For those of us who use knives every day, like the tools that they are, one just can't go wrong with the Esee's. Esee 3 or the Ashley Game Knife are always on my belt for work, doing Wildlife Control. If I'm heading out for beaver work or coyote control, we always pack along the 4 or the 6, depending on what we'll be doing. Although I have never broken an Esee, I don't worry about what I do with them. They don't need to be babied and their built FOR WORK. For the money, they're an excellent value.
i bought the Esee 6 a few years back on behalf of your video. Today i still feel secure having it on me when i`m on a bushcraft weekend in Belgium or the Netherlands. Last year i was in Sweden were it really was put into the test. So my answer is yes still the number one survival bushcraft knife for me.
I just got the Esee 6 with the contored g10 scales. Man it’s a beast and the scales look amazing. I can’t wait to get to the shop in the morning to chop some wood and all that good stuff I’ve been waiting to do forever.
After SEVERELY abusing my kabar USN mk 1 for several years, the grip finally began to loosen a bit on the tang which made me a bit weary. I've been trying to decide pretty much since last fall what I wanted to get to replace it, and this video sealed the deal. Thanks for the time and thought you put into your content. I know it's not much, but did use the link in the description. Keep up the good work.
I bought an ESEE 6 on your recommendation a few years ago. Went G10 scales from TKC along with Keydex sheath, leather belt loop, and ferro rod attachment. Came in about £180 delivered to the UK, and paid £30 import tax on top. Love it.
It was funny to me when you were chopping because I was thinking how it would be more efficient to cross baton. And then you did it! I think Cross batoning is such an underrated technique. You can use it to get a small knife like a bk16 to do jobs similar to a large knife. Well done, sir 👍
Well balanced, the ergonomics are amazing, the fit & finish is top-notch, the sharpness from the factory is still there. The little details built into the knife, like extended full tang that allows you to use it to pommel, the notches at the back/top of the blade gives your thumb good purchase to whittle, stab, & maneuver the blade. Mine still has the original coyote brown micarta handle and I love it & the original sheath keeps it very secure but is still easy to pull out with a thumb push as you pull.
Love mine, i got tkc micarta contour scales to replace the flat scales. Best upgrade ever, i like micarta more than g10 so i went that route. Its processed cords of wood over the years and ive even cut and exhaust pipe in a pinch with it and it ate it for breakfast. Its an epic knife.
I've tried several knives from an inexpensive Mora to higher priced Bark Rivers. Can't say anything bad about any of the knives that I've carried. and they have all served me well. I've beat on my Esee 6 and tried to break it. I believe it is unbreakable The Esee 6 keeps a good edge and the ergonomics are a good fit for my hands. It is the outdoor knife I trust the most and my go to knife.
I bought the blue contoured scale ESEE5 and absolutely love it. I even use it in the house for those occasional cutting tasks where I need a savage blade.
@@joegreen8300 not at all, but it's a little thick for a kitchen knife. Instead of machine oil I use olive oil on any knives that I'm going to use for food prep.
This Video brings back alot of Memories of all the knife comparison videos between the Esee 6 , Rat 7 and BK 7 I used to watch , I ended up going with the BK 7 and tricked it out over time and 1 big reason was the "full" grip of the handle , I have XL hands and the Becker Knives have some of the Best handle ergonomics around ,imo... But , If you like the full BK scales , Do Not buy any g10 scales from The Knife Connection , although they are nice and colorful, they are also Slim and they take away the nice fullness of the BK scales , so buy the Micarta scales , they are the same size as the factory Zytel ones and they are Awesome, they cost around $45 and you will not regret it ....👍⚔🖖
I have both the esee 6 with knife conection g10 scales and bk7 with both aftermarked micarta and knife connection g10 scales. And if I had to choose, I dunno. They are both so damn fine.
or, get a low grit sandpaper, and put scratches on the factory scales of the Beckers. I've made mine, feel and grip very similar to matte finish micarta! That way, you don't have to spend more money, and you don't lose the weight and more important, the balance of the knife!
@@greekveteran2715 I agree , I know a lot of people cry about the factory zytel BK scales , and I honestly think that's a UA-cam Thing , but I never had a problem with them , I think their fine , they are definitely strong , I've never heard of anyone breaking them ....🖖
@@brianf9619 Marketing and UA-cam, have done a lot of "damage" on knives and in a lot of info about them. For example, because of newer marketing tricks, people now think, that it's the steel they should look for, and not the other aspects of a knife, something that is 100% wrong. If the heat treatment or the blade/edge geometry is off, doesn't matter what steel it's made of, knife will suck big time! Just an example..
After going through some financial suffering where most all my guns and knives went down the road, and I was finally able to get a knife again, but only one, I went with this 3D esee 6!!!
Me too, but HM handle. Now i am here researching a 3D handle. I have found a gorgeous one in black blade / tan 3D handle. Typing this has made me decide; am getting it next pay day !!! 😁👍🏻
I have been on this train for a LONG time...so long, that my knife is badged an RC-6. I own countless knives. I always come back to the RC-6/ESEE-6. It is still my favorite field knife, after all these years.
ESSE 6 my 1st fixed blade bk in 2014. Since I have some of my favorite custom makers build me knives. That 6 still is my most used. I have several esse knives and more to be had. This with new addition will also have to come home.
The ESEE-6 is THE standard for a survival knife. No frills, no gimmicks, just a solid trustworthy performer. In the right hands, it's no longer survival, but rough camping.
What sold me on Esee was the style and featuring is subdued - it isn't trying to look tough, and ready to go - nothing to bug me later, just works. I have the Izula, Esee 4, and Junglas.
I realize there are situations when you may only have one knife (and maybe this a fine choice for that), but as far as preparation and planning I've always prefered a two-knife system. I like a heavy, nearly indestructible knife for large tasks (and maybe chopping if necessary) and a lighter, thinner knife for the finer tasks. I try to keep my kits, vehicles, home, etc. equipped with companion sets to this effect.
@Eye of the Tiger hi mate thank you for the big reply! I'm prepping for long term bug out/survival in Australia. I have a 240mm silky ultra accel, and now deciding on which knives. I'm thinking to go with 3, a machete, medium length survival and a bushcraft. Trying to decide which ones... Some ones I've been looking into are the crkt chanceinhell, tramontina 18", bk7, bk9, Esse 6, cold steel srk sk-5 (but probably want a bit better quality than this), Mora kansbol/bushcraft black, condor terrasaur
@Eye of the Tiger hi Duke, you're a legend, we sound very much in the same wavelength! I've been going hard out learning as much as I can the past few months and building up my preps. Awesome to know you're in Oz as well, you know our terrain and what will suit. I still need to figure out some ideal locations to bug out to in nsw, I wonder if you have any suggestions. Would love to connect outside of here if you'd like... I like your blade suggestions, what size machete do you think would be ideal for NSW? And do u think a bk7 as a primary blade is a bit long considering will also have a machete, or that bit of extra length and weight over a 6inch is still fine? I want it but I don't want to overload myself too 😋 Yeh 200 for a garburb is a bit steep, considering the bushcraft and kansbol are half the price but almost as good. When u say satin did u mean stainless?
