ESEE Laser Strike w/ Tan Powder Coat Blade Review

Let’s Dive into ESEE Laser Strike w/ Tan Powder Coat Blade

The ESEE Laser Strike w/ Tan Powder Coat Blade isn’t just another knife; it’s a survival tool meticulously crafted by ESEE to be a dependable companion in the wilderness. With its robust 1095 carbon steel blade, canvas micarta handle, and integrated survival features, it promises to be more than just a cutting instrument. I’ve always been a fan of ESEE knives, their reputation for toughness is well earned, and the Laser Strike piqued my interest due to its integrated fire-starting capabilities.

I’ve spent years searching for the perfect blend of cutting power and survival preparedness in a single tool. Many knives I’ve tested either lacked the durability for demanding tasks or failed to offer practical survival features. The promise of a full tang blade, integrated fire starter, and comfortable handle made the ESEE Laser Strike w/ Tan Powder Coat Blade a very compelling option.

Upon unboxing, the heft and solid construction of the ESEE Laser Strike w/ Tan Powder Coat Blade immediately impressed me. The tan powder coat on the blade gave it a tactical, yet understated appearance, and the canvas micarta handle felt secure and comfortable in my hand. The sheath, while simple, appeared durable and functional.

I considered the Benchmade Bushcrafter 162 and the Fallkniven F1 before settling on the ESEE Laser Strike w/ Tan Powder Coat Blade. The Benchmade, while undeniably high quality, lacked the integrated fire-starting features, and the Fallkniven, with its laminated steel, felt less robust for heavy-duty tasks. The ESEE Laser Strike w/ Tan Powder Coat Blade, with its combination of brute strength and survival essentials, seemed like the best all-around choice.

My initial impression was one of excitement, bordering on anticipation. The ESEE Laser Strike w/ Tan Powder Coat Blade felt like a tool I could trust my life to in a survival situation. It wasn’t just a knife; it was a preparedness package.

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Real-World Testing: Putting ESEE Laser Strike w/ Tan Powder Coat Blade to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real test of the ESEE Laser Strike w/ Tan Powder Coat Blade was during a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. I used it for everything from preparing kindling and feathering sticks to food preparation and general camp chores. The dense forest provided a variety of testing conditions.

The ESEE Laser Strike w/ Tan Powder Coat Blade performed admirably, even after a light rain. The micarta handle remained grippy, and the blade retained its edge remarkably well. I did have to adjust my technique slightly when using the spine for striking a ferro rod, but overall, the knife felt intuitive and capable.

I encountered a slight learning curve when utilizing the divot in the handle for the bow drill method. This was something I had not practiced extensively prior to my outing. There were no other issues after the first outing.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the ESEE Laser Strike w/ Tan Powder Coat Blade continues to impress. I’ve used it during numerous camping trips, bushcrafting sessions, and even some light yard work. Its performance remained consistent across all tasks.

The tan powder coat finish has held up surprisingly well, showing only minor scratches and wear marks. The 1095 carbon steel requires occasional oiling to prevent rust, but it’s a small price to pay for the blade’s impressive edge retention and toughness. I maintain the blade with mineral oil every couple of weeks.

Compared to my previous experiences with other survival knives, the ESEE Laser Strike w/ Tan Powder Coat Blade has significantly outperformed them in terms of both durability and functionality. It’s become my go-to knife for any outdoor adventure. It gives me confidence that it will handle the tasks I put it through.

Breaking Down the Features of ESEE Laser Strike w/ Tan Powder Coat Blade

Specifications

• Overall Length: 10 inches. This provides ample reach for various cutting and batoning tasks while still being manageable to carry.

• Blade Length: 4 7/8 inches. A near 5-inch blade offers a sweet spot between cutting efficiency and maneuverability, well-suited for both fine work and heavier tasks.

• Blade Material: Powder Coated 1095 Carbon Steel. This steel is known for its excellent edge retention and toughness, making it ideal for demanding outdoor use. The powder coat adds a layer of corrosion resistance, but regular maintenance is still required.

• Handle Material: Desert Tan Canvas Micarta. Micarta is incredibly durable and provides a secure grip even in wet conditions. The tan color helps to camouflage the knife in various environments.

• Full Tang Construction: This means the blade steel extends the full length of the handle, providing maximum strength and stability. This is crucial for batoning and other heavy-duty tasks.

