SDOKEDC game & fish knife (ESEE clone)

In this video I test & review the SDOKEDC outdoor knife. A clone of the ESEE cr 2.5

[@scottnorvell2955]

I have this knife in a different color and it’s amazing. I couldn’t bring myself to spend the hundred bucks on the Esee. I was amazed at the quality and I love it. It’s a great buy and the steel is fantastic. The sheath is also incredible and better than I’ve seen on much more expensive knives. I’ll never by an Esee CR2. I love Esee’s and have a bunch but for this little guy this is the way to go. Couldn’t be happier.

[@forestadventureswithscott8777]

Yeah, after using the knife several times in the field I don’t think I’ll be purchasing the cr 2.5 either. Not because I think this knife is better than the ESSE it just turns out I don’t use it that often for normal camp/ bushcraft chores. It lives in my tackle box beside my filet knife.

[@nathanstewart2018]

I found and bought the same one on Amazon after looking for a sub 3" blade. When i saw the price i figured it was probably junk. After researching it and seeing the reviews i figured for $25 its worth trying out. I carry mine everywhere. Only problem ive had is the screws came loose from the belt clip. I replaced the plastic washers with thick rubber ones and used a litte blue thread lock. Its an incredible deal for the money.

[@nathanstewart2018]

I will say esee does have a no questions asked replacement policy but you can but 4 of these for what 1 esee goes for. Esee is a bit over priced in my opinion as well.

[@forestadventureswithscott8777]

I have a few ESEE’s and wouldn’t mine adding the RB3 to the collection but like you said, they aren’t cheap. I haven’t had any issues with the screws coming loose yet but it sounds like you’re getting more use out of yours than I am. Cheers

[@dederded]

I have the same Amazon knife, I daily carry it with an ulti clip, in my front right pocket.

[@StandardAmericanCarnivore]

I just bought one last night on Amazon, and this morning, looked for any reviews. You’re the only one! So we shall see!

[@forestadventureswithscott8777]

I’ve been carrying mine for several weeks now. I’m pretty satisfied with the quality for the price!

[@StandardAmericanCarnivore]

Just got it today, and I put it though its paces, similar to what you did. I’m on the same opinion. Actually amazed at its toughness! I will be keeping this! lol

[@markomilenkovic2539]

just a small correction since I owned many esee knives and 2 cr2.5 in orange g10 and grey micarta and also I have this not clone at all it is way larger then esee cr2.5 knife and thinner also ,it is not clone because it has different name , they look close but not the same at all , and it is very good quality knife , probably this version of knife in magnacut steel from whiteriver knives that fit nd finish would be my all time favorite ! for $25 worth every penny , cheers

[@wyndryder1]

Bought one for my brother for Christmas. First experience with dc53 steel. Sharp right out of the box, but put a mirror edge on it and used it a little. Loved it. Gonna buy me one.

[@forestadventureswithscott8777]

Very nice!

[@smokyriverbushcraft]

Been looking for a video of this knife! Thanks!

[@douglassmith3901]

Great review! This is exactly the type of info I'm looking for when someone reviews a knife. I love the design, and the steel certainly intrigues me. For $25, this seems like a wise purchase. Thanks for the review.

[@forestadventureswithscott8777]

You’re welcome. I’ve enjoyed carrying it from time to time.

[@frqntplatypus7968]

I’ve been wanting an Essee for a while but found this for a fraction of the price. Can’t beat it.

[@forestadventureswithscott8777]

I’ve definitely been pleasantly surprised so far!

[@kobelevigor7139]

Спасибо. Интересный обзор. Вы единственный кто сделал обзор на этот нож. Планирую купить такой.

[@Maetsack]

Appreciate your review - I have ordered one for myself 🙂

[@Dnd-wz9yn]

I've been buying clones for years. If I'm thinking of investing 175 and up in a knife I buy a clone. If the shape, weight and functionality suits me I either throw it in a tool box or give it to a youngster in my family...then I buy the real one! This is how I made the jump to Microtechs (3), ProTechs (2) and upper level Spydercos (3) and Benchmades (4). I cant drop that kind of ca$h unless I know the knife will suit me.

[@forestadventureswithscott8777]

Not a bad strategy honestly. If I can get the knife in my hand and I really like the fit and materials I don’t mind spending the money but I absolutely hate having to send online purchases back if I can help it.

