Hogue

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

Hogue EX-02 Flipper

Published: September 8th, 2012 by The Edge Observer 3

The EX-02 Flipper is a collaboration between Allen Elishewitz and Hogue. Hogue is primarily a gun accessory manufacturer but recently broke into the folding knife market with the EX-01. These models feature design informed by Elishewitz’s extensive experience as both a maker/designer and martial artist coupled with Hogue’s impressive manufacturing capabilities.

This knife features a broad spear point profile. Measuring in at 3.375″ (3.3″ shoulder to tip) it offers great utility due to a fairly wide, 1.1″ base. Although spear points are geared toward penetrating cuts, the width allows for a good amount of belly, comparable to drop points of a similar scale. This geometry adds great slicing to the repertoire.

The primary bevel is a flat grind that takes the 154 CM steel down considerably. A secondary bevel produces a keen, mirrored cutting edge. A swedge streamlines penetrating cuts. Following along the spine, there is a run of jimping before the handle for added control. The Hogue and Elishewitz logo’s tastefully appear laser etched on the black surface.

The blade is opened with a flipper. A very strong detent and phosphor bronze washers ensure a fast action. The combination of safe blade retention and reliable deployment is above average. On opening the tang meets a liner lock. This part of the mechanism is also excellent and without play in either direction. While putting a good amount of downward pressure on the blade, the locking leaf does not flex or shift. For added security, there is also a manual safety that prevents accidental disengagement. Although I’m not a fan of safeties in general, this is unobtrusive and works as expected.

The handle of the EX-02 is built around a partially back spaced assembly. Two blackened stainless liners form the base. These have cut outs to save weight and added jimping around the edges to add detail and grip. The amount of work on the liners is appreciated, there were no short cuts in design or machining here.

This model is clad in Hogue’s proprietary G-Masus scales. This G10 is patterned and leaves an interesting detail when contoured. Although considered black and grey, there are also layers of an earthy tone. The color nicely contrasts the primarily black finish.

The back-spacer on the knife is injection molded PPS. Poly-phenylene sulphide is extremely resistant to wear, chemical solvents and heat. It is also very hard and lightweight. This component is contoured to include a lanyard pin and terminates in a pointed pommel. The handle shape does a great job of supporting the use of this feature as a non-lethal impact weapon. The flat, broad shoulder comfortable accommodates the user’s thumb. Jimping around the handle and on the flipper locks everything in tightly. At first glance I found the transition from handle to blade boxy, however, the shoulder width is necessary for properly leveraging the pommel.

When open, the handle has a large first finger groove. The flipper serves to extent this, offering an effective front guard. The over-all shape is fairly straight but very comfortable. Subtle contouring on the scales finish off the great ergonomics.

For carry the knife has a tip up and down clip. The cut-out design is attractive and slides in and out of the pocket easily due to its wide end. People who like the “spoon shaped” clip on the EX-01 should also like this one. Personally I prefer this clip as it is much more discreet.

To conclude, the EX-02 is an excellent knife. The handle ergonomics equally support the use of the folder as both a cutting or impact tool. The broad, spear-point profile is very capable of utility tasks despite it’s leaning toward thrust cuts. The over-all fit and finish is exceptional and a great value for the price point. The G-Mascus and thoughtfully matched hardware bring attractive detailing to this utility driven design. This knife would easily fit the role of an EDC, back-up or self-defence knife. Hogue also offers a larger version with a 3.75″ blade well suited for professional use with varied G-mascus colors.

If you are considering purchasing the Hogue EX-02 Flipper, please consider our affiliate sponsor Blade HQ.

Pros

Great ergonomics
Effective non lethal option
Excellent fit and finish
Very solid deployment and lock-up

Cons

You’ll want two

Specs

Over All Length: 7.875″
Weight: 4.04 oz

Blade

Length: 3.3″ (shoulder to tip)
Cutting Edge: 3.375″
Thickness: 0.15″
154CM Stainless Steel HRC 57-59 (Cryogenically Treated)
Black Finish

Lock

Stainless Steel Liner with Manual Safety

Handle

G10, Black and Grey G-Mascus
Length: 4.625″
Clip: Stainless Steel Flat Wireframe, Reversible
Layard Pin

Made in the USA

Hogue EX01 by Allen Elishewitz

Published: June 9th, 2012 by The Edge Observer 10

The EX01 is the first folding knife offering from Hogue Manufacturing. Hogue, a company that is known for producing firearm accessories, has diversified its offerings by adding a knives division.

