I own/have owned several Esee knives and I like 'em a bunch. I just got a TOPS BOB and I like the handle configuration waay better. This thing also cuts/slices superbly (given it's blade thickness) while still being tough enough to reliably baton and handle rough tasks. The Esees are a dynamite product, but (with the exception of the Izula II) I hate their handles....I would buy another BOB without hesitation.
If I may make another suggestion, I also have a TOPS Dragonfly 4.5. It is a similar design to the BOB, but with an un-coated 1/8" blade that makes it out-slice almost anything I've tried. As I've gotten older (and hopefully wiser) I have discovered that with the addition of a small folding saw, I can do way more work with far less effort. For me, a smaller, thinner blade along with a saw is a vastly superior approach.
PS That clip sucks on the BOB. I took mine off. I carry sheath knives in my pack, with a small folder or Izulla II necker available if I need a knife immediately, so it was no big deal for me. However, I absolutely would not trust that steel clip if I were to belt carry it.
