3 Must Have Esee Knives

[@RandallsAdventureESEE]

We appreciate the coverage!!

[@SamkoTradBow]

And we appreciate the quality knives!!! Thank you!

[@1911acolt1]

Modern classics..The esee 3 has been my edc blade for years and I can’t imagine replacing it.

[@Sudoakado]

This is my picks too here in Australia with the S35VN and the 1095 alternatives depending on application and how remote. Izula, 4 and 6 seems like a great combo.

[@paultorgerson8776]

We appreciate your knives. Your warranty is legendary.

[@Seedavis397]

I only have a 6 but the 4 fit my hand like a glove when I held one

[@WhispyWoods.]

I like how you didn’t try to be a know it all expert, but just talked about what works for you. Makes sense to me. Thanks for the vid!

[@SamkoTradBow]

Thanks

[@milannoah3306]

Instablaster.

[@Ten_Mil_Will]

I have a ESEE 5, a Junglass, and buy Izulas for the girls in my family BUT as soon as I read the title, I said, "The 4, the 6, and the Izula" I knew EXACTLY where you were going and totally agree. Love your videos, bro!

[@SamkoTradBow]

Thanks! Glad you ate enjoying the videos! How do you like that 5? I have a few Becker bk2s that are similar to an esee 5 but want that 5 pretty bad regardless.

[@Ten_Mil_Will]

@@SamkoTradBow The 5 really inspires confidence, you know there is no breaking it. Kind of funny balance tho because it is so thick for how long it is. I plan on getting a 6 soon. Plus it is thick behind the edge, because of the Sabre grind on 1/4" stock and that caused me to make the secondary bevel too wide when I tried to sharpen it at 42* total. Other than that, great knife. I have bought Izulas for my wife, my mom, and my daughter. Think I am finally gonna get me one too :-)

[@SamkoTradBow]

@@Ten_Mil_Will you will love the izula! Thanks for the info. Gonna get me a 5

[@Ten_Mil_Will]

@@SamkoTradBow Ya can't go wrong with one, just don't make my mistake and try to put a fine edge on it :-)

[@reallyhappenings5597]

I've simply never had a good reason to look further than ESEE. Great basic design, great steel, great micarta scales, adequate sheaths, good powder-coating.

[@SamkoTradBow]

perfectly said and matches my thoughts as well.

[@shamitoson]

Hmm. Have you tried anything other than Esee and Tops? Those are both very similar companies imo. In my knife journey once I got a Fallkniven, LT Wright, Bark River, many others, Esee are really not that great and way over priced for simple 1095. Their handle Ergos are terrible, coatings just suck on knives, choils on a 4in knife? Basically they’re an upgrade over the Beckers and Ontarios of the world, but not by much. Great sheaths and warranty, but very sub par compared to soo many other knife makers out there. Do your self a favor and check out some other companies, you probably won’t feel the same about Esee afterwards.

[@looseballs1966]

@@shamitoson simple 1095,,,, well you just showed one thing in your comment,,, you don't know jack shit about wilderness survival or what actually makes a good knife for actual out in the field hard use,,, 1095 has literly a 1000 plus year history of being reverd by bladesmiths as "the best" research it you'll be amazed,, even the best modern steels rarely hold up to the abuse a true survival condition can put them thru, I strongly suggest you research that,,, 1095 can shrug off abuse that even steels like m4 and the "best toughness" stainless steels get sent to the scrap bin over,,,,,, then there is the super high hardness and hard to sharpen aspect of some of those high end miracle steels,,, sure they can hold an edge damn well better in fact than 1095 by quite a bit,,,, but try to resharpen that super steel out in the middle of nowhere without the special diamond stones and crap to deal with that super steel,,, remember you might be out backpacking and weight and room becomes an issue so packing all that extra crap becomes a problem,,,, or you may have just been thrown into a situation where all you have is that knife that was with you,,,,,, also no matter how good the steel at edge rentention it will dull and one thing that will kill a knife edge is field dressing a moose, elk or bear (dear not so much),,, there is just something about them in particular that just kills even the best out there,,, I have hunted for something like 44 years in centrall Idaho where I live and have had literly dozens of oppertunities to try MANY MANY different knives with all kinds of various steels by all kinds of different makers,, I've tried steels like M390, cpm20cv, cpm110, magnacut, M4, s30 s35 s90, and others that I just don't remember and none of them ever got past about halfway through those field dressings without going dull,,,, you have either one of 2 choices at that point either carry several knives (or more) to get the entire job of field dressing and quartering, or completely bonning it out and butchering the animal to make packing it out of the middle of nowhere on your back possible,,, if you have ever shot a large 600 pound+ elk in the Idaho back country you will know what I am saying,, or be able to resharpen it quickly and without a big hassle at that moment,,, very easy with 1095,,, not so much with those other pain in the A** to sharpen so called super steels,,,, literly just a good flat river stone makes a plenty good enough stone to put and edge back on 1095 and then a quick stropping with your leather belt or leather hunting boot and your back in action,,,,,so I know that you don't know even half of what you think you know,, and no I am NOT an ESEE fan boy, in fact never ever owned one of them, however I have an ESEE 6 on the way to me as I type this because my custom made Bowie in 1095 that I have carried for about 30 years turned up missing,,,,, ifg you think a Esee is pricey that 1095 custom bowie cost damn near every bit of $1000 when I bought it nearly 30 years ago now.

