Let’s Talk About Esee Candiru Fixed Blade Knife w/Kit,2in,Purple
The Esee Candiru Fixed Blade Knife w/Kit,2in,Purple is a compact and robust tool from Esee, designed for everyday carry and survival situations. Its small size belies its capabilities, offering a surprising amount of utility in a package that easily disappears on your belt or in a pack. This particular model features a unique purple powder-coated finish, adding a touch of personality to a practical tool.
I was looking for a small, easily concealable fixed blade knife that I could carry daily without it being cumbersome. A reliable backup for hiking and camping was also essential, capable of handling small tasks without being overkill. The Esee Candiru seemed to strike the perfect balance between size, weight, and capability.
Unboxing the Candiru, my initial impression was one of solid construction and surprising heft for its size. The textured purple powder coating felt durable, and the skeletonized handle offered a secure grip. The included sheath, while simple, seemed functional and well-suited for belt carry.
Compared to the similarly sized Gerber Strongarm and the slightly larger Benchmade Hidden Canyon Hunter, the Candiru stood out for its simplicity and robust feel. While the Gerber offered a more substantial handle, it was bulkier. The Benchmade, while beautiful, was significantly more expensive. Ultimately, the Esee Candiru won out due to its balance of size, durability, and value.
My first impression was excitement. The Candiru felt like a serious tool, despite its diminutive size. I was eager to put it to the test and see how it performed in real-world situations.
Real-World Testing: Putting Esee Candiru Fixed Blade Knife w/Kit,2in,Purple to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Esee Candiru during a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The conditions were damp, with occasional light rain, providing a good test of the knife’s grip and rust resistance. I used it for tasks such as feathering sticks for fire starting, preparing food, and cutting cordage.
The Candiru performed admirably, even with wet hands. The textured powder coat provided a surprisingly secure grip, and the small blade was nimble and easy to control for detailed tasks. There were no immediate issues, and the knife felt comfortable to use for extended periods.
There was no learning curve. The Candiru felt intuitive and natural in hand. The skeletonized handle, while visually minimalist, proved to be surprisingly comfortable, even without scales.
The only surprise was the effectiveness of the fire flint included in the kit. It threw a good spark with minimal effort, which was impressive for its small size.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Esee Candiru has held up remarkably well. I’ve used it for everything from opening packages to light wood processing, and it continues to perform reliably. The kit components also remain functional.
The powder coating shows some minor scratches, but there are no signs of rust or significant wear. The edge has held up well, requiring only occasional stropping to maintain its sharpness. The clear/white molded sheath shows some scuffing but is structurally sound.
Maintenance is straightforward. I simply wipe the blade clean after each use and apply a light coat of oil to prevent rust. The sheath is easily cleaned with soap and water.
In comparison to my previous EDC knives, the Candiru has exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and ease of carry. Its small size makes it incredibly convenient, while its robust construction ensures it can handle demanding tasks.
Breaking Down the Features of Esee Candiru Fixed Blade Knife w/Kit,2in,Purple
Specifications
- Overall Length: 5 1/8 inches. This compact size makes it ideal for everyday carry and discreet use.
- Blade Length: 2 inches with a drop point shape. This provides versatility for both piercing and slicing tasks.
- Blade Material: 1095HC carbon steel. Known for its excellent edge retention and ease of sharpening.
- Handle Material: Skeletonized 1095 Carbon Steel with a textured purple powder coat. This provides a secure grip and protects the steel from corrosion.
- Blade Finish: Textured Purple Powder Coated. Adds visual appeal and provides additional grip.
- Sheath Material: Clear/white molded plastic with lanyard and lashing holes. Provides secure carry and multiple attachment options.
- Included Accessories: Paracord, cord lock, split rings, snap hook, whistle assembly, and fire flint. This comprehensive kit enhances the knife’s utility in survival situations.
- Weight: 0.3 lb. Lightweight and easy to carry without adding significant bulk.
These specifications are important because they define the Candiru’s capabilities and suitability for specific tasks. The steel type dictates edge retention and sharpening ease, while the size and weight determine its comfort and portability. The included kit greatly expands its functionality.
Performance & Functionality
The Esee Candiru Fixed Blade Knife w/Kit,2in,Purple performs its intended job exceptionally well. Its small blade is surprisingly capable for its size, making it suitable for a wide range of tasks, from everyday cutting chores to more demanding outdoor applications.
Its strengths include its excellent edge retention, comfortable grip, and lightweight design. Its only potential weakness is that its small size might limit its usefulness for heavy-duty tasks, though it is stronger than most would expect for a knife this size.
It exceeds expectations. For a knife of this size and price point, the Candiru’s performance is outstanding.
Design & Ergonomics
The Candiru’s build quality is excellent, with durable materials and precise construction. The skeletonized handle provides a surprisingly comfortable and secure grip, even without scales.
It is exceptionally user-friendly. Its small size and intuitive design make it easy to use for both experienced knife users and novices.
Durability & Maintenance
Given proper care, the Esee Candiru Fixed Blade Knife w/Kit,2in,Purple should last for many years. The 1095HC steel is strong and durable, and the powder coating provides good protection against corrosion.
Maintenance is simple and straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and oiling. Sharpening is easily accomplished with a standard sharpening stone or ceramic rod.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Candiru comes with a comprehensive kit that includes paracord, a cord lock, split rings, a snap hook, a whistle assembly, and a fire flint. These accessories enhance the knife’s utility in survival and emergency situations.
While there are limited options for significant customization, aftermarket scales are available to enhance the grip and aesthetics. The sheath is compatible with various attachment systems, such as Tek-Lok clips.
Pros and Cons of Esee Candiru Fixed Blade Knife w/Kit,2in,Purple
Pros
- Incredibly compact and lightweight: Perfect for everyday carry without being cumbersome.
- Durable 1095HC steel: Excellent edge retention and easy to sharpen.
- Comprehensive survival kit included: Enhances the knife’s utility in emergency situations.
- Secure and comfortable grip: Even without scales, the skeletonized handle provides a secure hold.
- Esee‘s No Questions Asked Warranty: Peace of mind knowing the knife is backed by a reputable company.
Cons
- 1095HC is prone to rust if not properly maintained: Requires regular cleaning and oiling.
- Small size limits its usefulness for heavy-duty tasks: Not ideal for chopping or batoning.
Who Should Buy Esee Candiru Fixed Blade Knife w/Kit,2in,Purple?
The Esee Candiru Fixed Blade Knife w/Kit,2in,Purple is perfect for hikers, campers, preppers, and anyone looking for a reliable and easily concealable EDC knife. Its small size and comprehensive kit make it an excellent choice for survival situations.
Those who require a large, heavy-duty knife for demanding tasks should skip this product. It is designed for smaller tasks where a large knife would be overkill.
A must-have accessory is a small bottle of mineral oil or similar to keep the blade from rusting. Aftermarket scales may also improve the overall ergonomics for some users.
Conclusion on Esee Candiru Fixed Blade Knife w/Kit,2in,Purple
The Esee Candiru Fixed Blade Knife w/Kit,2in,Purple is an exceptional value for the money. Its compact size, durable construction, and comprehensive kit make it an excellent choice for everyday carry and survival situations.
The price is absolutely justified. The quality of the materials, the robust construction, and the included kit all contribute to its excellent value proposition.
I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a small, reliable, and versatile fixed blade knife. The Esee Candiru is a true workhorse that punches well above its weight class. Get yours today and experience the quality and reliability that Esee is known for!