You give the most clear and concise reviews on knives of anyone on RUclips. I think I might have to pick one of these up, it's fairly simple and extremely durable looking knife
Carry mine every day, used as often as possible and it performs fantastically. The coating on the blade has worn off but the edge holds extremely well.
I’ve handled this knife at Sportsmans warehouse in Kentucky and it definitely is a hoss of a knife. To me, unless I get a pouch to carry this in, it’s a no-go. Takes up the entire pocket. It’s worth the money to someone that’s a police officer, emt, S&R, or military. To them, I’d say GET IT!!!
This SOG SEAL XR definitely 110% gets my admiration! I wish I had the extra cash to go pick one of these up actually... thanks for the great review & compassion buddy!🔪🤙🏻🤘🏻💪🏻🇺🇸
I like my Benahmade Griptillian, but the XR seems like it is more of a genuine work knife that can stand up to heavy use around the house, at work, and on the trail. I like the idea of a heavy use folder because it is easier to conceal and wearing a fixed blade on your belt gets a lot of negative attention. Thanks for this excellent review.
I absolutely love the looks of the seal xr, and the cutting capability vs its size and thickness is impressive. But when you compared it to the recon 1, it seems alot less practical for their intended purpose. It feels like they tried to make a hard-use fidget knife, and in my opinion they should remain separate flavors. But that's just me.
Hi @gideonstactical first I want to thank you for your content for me you are the best knives reviewers out there. I am a big fan from Algeria. I bought the Seal XR, when there is no review yet on the net and I love It the s35vn is awesome no issue with the gimping and really I think the XR lock is even better then the axis lock also the GRN or GFN that sog is using is incredible no comparison with plastic material of other companies. Nice knife 8n overall.
Waiting for it to become available on Amazon at a reasonable price. Was not in the market for yet another knife, but this one is designed for ‘unique’ applications. SOG finally outdid themselves this time.
I love it! I think I have waited a year for this to come out. Idk why no one else has reviewed it yet. This is the sog I have been wanting and waiting for. Thank you for the review you are always doing a great job on the vids.
Aaron I waited and waited for it to drop . I finally was able to order it on black Friday and holy crap was I shocked when I got it. Every complaint I've ever had about a SOG folder doesn't exist on this knife. It's a 100% home run.
Live in Maryland, this makes better sense than a fixed blade for edc. We can have( outside of a couple metro areas) any size folder, but no length fixed can be concealed. Must be open carry.
Finally got one of these! I love it. Super sturdy and overbuilt. Probably going to replace my benchmade adamas....which was my favorite monster folder. Thanks Aaron!
I like the idea of an overly built folder, it would definitely be a plus for people who work outdoors for a living. And in an urban setting if/when a “Situation “ was to ever happen. Thanks Aaron have a great weekend
This knife looks awesome. I really like the newer SOG knives you have reviewed. I'd like to get this and the Flash. That Pillar is awesome too. SOG hasn't really hit my radar much till now. I thought they were mostly all low end Chinese made stuff which they still have lots of but this higher end and mid range stuff looks great. Thanks for showing them all to us.