@Eye of the Tiger haha yeh I know what you mean. Yep it is a bit expensive but I think if it's going to save our lives then it's worth every dollar. Yeah definitely a beer sounds good, although with the situation I won't be surprised if the borders close again after new years. What length bushcraft parang do u think? Or is there only one length? Yeah I always have been drawn to the bks, Ill have to decide between the 7 and 9. That's a really good point about having a capable backup. Yeh I'll go with a 3rd smaller bushcraft like a Mora too, 3 is better than two and can do the finer things, I was thinking stainless too for this one 😉 And what about the big tramontina, u don't think it'll be handy for our type of wilderness?
I recently bought an Esee Isula and I love it! It is the dark green one and I added the orange G10 scales. Initially, I wanted it to just wrap 550 on the handle and carry it scout style. Then while putting together a survival kit in an Emerson Chest Pack I realized the Isula would fit perfectly across the front of the pack and be much less weight than a Gerber Strongarm. It was the right choice. Using the included mount with the metal spring clip I center-mounted the sheath and used velcro keepers to stabilize it so it wouldn't swivel or "wobble" while carrying it. What impresses me so much is the quality of the steel, the finish and that unexplainable feel of a good balanced knife. So much so I am going to buy one of the larger Esee blades. I have a Schrade SCHF 9 ("Chef Nine") and although I love it it's too large and too much weight. The Gerber Strongarms, one black and one coyote, are still a little too large. So, I decided on the Esee 3. I never baton with my knives as I carry a small ultra sharp hatchet that was custom made for me and it fits in my Emerson Chest Pack next to my CCW. Two magazine pouches are velcro mounted on the front of the two pockets that house the hatchet and weapon. The kit includes a Gerber Suspension, Suunto MC 2 compass, pace beads, container of storm-proof matches, Bic, Sharpal, pair of folding scissors, pepper spray, pad and pen, mylar poncho, mylar blanket, Bear Hard Bivy, a small IFAK, signal light, mask, nitrile gloves, small container of ibuprophen, container of personal Rx meds, an OzarkTrail 200l flashlight, a pair of Huntworth camo gloves and a pair of readers for my 73 year old eyes :) A Coghlans whistle with compass (it works!) and a swivel out magnifying glass is attached to a grimloc on the right shoulder strap. The total weight of the chest pack kit is 4.84 pounds. The Ozark Trail flashlight replaced two Olights that quit working and I've used this OT flashlight for over four years at home; replaced the batteries maybe six or seven times...$10 at Walmart. My Olights were $55 and $60 pieces of crap.
I have the candiru, izula II, cr2.5,pr4,4,junglasII and i just wanna say i love evry esee knife in ny knife team !!! From the tip to the handle i only trust esee knifes 😁 my buddy and me was on a bushcraft trip in the black forest (south germany) for 5 days. On my buddys axe broke the handle, knife broken tip but my junglas II in combination with my cr2.5 did evry job great ! I resharpend both by an flat river stone and i love it ! Baton trough big beech no problem. Evry esee worth the money 🥰 thank you
Aw man I just bought and Ontario Rat-7 and love it! I wanted the ESEE but it was a bit out of my price range. A little disappointed you didn’t bring it up in comparison with those other knives since it is a direct competitor to the ESEE and almost the same design. Other than the trash sheath the Rat-7 is super awesome!
As usual, great vid. I carried a BK16 for years and went with the Brakimo for a while. Both great knives but totally different grinds. Since watching your vids I recently got the Esee 6. I haven't had it in the field yet but I am looking forward to taking it out on the Colorado trails. It has a longer blade like the Brakimo but has a full grind like the BK16. I personally prefer a full grind in this size of knife. Thank you.
The two serious competitors to the Esee 6 out there right now is the WorkTuff Wilderness Warrior and the Architect Field Buddy 6.5. I would absolutely love to see those three knives in a direct comparison/field competition.
I have to get an Esse 6 after seeing this. Would G10 be as good or better than micarta? 85% of use will not be in the rain/wet. But I don’t usually wear gloves and I don’t want hot spots.
You're so lucky to live in a low humidity area. I want to agree with you so badly, but I live in Texas where the humidity is a big problem in most areas.
10:31 Did Bryan flip us off? 😂 Serious question: Esse 6 on fire steel? I bought this knife, using your link I believe, a couple years ago. I love the knife for all the reasons you talk about in this video, but I noticed you didn’t do any fire starting. I have found that either the spine geometry or the blade coating or both make using the Esse 6 on fire steel like using a butter knife :( Your thoughts?
I love the ESEE 6 for the price and the warranty this is one of the best. Now my Survival Knife is the Survive! GSO 5.1. However, if someone wants a great good to go knife I would go with the ESEE 6. I still have mine.
You probably have smaller hands, I've heard similar things from medium/small hands. I think where the new scales are preferred are for people like me, XL/XXL hands
I was at Smoky Mountain Knife Works Wednesday of this week and that have plenty of Esse knives in stock ready to go!!!!!! FYI this is off subject if your looking for Tops knives there shelf’s a bear and don’t have much in stock!!!! Awesome vid as always!!!
I have a lot of knives, and I always go back to the Esee 6 and the BK7. And I carry the Esee 6 the most and use it the most. Something about the feel and carry. Outstanding knife. Great review! thanks!
I'm currently going for either the esse 6 or bk7 ..not got a chance to hold either ..or the onterio rat 7 ..the rat 7 is like £ 80 cheaper in UK..why is this when using the same 1095 steel 🤔
Great video Aaron. I built my E6 with the beefcake sheath and scales from the knife connection and love it. Throw in the altoids tin fire kit in the sheath and you have a one stop survival option that you wear out in the woods. Love it
First of all thank you for great videos! I am going to buy now my first ESEE knife, my two favourites are ESEE 6 (exactly this model) and PR4. I want to own both but do not know with which one to start my bushcrafting. Can you can recommend with which one to start? And all of u guys here in comments, Thank u!
Would love to see you make a video for the best wood processor. Batoning, splitting wood, feather sticks, etc. I know you love the esee 6 and tops silent hero, but are they the best wood processors in the mid weight survival knife category? Thanks!
Hey, Aaron. Great video, as usual. I really value your reviews and opinions. I went back and watched your review on the TOPS Brakimo, which I now own. How would you say this Esee 6 would compare with the Brakimo?
It's about time ESEE did something about their flat handle scales. It doesn't take a genius to realize TKC built an entire business around handle scales. People were willing to pay good money for scale upgrades. Might as well tap that revenue stream
I just picked up the same exact knife for a great deal recently. I have always wanted a 6 but didn't care for the coating. Thankfully the previous owner felt the same way and had the Esee stripped and gun-blued. It feels awesome in hand and I'm super excited about taking it out on my next camping trip.
