Hogue Knives EX04 Upswept Knife Black/Gray GMascus (3.5" Plain) 34479

The knife is very well made. Fit and finish are top notch. The handle and hardware are just beautiful. The action on the knife is super smooth and it feels like a tank. Out the box the blade is super sharp. The push button lock gets 10 stars in my opinion. I own 2 Syderco Knifes and I dare to say I like this lock better (Don't tel my PM2 that!!) The pocket clip works very well, going in and coming out of your pocket. Due to the up-swept design there is a lot to grab pulling the knife out. At the same token that up-swept pocket clip design does create a small hot spot in your hand. Something I may look to change over time. Would I like to see some jimping on the blade and/or handle? YES, but I still would buy this knife again.

The ergonomics on this knife are very good. Handle fits well in the hand. The clip is very good, shape and function-wise, but keep in mind its right side tip down only. The action is very good for a manual open knife. Very easy to swing open and shut by holding the button lock with your thumb. My only issue with the knife was the edge. It looked nice and polished, but it just wasn't sharp out of the box. I couldn't even open an envelope. At least 154CM is easy enough to sharpen. After some time on my sharp maker it's much better now. Overall, I really like the knife, but be ready to touch up the edge when you get it.

I bought this knife a few years ago. Made well, looks nice! But I could open faster buy hand, I should have returned it. It’s like spring is to weak to snap heavy blade open. So now it is just a safe queen.