Update ; I've had this knife around 12 months now and it has held up Fantastically, I'm a hard use guy and I don't like bearings but surprisingly I haven't had any problems with these , the detent finally broke in and is now smooth as "budda" and I'm super impressed with Sog's heat treat on this S35VN, they did an excellent job with it , it's one of the Best I've used , this knife is flat out Awesome , and I'm a Huge Cold Steel Fan , I never even liked Sog because of their poor quality, but obviously that has all changed and they have come out with some cool designs and finally upgrade their old ones , which is great. If this knife had Bronze washers I would put it right next to my Cold Steel Recon 1's , AD10 , and 4 Max as one of the Best hard use knives out , but the washers still hold it back in that category, for me , but still a Fantastic blade. Also, this knife is Super Grippy with all the jimping , so if you have soft hands or work in a office , this knife is definitely NOT for you .....🤭🤣😜😹
Still holding good? I'm not a connoisseur, I'm now gathering data to search for some good knives that I'll probably buy this year. I think I'm definitely gonna buy the Seal XR, I'm not really gonna use it that much, but I like the look of it and it seems like one that, hopefully, I could pass on to a son. Since you seem knowledgeable, if you'd be so kind and have any advice or anything to some of my concerns laid below. With the XR, and my limited use of it, I imagine I could keep it for years without needing to try to disassemble it and grease it or anything. Right? Would it be safe to use to open cans and whatnot and not have to really worry for the coating to scratch? Should I just in case try to oil the blade from time to time? They now have a version where they put some titanium inside to reduce weight, and they also have the blade with magnacut. It's insane how much more lighter it is now. Supposedly, from 235 grams to 159 grams. The new version would indeed be better, right? I'm a bit worried cause sometimes modifications are made just for marketing and may even be worse than the original, and I do want my piece to last and last. I'm thinking buying also another folder, haven't decided which, that would be a tad more lightweight, but that would also last a long time. I would imagine a recon 1 or ad-10 would be good, but the XR is already pretty big, I'm a short fellow, I have a hard time for now finding a good knive that is a tad smaller. The mini or lite versions seem to be a tad too small or with a blade quality that I would imagine is not good enough if you hope to last for years and years, 8CR or AUS8. I need something like elmax, S35 or sleipner, right? About the finish, I see some saying that stonewash is better than to have coating, cause in time it will look better. Is that so, or if it's a good brand, cerakote or some other finishes are good enough that you won't worry much for scratches? If you have any thoughts about those aspects. Thanks.
SOG has always built some heftier folders along with their typical middle to lightweight offerings. They don't get much exposure because people tend to think of SOG as a lower cost builder. It's a shame because they do build some great blades. Writing them off is akin to ignoring the Chevy Corvette because the same company also built the Chevette. 😂 Thanks for the review!
Ok... so I never imagined I would lay out this kind of dough for a knife, but I just did. My first multi-tool was a used SOG, and I have liked SOG products ever since. Too bad that original SOG multi-tool got swiped. I used to be a minimalist/lightest weight item kind of guy until I realized that a puny tool is just that - a puny tool that may not do the job when needed. My EDC carry is now all fully capable or I won’t carry the weight at all. I know this is a heavy knife - thanks for the comparison to the weight of a Leatherman Wave; that gave me the reference point I needed. Nice report. Thanks. Subbed.
I just bought one, and I can’t believe how easily this beef cake flips open! So far very impressed. It just might replace my griptilian 550hg. Great video boss🤙🏻
Thanks for going into great detail with these knives. I appreciate it big time. It really helps me when making a decision on my next knife. Those guys from blade hq can learn something. 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼
Love this KNIFE SOG!! Got it last week and it is a MONSTER!!. Great for Self-defense also.. S35VN is my new favorite material. The jimping in my opinion is for gloved hands in wet and COLD below freezing conditions. It basically is a COMBAT FOLDER for LE or Military use. Lefty friendly for sure. The Gerber doesn't make a lefty auto which is ridiculous!!!. Not many companies do. PRO-TECH thank GOD does!!.. 💥👍👌SOG 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟STAR'S F.F.finish!!
I handled this knife. With gloves it was fine. WITHOUT gloves, it was a hot mess. It assured me that my Cold Steel Recon 1 Spear Point Desert Warrior was the best purchase for me. Thanks for the video my Bladed Brother 👍⚔️✝️
Nice review. Hey, I bought a Microtech Socom Elite in July and carry it most days. It's large 9-3/16" OAL, 5-3/16" handle, and 9/16" thick, but only weighs 4.7 oz. and has 204P steel. A very heavy duty knife that's barely affordable 4" blade. It's kinda the ideal HD knife before you need a fixed blade. In 2009 I picked up a SOG Vulcan because my job didn't allow fixed blade knives and sometimes I had to dig into dying trees. I needed a heavy knife. It was OK at the time but nothing like a Microtech.
