"Hogue EX01: Tough Guy" by Nutnfancy

Published on September 26, 2012
Duration: 27:22

This review of the Hogue EX01 tactical folding knife, designed by Elisha Witz, covers its suitability as a hard-use defensive tool and a fun EDC item. The reviewer details two models: one with an aluminum handle and a drop point blade, and another with a sculpted G10 handle. Key aspects discussed include blade shape, steel quality (154CM), handle ergonomics, lockup, and the knife's overall tactical philosophy of use, with comparisons to other popular tactical folders.

Quick Summary

The Hogue EX01 is a US-produced tactical folding knife designed by Elisha Witz, featuring a 4-inch blade made of cryogenically treated 154CM steel. It's considered a hard-use defensive tool and a fun EDC option, with available aluminum or G10 handles. While praised for its blade quality and deployment speed, criticisms include ineffective gimping and a 'goofy' clip design.

Chapters

  1. 00:04Introduction
  2. 00:19Hogue EX01 Overview
  3. 00:56Model Variations
  4. 01:49Philosophy of Use
  5. 02:30Tactical Blades
  6. 03:04Fun Knife Philosophy
  7. 04:06EDC Considerations
  8. 05:17Comparing the Two Models
  9. 06:05Weight Discussion
  10. 06:20Blade Aesthetics and Functionality
  11. 06:41Other EX01 Variations
  12. 07:16Blade Lengths
  13. 08:03Big Blades in Tactical Use
  14. 09:14Blade Details
  15. 10:05Drop Point Functionality
  16. 10:30Blade Grind and Swedge
  17. 11:00Hard Use Durability
  18. 11:37Strength for Tactical Use
  19. 11:51Deployment Speed
  20. 12:45Lockup Tightness
  21. 13:06Lock Mechanism
  22. 14:04Handle Construction (No Liners)
  23. 14:46Thumb Studs
  24. 15:15Handle Ergonomics
  25. 16:01Gimping Criticism
  26. 16:48G10 Milling
  27. 17:00Aluminum vs. G10 Ergonomics
  28. 17:15Pivot Point and Lock Actuator Criticism
  29. 18:09Automatic Lock Engagement
  30. 19:16Lanyard Hole
  31. 19:56Clip Criticism
  32. 20:43Clip Modification
  33. 21:27Clip Feature/Ability
  34. 21:42Durability
  35. 21:57Blade Steel Durability
  36. 22:20Customer Satisfaction
  37. 22:41Value and Options
  38. 23:22Competitive Options
  39. 23:27SOG Paramilitary 2 Comparison
  40. 23:50Benchmade 810 Contigo Comparison
  41. 24:27Emerson CQC-8 Comparison
  42. 25:21Cold Steel Recon 1 Comparison
  43. 25:55Benchmade 15020 Comparison
  44. 26:36Competitive Options Summary
  45. 26:41Downsides Recap
  46. 26:54Lockup and Durability
  47. 27:01Blade Steel and Price
  48. 27:08Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main philosophies of use for the Hogue EX01 tactical folding knife?

The Hogue EX01 is primarily considered a hard-use tactical folding knife, suitable for emergency defensive roles. It's also described as a 'fun knife' for general EDC use and fidgeting due to its satisfying opening action and ergonomics.

What type of steel is used in the Hogue EX01 blade and how is it treated?

The Hogue EX01 features a blade made from 154CM steel. This steel is cryogenically treated, a process that enhances its toughness, edge retention, and overall performance, making it a reliable choice for tactical applications.

What are the reported weights for the different Hogue EX01 models?

The 4-inch blade aluminum handle version weighs 5.8 oz, while the G10 handle version weighs 5.2 oz. Smaller 3.5-inch blade versions are lighter: aluminum at 4.6 oz and G10 at 4.3 oz.

What criticisms are raised about the Hogue EX01's design?

The primary criticisms include the gimping, which is described as ineffective, and the 'goofy' spoon-bill clip design. Some users also find the lock actuator placement on the G10 model to be an ergonomic miss, potentially causing accidental engagement.

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