I have the older Esse with the after market scales, and I do like it quite a bit, but I still prefer my BK7 over it. I'm not a big fan of full flat grinds. They work of course, but I prefer a saber grind, or scandi if I'm doing any wood crafting tasks. A full convex is ok too, but even on a convex, I prefer a convexed saber. I'm thinking of trying out an Esse 5 for that very reason. They are thicker, so not sure if I'll like it or not, but wth..one can never have to many knives right? lol. I can always sell it if I don't like it. Either way, Esse is a top notch company..great quality products with an amazing warranty.
Adoro gli Esee , ho preso ieri il 6 quello del video tuo identico!!!!! Fantastico ma possiedo anche i vari Esee Junglas , Junglas II , Esee 3 ed Esee izula II sono FANTASTICI 😎
I’m a basic guy my edc blades are a Buck 110 folder and an ESEE Izula fixed blade, if I’m going on a short day or two trip my ESEE 4 comes with me and any extended excursion into the wilderness it’s my trusty ESEE 6. I’d say 95% of my blades are either Buck or ESEE two brands I know and love had one warranty claim with a Buck years ago and they took care of me like a champ. Still trying like hell to break an ESEE to try there warranty but so far there blades have proven to be indestructible.
If beckers came with micarta or g 10 handles, polymer sheaths, and all the color options for blade coatings there would be no competition. Becker hands down. Best ergos, best looking blades (the actual steel) cauae the esees look kinda thin as far as width (not to be confused with thickness) i.e if the bk7 came with canvas micarta and g10 color options as well as coat color options and a polymer sheath esee would take a serious dive in sales
But esee does have the best heat treat in the industry. Joe X just released a esee 6 video, where he literally beats the knife into cement. And the esee 6 withstood massive amounts of abuse.
if you have extra large hands, I would recommend getting a silent hero in hand before buying one. a good friend of mine has one, and loves it. I really liked the blade geometry, and the weight and balance. but the handle scales were so small my hand was actually cramping after making a one stick fire. I wear XL leather gloves, and tend to need to stretch the knuckles out before they fit comfortably. I have been wanting an Esee 6 for several years, and haven't been able to swing the finances yet. but they definitely rock
I’m glad I read this comment. I have always wanted a Silent Hero, but after one other review saying the handle wasn’t centered very well to the blade and awkward feeling along with this comment and my xxl hands, the Silent Hero isn’t going to be a Silent Zero, but it drops lower on my list of knives to buy.
In Colorado a 6 is a phenominal choice especially if you only pack a saw & a blade as it is really the smallest size that easily handles sheltercraft as well as splinting dead fall. Use the saw to buck it up, & the 6 to baton it. I owned a standard 4 & 6 years ago, & while they were great knives when I needed some money they were on the chopping block. I just picked up the 4HM in leather (I need good kydex), & a 6 with ESEE 3D scales & both knives are so much better in my opinion than the originals. Sure the 4HM isn't as good for self defense do to only the choil to stop your hand from sliding up on the blade, but a reverse grip with your thumb on the butt of the spine will work. So it may not be the best for LEOs & military where the thinner profile & the finger guard are benefitial, but for those of us using for EDC or campcraft they are amazing for working for long periods.
I was a little surprised he didn't mention the Knife Connections architect knives by Tops. I have not got one in hand yet so maybe they are so similar it doesn't matter. I know they use the same handles as the esee 5 and 6 though.
I have both the 5.5" and newer 6.5" Architect knives from TKC. Both are extremely sharp and very user friendly. I am still waiting for the Kydex sheath option for the 6.5" Field Buddy.
I like that you say ‘mid weight’ survival knife. I personally don’t consider a knife a ‘survival’ knife unless it weighs at least sixteen ounces. I’m a big guy so a pound of steel isn’t that much of a problem for me on a five day backpacking trip through the mountains.
I have a CS Survivalist for about €90,-- Now, I really like the looks of Esee6 a lot, but they cost more than 2 times the price, about €210,-- over here. Sincere question : Is the Esee6 really 2 times 'better'? Stronger? Tougher? Stays sharp longer? Thanks in advance to all responders! Greets from the Netherlands 🇳🇱, TW.
Esse 4 so far is my favorite. I almost ways carry HATCHET with me in the field. So I can get away with smaller blade . If I didnt carry that HATCHET for sure it would be Esse 6..
Get it from the knife connection with a good kydex sheath and 3D scales much better. Also strip the powder coat, add petunia and sand and polish the choil. Great knife just needs some mods.
I still prefer the ones from The Knife Connection. Literally all of my ESEEs, far too many if I'm honest, that came with handle scales; have been replaced with G-10 ones from TKC. Here's another issue.... When is ESEE going to stop literally carving out the black protective coating from their knives to create their big obnoxious logo? This is why I now only buy their tan or grey coated models. Those come with black logos. So, _not_ gouged out of the protective coating.
Hi, love the review on the Esse 6. But after watching the review, it has made me question my choice on buying a fixed blade knife and was wondering which one you would recommend. The Esse 6 or the K-Bar Becker BK2 companion? Many thanks in advance.
If anyone is still watching I just ordered one of these and had a couple questions. Even though the blade is coated, does the sharpened edge need to stay oiled? If so, is it smart to also oil the micarta for water repulsion? Regarding the Work Tuff Elbrus, the swedge seems more like a combat feature than a non-combat survival feature, right? Seems like the swedge would make batoning more difficult due to the spine having that apex, and would chew into whatever baton you were using. Elbrus looks like a great Ka-Bar replacement though.
I went into the store expecting to want the new handles, i tried both the new and old version and actually dound the older version way more comfortable. The new handles i found for me, felt like it tapered way too much from the palm swell. Like they took the old scales ans sinpley took material off on the blade and butt end so its almost for small hands. Glad i found an older version.
I need as much stain resistance s I can get, in my environment, so as much as the Esee-6 is a great blade, it's not my preference at all. Something else you've previously recommended has worked well for me, though, Aaron - the Steel Will Argonaut 800. It's more of a field knife, but I've found that it does VERY well in my neck of the woods.
@Eye of the Tiger you're right about the paucity of options over the 6-ish range. Condor has a couple of possibilities, but they are unconventional. Primitive Bush Knife - 420HC, but it is thin. Better, for my needs, is the new 420HC version of the Mini Duku Parang. 10.5-inch blade, thick spine, convex grind, VERY versatile.
@Eye of the Tiger I've already pulled the trigger on the Mini Duku...lol. It's on it's way home. I have the Strongarm - aptly named. I swear the thing is indestructible. I give them as gifts to my military friends and family. And yes, I'm dealing with salt + water + heat. Brutal combination for carbon steels.
@Eye of the Tiger I can't recommend the Strongarm enough. Excellent companion knife and would definitely make a great car/truck knife. Stay safe, buddy!
