My first experience with Hogue as knifemanufacturer was the EX01 4″ with G10 scales. A button lock designed by Allen Elishewitz. I bought it on the secondary market. The action was gritty, the edge was damaged and there was not a lot to love.

I took it apart and cleaned it thoroughly. A little lube and all put together. After some tweaking I got a wonderful smooth action without play and completely centered. Now I had a big, sturdy user completely according to my taste in that time. I carried and used it very often and it never disappointed me. Once in a while a little stropping and cleaning was enough to keep it in excellent condition.

Afterwards I bought a few other Hogue designs as well. All were very good. Whenever you have the chance to get one, try one if you like big sturdy hard use knives. The quality is there!