[@armandcouture4655]

I love my Esse 4. Green blade coating and beautiful brown 3D micarta handle. I took it out Sunday of Labor Day Weekend on my hike / romp through the woods and worked on a shelter a bit. I took a picture and wrote on Face Book “This 1095 high carbon steel is relentless”. Fantastic chopper on tree branches! Never ceases to amaze me!! Love it. I also have the Izula 2 for an EDC fixed blade!!

[@SamkoTradBow]

The 4 is probably the most versatile knife ever made. It's my absolute favorite. Love the izula also.

[@Musicandcoffee247]

Can’t beat those knives and to your point, their 1095 is amazing!

[@BePrepared1992]

I love my esee 6. it's a beast and yes it can harvest and field dress animals iv done rabbits and a 9 point buck With mine

[@SamkoTradBow]

Love that knife! Glad you do too!

[@TheLoxapac]

I have a lot of knives, i was a boy scout, then in the military, and i bought a lot of different knives during all my life (im 36 right now and still going outdoor a lot) 6 years ago, i bought an ESEE 6. And i still cant believe it, but it'the last one i bought... I never had a real need for something else... I just love it. Now that i have a little more money i'm thinking about getting an IZULA 2 to carry every day, and maybe a ESEE 4, because.... why not! I'm so happy with the 6 , i think i can't go wrong with a 4 to go on little camps not far from home, where the size of a 6 may alert people a little more (I dont know in the US but here, big knifes arn't really well seen by everybody). Greetings from France!

[@SamkoTradBow]

Glad you are loving the 6! an izula in the pocket and a 4 for most camping needs is a great combo! You will love both just as much as the 6.

[@adods9824]

Exactly! I have two Esee 6's but am getting a 4 for camping trips in public areas, a bit less conspicuous

[@ZootyZoFo]

I have 5 ESEE’s and find that the Izula II & Junglas cover all of my needs when camping. Really like the 4 HM with the round handle too. I have the 6 but it wasn’t enough to handle all my chopping & batoning needs so got the Junglas for that.

[@SamkoTradBow]

Yep 2 great knives

[@derultnerlp9319]

Maybe consider a axe or a hatchet if you are chopping that much wood instead of a knife. Also maybe the Esee 5 would have been a better choice if you chop alot cause its a pretty thick blade.

[@ZootyZoFo]

@@derultnerlp9319 True, and I do bring a hatchet unless I’m backpacking, but many times I use a large knife to baton just for the fun of it but a hatchet / axe & wedge are the proper tools if you don’t have to carry it in.

[@dhn.]

Izula and the Izula II: So good I bought 2 of each model for my family and myself.

[@SamkoTradBow]

Awesome knives.

[@James-ke5sx]

I finally bought two Esee knives, the Junglas and the #6. Anything smaller I use a AD10 or other folder.

[@SamkoTradBow]

Awesome knives

[@sinister184]

Thanks for the knife talk. Also wanted to say I really like the character in your kitchen.

[@SamkoTradBow]

Thank you for both!

[@BatColonyEvictor]

Great video of a product that you actually use and carry. Not just an "out of the box" review. Thanks again!

[@SamkoTradBow]

Thanks. Glad you liked it

[@wrx399]

I have 3 Esee’s. The Junglas, The 6, and the 5. I think I’ll round out the collection of Esee’s with a 4, and a 3. I really like large knives, and for me the 3 is as small as I’d like to go. Of course I don’t need all of those. I just like them all. I also have many other Brands as well. I’m just into knives. Both for collecting, and hard use. Great video. Thanks for sharing.

[@SamkoTradBow]

Can never have too many

[@FlukeTog]

I’m hooked as well. ESEE = heritage blades. We love them. One isn’t enough.

[@SamkoTradBow]

Feel the same

[@billscott6819]

Cool mod on the little sheath. And great real use feedback on the knives.

[@SamkoTradBow]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@jasonallwood7668]

I couldn't agree more. That's the 3! Just the greatest 3 knives out there. All you need

[@SamkoTradBow]

Agree. Glad you enjoyed it

[@AidarSamudinov]

I currently run ESEE 5 for the outdoors/work, Izula as a companion/precision knife, and an Avispa for EDC. Works perfect for a college student living in a big city, amazing vid btw!

[@SamkoTradBow]

All excellent knives and glad to hear of a college student today being into knives and actually using them. Don't hear that to often anymore. Well done

[@John-oz1do]

Yes it is the most valuable knife that has ever been made. Totally agree. Thanks for the info

[@SamkoTradBow]

Agree 100

[@brandonmitchell3617]

My pick for most valuable knife ever made would be the buck 110. But I do like my izula II.

