Knife Reviews

Hogue EX-04

Published: May 16th, 2013 by The Edge Observer 6

The Hogue EX-04 is a unique looking knife. Particularly the modified Wharncliffe. While I’ve heard mixed opinions concerning the blade profile(s), I immediately took interest. Do we need another drop-point in the collection? How about another Titanium Frame-Lock Flipper with thrust bearings? While I personally collect, own and enjoy many of the aforementioned, it is exciting to see a designer and manufacturer buck the trend while delivering above average function, fit and finish.

The EX-04 comes in two blade types that are similar to the designer Allen Elishewitz’s Jekyll and Hyde custom knives. The Jekyll style is an upswept profile while the Hyde is the meaner looking, modified Wharncliffe. The models come in 3.5 and 4″ blade lengths. I have a preference for the company’s 4″ varieties throughout the EX series and find that the lines render more elegantly across the larger, wider profile. Regardless of personal taste the 4″ EX’s are large, totaling 9″ in length. 3.5″ models at 8″ are still capable and embody identical build quality while being easier to carry.

The steel used is 154CM. This is a premium stainless produced by Crucible with a high carbon, chromium and molybdenum content. A US version of ATS-34, it is perfect for cutlery applications providing excellent corrosion resistance and good edge retention along with easy maintenance. The EX-04 is hardened between 57-59 Rockwell through a cryogenic heat treating process.

Both versions have a unique double hollow grind. The inspiration comes from sword fullers which lighten and balance a blade while adding rigidity. Due to the technical complexity of manufacturing an even, contoured double hollow grind, the knife had some growing pains pending release. It was definitely worth the wait however as these are (as far as I know) the first production blades brandishing such an ambitious cross section. The final edge bevel has been given an immaculate mirror finish for perfect out of box sharpness.

The ‘Up-swept’ EX-04 has a long sloping belly that is useful for a variety of utility tasks. The blade width follows near to the tip where a swedge slightly narrows the .150″ blade stock. The over-all profile provides good lateral strength. Although wide, the spines dropped-point meets the belly at a broad spear-like end. The resulting tip is deceptively good at penetrating cuts rounding out this hard working geometry.

The modified wharncliffe has a unique wing-like shape with animated, flowing lines that terminate in a hook-like point. This profile is much more purpose-built and excels at slicing, especially toward the tip. The cutting edge has a pronounced belly with a slight re-curve at both ends of the cutting edge. This model will likely be a polarizing aesthetic, but for me is a welcome diversity and my favorite of the two. Due to the curving edge, it’s good to note that this model is more difficult to sharpen than the Up-swept which has an even convex edge profile.

The concave spine on both allows for comfortable thumb placement giving the user great control. All of the blades in the 04 series come in an even, matte black finish with Hogue USA and Elishewitz’s logo etched on the blade. Satin and stone-wash are not offered in this line-up, possibly due to the complexity of finishing the double hollow grind.

For deployment the knives use stepped, dual ambidextrous thumb-studs. These sit a good distance away from the handle and are benefited by scalloped cut-outs in the scales for quick, reliable deployment. The pivot is exceptionally smooth and has a washer-less construction. The inside “bolster plates” have a raised surface that contacts the tang with a substantial surface area allowing for a laterally stable action.

On opening a button or “plunge” lock holds the blade firmly without play in any direction. Plunge locks are long wearing and mechanically robust. A spring pushes a hardened, tapered cylinder into a slot in the tang preventing closing. When the blade is stowed, the rounded plunger head makes contact with another slot in the tang acting to hold the blade closed. The plunger’s double duty is an elegant solution, negating the need for a ball detent. The mechanism is housed in the nested bolster plates for strength and longevity. In order to prevent accidental disengagement all models have a manual safety.

The handle on the 04 provides a very comfortable four finger grip on both the 3.5″ and 4″ models. The shape fully leverages cnc machining capabilities being contoured on all axis. The resulting grip feels natural in hand, much more-so than a slab built knife. This is true in a standard and reverse position. The standard maximizes reach while the curved tail lends itself to thumb placement in a reverse grip. The concave inner edge is shaped perfectly to lock the hand in place without feeling restrictive, supplying confident use. The first finger nests comfortably in the same cutout that helps to access the thumb-studs.

