Fake Izula

[Lobster]

When I used someone's original ESEE Izula for a couple of hours a while ago, I was struck by the simple but pretty design and the performance of the knife. But to me, it is still a very simple knife made of carbon steel that rusts rather quickly, yet costs 75$ or more. So I bought a set of 4 fake ones from AE for under 26$
.

The knife’s 4 mm stock is made into a skeletonized full tang knife with a large hole at the butt. With my average size hands, I can just grab the handle in a full grip. While I love the minimalist handle design, a paracord wrap greatly improves the grip and ergonomics of the knife. About 15 mm of jimping on the spine add to the blade control for delicate work. Visually, these knives are absolutely identical to the originals, only the serial number gives the fake away, it is 41455 on every knife.  

The drop point blade is advertised as 440 steel, is full flat ground and has a nice belly. Out of the box the knives were blunt. I find them not easy to sharpen but they have good edge retention. The entire knife is powder coated, I got 4 colors, black, venom green, ant red and pink. The coating is slightly rough but it gets smooth over time, it will chip though when you hit steel with an edge. Because of its size, it will not cut everything with ease but you'll get it done. I use it as a backup knife, but it shines at wood processing when getting a fire going and at wood carving. Because it is small and light it is very comfortable to wear as a neck knife. I also like the knives fresh colors, it’s a welcome change.

The knives come with a simple but effective ABS sheath that can be worn on a belt, lashed to other gear or around the neck.
The blade doesn't rattle and when held by the sheath and shaken the knife will not fall out.

I am aware of the original ESEE Izula's stellar heat treat and lifetime warranty and i understand that this has a price. But given the basic design and steel used, its retail price is very high for what is in essence a backup knife. I would still buy the fake over the original anytime again.

[Moose]

Another excellent review with great pictures. I have both this version and a couple of the reputedly D2 steel version which came shaving sharp out of the box and are finished to a much higher standard overall. I even bought a set of Izula mircarta scales (which cost more than the knife!) and these have added greatly to the ergonomics in use but make it too heavy for comfortable neck carry. I will add photos later.

PS I'm digging the handle wrap you have on yours. Good colour choice. Nicely done.

[Lobster]

Thanks Moose, I am glad you like the paracord wrap!
I also like those Micarta scales but the cost has made me shy away from buying them. I am planning to make a pair of wooden handles for one of them, I'll post some pics once I'm done.

[Moose]

An invasion of Izula clones:







The insert in the mircarta scales needed a little trimming to fit the internal gap in the clone.

Having used this blade to make feather sticks, prep foods and when carving a spoon I can see why Esee brought out the Izula 2.

There feels like there is enough handle on the Izula to do the job but an extra 5mm would allow my hand to control the knife more comfortably; turning it from being a great little back up knife into a great little primary knife.

Wood handles sounds good; looking forward to seeing the pics.

[Lobster]

Thanks for sharing Moose, nice bunch of ants you have there.
I am currently traveling for work but i should have a few days off when i return in June I will get onto the wooden handles then!

[quadroach]

nice colours

[elianalucy]

Thanks for such a comprehensive guide. I was looking for a some some good Quality Steak Knife and I have found Amushome Steak Knifes company, I ordered a steak knife from their official website and I found it very to use and the price is also very reasonable.