[@jackg.2780]

I appreciate your knowledge and your videos. I will definitely be ordering one soon!

[@SamkoTradBow]

You will love it

[@robertmeyer2132]

I love the carry method for your izula! Lost my caniru one time, gunna use your method from now on

[@SamkoTradBow]

You will love the dangler

[@seanwhite304]

ESSE is my favorite for sure . I don't know if I could only pick 3.

[@SamkoTradBow]

Agree 100%

[@larrykoroush6995]

I just ordered an Esee 4. I have 2 Izulas, a 3, and a 6. I added a leather dangler with snaps that can be removed easily. Great video

[@SamkoTradBow]

Beautiful collection!

[@18echo]

Have the Junglas , esse 4, 5 and 6 , the 6 have traveled with to south , central and North America had never failed me or my companions.💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼

[@SamkoTradBow]

Amazing knives designed to not fail. Love them

[@kyletango]

I have owned all 3 of these Esee knives for years now.

[@SamkoTradBow]

Yep fantastic knives

[@chrisgrave9216]

Cool I ordered a esee izula a few days ago. thanks for the review on theses knives

[@SamkoTradBow]

You will love it

[@megajoeness]

I think im gonna order the esse 4 s35vn with micarta. Your video convinced me thanks.

[@SamkoTradBow]

Love the esee 4. Best do it all knife I own

[@blacksmith44]

I love the skeletonized handle on it. In spite of what anyone will say, you can put something inside the handles...

[@mattduncan3304]

I love it when I see the ESEE 6 appear in videos like this. Constant affirmation that I made the right choice :)

[@SamkoTradBow]

Love Esee Knives! The 6 is one of my all time favorites.

[@stevog44]

The six is a beast and my fav. Ive got an izulla, a 3, and a pr4 as well. If I’m hittin the woods, it’s the 6 fo sho👊🏻

[@damienmidanik9680]

I own many ESEE knives and I agree with this video although the Laser Strike would be my pick over the 4. The LS isn’t the best looking knife in the world but once you start using it, it really shines above many other knives out there. The 4 is a great knife but I find the handle to be a little too small.

[@SamkoTradBow]

I have not yet bought a laser strike. Good to know you really like it. Might have to pick one up to try for myself. Thanks for the comment

[@rkh7169]

Laser strike is hands down the best

[@Mike-id8gu]

Just discovered this video. Appreciate your insight and content. ESEE convert here. I'm with you, except I chose the more recent Izula in SN35V, Laser Strike, but chose the ESEE 3 for slightly more concealability.

[@SamkoTradBow]

All fantastic knives by a fantastic company. You will love them

[@brokeboytactical]

Im not gonna argue with you. THEY HAVE THE S35VN CERSION NOW! You'll love it get one! Got me one about a week ago. Amazing EDC knife

[@SamkoTradBow]

I heard they are doing amazing things with s35 now too!

[@brokeboytactical]

@@SamkoTradBow it's by far the the best knife I've ever owned! I've owned several tops and esee knives but this little guy is special

[@davidrogers182]

Excellent Review Sir! Concise, succinct and relevant to me as a person that uses my knives daily for work and recreation.

[@SamkoTradBow]

Thank you

[@ajm2872]

I have almost the exact same setup, but I'm scaled one size up from you. ESEE 3, LaserStrike, and Junglas.

[@SamkoTradBow]

@@ajm2872 very nice

[@RJ-oo3vf]

I had a Izula II but I gave it away because I never used it. But I still have and use the Esee 3, 4, 5 and Junglas. The Esee 4 is my favorite EDC knife and the 5 is the one I take with me into the woods.

[@SamkoTradBow]

Love all esee knives! Nice collection!

[@rkh7169]

I pretty much only use the Esse laser strike. I love it.

[@SamkoTradBow]

@@rkh7169 great knife

[@bcjdwbiernfjherwfbowfib]

The new S35VN G10 Esee 3 is pretty bad ass. Good video

[@SamkoTradBow]

Have not got one yet but on my to do list

[@jasonerickson1033]

You have to take a look at rhe barkriver foxriver in 4v steel a absolutely the best knive i have i have ever used and i have a ton of high end knives benchmade spyderco cross etc. This knive is perfect for breaking down game take a look at it a little on the pricey side but in my honest opinion cant be beat

[@SamkoTradBow]

Awesome! bark river makes amazing knives!

[@rgh267]

BEAUTIFUL cabinets and table.

[@SamkoTradBow]

Thank you

[@ElGancho08]

Just turned 18 and have emailed the government for my very own izula

[@dukevonflankenheimer9430]

Great dangler paracord tip!! Thank you 8)

[@SamkoTradBow]

Welcome. Glad you enjoyed it

[@indyvai]

Genius idea to mod sheaths. Just did my Gerber to mimic the tether method. Thanks!!!