Hogue is offering four color variations including blue-black, red-black, grey-brown-black and solid black layered G10 (G-Mascus) in a “Lava” pattern. For carry, there is a lanyard hole and right handed tip down spoon shaped pocket clip. The handle shape would make tip-up clip placement awkward. As an interesting detail, Hogue has machined the clip stand-off into the scale. This is a nice touch but won’t work aesthetically if you wanted to remove the pocket clip all together. Since the handles are primarily G10, only having steel for the partial nested liners (bolster plates), the weight is kept reasonable despite the large size. 3.5′s weigh in at around 4.48 oz while 4″ models are 5.68 oz.

In closing the EX-04 is an original design with above average ergonomics, attention to detail and an excellent mechanical design. The blade variants allow for different applications: the Up-swept ready for utility jobs and the wharncliffe for tasks requiring more aggressive slicing or tip control. Availability in 3.5″ or 4″ blade lengths accommodate size preferences while the multiple scale colors give users even more choice. The double-hollow blade grind is another selling point for fans of stylized blade geometry and is an achievement in manufacture and design. Although delayed in release the EX-04 was certainly worth the wait. Hogue and Elishewitz have successfully pulled together another high quality, locally produced folder at a reasonable price. Throughout the EX line, the company has definitely established themselves as one of the leaders in US manufactured folding knives.

If you are looking to purchase a Hogue Knife, please consider our affiliate sponsor Blade HQ. The Wharncliffe featured in the review can be found here and the Up-swept model here.

Specs

3.5″ Model

Overall Length: 8″ (203 mm)
Weight: 4.48oz (127g)

4″ Model

Overall Length: 9″ (229 mm)
Weight: 5.68oz (161g)

Blades

Upswept and Modified Wharncliffe styles available

Length: 3.5″ (89 mm) and 4″ (102 mm)
Blade Thickness: 0.15″ (3.8 mm)
Blade Material: 154CM Stainless Steel
Blade Hardness: RC 57-59 (Cryogenic Heat Treated)
Blade finish: Black
Dual Hollow Grind
Dual Thumb Studs
Black powder coat finish

Handle:

G10, G-Mascus
Partial Nested Liners
Available in Grey-Brown, Red-Black, Blue-Black and Black
Length: 4.625″ (118 mm) and 5.125″ (130 mm)
Right hand, tip down stainless steel spoon shaped pocket clip

Lock

Button (plunge) lock
Safety locks open

Made in the USA

Combative Edge’s 2013 Models

Published: May 14th, 2013 by The Edge Observer 2

Combative Edge is a gear and training company based just outside Philidelphia, PA. The M1, SR11 and SALUS designs have been informed by owner Rob Walker’s martial arts experience in FMA, Grappling and Kickboxing fitting the knives nicely into the CETERUS methodology that they teach.

This is the second iteration of the designs. This article will only cover the basics and design revisions. These include some changes to the folder’s mechanisms, materials for the SR11 and a new blade shape for the SALUS. If you would like to investigate the line further, the previous full reviews of the each knife can be found in the Combative Edge knife review section here.

The introductory model, the M1, is a large folder measuring in at an overall length of 8.875″ with a 3.75″ blade and and total weight of 5.2 oz. The handle is thin making it easy to carry, despite its large size. The assembly is a partially closed back construction with a peel ply G10 scale on one side, G10 back-spacer and titanium scale on the other side that includes a frame lock. The blade is a clip point with a re-curve edge and flat grind. For carry the knife has a tip up or down, right handed pocket clip and lanyard hole. Deployment is achieved using the thumb-studs or front guard (aided by a healthy wrist flick) that extends like a flipper when the knife is closed.