Hi there, Right up front, let me say that I believe the ESEE 6 is a very capable knife, and one can't go wrong with it. However, is it the "survival King"? That is a whole different ball game! Firstly, I believe there is no such thing as a perfect, do-it-all survival knife! There, on the table. For me, my approach is that one uses the right tool for the job. So, I would not chop with a Puuko knife, I would not try to carve with my Trail Master, and I would not rely only on a machete. The conclusion then is that one actually needs more than one cutting tool. Firstly, for outdoor work, a saw of some sort is not negotiable! One MUST have one! Which one to have is a topic for another time. Let's assume one has a saw. Then, let's start; 2:00 You say one HAS TO have a full, exposed tang for the strength etc required of a good survival knife. However, two of the biggest names in the business (Cold Steel and Falkniven) have a whole range of knives that do not have it, favouring instead through-tang construction, fully concealed in handle material, as we know. I do not accept that this method eliminates them from the comparison, and in fact gives them some obvious advantages instead. 2:54 The choice of steel for me is a very personal one and every person must make that decision for themselves. However, the claimed advantage that 1095 carbon steel is easy to sharpen in the field has both pros and cons. It means they will dull quicker, thus needing touching up, needing equipment. On the other hand tougher steels means blade edges dull more slowly meaning they may not in fact even need touching up till back at home base/workshop. My Cold Steel Trail Master is unlikely to ever need sharpening in my lifetime! (It's a San Mai III version). 4:00 Even though the ESEE 6 is said to have a 6 1/2" inch blade the cutting edge is actually less than 6". 4:31 I have never seen the need for a choil. It makes no sense to me. I could make feathersticks like that with my TM or SRK just as easily, in exactly the same way without a choil. I used one once that caused a massive hot spot where the finger pressed against the blade. No thanks. 5:17 Chopping laterally through a log. Why? Use the saw! It's far more efficient and one will use far fewer calories! With thinner green wood as in clearing etc, its fine but not chopping up for firewood. As for batoning it through that log, no way! Not ever! Again, that is what a saw is for. 8:25 Splitting: OK, here there is a bit of a case, but still I ask, why split wood when the is a TON of it lying on the ground all over the place? Just pick it up. If one does insist on doing it, confine oneself to logs with a diameter of half the length of the cutting edge (for ESEE 6 about 2 1/2 inches.) That's fine. With a big knife like my TM, even 4" is too big - I'd use wedges instead. If one is tempted to demolish a thick log to (hopefully) find dry wood inside to make feathersticks, ask "why am I doing this?" There are tons of alternatives to getting tinder/kindling alight with FAR less effort. Here's my idea of dealing with the Canterbury C "Cutting": Firstly, I'd have two different carries - a heavy carry and a light carry. For both I'd have a saw - not negotiable. Heavy carry: Large knife: - Cold Steel Trail Master (San Mai III), and this would be for heavier tasks, clearing, delimbing etc. I would probably carry this attached to my pack within easy reach. Belt knife: here I'd carry a "bushcrafting" knife for carving, crafting, shaping, notching etc and general camp tasks, and carried on my belt. Currently the Victorinox Venture Pro is attracting my attention, as it seems to fit the bill well. This would also be my large utility knife. Multi-tool knife: I'd also carry this, on a lanyard, but hanging inside my trousers pocket or in a pouch. This will serve as a camp utility knife and small tool for smaller jobs/tasks and food prep. This would be my Victorinox Swiss Champ. Light carry: where weight is a more serious factor (like hiking or hunting). Belt knife: this would be a Cold Steel SRK (sabre grind, in CPM-3V) I would wear this for the duration. Multi-tool knife: this would be a Victorinox Hercules and cover most general tasks around camp. I would carry it on a lanyard as mentioned above. If one looks at my set-up you might notice that I find it very difficult to fit the ESEE6 in anywhere. For me, It's too small, thin and light for a proper large Survival knife, yet too big for a medium survival knife, being quite heavy in this category. Suggestion: why not do a video comparing the ESEE6 and the CS SRK (CPM-3V) as survival knives. I'd like to chat further on these topics sometime. Cheers mate
I love my ESEE6. Big chunky, but very usable and easy to maintain. It's a tie between my Fallkniven A1, and this. I just wish the A1 came with a micarta handle. But I've had a kraton handled cold steel Kukri since 98, and the handle is still fine...so it may not be an issue.
Saber grind vs full flat grind, also the fb6.5 has more of a clip point, it is also longer. A field knife is designed for different tasks than a survival knife. I would say a Esee-5 vs fb5.5 would be a much better apple to apples comparison.
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My wife just bought me an Esee 6, loved it right off the bat, but watching this video makes me appreciate it even more.
For those of us who use knives every day, like the tools that they are, one just can't go wrong with the Esee's. Esee 3 or the Ashley Game Knife are always on my belt for work, doing Wildlife Control. If I'm heading out for beaver work or coyote control, we always pack along the 4 or the 6, depending on what we'll be doing. Although I have never broken an Esee, I don't worry about what I do with them. They don't need to be babied and their built FOR WORK. For the money, they're an excellent value.
i bought the Esee 6 a few years back on behalf of your video. Today i still feel secure having it on me when i`m on a bushcraft weekend in Belgium or the Netherlands. Last year i was in Sweden were it really was put into the test. So my answer is yes still the number one survival bushcraft knife for me.
I just got the Esee 6 with the contored g10 scales. Man it’s a beast and the scales look amazing. I can’t wait to get to the shop in the morning to chop some wood and all that good stuff I’ve been waiting to do forever.
Just a tip for people reading.
Remember to use nature if you can saves on gear
-Leverage to help brake branches, gravity etc.
After SEVERELY abusing my kabar USN mk 1 for several years, the grip finally began to loosen a bit on the tang which made me a bit weary. I've been trying to decide pretty much since last fall what I wanted to get to replace it, and this video sealed the deal. Thanks for the time and thought you put into your content. I know it's not much, but did use the link in the description. Keep up the good work.
OMG - Is that the predator in the tree's behind your head around 1m40s?
Saw the ESEE and instantly left.
@@saiiiiiii1 so you couldn’t read Esee in the title?
@@viralkaos930 I believe he was referring to the predator the op posted about! Predator saw the esee 6 and left
Only on the hottest days
@@viralkaos930 come on man think before you comment
Hey Aaron! I bought my Essee 6 a few years back after watching your review on the knife. I still absolutely love it... Its a beast
I bought an ESEE 6 on your recommendation a few years ago. Went G10 scales from TKC along with Keydex sheath, leather belt loop, and ferro rod attachment. Came in about £180 delivered to the UK, and paid £30 import tax on top. Love it.
After a couple of weeks researching, that’s the EXACT knife I’ve chosen to get. Thanks for the review.
Glad to help!
Excellent review. I have been looking at this new version for a few months now. It looks like a real winner! Thanks for sharing!
It was funny to me when you were chopping because I was thinking how it would be more efficient to cross baton. And then you did it! I think Cross batoning is such an underrated technique. You can use it to get a small knife like a bk16 to do jobs similar to a large knife. Well done, sir 👍
I have been looking at the ESEE 6 for a while, this updated review and comparisons was very helpful.
Well balanced, the ergonomics are amazing, the fit & finish is top-notch, the sharpness from the factory is still there. The little details built into the knife, like extended full tang that allows you to use it to pommel, the notches at the back/top of the blade gives your thumb good purchase to whittle, stab, & maneuver the blade. Mine still has the original coyote brown micarta handle and I love it & the original sheath keeps it very secure but is still easy to pull out with a thumb push as you pull.
