Tell me why I need an Izula/BK14/similar

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Dec 26, 2010
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Recently, I decided to put a neck-knife like the Izula, IzulaII, or BK14 on my to buy list, but now I'm questioning the need. Even more recently I bought a Cold Steel American Lawman which, when opened, is not terribly dissimilar. The Lawman is really strong, both laterally and in the lock. I can't imagine that with a knife this size, that there's any possible realistic use where the inherent strength of the fixed blades would be needed. Am I wrong?
 
I carry a BK14 because it sits flatter in the pocket than a folder. I don't imagine that in my every-day tasks I'll actually need to use the full strength of the knife. I haven't owned it very long, but I've already transitioned away from carrying a folder of similar size. Heck, I'm already considering picking up an Izula for the tackle box, and I'll carry my Eskabar with me daily.
 
The only time I ever liked carrying a neck knife was in and around the house. For me, just like with a folding knife, there is no real need for it to be a carbon steel blade. The main advantage of a tiny fixed blade is not getting any gunk in the knife and easier/safer to put away in cold, wet conditions than most folders.
 
I have an Izula II and recomend it over the others mentioned due to it's full handle size. I wear medium-large gloves and it fits perfect. I've owned thei Izula and the becker necker and niether had full handles.

My need was for a knife that I could baton wood with if needed. I'm a minimalist and like the idea of only having one knife that I can wear around town and do all the cutting tasks I need and then be able to hop in the car and go for a day hike and have the ability to split wood if I need it. It also gives you different carry options with the sheath. I wear it horizontal on the belt and rides nice and there's easy access. Everything I said can be done with a multitool that has a saw but those aren't nearly as cool. :D
 
The Izula is really one of the greatest blades created in decades. If it isn't already, it's going to be an iconic knife within knife-circles. You don't really need it, but when you use it, you feel the need for it. It's like that extra item in your backpack that you'll never really use, but you can't live without it. It's like a backup, but every time you use it you invent new reasons to use it instead of your primary blade, which is usually better suited for the task. It's that good. It's a nifty little blade which sits perfectly in your hand. It's a small EDC for the outdoors. Get one and you'll see what all the fuss is about.
 
I had an izula 2 with the kit. I used the belt clip as a pocket clip and it worked well for edc. Small fixed blades are really the best of both worlds. they're small enough to edc like a folder yet has the strength of a fixed blade. Those 2 points plus esee's warranty makes it perfect for all chores.
 
I have an Izula II and its an amazing every day carry knife...I carry it with a folder and rarely use the folder. The handle size is awesome aand the blade is amazing, easy to get razor sharp and surprisingly concealable (i carry vertical on the belt and it is super stealthy). I have 4 knives from esee, and all of them are awesome but I carry the Izula more than any other knife. You wont regret it, truly an awesome little blade
 
sidenote, edc the izula II with paracord tied as a belt strap is pretty great, I have molle clips and the belt clip but the best way for me is paracord loops
 
I prefer the ESKabar over the Izula (good knife though, I have a couple), mostly for the extra length. I also prefer the drop point blade style. Plus, its the best of both worlds.

Makes bowdrills real good, too.

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Moose
 
I absolutely love my Izula. It's handled everything from food prep to light batoning. I find it to be the perfect size, and comfortable despite it's small size. I love it so much, I have seven of the bloodthirsty buggers.
 
My rationale for getting the BK11 was:

1. Bottle opener
2. Chance to play with paracord wraps
3. Something easy to clean just in case that kind of need arose
4. Stronger and more reliable than a comparable folder, and cheap

Not necessarily in that order. I don't need that kind of strength over a folder, but it does its job so well for the price that I couldn't resist.
 
It's not that it will do things your Lawman can't. It's just like a fine sports car. It's more than just getting from A to B. In that case, one could just drive a Volvo and pack a Mora (both great brands, but they're not a Ferrari or Izula).
 
small fixed blades are great. i really like my izula and BK14. they do small tasks great but can also take a lot of punishment (ie batoning the BK14)
 
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