The main change to the M1 is the addition of a re-designed over-travel stop. Seated against the lock arm and midway down its length, the disc is intended to help with “lock rock” while maintaining spring integrity. This was a response to some complaints concerning the lock arm of previous models. Personally, I didn’t have an issue with the originals so I don’t find a marked difference in this respect. Additionally, the clip on the originals acted as an over-travel in the tip down configuration with a U-shaped, bolt-on over-travel stop achieving the same function when the clip is adjusted to tip up. Regardless, the revised addition is a much more elegant solution. The legacy feature of the clip working double duty could probably be done away with, as it may be redundant.

(above) original M1 with U shaped, bolt on over travel

(above) new M1 with revised over-travel

The SR-11 was the second folder offered. This knife has an over-all length of 8.5″ with a 3.625″ flat ground blade and total weight of 5 oz. The profile is a unique Westernized tanto shape that has been modified with a clipped point. The handle’s ergonomics lean the blade slightly forward for improved alignment and accuracy while striking.

Like the M1 this handle is a closed back construction. The show scale has been updated with a material change from green canvas Micarta to black G10. Aesthetically this pulls the knife from being the stepchild of the line, to a matching all black and grey coloration as found on the other two products. Since canvas Micarta discolors with use, this will be a good change for users who find that off-putting.

The original heavily textured aluminum back-spacer makes up the handle’s spine with a titanium slab opposite the show scale. The titanium frame lock has the same update to the locking leaf as the M1 along with the older tip up and down clip/over-travel set-up.

Both Folders seem to have a much earlier lock-up than the prior version. This will allow them to wear over a longer period of time. Lock up is solid on both, but the lock face is on the sticky side.

The SALUS, Combative Edge’s full tang fixed blade sees the biggest modification. The blade now has a drop point instead of a Westernized tanto. The change to a more versatile pattern, capable of a wider range of jobs is a good one. Even though the Westernized tanto is designed for piercing and tip strength, the drop point’s thick .197″ blade stock will still provide plenty of durability. Without the tip grind, the user also has the advantage of a longer continuous cutting edge. A long swedge rounds out the geometry for effective thrust cuts.

The drop point and tanto SALUS.

The handle still features the same deep double finger grooves and corresponding jimped thumb ramps for either an extended or forward grip. The original G10 scales have been maintained with their heavy texture and ergonomically contoured topography. To ensure safe use there is an included wrist lanyard that can be bridged between the hole in the extended pommel and a hole in between the thumb ramps. For carry the SALUS comes with a vacuum moulded Kydex sheath nested in a nylon attachment system. This comes in a drop-leg thigh rig configuration, but can be easily adapted to a variety of carry methods via provided tek-loks or other MOLLE compatible attachment systems.

The updates to the current folding models are minor and are a refinement rather than a shift in functionality. It would have been nice to see a stronger detent on the M1 to get a true flipper action out of the knife along with some treatment such as ‘carbidizing’ on the lock faces to reduce the stickiness. I would say the most significant update is the SALUS’ new drop point profile. This definitely increases the utility of the knife and will probably give it much broader appeal. While it has a distinctly ‘combat knife’ look, it would also be an excellent outdoor knife.

My criticisms aside, all of the Combative Edge line is capable, aesthetic and well made. The earlier models were already functional and unique, making them stand out from many of their competitors. This iteration, while for the most part making small improvements, is still a step in the right direction. Like the SALUS, it would also be interesting to see other blade profiles offered for their folders as well.

If you are looking to purchase any of the new Combative Edge models, please consider our affiliate sponsor BladeHQ

Spyderco Nilakka

Published: April 18th, 2013 by The Edge Observer 6

The Spyderco Nilakka is one of the more interesting regional knife interpretations to come to Spyderco’s ethnic series. As a collaboration with decorated blade-smith Pekka Tuominen it has a distinctly Finnish aesthetic deriving its lines from the traditional Puukko.

The Puukko has permeated Nordic culture due to its time tested utility and local production. These fixed blade knives are well respected for their versatility, being at one time found in every facet of life from professional to domestic. Because of their excellent ergonomic design and versatile “Scandi” or “zero-sabre” grind, they have also been adopted by many bush-crafters as their go to cutting tool the world over. Although the Spyderco Nilakka references the pattern of the traditional knife it still differs significantly in function, making it fundamentally different.