[@SamkoTradBow]

Works fantastic, especially in a pocket

[@sweetdarlanddan]

Great video. You sold me on the izula.

[@SamkoTradBow]

You will love it!

[@tln25]

I make knives, pretty damn good ones, in my opinion... I bought an ESEE 3 and I love it.

[@SamkoTradBow]

Yep the izula is a fantastic useful knife.

[@WOLFSENT1]

I started with the ESSE LASER STRIKE. Then the Izula-2, then the ESSE 3 with S35vn. The LASER STRIKE is an all around better knife than the 4. The finger placement, the handle, and the blade design is excellent.

[@SamkoTradBow]

All great knives

[@kakashi1234777]

I have a esse 6 with custom green kydex sheath and 3D micarda scales. My only issue with the knife was the powder coat and that the choil is abit sharp. I recently sanded and polished the choil and also removed the powder coat and added a stonewashed petunia. I am very happy with it now. Can see it on r/FixedBladeEdc. My second esse is probably the esse4hm. Very happy with that knife too. I like the izula but for smaller knifes I prefer the white river m1 caper. I think the shape is better and I like higher end steels for small knives plus it comes with a good kydex sheath. Good video.

[@SamkoTradBow]

all Those are great knives.

[@wayneburks6906]

I got the five it's hanging on the bug out bag just ordered the four I will probably end up with all them eventually

[@SamkoTradBow]

They are all excellent knives. And you can never have too many

[@garykray]

I got the black dial same model. It's been great . Joma Shop $145

[@SamkoTradBow]

joma always has great deals too!

[@karllager2214]

Venom 6 and izula 2. Love esee

[@SamkoTradBow]

Yep amazing knives

[@CentralKyBushcraft]

I love ESEE products! I've got a ESEE-3, PR-4, ESEE-5 and the Gibson Axe (plus other products they make). I've never had an issue with ESEE, even cut the windshield out of a truck with one! You can't go wrong with an ESEE knife.

[@SamkoTradBow]

Yeah best "get er done" knives I personally have ever used.

[@BePrepared1992]

How is the esee Gibson axe?

[@CentralKyBushcraft]

@@BePrepared1992 It's incredible. The balance is great with just enough forward weight to chop well. Ive carried it quite a bit in a leather loop and you can hardly tell that it's there. I did have to sharpen it but after speaking to Mr. Gibson he advised that they were shipped with what he refers to as a "safety edge". But overall it is a great light duty axe. (By light duty I mean carving, kindling, de-limbing so forth k8nd of work) I hope this answers your question.

[@urbanarcher3535]

Great video, I have 3 Izulas and love them. I have in route as I type the new Esee Xancudo and I am looking hard at the White River M1 Backpacker with the paracord in s35v now!

[@SamkoTradBow]

All excellent knives! You are gonna love them. I have a white river caper and its a great knife. My wife loves it so much she took it away from me!

[@jaschawalter3500]

I started with the 6; izula is my next one to buy.

[@SamkoTradBow]

You will love it! And the 6 is amazing!

[@faceinthecrowd5810]

Esee and TOPS, my favorites also. Just ordered a Izula2 to add to my fixed blades. The TOPS mil-spie elite is also one of my best small fixed blades, nice and thin for carry and a super useable 3 1/2 1095 blade. The esee 4 is for sure a classic must own for any knife user.

[@SamkoTradBow]

Love esee and tops as well. they are my favorites! you are gonna love the izula!

[@faceinthecrowd5810]

@@SamkoTradBow true on the Izula, punches way above its size, no need to look any further for a small fixed blade, the Izula 2 is it for me!

[@johnrush7699]

I have 4 different brands of knives that I think are the best knives a person can buy and I collect all 4 brands. Those 4 are ESEE, TOPS, Bark River and K- Bar. I spend quite a bit of my life outdoors, mostly in the woods and wilderness and I always have several of the knives with me. I carry at least 3 knives into the woods just in case of loss or breakage of a knife because they are about the most important tool to have with you right along with ways to make fire, and with a good knife you can do just about anything that needs done and the one that I always have on my side or in my pack is my ESEE 5 I never leave home without it

[@SamkoTradBow]

those are all amazing knives. and the esee 5 is a beast.

[@NobleSavage44]

ESEE 6 was my first 👍 like the Izula but can’t pocket carry a fixed blade. Use a Spyderco or BM folder for edc.

[@c45-w5h]

Izula, esee 4 and esee 5 are my favorite but I want them all

[@SamkoTradBow]

All are fantastic knives

[@vasuhardeo1418]

Love the esee 6

[@SamkoTradBow]

Agree 100%

[@mountaingoattaichi]

Love your videos. I am getting an izula 2 this week. Thanks!!!

