What folder to complement my Esee 6

O

o27

Joined
Oct 18, 2015
Messages
4
Currently have an Esse 6. Looking for at small/smaller folder to complement it as I live in Denmark, where where a knife in the forrest is still considered a bit awkward, I like to keep the Esee 6 in my backpack and have a smaller folder for most non-heavy use.

Been looking a lot at the following folders;

- Ontario Utilitac II - seems a bit hard to find here in EU.
- Real Steel H6-S1 - like it as it´s a bit small but still quality steel. Seems to fit between Rat 1 and Rat 2 which compels to me
- Real Steel H7 - as it seems to be able to handle more semi rough work than the H6-S1
- Spyderco has been ruled out as I´m not keen on the design

any opinions?
 
Well you already have a Rat 1 and Rat 2. These were going to be my recommendation, especially the Rat1 in D2.

You also seem to be looking at the more budget friendly knives. If it were available right now, I would recommend the new Steel Will Cutjack with FRN handles and D2 blade. It is less than $50 USD. I have not touched one and nobody has a review on it yet, but it looks like a real winner.
 
Thanks for the fast reply, I dont have the Rat 1/Rat 2 yet - my statement was that I find the H6-S1 compelling as it seems to be size wise in between the Rat1/2:-)
 
I would recommend a folder with a 3" to 3 1/2" blade. IMO, food prep is a must do. Blade shape and grind should match your uses. For hunting, I like the Buck 110. For backpacking, I like the Opinel 10. But really just follow your preferences.

I also recommend a small multi tool to repair gear.
 
you cant go wrong with the rat 1 in D2
nbv1.jpg
 
Cold steel has a ton of tough folders..the Recon series , the Lawman or Ak47's. All of them are great and now come with better steels.

Curious ? The spyderco is ugly or do you feel like the design is not effective? Because ugly is in the eye of the beholder so you you will not get any argument from me, however, if you find fault with the one hand hole opener method I would be confused.
 
Rat II in any steel. You can't go wrong. IMHO, even though I like it for general EDC use, D2 is difficult to sharpen in the field and also is somewhat prone to rust (although not a major problem that a little oil won't fix).

Rich
 
Last edited:
Benchmade Ritter griptilian (or the mini Ritter). These are Knifeworks exclusives, though, and I'm not sure if they do international shipping.

They come in two blade lengths, obviously, and are lightweight with a very functional grind and great steel.

Good luck in your choice!
 
Buck 110 is a classic, and great all around. A SAK Fieldmaster is excellent too.. I've had mine for over 20 years and it's done it all (within its capabilities). Spyderco's Paramilitary 2 would be a great option too. If they appeal to you, one of the larger Great Eastern Cutlery patterns might suit your needs as well. Good luck with your search!
 
o27 said:
I live in Denmark, where where a knife in the forrest is still considered a bit awkward, [...]
Click to expand...

This makes me sad. You're Vikings!

A low-key folder that is very good in the forest is a Victorinox farmer. But if you're looking for something larger and locking, why not a Lionsteel? Quality materials, good manufacturing, and made in Italy, so easy to get.
 
I owned an ESEE 6 and replaced it with a Ratmandu. I paired it with my recommendation. I recommend a Case CV Trapper knife. It has 2 blades with very thin geometry and excellent steel. The trapper can do all kinds of whittling , feather stick making, skinning, etc. You even increase your blade count to 3 in a very small light package that is classy as well. The slipjoint knife also enjoys almost universal legal acceptance which unfortunately is becoming a consideration. Good luck on your shopping adventure.
 
Opinel No. 10 or 8 -
Vic Fieldmaster
Buck 110 Drop point
Spyderco Manix 2 Lightweight
Smith & Son Mudbug (Made by Great Eastern Cutlery)
Case Large Stockman or Large Sodbuster
Benchmade Adamas
 
Of those listed, the Realsteel H6-S1.

But I'd prefer the Ontario Rat 1 as it will be a much better slicer.

I didn't like the design of Spyderco's either. Then I held one. Now it's my main EDC. If you haven't held one, try it. You're likely to change your mind too.
 
I know it's cheap but I really like my Emerson Kershaw cqc-6k, if a rapid deploying folder is what you want. It is made in China with some probably lesser steel than a higher end knife but it is very ergonomic and I do did the 3 or so inch clip point. It's heavy, but comfortable. I liked it so much I have a 4kXL on order.

Otherwise, let's face it, lads, a SAK is going to be more useful more of the time? It's what I carry most.

The other thing to consider is you could carry a mora easily in a pocket. It doesn't print much, you don't have to put it on your waist belt.
 
unklfranco said:
I owned an ESEE 6 and replaced it with a Ratmandu. I paired it with my recommendation. I recommend a Case CV Trapper knife. It has 2 blades with very thin geometry and excellent steel. The trapper can do all kinds of whittling , feather stick making, skinning, etc. You even increase your blade count to 3 in a very small light package that is classy as well. The slipjoint knife also enjoys almost universal legal acceptance which unfortunately is becoming a consideration. Good luck on your shopping adventure.
Click to expand...

Hey, what made you replace the E6 with the RMD? I have both, bought E6 first, and was wondering if I really need the unwieldy beast, but I do a fair amount of batoning. I have done with both, in your opinion is the RMD plenty enough for most heavy wood field tasks? E6 is def a better chopper though, on the fence.
large_k.jpeg
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top