First Fixed Blade

[Coyote3855]

I have both an ESEE 3 and a Buck 102. Either one will serve you well.

 

[Litlman]

White River knives makes a 3 inch "backpacker" S30V. Kydex sheath, with para chord wrap like $90.

 

[Girodin]

I have an Izula II on my belt right now. I think it's a great "little big knife."

I agree with others that of your two choices I'd rather have the Izula because of the difference in steel if nothing else.

 

[cdk8]

The ESEE is wayyyyyyyyyyyyyy superior to the CRKT. The ESEE uses steel that is appropriate and desirable for a fixed blade, where as the CRKT not so much. The ESEE likely has superior geometry.

The RAT and Becker lineups are also great fixed blades for the price. And while expensive, Busse makes a hell of a nice knife. Kershaw/ZT often have some really nice fixed blades too. For example, ZT makes the 0100 from a steel called CPM-3V and it is an absolutely insanely awesome steel...

In terms of a blade steel for an affordable but capable fixed blade, steels like 1095 or 52100 will give outstanding performance.

Another name worth mentioning is Bark River. They make an outstanding product from the finest knife materials around. They are using steels like A2, CPM-3V, 20CV, CTS-XHP, CPM-154, etc., their heat treatments are among the best in the industry, and the blade geometry is arguably some of the finest around.

 

[TEAM101]

Esee doesn't make a knife as ergonomic as the CRKT Fisch IMO. My Fisch is as sharp and retains an edge as well or better than any Buck I have owned, doesn't rust like my 1095 and tool steel knives, and was affordable. It will meet your needs just fine.

 

[Sav .250]

There are so many goods ones available , You never really know if you got the right one.