Which ESEE?

[CutNup]

I'm looking for a new fixed blade and I'm 100% sold on the fact that it's gonna be an ESEE blade. Now I've just have to figure out which one. I'm debating the RC-3, RC-4, and, I guess, the H.E.S.T. but that's the underdog.

I'm want a primary blade for my hiking/camping/general outdoor usage. I plan to carry it with me on everything from dayhikes to 10-day+ excursions. On longer trips I usually carry a machete but it'd be nice to have something I can baton with, if necessary. I also do some fishing so a knife that could handle some delicate cutting would be nice too. I prefer "one size fits all" gear so I'm looking for a really versitile knife.

Price isn't really a consideration since I found a website that has them all for about the same price - knifeworks has them all for $80-$90.

Sorry if this has been discussed ad nauseum I just figured you all were the experts so I'd turn it over to you. I've been lurking on bladeforums for a while and plan to join the Rat Pack. Thanks!

 

[Dizwolf]

One size never fits all man . I'd grab a 3 and a 6

 

[gundude73]

maybe the 4 and an izula, that would pretty much do it, and it you need bigger go with the 6.

 

[adaman04]

I was looking for pretty much the same thing and I went with the 4 first. Then got the Izula and 3, then a 6.

I was stuck between the 3 and 4 as well. I REALLY like the 3, but if I could only have one it would still be my 4.

As Diz said, a jack of all trades is a master of none. Depending on how delicate your fish work will be the 4 covers all the bases the best IMO.

 

[bladebuster]

4....just got one and perfect for camping.
Izula for EDC

 

[kreole]

RC4 at largest for 10+ day hikes, but really I'd go smaller unless you know you'll be chopping/battoning for firewood on cold nights.

 

[knife lover]

my first is gonna be an izula

 

[fastcamo]

My fav is the 4 but the HEST is moving to the front as me fav

 

[Dizwolf]

well, 6 and an SAK is my hands down most carried combo right now in the woods.

When the Junglas finally hits, It's probably going to be a Junglas/izula deal. I'm thinking of ways to stick the Izzy and a firekit on the sheath.

 

[1066vik]

if you're only taking one full sized knife, I'd go with the 4.
i got to handle one at ESEEfest and it's a LOT more knife than you would think from just looking at pictures when comparing it to the -3.
(I still think the -3 & -6 would make an excellent combo for covering just about every base)