Love mine, i got tkc micarta contour scales to replace the flat scales. Best upgrade ever, i like micarta more than g10 so i went that route. Its processed cords of wood over the years and ive even cut and exhaust pipe in a pinch with it and it ate it for breakfast. Its an epic knife.
I've tried several knives from an inexpensive Mora to higher priced Bark Rivers. Can't say anything bad about any of the knives that I've carried. and they have all served me well. I've beat on my Esee 6 and tried to break it. I believe it is unbreakable The Esee 6 keeps a good edge and the ergonomics are a good fit for my hands. It is the outdoor knife I trust the most and my go to knife.
I bought the blue contoured scale ESEE5 and absolutely love it. I even use it in the house for those occasional cutting tasks where I need a savage blade.
I was just
About to ask…. Am I weird for using this to cut meat and veggies haha
@@joegreen8300 not at all, but it's a little thick for a kitchen knife. Instead of machine oil I use olive oil on any knives that I'm going to use for food prep.
This Video brings back alot of Memories of all the knife comparison videos between the Esee 6 , Rat 7 and BK 7 I used to watch , I ended up going with the BK 7 and tricked it out over time and 1 big reason was the "full" grip of the handle , I have XL hands and the Becker Knives have some of the Best handle ergonomics around ,imo... But , If you like the full BK scales , Do Not buy any g10 scales from The Knife Connection , although they are nice and colorful, they are also Slim and they take away the nice fullness of the BK scales , so buy the Micarta scales , they are the same size as the factory Zytel ones and they are Awesome, they cost around $45 and you will not regret it ....👍⚔🖖
I have both the esee 6 with knife conection g10 scales and bk7 with both aftermarked micarta and knife connection g10 scales. And if I had to choose, I dunno. They are both so damn fine.
or, get a low grit sandpaper, and put scratches on the factory scales of the Beckers. I've made mine, feel and grip very similar to matte finish micarta! That way, you don't have to spend more money, and you don't lose the weight and more important, the balance of the knife!
@@greekveteran2715 I agree , I know a lot of people cry about the factory zytel BK scales , and I honestly think that's a UA-cam Thing , but I never had a problem with them , I think their fine , they are definitely strong , I've never heard of anyone breaking them ....🖖
@@brianf9619 Marketing and UA-cam, have done a lot of "damage" on knives and in a lot of info about them. For example, because of newer marketing tricks, people now think, that it's the steel they should look for, and not the other aspects of a knife, something that is 100% wrong. If the heat treatment or the blade/edge geometry is off, doesn't matter what steel it's made of, knife will suck big time! Just an example..
After going through some financial suffering where most all my guns and knives went down the road, and I was finally able to get a knife again, but only one, I went with this 3D esee 6!!!
How do you like it?
Me too, but HM handle. Now i am here researching a 3D handle. I have found a gorgeous one in black blade / tan 3D handle. Typing this has made me decide; am getting it next pay day !!! 😁👍🏻
Love my Esee 6. Bought the knife connection handles about a year ago. Just a great knife!
Just ordered it now I have them all the only good thing to happen in 2020 thanks for your channel Kim maga
You convinced me about this knife years ago.....I love mine!
Glad to hear John, hope it gives you a lifetime a good service.
I have been on this train for a LONG time...so long, that my knife is badged an RC-6.
I own countless knives. I always come back to the RC-6/ESEE-6. It is still my favorite field knife, after all these years.
I’ve been using my esee 6 for a year now,and I love it!
Just purchased an ESEE 6P-B plain edge from Amazon. Cannot wait to get it.
ESSE 6 my 1st fixed blade bk in 2014. Since I have some of my favorite custom makers build me knives. That 6 still is my most used. I have several esse knives and more to be had. This with new addition will also have to come home.
The ESEE-6 is THE standard for a survival knife.
No frills, no gimmicks, just a solid trustworthy performer.
In the right hands, it's no longer survival, but rough camping.
What sold me on Esee was the style and featuring is subdued - it isn't trying to look tough, and ready to go - nothing to bug me later, just works. I have the Izula, Esee 4, and Junglas.
I realize there are situations when you may only have one knife (and maybe this a fine choice for that), but as far as preparation and planning I've always prefered a two-knife system. I like a heavy, nearly indestructible knife for large tasks (and maybe chopping if necessary) and a lighter, thinner knife for the finer tasks. I try to keep my kits, vehicles, home, etc. equipped with companion sets to this effect.
Which combos do you like?
@@mikey13b I personally pack an Esee 5 but also a White River Firecraft FC4. I also sometimes pair a BK2 with a Bark River Cub.
@Eye of the Tiger hi mate thank you for the big reply!
I'm prepping for long term bug out/survival in Australia. I have a 240mm silky ultra accel, and now deciding on which knives. I'm thinking to go with 3, a machete, medium length survival and a bushcraft. Trying to decide which ones...
Some ones I've been looking into are the crkt chanceinhell, tramontina 18", bk7, bk9, Esse 6, cold steel srk sk-5 (but probably want a bit better quality than this), Mora kansbol/bushcraft black, condor terrasaur
@Eye of the Tiger hi Duke, you're a legend, we sound very much in the same wavelength! I've been going hard out learning as much as I can the past few months and building up my preps.
Awesome to know you're in Oz as well, you know our terrain and what will suit. I still need to figure out some ideal locations to bug out to in nsw, I wonder if you have any suggestions.
Would love to connect outside of here if you'd like...
I like your blade suggestions, what size machete do you think would be ideal for NSW? And do u think a bk7 as a primary blade is a bit long considering will also have a machete, or that bit of extra length and weight over a 6inch is still fine? I want it but I don't want to overload myself too 😋
Yeh 200 for a garburb is a bit steep, considering the bushcraft and kansbol are half the price but almost as good.
When u say satin did u mean stainless?
@Eye of the Tiger haha yeh I know what you mean.
Yep it is a bit expensive but I think if it's going to save our lives then it's worth every dollar.
Yeah definitely a beer sounds good, although with the situation I won't be surprised if the borders close again after new years.
What length bushcraft parang do u think? Or is there only one length? Yeah I always have been drawn to the bks, Ill have to decide between the 7 and 9. That's a really good point about having a capable backup.
Yeh I'll go with a 3rd smaller bushcraft like a Mora too, 3 is better than two and can do the finer things, I was thinking stainless too for this one 😉
And what about the big tramontina, u don't think it'll be handy for our type of wilderness?
