ESEE 3 vs ESEE Izula vs Benchmade Hidden Canyon

[STAxel]

I'm trying to decide between the ESEE-3 (s35v), ESEE Izula (s35v), or Benchmade Hidden Canyon (s30v). Main purpose will be for field dressing game (antelope/deer/elk). I know both brands have great reputations. Just curious to hear everyone's personal experience, and to hear any comparisons between the knifes.

 

[philos]

I am happy with my Izula II. I’m not sure I would go with s35v though as I believe it is more brittle than 1095. I’ve used it on all 3 species you mentioned

 

[wesfromky]

You might also add the ESEE AGK in the mix - I am waiting for the s35vn version to be released.

 

[PVS]

I have multiple Izula's and 3's. An izula 2 is my edc fixed vkade and it's a perfect complement to a folder for harder use tasks. I wouldn't want to use it for extended periods of time as the handle just isn't large enough or contoured for continuous use. The new 3d scales on the Esee 3 are a definite improvement and make the knife very comfortable. If I had to pick one as a field knife the choice is easily the Esee 3 for me. Keep in mind irs substantially larger and heavier than an izula even though the blade length is only an about inch longer.

I'd also add, I'm a big fan of 1095 for hard use woods knives, but not necessarily for processing game. I have the 3 in 1095 amd s35vn and often grab the s35vn versiom for fishing and hunting.

 

[bsnedeker]

Get the s90v blade from Ridge Belts....it's 90 bucks. Came reasonably sharp and I put a mirror-edge on it. I used my benchmade s90v folder on my bull last season and it was still shaving sharp. It was a PITA to clean so I picked up this Ridge blade for my kill kit.

 

[displacedtexan]

I have the Hidden Canyon, and s35vn Izula (as well as a 1095 Izula 2)

The 3 is way heavier than I'd want for hunting use.

The Hidden Canyon is definitely a nicer knife, with a nicer sheath.

But I don't feel like it really offers anything my Izula doesn't.

 

[Rob5589]

I dressed one deer with the Izula 2 and said never again. Great little knife, just not enough handle when it gets goopy. I also didn't feel the edge held up well.

 

[Flaboy]

Like I stated in another post of yours, I have the previous model of the hidden canyon hunter in s30v and it’s been great. I believe the newer model comes in s90v.