[@SamkoTradBow]

Yoy are gonna love it

[@StevanOutdoor]

I have many knives but only 1 ESEE, the cleaver, because that one had a decent price for what you get and I wanted a cleaver with a sheath for outdoor cooking. In general the rather soft 1095 carbon steel is not my choice unless it's on an 'impact tool' like a cleaver, big knife or machete. Where I live and travel too it's rather humid, near an ocean or sea, lake, ponds, rivers, streams, etc. It can range from very cold to very hot. So if you only want one small fixed blade camp knife that will work great all over the globe and in every climate and condition I think the Fallkniven F1 with the zytel sheath is the one. It's stainless steel and has an over molded rubber grip so it will work in all conditions, wet or dry, cold or hot. The zytel sheath can endure lower temperatures than kydex without cracking. But there are so much more options out there. If I look at the price of ESEE knives compared to what you get I think they are way overpriced.

[@SamkoTradBow]

I have 2 falsknivens and they are great. I like in south Georgia not far from the ocean. I still prefer 1095 and carry a 1095 kn8ve every single day on me. It's all personal preference. Like you said many options.

[@StevanOutdoor]

@@SamkoTradBow For sure everything is personal preference also. I don't mind 1095 on bigger blades I don't use for cooking but rather for chopping and batoning. It's a cheap but tough steel and good if you don't mind a bit of rust unless you take really good care of them after every use. But this is the point. ESEE uses 1095 and keeps it rather soft but charge a price you'd expect for a knife made with 'supersteel'. I usually carry 3 knives in the bush. Pocket knife, small camp knife and big chopper or short machete. Lets say an SAK, Mora Companion (HD) (stainless steel) and a Tramontina machete and combined they cost me 50 dollars. That's still less than half the price of one Izula. I can pay for ESEE but I just can't justify the price. I think ESEE is possibly the most overrated knife brand where you get the least bang for your buck.

[@SamkoTradBow]

@BOSExperience that's why so many great options in the knife world. Something for everyone. Personally I won't carry anything but 1095, d2, a2, or similar tool steels. I like their predictability for my needs.

[@dougkidd4799]

Great video, thank you. Im going to get that small one right away

[@SamkoTradBow]

You will love it

[@JeffB1961]

appreciate the info , but dude .... those cabinets are beautiful !

[@SamkoTradBow]

Thank you very much.

[@Teufel_Resen]

Love the way you wear your Izula!

[@SamkoTradBow]

Thanks! Works great and can't ever loose it

[@martinhawrylkiewicz2025]

@@SamkoTradBow I love your vid! I only have the Izula 2 with green micarta handles. I was wondering how come you prefer to use your izula without the handles? Is it because its a slimmer profile and lighter in your pocket? I am sure there are some advantages to not having the handles. I prefer the handles on mine cause of the improved ergonomics.

[@SamkoTradBow]

@@martinhawrylkiewicz2025 yep the one in my pocket is not used for major chores or for extended time. So the skeletonized version is slimmer and easier to carry

[@SoldierDrew]

ESEE 4 knife seems well made but at $150.00 USD online price I can use my more affordable knives to do anything we need them for where I live. ( Making woodstove kindling, butchering livestock & game, camping, cleaning fish, cutting saplings, food prep, cutting line or self defense.) Still, You're a good sales promoter for ESEE knives and I hope they're compensating you for promoting their products.

[@SamkoTradBow]

I do not get paid by any company for any reviews I do. Just do them because I love their products.

[@dennisleighton2812]

It's now 1 year later and I'd like to update my post below. After much reading up ( and help and advice from Rob Evans, KZbinr) I've actually changed my views quite a bit. Firstly, I've discovered Cold Steel knives, and have actually purchased one to be the cornerstone of my selection (instead of the Junglas II). It is the Cold Steel Trail Master San Mai III. This is the equivalent of the Junglas II but I think it is more versatile. Having used it some since purchase I think it is fantastic! In the mid-range category I would opt for the Cold Steel SRK San Mai III. This knife is after all the signature survival knife and has stood the test of time very well, often still featuring in many Top 5 lists. In the small knife category, I'm still a bit conflicted. I like the ESEE Izula II a lot, but it is one-dimensional. On the other hand the Victorinox Ranger Grip series of knives offers a much more versatile package. With the excellent saw they have, one may even in some cases dispense with carrying a saw or axe! I wonder what you think of my new choices?

[@SamkoTradBow]

Cold steel knives are and always have been fantastic. And many people love the san mai steel! Can not gow wrong with cold steel. Personally im a little more traditional and likecarbon steel in once piece. But that is just my stuborn personal preference.

[@dennisleighton2812]

@@SamkoTradBow Thanks for the reply! My liking for the Trail Master is less about the actual steel as about the sheer balance and beauty of the knife. It just feels so RIGHT! I have never made a knife that feels like that. And there is nothing wrong with personal preference. Even I confess to suffering from it! 😂

[@garyherring2485]

I have two of them great knives

[@davidlane9724]

Great video , I plan on buying an Esse 4 pretty soon. Thank you

[@SamkoTradBow]

you will love the Esee 4!