As with the original Puukko, the blade has a standard or straight back profile matched with a gentle curving cutting edge that terminates at a fine point. Rarely seen on your standard variety, The Nilakka adds a long swedge that thins the tip to a needle-like point for easy penetrating cuts.

Although seemingly alike, the Nilakka’s full-flat zero grind is very different. This isn’t the same thing as a Scandi or zero-sabre grind which usually terminates at half the width of the blade producing a larger inclusive angle. The Nilakka’s much finer geometry makes for an abnormally weak edge. Spyderco later patched this with a micro bevel in order to stem chipping problems that people were reporting.

Another contributor to the issue is the steel used. S30V, while a super steel, isn’t heralded as much for its toughness as it is its combination of corrosion resistance and ability to take a keen edge. Some find that while easy to get very sharp it is also fragile, something I personally believe to be true. It is important for the average user to note that the high hardness required to fully leverage S30V’s properties combined with this delicate grind is a recipe for an easily damaged edge.

There is also the issue of sharpening this knife. Typically when you sharpen a zero grind, the bevel is laid flat against a stone, or like abrasive. As you sharpen, the entire bevel is worked to maintain the zero-grind. On the Nilakka this will be an issue. If you were to attempt to maintain the knife in this way, you would eventually wear away the blade markings and undoubtedly make a hideous mess of the cleanly machined bevel, no matter your level of sharpening. If you add a secondary bevel to preserve the knife’s perfect satin finish you won’t have a zero grind any more; a feature that is used as a selling point.

The delicate edge combined with the inability to maintain both the blade and looks could easily be considered a glaring error in design judgement. On the other hand, it could be looked at as an achievement in aesthetics as well as manufacturing since the blade looks incredible. The bevel and swedge are accurately ground terminating at a keen cutting edge. The corners where the sides meet the spine are crisp and even.

For deployment the knife utilizes Spyderco’s trademark thumb hole. Although much smaller than many of their other models, the knife can still be flicked open if preferred, thanks to an ample access cut-away and excellent pivot. The smooth action is due to tight tolerances, phosphor bronze washers and a strong detent. The detent also allows for safe tip-up carry. On opening the tang meets a sturdy stainless liner lock. The spring is rigid, but can be disengaged comfortably due to the cut-away combined with three subtle notches added for traction.

The handle is a partially closed back construction clad in brown G10 scales. These have been shaped with a distinctive ridge line that adds some traction along with an attractive detail. It also creates a good amount of palm swell that fills the hand nicely. In order to maintain the clean, symmetrical look of the handle the pivot is hidden beneath the scales leaving only three evenly distributed torx fasteners visible per side. The minimal aesthetic of the handle is deceptive and the inside of the Nilakka is as interesting as the out. When the scales are removed a series of weight saving cut-outs in the liners, hidden hardware and the tang’s internal stop pin are exposed showing an involved yet elegant assembly.

The ergonomics are straight forward. The slightly bowing shape sits comfortably in hand while the cut-out for the thumb-hole acts as a partial finger groove. There isn’t need for other features such as jimping because the knife hasn’t been designed for aggressive cutting. Additionally, these would detract from the handle’s lines. For carry the knife has a deep riding, right handed pocket clip. To avoid disrupting the profile, it would have been nice if the attachment point of the clip was recessed into a slot in the pommel. It looks a bit stuck on to the cleanly drawn, rectangular shape. This and Pekka Tuonimen’s signature on the blade are my only criticisms of the aesthetic choices on this knife.

Over-all the Nilakka is an interesting offering. It has an immaculate fit and finish and while extremely modern in appearance it still has all the key visual features of its ancestor. While the pivot and locking mechanism are precisely made and robust in build, its blade is unusually delicate out of box and herein lies the fundamental difference: the puukko evolved to be a tough multitasking, easy to maintain cutting tool capable of weathering everyday life all the way from the kitchen to the shop, in or outside. The Nilakka unarguably does not fit this role and Spyderco is self admitted about it’s limited application by a rather lengthy, preemptive disclaimer that comes with the knife.