[@joshflanery1352]

Great video. And only video on it. Ordered one for the exact same reason you did!

[@forestadventureswithscott8777]

I think you will like it. Can’t beat the price. Time will tell if it will hold up over time but for that price…

[@joshflanery1352]

@@forestadventureswithscott8777cleaned all my game this season with it, and some other uses. Purchased 3 more to keep one in each hunting pack/ camping pack… love this knife for the money. It holds an edge very well while cleaning game!

[@scottnorvell2955]

Esee is WAY overpriced for a knife like this. I love my SDOKEC. It’s high quality and a great price. I get the buy American thing but there are times when US manufacturers take advantage of their name to overprice stuff. Esee should be selling this knife for under $50.00 max. I’m really happy with mine and there’s no way I’d buy the Esee.

[@tannerdodson7869]

You’re paying for a transferable lifetime warranty as well.

[@forestadventureswithscott8777]

I have two ESSE’s and really like them but for a knife that I would use sparingly I can’t justify spending close to a hundred bucks. Lifetime warranty or not.

[@molonlabe3083]

I couldn’t agree more. Now, I do own a Esee CR2.5, I like it, carry it almost everyday for the last month. It’s a great little EDC tuff use knife, but in no means is it worth even close to $100… The blade is way too thick to process any game or fish.

[@avdmustang]

I was looking at that knife for a small fixed blade but I wanted a little bit softer steel that was also stainless and also wanted an overall smaller knife. I went with the Tonife Nova. I highly recommend it, it's a hidden gem IMO but it's more of a neck knife. 20 bucks, can't beat it.

[@forestadventureswithscott8777]

I'll have to check it out! Thanks for subscribing.

[@moontheory]

This is better than the esee, it's a similar knife, not a copy handle is more comfortable and rounded, blade is chamfered near the handle and a flat spine the rest of the way, blade is longer with more rust resistance and the steel is adequate for the jobs it will do. No metallic taste when used to cut food. It's far better than the esee for every day carry.......for $25.00.

[@airiksknifereviews9548]

I like mine , it's now my wife's knife for the kitchen and when she goes camping. I got the dark micarta scales, and the sheath is excellent. Imho, it feels a bit like a Tops Esee mix. I would not pay $100 for the Esee it's just not enough blade for me... That said it's an excellent camping knife and true neck knife. The sheath is amazing and much better than the Esee versions leather sheath. $25 is amazing can't pass ot up ...I also bought the Izula2 clone ...Its nice BUT I'd rather have the Esee , it's too thin and I prefer 1095hc. But 14C28N steel micarta scales and great kydex sheath for $31 it's a deal.

[@forestadventureswithscott8777]

I have the ESSE 5 and Izula 2. The only other ESSE blade that has my attention is the RB3. I don’t think I’ll purchase the CR 2.5 at $100. Just a blade I won’t use that often.

[@airiksknifereviews9548]

​@forestadventureswithscott8777 Ya know they have an RB3 clone now too. It's in 440c which I do not like for a scandi edge . I think the rb3 is worth the price esee has on it if ya buy it from the right place. After using that 3.5 clone I ended up changing the edge to 19° and it's excellent now. That DC53 D2 variant is holding a great edge.

[@birdman6499]

Looks good!!

[@btrswt35]

I bought one off AliExpress. Really like it for backpacking/hiking. Don't need a big blade for that and the handle is sufficiently long and comfortable

[@LairdDavidson]

I just ordered one from there too. Eagerly awaiting the delivery. Hoping that it will be good for processing small birds.

[@poppacooter]

all knives look the same so if the dimensions are different then it’s not a clone so enjoy the good Value purchase you made and don’t worry if they look similar .

[@forestadventureswithscott8777]

I’m finding that I’m not using this blade too often. Just because I prefer something a little bigger in hand and a Scandi grind. Basically living in my tackle box.

[@evandence]

This with a ulti-clip would be badass to carry on your waistband. I feel this clone would fit the sheath too! Probably worth it just for the kydex

[@forestadventureswithscott8777]

Great idea!

[@nitrorc4life1]

I carry it as it comes, on my belt. Great as is.

[@janpen78]

I own esee 2.5 and handled this one. It is heavier than esee 2.5. , scales feel different. I like the kydex sheath more than the leather on esee.