[@ErikT3]

After watching all of your reviews I broke down and got one. It arrived today and I was immediately happy with it. Im running it as a neck knife for now and I will likely get a couple more for various uses and a dedicated knife for my pack. I'll probably get another sheath or two and grind one down for a neck sheath to wear on a beaded chain.

[@SamkoTradBow]

Awesome! You will love them!

[@andyhooutdoors]

Just saw your video recommended on KZbin. I am a fan of Esee knives. Used to dislike them at first when I saw how they don’t hold an edge for long. But after handling a few other higher end steels, I finally began to understand what makes Esee knives great. They just work! I love knives and had purchased a few from different makers, and when I play with some other knives I always bring my Esee along for tasks like batoning and light chopping just because I know that Esee will get all these done with no hiccups. Then the realisation came upon me. Why then do I still buy knives from other makers? That’s when I stopped looking around and just depended on my Esee. Looking at the Laser Strike next.

[@SamkoTradBow]

Yep lot of fantastic knives out there. But I also rely very heavily on esee for the hard work and never let me down stuff.

[@GravityRoller]

RE: "... when I saw how they don't hold an edge for long." Can you elaborate on this comment?

[@andyhooutdoors]

GravityRoller Sure. I always have my knives razor sharp before I start every trip. Let’s take doing feather sticks for making a fire. It started off smooth at first. After a few feathers I can feel the knife struggling a little to slice. It will still slice, but harder than when I started off. The edge will still be there and able to cut wood, but it no longer pops hairs after a few feather sticks. Working edge you call that. This is my experience with my Esee 3, Esee 4, Esee 4HM, Esee PR4, and Esee CR2.5. As for the Junglas I can’t comment since I hardly use it and prefer to use a traditional parang over the Junglas. I hated Esee at first when I still only own the 3 and 4, but then I found out that I could actually strop the edge after every use and get it back razor sharp again and the realisation came to me that if I could simply strop it after every use I practically have no need to sharpen my Esee. This sounded cool to me. So to date, I hardly ever sharpen any of my Esee knives and maintain all of them simply by stropping them or at most honing them using a very fine white ceramic. I have about a 130 knives in total and Esee seems to be what I use the most now. I tried the same method of maintenance on a knife made with CPM-4V at a Rockwell hardness of about 62 and it didn’t really work. I will need to sharpen it to get it back to razor again. It did last a long time though before starting to lose the edge, way much longer than any Esee, but once the edge is lost, it’s lost. You need to sharpen it up. No more super steel for me.

[@GravityRoller]

@@andyhooutdoors Thanks for taking time to reply. For an edge to go from "razor sharp" to "struggling" after only a few feathers sounds more like how a foil-edge type bur reacts under loading. Especially, when you state stropping brings back the razor-edge. I have a 6, a 3 I have used at 15dps (measured) for a number of years with no issues like described. I have recently acquired a 4 that I am experiencing issues like being discussed. Under magnification, (edge on 4 after re-profiling, then use and resultant edge damage unlike my 6) I see micro-rolling and torn edge damage. I believe/hope this is due to the fact that I did not destress the edge before re-profiling. Hope ..., I just need to properly destress during next sharpening.

[@andyhooutdoors]

GravityRoller That was what I suspected too, but I am suspecting that because Esee’s heat treatment being on the softer side could be the reason why I am having a hard time breaking the burr away. I am guessing instead of the burr breaking away it straightens up and gave me an impression that it was razor sharp, and as soon as I started cutting it bends under pressure and folds over. Unfortunately I do not have a microscope to check this out, and my aging eyesight is not helping. My friend told me he is having a hard time removing the burr too.

[@danalarson6586]

I like the dangler trick.

[@SamkoTradBow]

Thanks! It works great!

[@richardallen1021]

Great video! What happened to your Ruger 10/22 video? That was really helpful.

[@SamkoTradBow]

removed all my fire arm videos a couple years ago because of youtube rules and being a monetized channel.

[@richardallen1021]

Thanks for letting me know. Just to let you know, it was very helpful as a lot of your content is. Glad I caught it!

[@SamkoTradBow]

@richardallen1021 thanks. Yep its sad how yourube and social media treats people that have firearm content. Those channels could be making a fortune if they could monetize

[@stuartniven2401]

I have the 3Mil, the 5 and the Jungulas. A few arrow heads in the kit as well! Esse fan boy lol

[@SamkoTradBow]

Yep Love the esees

[@nickmegadeth6633]

Esee 5 on the list . It's iconic and it's o the esee logo...

[@SamkoTradBow]

Great knife for sure.

[@MrBluoct]

Any Esee update for 2024

[@SamkoTradBow]

Not that I have bought. But have more knife vuds coming soon

[@drouleau]

Just got my first ESEE (6) with the 3D micarta handles, and I love it.....while it's a big knife, it doesn't "feel" like a big knife. Great weight, balance, comfortable ergonomics, amazing edge from the factory, etc.....I can't really imagine wanting/needing another knife in that size range that would be any better. With that being said, I realllllllllly want an ESEE 4 in S35VN, which is on my short list of knives to buy. My Spyderco Para 3 in CruWear is my daily driver though - hard to beat that knife for really any "EDC" tasks.

