The Hogue EX-04 tactical folder is a collaboration between Hogue and custom knife-maker Allen Elishewitz. This collaboration has brought about several design changes, most notably the inclusion of G-Mascus handgun grip material into Hogue’s Extreme Series designs.
To put the Hogue EX-04 to a true everyday-carry test, Tactical Knives’ Tim Stetzer, decided to carry dueling 4-inch versions of the tactical folder over a period of two months. Sporting upswept- and Wharncliffe-style blades on his EX-04s, Stetzer immediately noted improved handing in the EX-04 design thanks to the new grip material. “It’s a superbly comfortable handle, and the G-Mascus, with its lightly bead-blasted finish, gives a good grip either wet or dry,” noted Stetzer. “My hand locks solidly into place on the knife and I always felt firmly in control, even when doing powerful stabs and slashes with it.”

After two months of everyday use, Stetzer came away with a renewed respect for the Extreme Series and the EX-04’s design. “The combination of good handle design and edge geometry, along with an excellent factory edge, made the EX-04s very efficient cutting machines,” said Stetzer in his review.

For the full review, check out the March 2014 issue of Tactical Knives, available on newsstands and digitally November 19, 2013. To subscribe, go to /.