ESEE X, where X < 5
- Thread starter AStone
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Now, now.
Let's not trash the misplaced urban blight too much or we'll get off track. It ain't as bad as it used to be anyhow, but it still isn't any place I'd want to live either (too flat for one thing
).
Let's not trash the misplaced urban blight too much or we'll get off track. It ain't as bad as it used to be anyhow, but it still isn't any place I'd want to live either (too flat for one thing
).AStone
Member
Laughs.... too flat for one thing
Man, ain't that the truth?
As a kid, I remember seeing my first mountains (Great Smokies) on an extended trip with my folks to (and beyond) dad's home town (near Nashville) and being awed. I was never satisfied with swampy wetlands and cotton fields after that.
____
Back to ESEE. I continue to be so very impressed with my 3 and Iz 2. Since my last real post about them here, I've been spending lots of time on ESEE forums (same user name) and learning a lot about ESEE's.
I've experimented with sheath options for the 3 - I got the full kit with mine, so have explored nylon sheath backing with molle attachment to my Sitka (too tactical looking; overkill); molle clips (didn't work well; need two rows of molle on the Sitka was too much real estate in the wrong place); belt clip (sufficient) and have now dropped back - for now - to simple paracord for belt loops, but it mostly rides in a little tunnel on the outside of the small upper pocket of my Sitka, completely visible (not concealed) but quite secure - held in tight with bungie cord with cord lock - but easy access when I need it.
I intend to get a custom sheath made for it as soon as cash allows. And a set of scale liners from a guy named Flexx (on ESSE forum).
My Iz has moved for now to pocket carry. I'm not giving up on the g'clip, but for now, perhaps until I get a custom sheath for it, pocket carry is working for both trousers and sweat pants around the house.
I've also put lanyards on both and am experimenting with them.
And somehow, I've developed a lust for an ESEE 5 - even though I don't really think I need it (but that never stopped anyone, right?
). What a beast. 
The 5 doesn't actually fit in this discussion since the blade is 5.25", but hey, it's close, and it's not a 6.
DAdams
Member
Nem where did you post your Sitka review. Being digital camo I put a green Mora into the shoulder strap, or it works on the side and..not too intimidating since its an apple and cheese slicer.
Speaking of the Smokies I was in Maryville last week and encountered a very attractive, fit woman in a black Jeep Rubicon that was all tricked/rigged out with a variety of Maxpedition gear in desert tan .... nice package.
Speaking of the Smokies I was in Maryville last week and encountered a very attractive, fit woman in a black Jeep Rubicon that was all tricked/rigged out with a variety of Maxpedition gear in desert tan .... nice package.
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AStone
Member
Huh? Somebody say something to me?
Oh, sorry, wasn't paying attention. Been caught up in a professional maelstrom here punctuated by a very complex move (THE most complex I've ever dealt with.)
Ok, so on topic ... kinda. The Sitka thread is here, but I haven't really posted a review yet, just first impressions.
I could do a review in an hour with pics, if it wasn't for that maelstrom that keeps sucking me down.
I've also got MUCH more experience to offer with the 3 and the Iz 2, and will asap, but for now... that maelstrom
PS:
You need to post that with cell phone images in my Maxped thread.
AStone
Member
I'll probably try that, RD.
But you want to know what my current method of carrying my 3 is?
In my pocket. I took off the belt clip and just slide the whole package into my right front pocket. These Carhartts just swallow it comfortably. I can sit, stand, bend, walk ... no problems.
Now, admittedly, this is only at home or in camp; I cannot legally pocket carry the 3 even where I am in a city. Then, it's on my EDC pack in plain site (which is legal).
But my Izula 2 has become my main EDC in the city, on my belt using a simple paracord suspension system that I posted earlier in this thread (3 o'clock, belt high) - less scary to the sheople (even though in the town where I am now, even belt carry of my 3 doesn't raise a single eyebrow at a major chain grocery; blades are so common here). But at home and in camp, I carry both, with the 3 in pocket getting the call every time for cooking and eating duty, where as the Iz is picking up stuff I'd do with a pocket knife.
Each has its use, and I like them both, so I carry both.
Nem
But you want to know what my current method of carrying my 3 is?
In my pocket. I took off the belt clip and just slide the whole package into my right front pocket. These Carhartts just swallow it comfortably. I can sit, stand, bend, walk ... no problems.
Now, admittedly, this is only at home or in camp; I cannot legally pocket carry the 3 even where I am in a city. Then, it's on my EDC pack in plain site (which is legal).
But my Izula 2 has become my main EDC in the city, on my belt using a simple paracord suspension system that I posted earlier in this thread (3 o'clock, belt high) - less scary to the sheople (even though in the town where I am now, even belt carry of my 3 doesn't raise a single eyebrow at a major chain grocery; blades are so common here). But at home and in camp, I carry both, with the 3 in pocket getting the call every time for cooking and eating duty, where as the Iz is picking up stuff I'd do with a pocket knife.
Each has its use, and I like them both, so I carry both.
Nem
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DAdams
Member
ESEE Izula II Goes West
Just returned from 10 days in the Tetons and the ESEE I2 made the trip.
