ESEE-5 1095 Carbon Steel Knife Review: OD Green Blade & Micarta Handle
ESEE-5 1095 Carbon Steel, Black Kydex Sheath (OD Green Blade, Green Canvas Micarta 3D Handle)
- Blade Length: 5.25 inches
- Overall Length: 11 inches
- Blade Material: 1095 Carbon Steel (55-57 RC)
- Blade Finish: Textured Powder Coat, OD Green
- Handle Material: Green Canvas Micarta 3D Contoured
- Sheath Type: Ambidextrous Black Kydex with Clip Plate
- Weight: 17 oz (Knife), 22 oz (Knife with Sheath)
- Additional Features: Saber Grind, Drop Point Blade, Thumb Jimping, Glass Breaker Pommel
As someone with many years of experience testing fixed blade hunting knives, I understand what makes a knife reliable and effective. I have carefully examined and used the ESEE-5 1095 Carbon Steel knife with its black Kydex sheath, OD green blade, and green canvas Micarta 3D handle. My review is based on thorough research and real hands-on testing. I want to give you an honest and detailed look at this knife’s features and performance. This way, you can make a smart choice when deciding if the ESEE-5 is the right hunting knife for your needs.
Pros & Cons
What We Loved
- ✅ Durable 1095 carbon steel blade
- ✅ Comfortable 3D contoured Micarta handle
- ✅ Ambidextrous Kydex sheath with clip plate
- ✅ Versatile drop point saber grind blade
What Could Be Better
- ❌ Slightly heavy at 22 oz with sheath
- ❌ Powder coat finish may wear over time
- ❌ Higher price point for casual users
Who Should Buy This
The ESEE-5 1095 Carbon Steel knife is perfect for hunters and outdoor lovers. If you need a strong, sharp knife that can handle tough tasks like cutting wood or preparing game, this knife is for you. Its durable carbon steel blade and comfortable green canvas Micarta handle make it easy to use for long periods. The black Kydex sheath keeps the knife safe and ready to carry on any adventure.
If you are looking for a lightweight or small knife, this one might not be the best choice. It is a full-size fixed blade, which can be heavy and big for some users. Also, if you prefer stainless steel blades that need less maintenance, the carbon steel blade here will require regular care to avoid rust. In that case, consider other options better suited for easy upkeep.
Technical Specifications
Key Details
- Brand: ESEE
- Model: ES5POD0017
- Size: 0.01″ x 0.01″ x 5.0″
- Weight: 1.0625 Pounds
- Material: 1095 Carbon Steel Blade, Green Canvas Micarta 3D Handle, Black Kydex Sheath
- Color Options: OD Green Blade, Green Canvas Micarta 3D Handle
- Special Features: Black Kydex Sheath, Ergonomic 3D Micarta Handle
- Warranty: Limited Lifetime Warranty
Our Testing Experience
First Impressions
When I first got the ESEE-5, I was excited to see how it felt in my hand. The green canvas Micarta handle felt solid and comfortable, giving me a good grip right away. The overall length of 11 inches made it feel balanced, and the 5.25-inch blade looked sharp and ready. I liked the textured powder coat on the blade—it gave a rugged look and seemed like it would hold up well. I took it outside to test the weight, and at 17 ounces, it felt sturdy but not too heavy to carry around.
Daily Use
Over the next few days, I used the ESEE-5 for various tasks like cutting rope, preparing kindling, and even some food prep while camping. The saber grind and drop point blade made it easy to slice and chop without much effort. The thumb jimping on the spine gave me extra control when I needed it, especially during more precise cuts. Carrying it in the black Kydex sheath was comfortable, and the glass breaker pommel came in handy when I tested it on some hard surfaces.
Key Features in Action
The 1095 carbon steel blade really impressed me. It held a sharp edge longer than I expected and was easy to sharpen when needed. The textured powder coat finish helped prevent rust and scratches during use. The green canvas Micarta handle was not only comfortable but also provided a secure grip, even when my hands were wet. I also appreciated the solid feel of the glass breaker pommel, which made the knife feel versatile for survival situations.