[@forestadventureswithscott8777]

The sheath was worth the $25 imo

[@floridadad2817]

I just got one and it's WAY better than the Ontario Pack Knife, which was my intended light woods walking fixed blade. I think a basic leather pouch sheath would be just perfect for this.

[@forestadventureswithscott8777]

I prefer a leather sheath 90% of the time but for this setup I do like the kydex.

[@blistersteel]

I'm likely going to thin mine out a bit. Just the spine on my grinder . Should let it slip through food a touch better.

[@supernova1976]

Thanks for sharing, just got one from Aliexpress, i was just wandering how do you adjust for scout carry because it only has holes in one side . love this knife, it isn't an exact copy, the handle is rounded off and not blocky like the Esee.

[@forestadventureswithscott8777]

I can carry it scout on a thick belt loop but it’s not that secure honestly. I like it on a backpack strap best.

[@49giants3]

If it lives in your tackle box , make sure to keep it oiled or something. Mine rusted pretty easily

[@forestadventureswithscott8777]

Good to know!

[@to_the_wilderness]

Sdokedc is company like eafengrow etc so without PMI test or at least proper edge retention we don't know what steel it is.

[@SirPraiseSun]

feathersticks yes baton no doesnt have enough mass if you are gonna skin an animal or fiellet with it id just keep it for that, that being said dc53 is beast for knives if its quality crafted.

[@forestadventureswithscott8777]

For that price it really is hard to beat.

[@justinmoore1324]

How do you scout carry this knife .i just bought one and cant get the holes to line up when i spin the clip

[@forestadventureswithscott8777]

Sorry, I accidentally deleted the comment from the person who commented first. I was trying to delete my original comment. In this demonstration I just attached it to my belt loop. It wasn’t super secure because my belt loop on these pants are very narrow but it worked for demonstration purposes. I prefer scout carry but don’t see a good way for this setup honestly. Attached to the backpack strap seemed to be the best option.

[@nitrorc4life1]

Yup, only way i will buy my Benchmade and similar is in-person only. And this is a copy not a clone, as you say, dimensions are different. Yes it matters. Still cringe worthy, but different. And this knife will be an edc, package opener, peeler, whittler, featherstick making and in a automotive speed shop setting. I have a couple dozen Esee's, great blades, pricey. A 440c izula is a common edc for me. That flat grind on this copy should be great for what I do, I will try one or two myself.

[@nitrorc4life1]

Yes this knife is worthy of a purchase, bought 3.

[@ryennino5470]

just ordered one of these after your review, was wondering how after 3 months it’s been holding up?

[@forestadventureswithscott8777]

Holding up well. I will admit, it’s not the blade I carry often but have taken it out on several occasions and it’s still sharp, scales are still tight.

[@rustytygart405]

So I’m going to be honest I really don’t have a problem with buying overseas products when it fits Now esee kinda came up with a good design here with making a outdoor beefed up paring knife but then they gave it a thick stock and soft heat treat at 57-59 Where’s these guys jumped onboard and made their own interpretation with some micro changes to design But they used a better steel and more importantly they ran that steel at what they’re claiming to be 60-61 much much better and you get it at a quarter the price Esee could give it to us at probably half what they charge but because they have a big name now they charge what they think we will pay for that name Na the value is in the clone in this instance like I said no brand loyalty here I’ll take the better knife at the better price

[@chriszeis5477]

I bought th CR 2.5 but the handle is too thin for me I gave it to my Nephew

[@forestadventureswithscott8777]

I agree on the handle size. Definitely a purpose driven blade. Not a blade I would carry for general camp/bushcraft tasks.

[@john41413]

Lol when looking at this same knife months ago i added it to my cart bc i wanted the esee but didnt kno how it would feel in my hand so wanted to see w a cheaper option. My uncle asked what type of steel dc53 was and i said its basically d2 on steroids lmao 😂

[@forestadventureswithscott8777]

Hahaha, I love it!

[@21_Cabbage_]

I like the knife but the sheath (like so many Chinese fixed blades) rides way too high. It endlessly jabs you in the ribs. I''ve ordered an ulticlip to hopefully fix the issue. This being a taco sheath really reduces possibilities for attachment.

[@forestadventureswithscott8777]

I hear ya. I have a pair of 511 tactical pants that have very wide belt loops. It scout carries good on those and I like carrying it on my backpack strap as well.

[@paulpugh2480]

I want one.

[@forestadventureswithscott8777]

I just noticed on Amazon that they’ve got all 3 models at $25. The stonewashed versions were $49 when I bought mine.