[@SamkoTradBow]

Great knives! You will love e thr 4 when you get one too

[@Daniel.Liddicoat]

I have the ESEE 4 in S35VN with the orange G-10 flat scales. It's a good knife. I would like the orange/black 3D scales that are an option on the 1095 version, but for whatever reason you can get every scales on every blade. The flat scales just don't fill my hand.

[@drouleau]

@@SamkoTradBow I ended up getting an ESEE 3 in S35VN and put some TKC handles on it - absolutely I love it. While I still want a 4, I honestly can't see a need to get one now (other than I want one lol). Also picked up a Xancudo fixed blade with the solid handle, and that's a great little unassuming knife as well for an EDC fixed blade (plus being S35VN it'll stay sharper longer).

[@SamkoTradBow]

@@drouleau you got a couple great knives! They will treat you very well

[@armandcouture4655]

I have my Para 2 and Benchmade Super Freek feels perfect in my hand. The Axis lock really is great. Osborne 940 is my go to!

[@mikebritt8934]

I love ESSE knifes and love your setup on the Izula . I chose a ESSE 3 Mil but wish I had got the Izula because it's just more practical for EDC.

[@SamkoTradBow]

love the 3 and izula. sounds like you have a great reason to get an izula now as well!

[@johangranberg1058]

Thank you for a good reviwes / Johan from SWEDEN

[@SamkoTradBow]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@HighRoad317]

Great talk, thanks for sharing your experience….

[@SamkoTradBow]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@jasoneggleston1879]

I like the izula 2 ten times better. That little bit of extra handle makes it so much more effective.

[@SamkoTradBow]

The 2 is great as well. For the uses of an izula the 2 is more handle than I need and longer in my pocket.

[@travisworts6249]

I have an izula but I haven't committed to removing the coating just yet. I got some g10 scales and it fits my hand pretty well. I also previously paracord wrapped the handle but prefer the scales because it fills out my hand a lot more. I have a mora and cut up some fruit with it today and already put a little bit of patina on it not sure if I like the patina or not yet. I have a Kershaw camp 10 that is the knife that I use when I need to beat the crap out of and not care because 1 it is made out of 1077 not nearly as good as 1095 but it's still really good. I haven't figured out what esee I want to replace it with yet.

[@SamkoTradBow]

Those are all good knives. On the izula just wait until the coating is wore and best up then strip it.

[@sinkswim5158]

Nice review i use the izula 2 , the esee 4 and the junglas 2 for big work

[@SamkoTradBow]

Great combo!

[@sinkswim5158]

@@SamkoTradBow thank you :) i try to let the esee 4 at home because i think that i can do all the jobs with the izula and the junglas2 but its so hard i love the esee 4 🙈😂

[@SamkoTradBow]

swim yeah the 4 is a great do it all. But needed if you have a junglas and izula on ya

[@sinkswim5158]

@@SamkoTradBow sry my english is not perfect but do you mean that i need the esee 4 when i go in the woods with the junglas 2 and the izula 2 ? I think i dont need the 4 in this combo. I take my esee 4 when im going in to german woods cause in germany you have order 42a that means that a fulltang knife must have a blade length maximum from 12cm and the esee 4 is perfect for this.

[@SamkoTradBow]

@@sinkswim5158 no I meant that when you are carrying the izula and the junglas you wont not need to bring the esse 4. The esee 4 is a great do it all blade for when you only carry one knife.

[@Trenton_D]

Great video man!!! I was hoping the middle one was going to be an esee 5 lol I have the esee 6, 5 and 4 but the esee 5 is my favorite for sure haha

[@SamkoTradBow]

Don't own an esee 5 yet ad I have a couple Becker bk2 companions that are similar to the 5. But I will own one one of these days! Love all esee knives

[@Trenton_D]

@@SamkoTradBow I bought the Becker also and like it a lot and especially the price for it compared to the esee knives lol I know the esee 5 is a little impractical for most situations, but it's good to know you have a knife like that when you need it. I used the esee 4 a lot when cleaning deer. I might invest in one more of those also before crap hits the fan

[@donniecarlisle4708]

I have the Izula 5 and Junglas!!! All beast!!!!👊👍🇺🇸

[@SamkoTradBow]

Great choices!

[@bjdog42]

I carry an Izula II every day in a horizontal sheath I made for it. I wanted a sheath with a bigger opening that came up on the handle which is easier to resheath on my rigid carry belt. Nothing wrong with the factory sheath, I just wanted a bigger opening. The one knife I like better than the Esee 4 is the Cold Steel drop forged hunter. 52100 steel & a blade shape that works better for me. But I could be just as happy with the Esee 4 & I do like Esee's heat treat better.