I recently bought an Esee Isula and I love it! It is the dark green one and I added the orange G10 scales. Initially, I wanted it to just wrap 550 on the handle and carry it scout style. Then while putting together a survival kit in an Emerson Chest Pack I realized the Isula would fit perfectly across the front of the pack and be much less weight than a Gerber Strongarm. It was the right choice. Using the included mount with the metal spring clip I center-mounted the sheath and used velcro keepers to stabilize it so it wouldn't swivel or "wobble" while carrying it. What impresses me so much is the quality of the steel, the finish and that unexplainable feel of a good balanced knife. So much so I am going to buy one of the larger Esee blades. I have a Schrade SCHF 9 ("Chef Nine") and although I love it it's too large and too much weight. The Gerber Strongarms, one black and one coyote, are still a little too large. So, I decided on the Esee 3. I never baton with my knives as I carry a small ultra sharp hatchet that was custom made for me and it fits in my Emerson Chest Pack next to my CCW. Two magazine pouches are velcro mounted on the front of the two pockets that house the hatchet and weapon. The kit includes a Gerber Suspension, Suunto MC 2 compass, pace beads, container of storm-proof matches, Bic, Sharpal, pair of folding scissors, pepper spray, pad and pen, mylar poncho, mylar blanket, Bear Hard Bivy, a small IFAK, signal light, mask, nitrile gloves, small container of ibuprophen, container of personal Rx meds, an OzarkTrail 200l flashlight, a pair of Huntworth camo gloves and a pair of readers for my 73 year old eyes :) A Coghlans whistle with compass (it works!) and a swivel out magnifying glass is attached to a grimloc on the right shoulder strap. The total weight of the chest pack kit is 4.84 pounds. The Ozark Trail flashlight replaced two Olights that quit working and I've used this OT flashlight for over four years at home; replaced the batteries maybe six or seven times...$10 at Walmart. My Olights were $55 and $60 pieces of crap.
I have the candiru, izula II, cr2.5,pr4,4,junglasII and i just wanna say i love evry esee knife in ny knife team !!! From the tip to the handle i only trust esee knifes 😁 my buddy and me was on a bushcraft trip in the black forest (south germany) for 5 days. On my buddys axe broke the handle, knife broken tip but my junglas II in combination with my cr2.5 did evry job great ! I resharpend both by an flat river stone and i love it ! Baton trough big beech no problem. Evry esee worth the money 🥰 thank you
Would u choose the esee 5 or 6 for the do all survival knife?
The ESEE 6 is my favorite survival knife. It checks all the boxes of survival knife attributes and has the best warranty in the industry.
i am sorry but for what we are all buying survival knives for....... Warranty wont mean diddly........
Aw man I just bought and Ontario Rat-7 and love it! I wanted the ESEE but it was a bit out of my price range. A little disappointed you didn’t bring it up in comparison with those other knives since it is a direct competitor to the ESEE and almost the same design. Other than the trash sheath the Rat-7 is super awesome!
Just bought the esee6 od green for $120.95 at The Knife Connection. I can't wait til it arrives. You sold me on it over the BK7
As usual, great vid. I carried a BK16 for years and went with the Brakimo for a while. Both great knives but totally different grinds. Since watching your vids I recently got the Esee 6. I haven't had it in the field yet but I am looking forward to taking it out on the Colorado trails. It has a longer blade like the Brakimo but has a full grind like the BK16. I personally prefer a full grind in this size of knife. Thank you.
The two serious competitors to the Esee 6 out there right now is the WorkTuff Wilderness Warrior and the Architect Field Buddy 6.5.
I would absolutely love to see those three knives in a direct comparison/field competition.
Absolutely the most professional knife review!!!
I have to get an Esse 6 after seeing this. Would G10 be as good or better than micarta? 85% of use will not be in the rain/wet. But I don’t usually wear gloves and I don’t want hot spots.
I go combo with an Esse 4 and a Silky Folding pull saw. Reasonable weight and enhanced capability. Hatchets are for trucks.
Love the Esee 4 HM but the original with the choil was never for me.
ESEE - is pure no frills quality
I just ordered mine yesterday and I can’t WAIT to get my paws on it!
I've been on the fence about what size, model. You convinced me with your video. Thank you ! 👍🤠
You're so lucky to live in a low humidity area. I want to agree with you so badly, but I live in Texas where the humidity is a big problem in most areas.
10:31 Did Bryan flip us off? 😂
Serious question: Esse 6 on fire steel? I bought this knife, using your link I believe, a couple years ago. I love the knife for all the reasons you talk about in this video, but I noticed you didn’t do any fire starting. I have found that either the spine geometry or the blade coating or both make using the Esse 6 on fire steel like using a butter knife :(
Your thoughts?
I have several Essee knives and use and abuse all of them for work (landscaping) and absolutely love them!
I love the ESEE 6 for the price and the warranty this is one of the best. Now my Survival Knife is the Survive! GSO 5.1. However, if someone wants a great good to go knife I would go with the ESEE 6. I still have mine.
I don't know about every one but iam happy with the old handles myself:)
You probably have smaller hands, I've heard similar things from medium/small hands. I think where the new scales are preferred are for people like me, XL/XXL hands
I was at Smoky Mountain Knife Works Wednesday of this week and that have plenty of Esse knives in stock ready to go!!!!!! FYI this is off subject if your looking for Tops knives there shelf’s a bear and don’t have much in stock!!!! Awesome vid as always!!!
ESEE 6 is the standard to this day !
The Esee factory 3D contoured handles were intended for use with gloves.
I have a lot of knives, and I always go back to the Esee 6 and the BK7. And I carry the Esee 6 the most and use it the most. Something about the feel and carry. Outstanding knife. Great review! thanks!
I'm currently going for either the esse 6 or bk7 ..not got a chance to hold either ..or the onterio rat 7 ..the rat 7 is like £ 80 cheaper in UK..why is this when using the same 1095 steel 🤔
Great video Aaron. I built my E6 with the beefcake sheath and scales from the knife connection and love it. Throw in the altoids tin fire kit in the sheath and you have a one stop survival option that you wear out in the woods. Love it
First of all thank you for great videos!
I am going to buy now my first ESEE knife, my two favourites are ESEE 6 (exactly this model) and PR4. I want to own both but do not know with which one to start my bushcrafting.
Can you can recommend with which one to start? And all of u guys here in comments, Thank u!
Would love to see you make a video for the best wood processor. Batoning, splitting wood, feather sticks, etc. I know you love the esee 6 and tops silent hero, but are they the best wood processors in the mid weight survival knife category? Thanks!
I have esee 6 the black coating has been removed due to overuse. What do we need to do, to make black again
Hey, Aaron. Great video, as usual. I really value your reviews and opinions. I went back and watched your review on the TOPS Brakimo, which I now own. How would you say this Esee 6 would compare with the Brakimo?
My survival Knife for yrs has been a TOPS BOB,But the ESEE is very Nice.
It's about time ESEE did something about their flat handle scales. It doesn't take a genius to realize TKC built an entire business around handle scales. People were willing to pay good money for scale upgrades. Might as well tap that revenue stream
I’m thinking of getting this or the TOPS Knives Apache Dawn are they similar in chopping?
Powerful video !! TY As a DAV every $$ valuable 2me so gleaned good intel fm this TY
Excellent review. The one thing I wish is would offer is the black oxide coating instead of the black traction coating.
