Tops Bob vs Esee 4

[Mai. H]

Hey guys, I am considering getting a tops bob or an esee 4 but I can't make up my mind, so what are your experiences with either of them ? and which one would you go with ? Also who do you think has better quality control Tops or Esee ?

 

[gazz98]

I don't think you can go wrong with either one. Both are quality knives.

Do you have a big hand? The stock handle on the ESEE 4 is quite thin .56 and the handle is shorter. I much prefer the stock BOB.

BUT ... the knife connection offers compact and extended G10 handles for ESEE blades. Both are thicker and nicer (imo) then the stock micarta ones. They do add weight tho.

I would choose the ESEE 4 with theknifeconnections extended/compact G10 scales. You can order the blade + G10 scales + sheath + other options for roughly the same price as the TOPS.

I own an ESEE 5 with custom scales.

I do know ESEE has one of the better warranties in the business.

 

[tueller]

I like the esee 3 and 5 but find the 4 handle awkward. For this reason I prefer the tops bob in that size category. Both are great knives though.

 

[IUKE12]

I have both and prefer the Esee 4. I have the modified handle model 4HM. I have both because I couldn't decide which one I would like betterThe BOB is nice and I use it but the 4HM just feels better in my hand.

 

[bikerector]

The 4HM handle is much better than the esee 4P, IMO. I prefer neutral handles. I no longer have either and prefer LT Wright knives, but there is an increased price there too. I think the LT bushcrafter HC would be my choice in the size and price range. But of the two you picked, I would go with the esee 4HM.

For quality control, both are very good and I won't put one above the other in that regard.

 

[Makael]

Can't go wrong with either.

 

[cbach8tw]

I have an ESEE 4, good size, but the stock handle is thin, so I got the Knife Connection handle extensions for my Rat 3, and it makes a big difference in the hand. So I imagine the ones for the ESEE 4 would be a good choice too.

 

[LightningG]

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[Jocephus1]

I have both. Honestly, you aren't going to go wrong with either one. I've absolutely throttled both on my land. As a few have already posted about...I also don't like the Essee 4 handle. Both are quality products, which is why I own and use both heavily. If I could have just one I would probably choose the ESEE, but don't let the forum scare you away from the Tops.

FYI, my only gripe with Tops is that sometime they have too many models, with some really odd designs. They provide a good product with a good warranty though. ESEE does things "simpler". Good strong designs and one of the best warranties in the business. Both do get my business though

 

[hunter55]

I have both of them. I prefer the TOPS BOB. Stronger, more efficient, better cutting abilities, better handle. Heavier though.