[@SamkoTradBow]

Love everyone of those knives you mentioned. Lots of great options out there

[@bjdog42]

@@SamkoTradBow everyone mentions the Rowen heat treat when talking about Esee's so here's some of my observations. I own D2 folders from Benchmade, Emerson & Ontario & ATS34 folders from Buck & Benchmade. The best edge holders are the Ontarios in D2 & the Paul Bos treated Bucks in ATS34. I also own Swamp Rats & a Busse which are all heat treated & Cryo treated by Busse. Heat treat makes a big difference. That said, my Swamp rats are definitely better than my Esees but not by as much as the company would have you believe. And Swamp Rat uses the denser 52100 steel which should make them much better. Esee also includes good sheaths & Swamp Rat/Busse doesn't include a sheath at all. All that said, for the money Esee is the best all around brand I own & will hold an edge & perform with anything out there. My Izula gets sharpened once every 6 months to a year & stropped about every 2 weeks & gets used regularly. My other Esees don't see as much use so I can't comment as much on them but it isn't from lack of confidence in them.

[@SamkoTradBow]

@@bjdog42 yep lots of great knives out there. I love swamp rats and busse knives and have owned 5 of them. Sold them all once I started using the esee knives more. The great thing about the busse knives is I sold them all for more than I paid!

[@reeseownsbey2874]

Can you make a sheath for left handed scout carry to sell

[@GetMeThere1]

I like the dangle in pocket idea -- pretty slick. Have you ever considered either the scales option for the Izula or a paracord wrap?

[@SamkoTradBow]

Yep I have the scales and have even thinned them down like I show in the izula mod video. The scales are great. Para wraps for me are no good as I often uses my knife to gut and work on animals so the paracord gets all slimy and messy. I think the scales are a better option and easier to clean.

[@GetMeThere1]

@@SamkoTradBow I did watch your strip and scale mod video. Great info. Thanks for all your videos!

[@goose33]

So which esee is the best OVERALL knife for survival/edc/bushcraft etc

[@SamkoTradBow]

All opinions will vary but for me it would be the esee 4 or Lazer strike as a "could only have one knife esee". But I think a esee izula and a esee 5 would be a great combo or a esee 3 and esee 6

[@goose33]

@@SamkoTradBow thank you!

[@Damonbird775]

Great video. Even better cabinets.

[@SamkoTradBow]

Thank you and thank you

[@two8s528]

That knife carry is genius

[@SamkoTradBow]

Thanks

[@kylec166]

To me there is nothing wrong with petoning it's a fix blade I totally agree with this guy.

[@SamkoTradBow]

Love a good patina on a fixed blade!

[@mjfalcon007]

Thanks for sharing - very helpful content and keen to watch more. I’d like to know your thoughts on the recent release of the Tops Silent Hunter 4 compared to the Esee 4 as I am having trouble deciding which one to go with? Thank you

[@SamkoTradBow]

The tops silent hero is a beautiful knife as well and I would love to someday own it. cant go wrong with either and if comes down to what fits your hand the best.

[@pedronogueira9979]

For me: ESEE 3 S35V, ESSE 4 and ESEE 6

[@SamkoTradBow]

very nice

[@pedronogueira9979]

@@SamkoTradBow , got huge paws... Izula feel to me like a SAK folder...

[@voodoowar]

ESEE has a lifetime no questions asked warranty

[@Kyle-bb9zp]

Could you by chance put that esee 4 in your pocket like you did with your izula? Thanks Kyle i am looking for a do all fix blade knife/wood processing feather Sticks etc.

[@SamkoTradBow]

You could. Depending on your pocket depth it might stick out and might be annoying to sit down due to the length

[@Kyle-bb9zp]

Yeah I am looking for a fix blade knife that can baton wood on the weekends and also do utility task every day. Esee has probably the best 0:02 warranty I have seen. @@SamkoTradBow

[@Kyle-bb9zp]

@@SamkoTradBow yeah I was thinking about that. I might just go with the esee alizula 2

[@matt9741]

8:38-8:50 New to your channel, please tell me there is a video dedicated to how you have the paracord set up on that sheath to carry it as a dangler. I’ve never thought of that but I love it.

[@SamkoTradBow]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/mJSpeHmwhZxlaZo

[@hcooC]

Has a hundred knives and would take the ESEE 4. That says a lot! Cheers.

[@SamkoTradBow]

The esee 4 is my favorite knife.

[@reallyhappenings5597]

I like the Izula 2, 3-Mil, and JUNGLAS

[@ryanvanderveen8889]

I have an Izula and Esee 4, they are great knives! I wrapped the Izula handle with Paracord.

[@SamkoTradBow]

Those are my 2 all time favorites

[@matthewmosley5693]

Good vid , like the Esse line too . Nice cedar cabinets , btw .

[@SamkoTradBow]

Thank you! Made them myself!

[@tradarcher8714]

Thanks bro. I need to order a couple

[@SamkoTradBow]

Can never have enough esees

[@CarolinaNightHunter]

Been wanting the 4 for awhile. Will have to wait for pay day

[@SamkoTradBow]

You will love it when you get it!