I just picked up the same exact knife for a great deal recently. I have always wanted a 6 but didn't care for the coating. Thankfully the previous owner felt the same way and had the Esee stripped and gun-blued. It feels awesome in hand and I'm super excited about taking it out on my next camping trip.
I have the older Esse with the after market scales, and I do like it quite a bit, but I still prefer my BK7 over it. I'm not a big fan of full flat grinds. They work of course, but I prefer a saber grind, or scandi if I'm doing any wood crafting tasks. A full convex is ok too, but even on a convex, I prefer a convexed saber. I'm thinking of trying out an Esse 5 for that very reason. They are thicker, so not sure if I'll like it or not, but wth..one can never have to many knives right? lol. I can always sell it if I don't like it. Either way, Esse is a top notch company..great quality products with an amazing warranty.
I have esse 5,it’s heavy,wouldn’t consider it for bushcraft,short term survival ok.
Look at some of the steel will stuff or the work tuff gear stuff
@@ilkovic8772 😒 get a serrated knife ?
@@barrylilley6392never!
Adoro gli Esee , ho preso ieri il 6 quello del video tuo identico!!!!! Fantastico ma possiedo anche i vari Esee Junglas , Junglas II , Esee 3 ed Esee izula II sono FANTASTICI 😎
I’m a basic guy my edc blades are a Buck 110 folder and an ESEE Izula fixed blade, if I’m going on a short day or two trip my ESEE 4 comes with me and any extended excursion into the wilderness it’s my trusty ESEE 6. I’d say 95% of my blades are either Buck or ESEE two brands I know and love had one warranty claim with a Buck years ago and they took care of me like a champ. Still trying like hell to break an ESEE to try there warranty but so far there blades have proven to be indestructible.
If beckers came with micarta or g 10 handles, polymer sheaths, and all the color options for blade coatings there would be no competition. Becker hands down. Best ergos, best looking blades (the actual steel) cauae the esees look kinda thin as far as width (not to be confused with thickness) i.e if the bk7 came with canvas micarta and g10 color options as well as coat color options and a polymer sheath esee would take a serious dive in sales
But esee does have the best heat treat in the industry. Joe X just released a esee 6 video, where he literally beats the knife into cement. And the esee 6 withstood massive amounts of abuse.
Excellent Vid. I bought the Modified handle 6 about 130 on Ebay. Love the smaller handle.
The Esee 6 is one of my favorite knives
if you have extra large hands, I would recommend getting a silent hero in hand before buying one. a good friend of mine has one, and loves it. I really liked the blade geometry, and the weight and balance. but the handle scales were so small my hand was actually cramping after making a one stick fire. I wear XL leather gloves, and tend to need to stretch the knuckles out before they fit comfortably. I have been wanting an Esee 6 for several years, and haven't been able to swing the finances yet. but they definitely rock
I’m glad I read this comment. I have always wanted a Silent Hero, but after one other review saying the handle wasn’t centered very well to the blade and awkward feeling along with this comment and my xxl hands, the Silent Hero isn’t going to be a Silent Zero, but it drops lower on my list of knives to buy.
How does this compare to the 6 HM as far as handle comfort?
I'm not sure how I got here and I don't know anything about knives .... but I think this video is really well done.
In Colorado a 6 is a phenominal choice especially if you only pack a saw & a blade as it is really the smallest size that easily handles sheltercraft as well as splinting dead fall. Use the saw to buck it up, & the 6 to baton it. I owned a standard 4 & 6 years ago, & while they were great knives when I needed some money they were on the chopping block. I just picked up the 4HM in leather (I need good kydex), & a 6 with ESEE 3D scales & both knives are so much better in my opinion than the originals. Sure the 4HM isn't as good for self defense do to only the choil to stop your hand from sliding up on the blade, but a reverse grip with your thumb on the butt of the spine will work. So it may not be the best for LEOs & military where the thinner profile & the finger guard are benefitial, but for those of us using for EDC or campcraft they are amazing for working for long periods.
I was a little surprised he didn't mention the Knife Connections architect knives by Tops.
I have not got one in hand yet so maybe they are so similar it doesn't matter. I know they use the same handles as the esee 5 and 6 though.
I have both the 5.5" and newer 6.5" Architect knives from TKC. Both are extremely sharp and very user friendly. I am still waiting for the Kydex sheath option for the 6.5" Field Buddy.
Agree with all your inputs here. For $120 it's still awesome and still VERY capable. My favorite 3D handle colors are the coyote and black ones.
G10 or micarta is better ??
I like that you say ‘mid weight’ survival knife. I personally don’t consider a knife a ‘survival’ knife unless it weighs at least sixteen ounces.
I’m a big guy so a pound of steel isn’t that much of a problem for me on a five day backpacking trip through the mountains.
I have a CS Survivalist for about €90,-- Now, I really like the looks of Esee6 a lot, but they cost more than 2 times the price, about €210,-- over here.
Sincere question :
Is the Esee6 really 2 times 'better'? Stronger? Tougher? Stays sharp longer?
Thanks in advance to all responders!
Greets from the Netherlands 🇳🇱, TW.
Esse 4 so far is my favorite. I almost ways carry HATCHET with me in the field. So I can get away with smaller blade .
If I didnt carry that HATCHET for sure it would be Esse 6..
Get it from the knife connection with a good kydex sheath and 3D scales much better. Also strip the powder coat, add petunia and sand and polish the choil. Great knife just needs some mods.
I still prefer the ones from The Knife Connection. Literally all of my ESEEs, far too many if I'm honest, that came with handle scales; have been replaced with G-10 ones from TKC. Here's another issue.... When is ESEE going to stop literally carving out the black protective coating from their knives to create their big obnoxious logo? This is why I now only buy their tan or grey coated models. Those come with black logos. So, _not_ gouged out of the protective coating.
You’re gonna have to oil the blade anyway, so just oil the logo too. I think it looks flash, i like it!
Hi,
love the review on the Esse 6.
But after watching the review, it has made me question my choice on buying a fixed blade knife and was wondering which one you would recommend.
The Esse 6 or the K-Bar Becker BK2 companion?
Many thanks in advance.
It's still an Awesome Survival Knife , 100 % !!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Just bought mine 2 weeks ago i love it
Did you epoxy the Knife Connection scales to the tang?
If anyone is still watching I just ordered one of these and had a couple questions. Even though the blade is coated, does the sharpened edge need to stay oiled? If so, is it smart to also oil the micarta for water repulsion? Regarding the Work Tuff Elbrus, the swedge seems more like a combat feature than a non-combat survival feature, right? Seems like the swedge would make batoning more difficult due to the spine having that apex, and would chew into whatever baton you were using. Elbrus looks like a great Ka-Bar replacement though.
Love my ESSE CM-6! One of my very first fixed blade knives. It's in my pack every time I'm out on the trail... 🇺🇸🔪✊🏼💯
Another great review. Thanks. Do you know if it is possible to buy only the knew handle scales at ESEE?
Theknifeconnection.net has sold g10 scales for this for years
Esee doesn’t sell the scales by themselves.
