ZT 0200 vs. Hogue EX-04

pbcg

pbcg

Joined
Oct 20, 2009
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Two great knives that I really like a lot and trying to decide which has the edge over the other. They compare nicely and wondered what others thought?

Both use 154CM blade steel and both companies are well regarded for their quality heat treatment. The Hogue blade is also Cryogenically treated but I honestly don't know the value of cryo treating 154CM?

The blade dimensions of the ZT 0200 are just under 4" x 0.156 thickness and the EX-04 is 4" x 0.150.

The blade design are different though. The EX-04 modified Warncliff with a double recurve and double grind vs the 0200 recurve blade. Both very formidable, capable cutting designs that offer a great range of utility.

The ZT 0200 liner lock vs the Hogue button lock. I give the edge to the button lock for ease of use and maybe strength but the ZT liner lock is without question very sound and has stood the test of time. Both very well suited for extended harder use.

Weight is: 5.68oz for the EX-04 and 7.7oz for the 0200.

I love the ergo's on both modes. The ZT fits like a glove in my hand and feels extremely secure. The EX-04 feels like it was molded to fit your hand and also feels very secure but has a smoother surface.

So, from those who own either or both which knife do prefer or give the edge, if you could only have one?
 
I like the EX-04 non wharncliff personally. I prefer the button lock.
 
I never owned a Hogue, but I did have a 200 for a while. I really liked it a lot. Great ergos, nice blade shape, beefy solid lockup. If it was the size of the 350 I would still have it, but it was too large for me. It flipped really well for a non bearing flipper with a blade that large. I also tried out a Dendra Defender and the flipping action on that knife was disappointing.
 
The Hogue EX-04 is smoother, lighter and not only do you have a nice choice of colors/patterns but a choice of Upswept or Wharncliffe Blade. Like others here, I'm also a fan of button locks.

The ZT 0200 can be had for quite a bit less though!
 
Question about the hogue's--can the clip be changed from tip-down?
 
I havent handled a Hougue, but I can tell you the 0200 is fantastic.
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Currently my ZT0200 gets the most pocket time. Absolutely love mine, and it opens very smoothly. It is a beefy knife.
 
I think their both pretty awesome knives and two of my favorites.

Why I find it so hard to choose between the two. Fortunately at the moment I don't have to. But if I did, I I'd give the edge to the EX-04 only because of the ease of use of the button lock and the amazing range of utility offered by the modified Warncliff blade.

The ZT 0200 is noticeably heavier but for me that's not a detractor. I like the weight and feel of a solid well built knife in hand.

Standout's from both companies for sure.


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I prefer the Hogue and got rid of the ZT.
Aside from being thinner and lighter, it has a unique design that really stands out. From the double ground / double recurve modified wharncliff blade, to the internal bolster plates, button lock, and liner less handles, the EX-04 is just plain cool.



Part of the reason I collect knives is because I love to see how things are made and fit together and the EX-04 is very interesting in that regard.
 
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I only own the 0200 and its a great knife. Its a big beefy knife and I have no regrets. The Ex-04 is quite a unique knife and I like the idea of the button lock. The blade shape intrigues me and at the same time I'm curious how useful the blade shape is? Its not quite mall ninjaish, its cool and weird at the same time. What you do get is a variety of colors for the handle, unlike the ZT. No tip up carry unfortunately. Is the Ex-04 nearly twice the knife of the 0200? If you're looking for something different, the Ex-04 is the way to go. If you want a sure thing and a great price, get the 0200
 
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