ESEE Authentic Model 5 Tactical Survival Fixed Blade Knife - Ambidextrous Kydex Sheath - SERE Team Designed (ESEE-5P-OD-E)

I know my review will become just one of the millions out there so I hope I can shed at least some helpful light in your purchase decision. Incidentally, I paid for this knife with my own funds and have zero personal contact with ESEE nor do I know anyone who works there or even sells knives.So, getting into it, I know this type of knife is so polarizing. Amongst outdoorsmen, "survivalists", mall-ninja's, preppers, and even among survival instructors no matter is written, it will be met with criticism.In fact, Jeff Randall (the guy who designed the knife and owns the company that builds them) has stated this is his least-favorite knife in the entire ESEE line-up. Given this renowned survival expert's usual operational context (primarily jungles), his disdain is understandable.However, for my use and context (the Rocky Mountains area), and my history in other 4-season environs, the design is excellent. It's not the only edged tool I carry and the times I've used this knife it has performed with excellence.The knife keeps it edge fairly well (depending on use and care to avoid rocks/stones/bones) and re-sharpens with out too much problem. The point is very strong - like nearly unbelievably strong - so I had no concerns it would snap off in the times I needed to gouge out some material.I like the ergonomics a lot and am able to carve things fairly well. That said, much of the knife's use for me is for larger tasks like shelter building, bone/cartilage separation, splitting/batoning wood, etc. I do not "chop" with knives much at all so I can't speak to that functionality, but for the few tasks which require a bit of chopping, it has done just fine.The sheath is very good quality and the retention is super.It is a hefty blade for sure so if you're looking to keep the pound count low, this may not be the best option for you. For me, I will sacrifice in other areas to ensure I have a fail-safe edged tool. YMMV.

Well designed for this style and price. Very heavy duty. I especially appreciated the ambidextrous design of the sheath! I'm a leftie and often can find sheaths that work for me!

What an incredible knife! If you want something basically indestructible, very sharp, and something you can hand down to the next generation in your family...this is it! It’s well balanced, super thick blade will allow you to use it to split, shave and curl wood. It could even be used as a pry if needed.The sheath it comes with is very handy and a good snug fit. You slide a screw tab to lock the knife in. It will not come out if it’s locked! There is an optional molle case from ESEE and a pouch that can be added.The warranty is unheard of! No matter who owns this knife, no matter how old it is...the company put a life long warranty on it! Plus, it’s made in America

Very durable and reliable knife. the Adjustable sheathe is much appreciated, I'm going to get a lot of use out of this blade.

I received an Esee 5 that was used (handles) and requested a replacement but it was lost in the mail. However, this does not take way from the quality of the knife but does speak to the character of the seller.The knife is AWESOME and has a 5.25 inch blade, and .25 thickness. The handles are micarta and provide excellent gripping. I never thought I would purchase anything od green, or any shade of green, after leaving the military, but I love the od green blade. The pommel/glass breaker would serve as another option for self- defense.Please review the videos about the Esee 5’s woodworking abilities because I have no interest in woodcraft. I did 4 years in the 82nd Abn Div and did my time in the woods, but honestly, it was not about camping. For me, this is my “Get Home Safely” knife accompanied by my BK11.This is my first Esee and I am impressed since I am Kabar & Becker enthusiast. I like the Esee 5 so much I will buy another to have should something happen to this one. Esee’s “no questions” asked warranty is AWESOME. However, it is hard to imagine breaking this tank of a knife. I had ordered a BK2 just because, but returned it because I was not up to ordering micarta handles and a kydex sheath as I have for my other Becker knives; plus there was no use for it other than adding to my knife collection.In all this is a great knife and worth every penny.

Great Knife! A beast at a 1/4 “ thick , designed for crashed pilots as a survival knife you can see why. If I was lost in the wilderness this is the knife I would want. So I bought my son one too for his birthday , orange his favorite color. I would want him to have the best as well. The quality in craftsmanship you can see and feel when you hold it . Company has a lifetime warranty one of the best I’ve seen. I’ve added a fire stick, para-cord and a couple items just in case . “ see photo” Heavy for everyday use for that I have the ESEE 4 you can read my review in that as well .. great knives ! Glad I bought them.

Esse is an outstanding knife manufacturer that consistently turns out sone of the most well thought out, designed, and manufactured knives in the business! A company who is confident enough in the care, quality of materials, and craftsmanship that goes into their product they offer a no questions asked, repair or replace policy for the lifetime of the knife!! Esse is a company that I would never hesitate to do business with and I strongly recommend to anyone looking for a durable knife that you can literally beat the $h#% out off and it laughs it off! To me, the customer service and peace of mind you know you will automatically get when spending your hard earned money with these folks (just in case..things can happen) is all you can really ever ask! Way to go, Esse!

This knife is the perfect tool for bushcraft. It's very well made, and it looks better in person. If you're looking for a great knife that can do many different tasks, look no further. Plus you will look way cooler on camping, or hunting trips.

Good stuff