Great video, do you have any plans to review the ESEE CM-6?
What about the Ka-bar Turok?
Awesome knife. Good stabber.
I went into the store expecting to want the new handles, i tried both the new and old version and actually dound the older version way more comfortable. The new handles i found for me, felt like it tapered way too much from the palm swell. Like they took the old scales ans sinpley took material off on the blade and butt end so its almost for small hands. Glad i found an older version.
I dig the ESEE6, classic blade shape and serviceable steel.
Perfect camp knife. So fine.
I need as much stain resistance s I can get, in my environment, so as much as the Esee-6 is a great blade, it's not my preference at all. Something else you've previously recommended has worked well for me, though, Aaron - the Steel Will Argonaut 800. It's more of a field knife, but I've found that it does VERY well in my neck of the woods.
@Eye of the Tiger you're right about the paucity of options over the 6-ish range. Condor has a couple of possibilities, but they are unconventional. Primitive Bush Knife - 420HC, but it is thin. Better, for my needs, is the new 420HC version of the Mini Duku Parang. 10.5-inch blade, thick spine, convex grind, VERY versatile.
@Eye of the Tiger the 420HC version is new this year. They've brought out versions of the Mini Duku and the Village Parang.
@Eye of the Tiger I've already pulled the trigger on the Mini Duku...lol. It's on it's way home. I have the Strongarm - aptly named. I swear the thing is indestructible. I give them as gifts to my military friends and family. And yes, I'm dealing with salt + water + heat. Brutal combination for carbon steels.
@Eye of the Tiger I can't recommend the Strongarm enough. Excellent companion knife and would definitely make a great car/truck knife. Stay safe, buddy!
Hi there,
Right up front, let me say that I believe the ESEE 6 is a very capable knife, and one can't go wrong with it.
However, is it the "survival King"? That is a whole different ball game!
Firstly, I believe there is no such thing as a perfect, do-it-all survival knife! There, on the table. For me, my approach is that one uses the right tool for the job. So, I would not chop with a Puuko knife, I would not try to carve with my Trail Master, and I would not rely only on a machete. The conclusion then is that one actually needs more than one cutting tool.
Firstly, for outdoor work, a saw of some sort is not negotiable! One MUST have one! Which one to have is a topic for another time. Let's assume one has a saw.
Then, let's start;
2:00 You say one HAS TO have a full, exposed tang for the strength etc required of a good survival knife. However, two of the biggest names in the business (Cold Steel and Falkniven) have a whole range of knives that do not have it, favouring instead through-tang construction, fully concealed in handle material, as we know. I do not accept that this method eliminates them from the comparison, and in fact gives them some obvious advantages instead.
2:54 The choice of steel for me is a very personal one and every person must make that decision for themselves. However, the claimed advantage that 1095 carbon steel is easy to sharpen in the field has both pros and cons. It means they will dull quicker, thus needing touching up, needing equipment. On the other hand tougher steels means blade edges dull more slowly meaning they may not in fact even need touching up till back at home base/workshop. My Cold Steel Trail Master is unlikely to ever need sharpening in my lifetime! (It's a San Mai III version).
4:00 Even though the ESEE 6 is said to have a 6 1/2" inch blade the cutting edge is actually less than 6".
4:31 I have never seen the need for a choil. It makes no sense to me. I could make feathersticks like that with my TM or SRK just as easily, in exactly the same way without a choil. I used one once that caused a massive hot spot where the finger pressed against the blade. No thanks.
5:17 Chopping laterally through a log. Why? Use the saw! It's far more efficient and one will use far fewer calories! With thinner green wood as in clearing etc, its fine but not chopping up for firewood. As for batoning it through that log, no way! Not ever! Again, that is what a saw is for.
8:25 Splitting: OK, here there is a bit of a case, but still I ask, why split wood when the is a TON of it lying on the ground all over the place? Just pick it up. If one does insist on doing it, confine oneself to logs with a diameter of half the length of the cutting edge (for ESEE 6 about 2 1/2 inches.) That's fine. With a big knife like my TM, even 4" is too big - I'd use wedges instead. If one is tempted to demolish a thick log to (hopefully) find dry wood inside to make feathersticks, ask "why am I doing this?" There are tons of alternatives to getting tinder/kindling alight with FAR less effort.
Here's my idea of dealing with the Canterbury C "Cutting":
Firstly, I'd have two different carries - a heavy carry and a light carry. For both I'd have a saw - not negotiable.
Heavy carry:
Large knife: - Cold Steel Trail Master (San Mai III), and this would be for heavier tasks, clearing, delimbing etc. I would probably carry this attached to my pack within easy reach.
Belt knife: here I'd carry a "bushcrafting" knife for carving, crafting, shaping, notching etc and general camp tasks, and carried on my belt. Currently the Victorinox Venture Pro is attracting my attention, as it seems to fit the bill well. This would also be my large utility knife.
Multi-tool knife: I'd also carry this, on a lanyard, but hanging inside my trousers pocket or in a pouch. This will serve as a camp utility knife and small tool for smaller jobs/tasks and food prep. This would be my Victorinox Swiss Champ.
Light carry: where weight is a more serious factor (like hiking or hunting).
Belt knife: this would be a Cold Steel SRK (sabre grind, in CPM-3V) I would wear this for the duration.
Multi-tool knife: this would be a Victorinox Hercules and cover most general tasks around camp. I would carry it on a lanyard as mentioned above.
If one looks at my set-up you might notice that I find it very difficult to fit the ESEE6 in anywhere. For me, It's too small, thin and light for a proper large Survival knife, yet too big for a medium survival knife, being quite heavy in this category.
Suggestion: why not do a video comparing the ESEE6 and the CS SRK (CPM-3V) as survival knives.
I'd like to chat further on these topics sometime.
Cheers mate
Thank you for your detailed break down. A lot to think about 👍
@@gideonstactical Just some accumulated thoughts of an old codger!
I do enjoy your channel, so keep 'em coming!
Thank you so much for your reviews!!
I love my ESEE6. Big chunky, but very usable and easy to maintain. It's a tie between my Fallkniven A1, and this. I just wish the A1 came with a micarta handle. But I've had a kraton handled cold steel Kukri since 98, and the handle is still fine...so it may not be an issue.
How are the linen micarta grips vs the new G10 contoured grips as far as tackiness goes with say wet/damp hands.
Just got the G10 ones and they feel slick. I really want to know how they compare to the micarta as well
Does the esee 6 have a 90 degree spine for ferro rod use?
No it does not, you would need to modify it yourself.
normal handles or 3D ones?! which one is suitable for big hands and feel more komfy?
It'd be awesome to see how it would stack against the Field Buddy 6.5. Although they're almost essentially the same thing.
Saber grind vs full flat grind, also the fb6.5 has more of a clip point, it is also longer. A field knife is designed for different tasks than a survival knife. I would say a Esee-5 vs fb5.5 would be a much better apple to apples comparison.
@@RadDadisRad With the ESEE 5 being a 1/4 inch thick and weighing basically 1lbs the FB 5.5 has my money any day of the week.