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cold steel voyager vs. esee 6: which camping knife reigns supreme

By Hank Johnson

Published: 20 Mar 2025

So, there I was, knee-deep in mud, wrestling with a particularly stubborn branch. My trusty Cold Steel Voyager was doing its job, but I couldn't shake this nagging feeling. Was this really the best knife for the job? I'd seen a lot of folks raving about the ESEE 6, and the doubt was planting itself firmly in my head. That's when I decided – a head-to-head showdown was in order! This wasn't just going to be a knife review; it was going to be a camping knife battle for the ages!

The Contenders: Cold Steel Voyager vs. ESEE 6

Let's introduce our gladiators. First up, the Cold Steel Voyager. This thing's a tank, known for its durability and strength. Its robust design makes it a true workhorse. Then we've got the ESEE 6 – a more refined blade, often praised for its versatility and precision. Think of it as the more elegant, yet equally capable, competitor. Which would emerge victorious? Only one way to find out.

Blade Shape and Size: A Tale of Two Styles

The Voyager boasts a clip point blade – perfect for piercing and general utility. I found myself using this a ton for preparing food and whittling. The ESEE 6, on the other hand, has a drop point blade, which is amazing for batoning and chopping through thicker branches and wood. Both were excellent tools, but tailored for slightly different tasks. Its the kind of thing that really comes down to personal preference.

Steel and Durability: Built to Last?

Both knives are built to withstand serious abuse. The Voyager, with its AUS 8A steel, showed impressive edge retention – it held up to a ton of wear and tear. The ESEE 6, featuring 1095 high carbon steel, also impressed me; it has a toughness that is really remarkable, and I honestly think it held up even better than the voyager, but it can also be more difficult to sharpen.

Ergonomics and Grip: Comfort is Key

This is where things got interesting. The Voyager's handle felt good in my hand, providing a solid and secure grip, even when wet or muddy – that's a big plus in real-world camping conditions. The ESEE 6’s handle had its own unique appeal – more contoured, maybe a little more comfortable for extended use. To be honest, the differences are subtle, which one was better, again, comes down to preference.

Sheath and Carry: Practical Considerations

The Voyager comes with a pretty good nylon sheath. It's functional and sturdy, nothing fancy, but gets the job done. The ESEE 6's kydex sheath, however, is in a whole other league. It's super secure, allows for multiple carry positions, and just feels more premium. Honestly, ESEE really went above and beyond here.

The Verdict: Which Knife Reigns Supreme?

So, after putting these two knives through their paces, what's the final verdict? It's tough! The Cold Steel Voyager is a fantastic all-arounder, durable, affordable, and a true workhorse. But the ESEE 6 edged it out (pun intended) for me with it's superior blade steel, and better sheath. The ESEE 6 is the superior knife for heavy duty bushcraft and survival tasks. What do you think?

A Final Thought: It's About You

Ultimately, the best camping knife is the one that feels right in your hand and suits your needs. This wasn't just a comparison; it was a journey of discovering what works best for me. What about you? What are your go-to camping knives? Let's chat in the comments below!