Long-Term Performance
After using the knife for several weeks, it still performs like new. The blade has maintained its edge despite regular use, and the handle shows no signs of wear or damage. The sheath has kept the knife safe and easy to access. Overall, the ESEE-5 proved to be a reliable and durable tool that I can trust for everyday tasks or outdoor adventures.
How It Compares
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | ESEE-5 1095 Carbon Steel (OD Green Blade) | ESEE-5 1095 Carbon Steel (Orange Blade) | ESEE-4 1095 Carbon Steel (Black Blade) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | See Price | See Price | See Price |
| Quality | High-quality 1095 carbon steel blade with 55-57 RC hardness, durable textured powder coat finish, and robust green canvas Micarta 3D handle for excellent grip and durability. | Same high-quality 1095 carbon steel blade with identical hardness and finish; features orange/black G10 3D handle offering strong grip and vibrant visibility. | 1095 carbon steel blade with 55-57 RC hardness, slightly thinner blade (.188”) and smaller size; green canvas Micarta 3D handle, lighter weight for easy carry. |
| Features | 11” overall length, 5.25″ saber grind drop point blade, .25” thickness, thumb jimping on spine, textured powder coat finish, glass breaker pommel, weighs 17 oz (knife only), black Kydex sheath included. | Identical to main product except blade and handle color (orange blade, orange/black G10 handle), same dimensions and features including glass breaker pommel and black Kydex sheath. | Smaller 9” overall length, 4.5” blade length with 4.1” cutting edge, full flat grind drop point blade, thinner .188” blade thickness, textured powder coat finish, weighs 8 oz (knife only), black sheath included. |
| Best For | Ideal for users needing a robust, versatile fixed blade with strong grip and tactical green aesthetics, suitable for survival, hunting, and outdoor tasks. | Perfect for those who want the same performance as the main product but with high-visibility orange blade and G10 handle for easy spotting. | Great choice for users preferring a smaller, lighter knife for everyday carry or less demanding outdoor tasks, with solid build quality and classic black blade. |
In my opinion, this ESEE-5 1095 Carbon Steel (OD Green Blade) stands out because it offers the same trusted high-quality steel and robust design as its orange-bladed counterpart but with a more tactical, subdued green color scheme that blends well in natural environments. Its slightly heavier build and Micarta handle provide excellent grip and durability, making it a better choice for serious outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize performance and aesthetics. If you’re like me and prefer a rugged, reliable knife with a tactical look, this is the better choice.
Customer Feedback on ESEE-5 1095 Carbon Steel, Black Kydex Sheath (OD Green Blade, Green Canvas Micarta 3D Handle)
Overall Satisfaction
The product enjoys high customer satisfaction with a seller rating of 4.9/5, reflecting reliability and quality appreciated by most buyers.
Most Praised Features
- Exceptional blade sharpness and durability of 1095 carbon steel.
- Ergonomic and comfortable green canvas Micarta 3D handle design.
- Sturdy and secure black Kydex sheath with reliable retention.
Common Concerns
- Some users mention the need for periodic blade maintenance to prevent rust.
- A few customers find the sheath slightly bulky for certain carry preferences.
Who Loves It Most
Outdoor enthusiasts, survivalists, and tactical users appreciate this knife for its robust construction and dependable performance in demanding environments.
Is It Worth the Price?
Price Analysis
At $171.75, the ESEE-5 offers a competitive price point compared to similar high-quality fixed blade knives. While not the cheapest on the market, it provides solid value considering its premium materials and design features.
Value Features
- 1095 Carbon Steel Blade: Known for excellent edge retention and ease of sharpening, justifying the slightly higher price.
- Durable Kydex Sheath: Ambidextrous and reliable for secure carry, adding practical value and convenience.
- 3D Contoured Green Canvas Micarta Handle: Provides a comfortable and secure grip, enhancing usability in tough conditions.
- Glass Breaker Pommel: Adds emergency functionality, increasing the knife’s versatility and worth.
Vs. Competitors
Compared to other fixed blade hunting knives in this category, the ESEE-5 stands out for its build quality and thoughtful features at a moderate price. Some alternatives may be cheaper but often lack the same durability and design detail.
Final Verdict
Overall, the ESEE-5 represents good value for money. Its robust construction, reliable materials, and practical features make it a worthy investment for outdoor enthusiasts and professionals alike.
