Cheap, but not so cheerful
Originally, I was looking to buy a CS Master Hunter on the used market. Sadly, someone got in there before me, which left me with more money than I'd planned for, and a hankering for a big, beefy camp knife. The Elk Ridge Evolution was there to fill this gap. Sadly, it wasn't all I'd hoped for. I knew what to expect going in, and was reasonably impressed overall. The design is great - ergonomic in hand, and built to survive a beating. However, there were some of the usual issues you'd expect at this price - a functional, but inexpensive sheath, unimpressive fit and finish in regard to handle fitment, and a useable, but not all that sharp edge. None of these would've been good reason to knock any stars off, that's all to be expected at this price. Unfortunately, there were some bigger issues. The first issue - both of the two screws that holds the handle on are pretty chewed up, and it wouldn't take much to finish off stripping the head out completely. That's something of a concern if it needs a clean, tighten, or replacement. The second issue - the sharpening stone it comes with arrived broken. Completely snapped in two. I can only assume this happened in the factory, because it was in bags, in bubble wrap, in a box, in another bag, and then in a padded Jiffy bag. I'm not too fussed; I'd've likely used a better sharpening method anyway, but it is something to note for those who wanted it. The third issue - the uneven grind. The primary bevel - the hollow ground area, is spot on. No complaints. The edge, however, was awful. Literally twice as shallow one one side compared to the other, and it really shows. To top it off, it had small burs along the length and one discoloured area that probably got too hot during the grinding, which might've ruined the heat treat. I've been at it with a coarse oilstone for about an hour trying to even it up, and it's still not where I'd want it to be. Not very impressive in the least... Unfortunately, those three things warrant a couple of stars knocked off. They're simple issues that would be easy to remedy had a bit more time and care been taken in manufacture, but are a nightmare to deal with once the knife actually arrives. I'm generally not one for bad reviews, but it's worth sharing in case others buy it only to be disappointed. It's still a decent piece, and if yours arrives without my 'Big Three' problems, it'll be a great buy that'll last you a long time. Unfortunately, I received something that was a bit sub-par, and any of you could do too. As usual, excellent service from HH. I probably could've returned it, but since it was no fault of theirs I'd feel bad lumbering them with it. Ah well, live and learn; I just don't think I'll be buying an Elk Ridge again. Thanks.