rugged pocket knife. It is most likely tougher than I will ever need a folder to be, in all honesty. The only linerlock I ever broke was a cheap S&W Cuttin' Horse. So I am wondering who really needs a folder any tougher than the original Model 1 folder. What do folks do with folders that requires the strength of a titanium framelock?
 
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