I clipped it on my daypack left shoulder, cross draw, weak hand side. I could access it easily right or left handed and it was positioned well and laid nicely. Had to dissasemble it to get it off, it wasn't going anywhere that pack didn't go.
No skinning, no PD but it did get a 25 mile ride.
Redhead Hybrid Hunt Pack.
Just returned from 10 days in the Tetons and the ESEE I2 made the trip.
I clipped it on my daypack left shoulder, cross draw, weak hand side. I could access it easily right or left handed and it was positioned well and laid nicely. Had to dissasemble it to get it off, it wasn't going anywhere that pack didn't go.
No skinning, no PD but it did get a 25 mile ride.
Redhead Hybrid Hunt Pack.
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So it just rode on the pack and didn't get used for anything? Not even spreading peanut butter?
DAdams
Member
Yes, it did an admirable job of slicing cheese, summer sausage and apples.
Initial carving of trees is illegal in the National Park.
I also had a pocket SAK which saw some service.
Initial carving of trees is illegal in the National Park.
I also had a pocket SAK which saw some service.
AStone
Member
Man, some guys just get all the luck.
I not only spread the PB with mine, both the 3 and Iz 2,
but lick it off the blade when I'm done ...
very, very carefully.
That's just silly regardless of how carefully done (thaid th guy whu cut hs tung-g). Learned my lesson the hard way and from then on out just used my fingers.
AStone
Member
Laughs.
Yeah, it's rare for me, because I've also learned the hard way, and don't recommend anyone try it.
But kind of a zen thing for a biologist who's taught A&P and is interested in how one's tongue can ....
Oh, never mind. I don't have time for that essay right now. Perhaps another time ...
Yeah, it's rare for me, because I've also learned the hard way, and don't recommend anyone try it.
But kind of a zen thing for a biologist who's taught A&P and is interested in how one's tongue can ....
Oh, never mind. I don't have time for that essay right now. Perhaps another time ...
Stainz
Member
The juxtaposition of a small & large knife for EDC, urban or woods carry, is an ongoing one here. I love folders, but I must admit, a small Wharncliff style fixed blade, a la my Bark River T.U.S.K., a purchase made during my 'bushcraft knife' quest, is a fine choice. It's great to use to carve or open the mail. A bit small for some use, a larger version seemed appropriate. Two years ago Christmas found my wife gifting me an expensive version she had seen me looking over weeks earlier. Actually, I was asking the salesman who would want such a monstrosity - apparently he thought I would - and sold my wife one! Here is a Benchmade 171 BladeSport 'chopper'... and it's little brother, the BRK&T T.U.S.K.:
Yeah, big hunk-o-CPM M4. The grip is recycled rubber horse mat... with a matching odor. It needs a better sheath... I guess a neck sheath is out. Hmmm, the discussion was on ESEE knives...
I guess I am another example, having bought an ESEE-5 years ago - when it was an RC-5 - and came with a neat sheath. I discovered the Becker BK-2 at a great price while I was perusing a site noted for books... then an ESEE-4 and an ant knife - with the Micarta handles (It was the same price as one without the handle on evil-pay!). It's been over a year... I think the spell has been broken.
Here are the RC-5(now ESEE-5) & BK2 - both respendent in their 5" x .25" 1095 steel blades:
The BK-2 was $79 locally 'on sale' - and included the Micarta grips - a deal, although I like the better fitting OEM grips a bit better. The Becker splits better - it's slick blade finish offers less drag than the RC-5's powder coat.
Stainz
Yeah, big hunk-o-CPM M4. The grip is recycled rubber horse mat... with a matching odor. It needs a better sheath... I guess a neck sheath is out. Hmmm, the discussion was on ESEE knives...
I guess I am another example, having bought an ESEE-5 years ago - when it was an RC-5 - and came with a neat sheath. I discovered the Becker BK-2 at a great price while I was perusing a site noted for books... then an ESEE-4 and an ant knife - with the Micarta handles (It was the same price as one without the handle on evil-pay!). It's been over a year... I think the spell has been broken.
Here are the RC-5(now ESEE-5) & BK2 - both respendent in their 5" x .25" 1095 steel blades:
The BK-2 was $79 locally 'on sale' - and included the Micarta grips - a deal, although I like the better fitting OEM grips a bit better. The Becker splits better - it's slick blade finish offers less drag than the RC-5's powder coat.
Stainz
DAdams
Member
Stainz, you just flat out have good taste in handguns and knives!
Stainz
Member
I guess that should be past tense - 'had' good taste - haven't acquired much this year. House repairs have had designs of late on my hobby/mad money. No new knives, guns, ammo, or reloading supplies since - well, it's been a while. Besides, DAdams, you went to the Tetons... I can't remember when I last saw The Smokies! Sigh... been an armchair explorer for too long - we haven't even had my wife's required annual trip to the Redneck Riviera (Gulf Shores, AL) this year - yet. Ah, walking a beach littered with tar balls and jelly fish - watching my SS pocket knives rust - eatting over-priced imported shrimp (80+% of the shrimp sold during their annual 'Shrimp Festival' is imported!) - real fun! The Tetons... wow!