• Integrated Fire Starter: The handle features a divot for use with the bow drill method, and the handle stores a ferro rod and tinder tabs. These features greatly enhance the knife’s survival capabilities.

Performance & Functionality

The ESEE Laser Strike w/ Tan Powder Coat Blade excels at a wide range of tasks, from fine cutting to heavy batoning. The blade’s geometry allows for efficient slicing and chopping, while the full tang construction provides the necessary strength for splitting wood. Its performance is impressive.

The blade’s edge retention is excellent, requiring minimal sharpening even after prolonged use. The integrated fire starter is a valuable addition, providing a reliable method for starting a fire in adverse conditions. It really is a versatile tool.

However, the 1095 carbon steel is susceptible to rust if not properly maintained. Also, the divot for the bow drill method may require practice to master. Some users have also noted that the powder coat finish can be prone to scratching.

Design & Ergonomics

The ESEE Laser Strike w/ Tan Powder Coat Blade boasts a robust and functional design. The canvas micarta handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, even when wet. The overall balance of the knife is excellent, making it easy to handle for extended periods.

The sheath is simple and functional, providing secure retention of the knife. However, some users may find it lacks the adjustability and versatility of more advanced sheath systems. The black molded sheath is basic, but effective.

There’s a slight learning curve associated with using the bow drill divot effectively. However, the overall design is intuitive and user-friendly. The knife is comfortable in the hand.

Durability & Maintenance

The ESEE Laser Strike w/ Tan Powder Coat Blade is built to last. The 1095 carbon steel blade is incredibly tough and can withstand significant abuse. The canvas micarta handle is also highly durable and resistant to wear and tear.

However, the 1095 carbon steel requires regular maintenance to prevent rust. It’s essential to clean and oil the blade after each use, especially in humid environments. Simple upkeep will keep the knife in great condition.

The ESEE Laser Strike w/ Tan Powder Coat Blade is relatively easy to maintain. A simple sharpening stone and some mineral oil are all that’s needed to keep the blade in top condition. Repairs are generally straightforward, and ESEE offers excellent customer support.

Accessories and Customization Options

The ESEE Laser Strike w/ Tan Powder Coat Blade comes with a molded sheath, a clip plate, an OD green nylon lanyard, a ferro rod, tinder tabs, and an ESEE survival card. The inclusion of these items adds significant value to the package.

While there are limited direct customization options for the knife itself, the sheath can be easily modified or replaced with aftermarket options. Some users have added paracord wraps to the handle for increased grip and comfort. The ESEE line of accessories can also be used.

The ESEE Laser Strike w/ Tan Powder Coat Blade is compatible with various aftermarket sheaths and accessories, allowing users to tailor the knife to their specific needs and preferences. These additional parts can be found at any reputable outdoor supply store.

Pros and Cons of ESEE Laser Strike w/ Tan Powder Coat Blade

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Who Should Buy ESEE Laser Strike w/ Tan Powder Coat Blade?

The ESEE Laser Strike w/ Tan Powder Coat Blade is perfect for survivalists, bushcrafters, campers, and anyone who spends time in the outdoors and values a reliable and versatile survival tool. It’s a must have for those who prioritize preparedness and self-reliance.

Beginners might find the maintenance requirements of the 1095 steel a bit daunting. Those looking for a purely lightweight backpacking knife might find it a bit heavy.

A quality sharpening stone and a bottle of mineral oil are must-have accessories. A more versatile sheath system could also enhance the knife’s functionality.

Conclusion on ESEE Laser Strike w/ Tan Powder Coat Blade

The ESEE Laser Strike w/ Tan Powder Coat Blade is a highly capable and reliable survival tool that lives up to the ESEE reputation for quality and toughness. Its combination of a robust blade, comfortable handle, and integrated survival features makes it an excellent choice for anyone who values preparedness and self-reliance in the outdoors. It performs as well as it looks.

At $129.73, the price is justified by the knife’s exceptional durability, performance, and included survival features. It’s an investment in a tool that can potentially save your life in a survival situation. It is well worth the price.

I wholeheartedly recommend the ESEE Laser Strike w/ Tan Powder Coat Blade to anyone looking for a dependable and versatile survival knife. Gear up, get out there, and explore with confidence knowing you have a reliable tool by your side. Purchase your ESEE Laser Strike w/ Tan Powder Coat Blade today!