[@alphadawg81]

You know you can order a knife online and send it back if you're not happy with it.

[@roostershooter76]

In all reality, you're probably better off with the SDOKEDC brand. After all, a lot of people don't know that ESEE doesn't have one piece of manufacturing equipment in their facility. All of their knives are made by either Rowen Manufacturing or White River Knives. A lot of people assume that they're a manufacturer, but they aren't. So, in reality, at $25 you're probably paying the same price that Esee pays Rowen for their OEM branded knives!

[@forestadventureswithscott8777]

Interesting. I knew that Rowen produced knives for ESSE but didn't realize White River does as well. I really like that Firecraft series that WR does and hope to pick up either the 3.5 or Puukko at some point.

[@roostershooter76]

@@forestadventureswithscott8777 The Sencillo is their recent OEM for ESEE. White River produces them all for ESEE.

[@brr8888]

DC53 is a little better than D2 in every way.

[@PhuzzPhactor]

Bump

[@user-wd4ge2zh2c]

Yeah, supporting people who are stealing other people's designs is unethical.

[@catmandu6776]

Americans now stand for cheap and easy. Thank God WWII didn't happen in 2023! In my humble opinion, there doesn't exist a justifiable reason to buy a clone/rip-off. The Chinese market has blatantly ripped off and cheated their way to success. It's fitting that you would hand it down to your son because the America that was handed to you no longer exists for your son. That $25 knife comes with a cost. It's not a cost that you will have to pay but one that your son may very well have to pay for you. I don't think you're a bad person at all, but please stop supporting Chinese companies that are blatant crooks. Everything comes with a cost.

[@forestadventureswithscott8777]

I hear you loud and clear. My American to imported knife collection is easily 70/30. Several ESSE’s, Tops, Spyderco, Benchmade & Kershaw. All American made. Aside from my Swedish & Finnish knives I may have 2 or 3 Chinese knives that were either gifted to me or handed down. As far as my son’s tools he only owns American & Swiss knives and tools (Leatherman, Gerber & Victorinox). This clone is actually the first Chinese knife I’ve ever purchased. I would be willing to bet that the majority of your appliances in your house are Chinese made, or your gadgets, or parts to your lawn equipment. Don’t get me wrong I’m with your sentiment 100% and I do my best to support USA made but I just couldn’t justify paying $100 for a knife that I would use very sparingly.

[@catmandu6776]

@forestadventureswithscott8777 Like I said, I don't think you're a bad person at all, and it's not a personal attack on you. There are reasons that most of our household appliances are Chinese made. It all starts with American consumers wanting to save a quick buck without any regard to unseen consequences. Curtain items are all but necessities, and buying anything other than Chinese made has become near impossible. For me, if it's not needed for everyday life or I don't have an option from another manufacturer outside of China, then I don't buy it, no matter how badly I want it. I don't have a problem with buying Italian, Japanese, German, or from most other countries, really, because most other countries have fair training practices and abide by international law. We have to draw a line in the sand somewhere and slowly reverse the trend. Hope all is well with you and your family. Take care, and God bless.

[@eaglessj]

If you couldn’t afford it because you wouldn’t be using it then maybe you shouldn’t have bought one at all rather than buying an ESEE ripoff. If it was your business being ripped off I’m sure you would feel differently.

[@stevanoutdoor]

Sorry but the Chinese knife makes more sense for the use. The ESEE comes in 1095 carbon steel only and with a leather sheath but the cost in my country is some 140 usd. But it's a Field & Stream knife or Bird & Trout knife whatever you wanna call it. In general for butchering small game, gutting fish, food prep and some other small camp chores. I don't want a carbon steel knife with a leather sheath for that! It will rust, hard to keep clean and maintain in the field. So the Chinese did see the flaw in this and made basically the same model but in a more rust resistant steel and with a kydex (easy to clean) sheath. So all they did is fill in the gap the Americans left and that for 25 usd. Unless you are willing to pay top dollars for a more fancy and rust resistant steel from a US company you get the cheap 1095 carbon or O1 carbon steel with a leather sheath but still for big money compared to the competition. So you could also say the American companies are just not innovative enough. It's not only the Chinese who fill that gap but many other, also European, knife companies.

[@nitrorc4life1]

Hmm as you type this comment on a device made in China,

[@kabirh3626]

Its not a clone