For their folders they teamed up with well known custom knife maker and designer Allen Elishewitz. Elishewitz, along with making his own high end custom knives, watches and pens has collaborated with other manufacturers in the past such as CRKT

Allen’s dedication to the martial arts, experience as a marine and a long career as a fine craftsmen and designer have been well met with Hogues manufacturing prowess. The result of the collaboration is a very well made, value rich combat style folder.

The EX01 can be had with a 3.5 or 4″ tanto or drop point blade with a “G-Mascus” or aluminum handle. This version is the 4″ tanto.

The Profile is very aggressive. The tip has a long slope that is met with a raised spine giving the blade a fine point and harpoon like appearance. The back half of the spine has a subtle convex radius allowing the users thumb to seat comfortably for added blade control.

The primary bevel is a fairly high and has a near to 3/4″ average width along the entire length. This takes down the .15″ (near to 4mm) stock considerably and allows for a very keen secondary bevel. This knife came notably sharp out of the box, with a polished edge.

The blade has an attractive tumbled finish (stone wash) that produces a speckled matte-grey coloration to the cryogenically treated blade. Made from 154CM and hardened to 57-59 HRc, the EXO1 will be reasonably easy to maintain and hold an edge, while providing great corrosion resistance.

The over-all blade geometry would undoubtedly be very good at penetrating cuts. Since the blade is long at four inches, it also has a generous cutting surface for utility tasks.

The blade deploys via ambidextrous thumb studs. Good spacing from the edge of the handle when closed and a ridged, cone shaped profile make them easy to get a hold of. The thumb-studs, combined with a very smooth pivot allows for an easy deployment.

When open the blade meets a button lock. The hardened stainless steel cylinder rides in a stainless bezel. This prevents the stickiness and subsequent abrasion that would happen if mated against the softer aluminum handle. The barrel of the lock is tapered for wear and fit, locking up snugly and without play at about 50%. Pushed against the tang with an internal spring, the button lock also serves to hold the blade in the closed position (not a ball detent). Although the lock is very solid and difficult to accidentally disengage, there is an added safety to prevent unintended closing.

The EX-01′s handle comes in green or black “G-Mascus” (a patterned, proprietary G10) as well as aluminum. This is the matte black aluminum model. The construction is a two piece, screw together build. The over-all profile is slightly bowed, seating naturally in the palm. There is a scalloped first finger groove that locks the hand in well. Additional slots milled into the lock-side surface provide extra traction. The handle sits the knife forward in the grip giving quite a bit of reach.

These ergonomics buck the trend a bit. Many manufacturers provide a very forward grip that allows the user to “choke up” on the blade (ie. Spyderco’s “50/50 choil/finger groove”) Personally I find that the long jimped area on the blade’s spine allows for an adequate amount of blade control and I like that the standard grip gives an extra inch of reach, a very suitable design choice for this type of knife.

For carry there’s a spoon shaped, tip up and down, right handed pocket clip. There is also a slot in the pommel with a stainless pin to attach a lanyard.

Diagonal, vent-like slots milled out of the spine of the handle add a nice detail. These, along with concentric stepped ring patterns cut into the thumb studs, safety, pivot and button lock, show Elishewitz’s love of detail.

Although Hogue’s first folder offering, the aluminum/tanto EX01 is masterfully manufactured. The excellent fit and finish properly renders Eleshiwitz’s experienced design at a very fair price. The 4″ EX01 is a big blade and will be more appropriate for professionals who require such a tool. The excellent build quality and attention to detail would also make this a great knife for collectors of tactical style folding knives.

If you are thinking of purchasing this knife, please consider out affiliate BladeHQ.