I should quit my wah wah-ing... I have a blessed existence... and have more nice 'stuff'' than a man could possibly use, much less need. Still, the Tetons! My ESEE Ant II still awaits it's first 'real' use.
Stainz
PS The Tetons.... wow!
I should quit my wah wah-ing... I have a blessed existence... and have more nice 'stuff'' than a man could possibly use, much less need. Still, the Tetons! My ESEE Ant II still awaits it's first 'real' use.
Stainz
PS The Tetons.... wow!
AStone
Member
Nice knives, Stainz.
Nice to see the E5 and BK2 side by side;
had no idea they were so similar.
Such an interesting handle on the BK.
And yeah: Tetons = wow.
Nice to see the E5 and BK2 side by side;
had no idea they were so similar.
Such an interesting handle on the BK.
And yeah: Tetons = wow.
The shape of the Grip on the Beckers hasn't changed since the early ones nearly 20 years ago. Ethan took the one of his knives and some modeling material and grabbed the thing to form to his hand. The then smoothed it out and we've been looking at the same grip on just about everything with his name on it since then.
A flat slap is much easier to form and make sheaths for and to carry than a 3-d grip, but Mr. Becker and some others consider a 3-d grip superior for use so they insist on a 3-d grip. It isn't that much more difficult if you're molding the grips, but when you're cutting them out of micarta or other materials it is a lot more work.
A flat slap is much easier to form and make sheaths for and to carry than a 3-d grip, but Mr. Becker and some others consider a 3-d grip superior for use so they insist on a 3-d grip. It isn't that much more difficult if you're molding the grips, but when you're cutting them out of micarta or other materials it is a lot more work.
Stainz
Member
Yeah, N., that BK2's included aftermarket Micarta handle 'on sale' at a local sharp thing emporium for $79 won me over. I found the longer screws needed at a local Ace hardware store, put them on, photo-ed the knives - then noticed why the Micarta grip felt 'rough' - it was! A lot of sanding later - the grip was still a bit big for my medium+ hands. I did use it enough to scuff up the blade finish - still sharp - great yard brush clearing knife. I bought #1 son one for last Christmas from the 'book site' - ~$64 shipped. I fondled it enough to determine that the OEM hard plastic-like rubber grips seem more comfortable. I have to get my BK2's box from the attic and swap those grips!
Yep, Becker designed a good package with the BK2.
Stainz
Yep, Becker designed a good package with the BK2.
Stainz
AStone
Member
Interesting perspective on the 3-D handles, Hso. Had never thought of that.
It's interesting that my ESEE 3 has relatively flat scales, whereas the Iz 2 are more rounded. The latter feel better to me. I added a liners to the 3, which improved grip and feel (even for my small hands), but it's still not as rounded as the Iz (obviously). None of that interferes with my adoration for the 3; I like it more every day, and am using it lots.
It's interesting that my ESEE 3 has relatively flat scales, whereas the Iz 2 are more rounded. The latter feel better to me. I added a liners to the 3, which improved grip and feel (even for my small hands), but it's still not as rounded as the Iz (obviously). None of that interferes with my adoration for the 3; I like it more every day, and am using it lots.
Stainz, I don't know if you've found my thread on my Ontario SP53 - search this forum (just burned out after a long hard weekend, too lazy to link it in here --- eating a burger then going to vege the rest of the night with a movie), but if so, you'll see that I sanded the rough powder coat on it down to smooth after reading a comment about that same thing re powder coats. Did not remove it, just sanded it smooth. Had hoped to test it in camp last week, but professional demands made me postpone that trip til October. (Gonna have to take the winter bag then.)
People are making aftermarket grips for the ESEEs for folks that want different materials and rounded grips.
AStone
Member
Hso et al,
Any links to those after-market grips for ESEE's would be great.
Any links to those after-market grips for ESEE's would be great.
AStone
Member
I've been away from this thread - and even this forum for a while. Months.
Somewhere upstream in this thread, Hso told me that ESEE had a forum.
I went over and checked it out,
and have spent a lot of time there for months.
Like here, there are fine, knowledgeable people.
Like here, one must learn how to sort out those who know
from those who only claim they know.
It's not that hard.
Both forums are 'home' to me
(at least on the innertube).
My Izula 2 is now my edc.
I still own the 3, but it's got mostly kitchen duties.
(That thin blade rocks for slicing, and it's wide enough to butcher.)
My next blade - that I'll order next week - is
a Gransfors Bruks wildlife hatchet.
Yes, I've seen the light.
More to come.
Somewhere upstream in this thread, Hso told me that ESEE had a forum.
I went over and checked it out,
and have spent a lot of time there for months.
Like here, there are fine, knowledgeable people.
Like here, one must learn how to sort out those who know
from those who only claim they know.
It's not that hard.
Both forums are 'home' to me
(at least on the innertube).
My Izula 2 is now my edc.
I still own the 3, but it's got mostly kitchen duties.
(That thin blade rocks for slicing, and it's wide enough to butcher.)
My next blade - that I'll order next week - is
a Gransfors Bruks wildlife hatchet.
Yes, I've seen the light.
More to come.
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