The sharpening issue will also be key in deciding if this knife is for you. As mentioned, maintaining a zero grind on the Nilakka is impractical. If you plan on actually using it rather than having it as a collectible design object, be prepared to introduce another bevel. That isn’t to say that it will no longer perform well. The blade is plenty fine enough to cut well with the added geometry, assuming you have some sharpening chops. That said, if you bought the Nilakka for its zero grind, you’ll be out of luck at this point. Lastly, the fit, finish and ambitious machining will definitely be enough to please the collector. At just under two hundred dollars you are getting a truly stand out knife when it comes to good looks.

For a great price on the Nilakka visit National Knives. It is also available through our affiliate BladeHQ.

length overall 8.13″ (207 mm)
blade length 3.51″ (89 mm)
blade steel CPM-S30V
length closed 4.62″ (117 mm)
cutting edge 3.34″ (85 mm)
weight 5 oz (142 g)
blade thickness 0.177″ (4.5 mm)
handle material G-10

Made in Taichung, Taiwan

Spyderco Techno

Published: April 5th, 2013 by The Edge Observer 4

The Spyderco Techno is a collaboration with Polish knife designer and maker Marcin Slycz. It is a production version of Slycz’s custom Mouse folder. Outside of very slight differences in the back-spacer color, profile and jimping intervals, it is nearly identical. Spyderco classifies this as a “little big knife”, a term that references the model’s small footprint coupled with the capabilities of a much larger blade. In this case It also applies to the weight and price.

The Techno’s blade is made from Carpenter Steel’s CTS-XHP. This is a high carbon, chromium “super steel” that is produced using a powder metallurgy process. Carpenter compares it to a corrosion resistant D2 or high hardness 440C reaching up to 64 Rockwell. The exact hardness of the Techno isn’t listed on Spyderco’s site but I’m guessing it’s around 60-62 HRC.

The blade profile is a stout modified drop point that measures 2.55″ in length. Although the blade stock is thick at .177″ a full flat grind produces a very usable edge. The sloping nose meets the belly at a similar radius that creates a great point. For control the spine’s slightly jimped thumb-rise and a dip after the thumb-hole allows for two effective places for your thumb to achieve extra leverage. Thankfully there is a choil. In my opinion an absolutely necessary feature, allowing this small blade to be fully and evenly sharpened.

Taichung, Taiwan and Marcin Slycz’s logo is laser etched on one side of the blade while Spyderco’s logo and word-mark appears on the other. A moderate stone-wash or “tumbled” finish softens the spine and thumb hole edges as well as giving the knife a current look.

The handle of the Techno is a partially closed back construction. The execution is elegant in its minimal part count and integral lock. The back-spacer has jimping down the spine that adds extra grip and matches the thumb rise. Made from blue G-10, it is a welcome hit of color to the monochromatic steel and titanium combination.

The shape supplies a three to tight four finger grip depending on your hand size. Because of the thick 6AL4V titanium scales, it has a good full feel in the hand. All of the edges have been chamfered and like the blade, softened with a stone-wash finish. The combination of a concave inside edge, sloping spine and slightly flared pommel feels secure when making heavier cuts. This combined with blade’s spine should give most people an option that feels very natural in use. This comfort excludes the clip that stretches about half the length of the handle and is definitely present with a firm purchase. On the plus side, the clip is ambidextrous, functional and low riding. If the clip proves too annoying, there is also a lanyard hole to help pull the knife from your pocket. A lanyard consequently extends the grip.

One handed operation is effortless for right handed users and largely a two handed ordeal for lefties. The pivot is smooth and solid riding on phosphor bronze washers. A large thumb hole and matching access cutout in the show scale allows the blade to be opened easily. The strong detent also allows for the blade to be quickly and reliably flicked open if that’s your preference. More importantly the detent allows for safe, tip up carry.

Once again Spyderco has collaborated with a talented maker to bring some life to their product line. The Techno has a great usable size in a well rendered package. The inclusive shape of the knife when open and closed is both flowing and natural feeling in the hand and pocket alike. This model is very much in the flavor of the day, with a material and finish formula proven to sell. The knife is also priced as such and the pound for pound value will surely be debated. From my perspective it’s a touch on the steep side. Regardless, while you don’t get a ton of knife real-estate, the fit, finish and function is excellent and without debate.

For a great price on the Techno visit National Knives. It is also available through our affiliate sponsor, Blade HQ.

Specs

Overall length : 5.98″ (152 mm)
Weight : 3.6 oz (102 g)

Blade

Length : 2.55″ (65 mm)
Thickness : .177″ (4.5 mm)
Cutting Edge : 2.33″ (59 mm)
Flat Grind
Steel : CTS XHP (Stainless)
Harness, not disclosed (probably 60-62 HRC)

Handle

Length 3.43″ (87 mm)
Titanium with G10 Backspacer

Made In Taichung, Taiwan

Olamic Cutlery Voykar

Published: March 31st, 2013 by The Edge Observer 4

The Voykar is a 10.25″ fixed blade from Olamic Cutlery. Olamic is based in the US however the majority of their knives are made in Russia. Their products range from traditional hunting knives to their soon to be, contemporary folders. This particular knife sits somewhere in the middle, made from age old forging techniques mixed with modern handle scale materials and a blade profile similar to WWII combat utility knives.

The blade on the Voykar is made from Olamic’s proprietary 350 layer high carbon/vanadium alloyed Damascus. This is created off an O1 tool steel base with the addition of three other metals. Offered in several styles, this features the “Storms of Jupiter” pattern.

The profile is a classic clip point. A mid, shallow hollow grind provides a good thickness to receive the edge bevel while still providing backing blade stock. For ease of penetrating cuts there is also a slight swedge. This time tested geometry will be great for a wide range of utility tasks. A blade thickness of .15″ should provide durability over the 5 5/8″ blade length.

On the blade flats the Voykar has a fuller. Often miscalled a “blood groove” the fuller actually serves to both lighten or balance the blade while strengthening it. The name comes from the Fuller tool. This is a half-cylindrical or parabolic shaped extrusion that slots into an anvil’s Hardy hole (sometimes two sided with a top and bottom fuller). It is generally used in the process of spreading metals but is also employed in blade-smithing, particularly sword-smithing to add rigidity. More often than not, in modern examples a fuller is ground or milled in rather than hammered in and serves primarily as decoration. The final detailing in the blade comes from a unique serial number hand stamped on one side and the Olamic infinity logo on the other.

The handle is build on a sturdy full tang. The ergonomics are simple but very good. A slight dip at each end and a flared pommel add comfort and security. The over-all shape has a nice swell and is without hot spots.

Thick carbon fiber scales add a contemporary touch to the otherwise traditional appearance. The softly contoured shape reveals an attractive wavy pattern where the laminate layers are revealed. This appropriately ties in with the Damascus which is created through a similar layering process. Also matched through their colors, the two materials are perfectly suited despite the blades heritage and the scales high tech roots. Further adding to the mix the carbon fiber is fastened with mosaic pins. There is a large lanyard hole to both assist in pulling the knife out of the sheath or for retention when in use.

For carry the knife comes with a dark brown leather sheath. This is made with a fold over construction that is stitched, glued and riveted on one side. There are two loops on the back for higher or lower belt carry. The upper loop is articulated on a metal ring while the lower is fastened to the back side with two rivets. Olamic’s logo is boldly embossed on the show face. The knife is primarily held in by gravity, but rides very low covering a good amount of the handle. Although the sheath is very nicely made, retention could be better.

Overall the Olamic Cutlery Voykar is a beautifully executed knife. The combination of materials is quite eclectic but well suited, tastefully pulling together a wide range of influences and technologies. The result is a unique, sophisticated looking utility blade that could easily sit in a collection or be put to work out in the bush. While Olamic offers an enormous range of natural and synthetic material options their straight carbon fiber/Damascus combination is one of my favorites to date.