Yes ball bearing pivot is open and prone to attract dirt, pocket dust and debris. I have a Crusader Forge Vis Metro that has bearings and I use a spray on lubricant called Rem DriLube that sprays on dry that has Teflon in it that does not attract dirt or debris. Rem DriLube is an AMAZING lubricant, I won't use anything but it.
I love mine, it’s awesome. Fantastic knife. Much better action than my terminus xr in S35VN. Too bad they didn’t use this jimping on the terminus instead of the really sharp jimping you see. The Kiku is next to try. Great review Aaron. 🍻
Never been a fan of tacticool or dog because that's what I mainly see in their products but really love this, and just ordered one. Made in USA and a monster of a folder. Saw the recon 1 and been wanting something similar but that had a flipper and a frame lock because of full one hand use. main goal is for camping and to throw in a bugout bag when I make one.
I see you have the first Gen, like I had . The second Gen is out with a cerakoted blade and rust resistant improved liners. They’ve also gotten away from the SOG logo. The second Gen has “Studies and Observations Group” on the presentation side instead of SOG. Great review.
Wow it’s maybe the only Folder I’d take over my Adamas lol and it’s a heck of a lot cheaper. It seems like a Beast and Made in the wonderful USA.!! Great review my Friend Semper Fidelis
Great review! It's going on my to buy list. I've never been one to measure ounces. If it serves a good purpose and fills a niche then I carry it. Maybe I will be moving a little slower in the field due to weight, but when I'm in camp I will have all the right tools! Lol
This is NOT a USA made knife. Only the blade is made in America. The remainder of the knife is made and assembled in SOG’s asian facility; not sure if that is Taiwan or China? Just wanted to point that out in case it matters to a potential purchaser. For me, I’d need to see the price drop to about $139.00 MSRP before I’d consider it. Beautiful knife regardless.
Awesome looking knife. Definitely one of those big scary looking knives that I tend to gravitate toward because I live in California, land of the sheeple and I'm the jerk who loves to draw WTF looks from them. Have you batoned it or struck a ferro rod with it? I'm really curious as to its full capability as a folding survival knife
Very interesting knife. My local dealer just got one of these again. Looking pretty strong and a part of me just loves black blades. Im just not the biggest fan of cerakoting since my cerakoted knives tend to get a lot of scratches while my dlc coated knife is holding up better. Over 8 ounzes is also a lot for a under 4 inch blade. Maybe titanium liners would have been the way to go.
The amount of sharp jimping on this knife is insane. I don't use gloves when I carry a knife, even when i was in the military and would not buy this knife because of it.
Extraordinary test, thank you very much, it has helped me to decide, it is a really good knife. My question is whether to buy it with a smooth or smooth / serrated edge, which one do you recommend?
Years ago, I purchased a Zero Tolerance ZT0200. It weighs in at 8 ounces. This is too heavy for any pants other than jeans. I found that it was much better to find a suitable pouch that I could attach to my belt. With the weight on my belt it is much better than when it was hanging onto the edge of my pocket.
Fix blade or folder would be determined by legality and useage. Fixed blade carry is not nearly as concealable as a folder. I want my EDC knife concealable since #1) I do not want an attacker aware of my knife. #2) Laws are often not friendly for open carry as they are for concealed carry. In the woods, hunting, or hiking I would choose a fixed blade since the usage would favor the stronger, fixed blade. The 2 fixed blades shown are excellent. Good info on the lock. I was not familiar with it. Blade: S35VN is a great steel for edge retention and corrosion resistance. Right length (>3.5"). Thick spine and excellent coating. Handle: Front and rear quillons, finger grooves in between, plenty of jimping = excellent grip. Butt pommel. I like a full sized. good grip, longer blade. You do a good job on reviews, covering specs, internal operation (locks, liners, etc), and testing. I have the Recon 1, and it is one of my favorite EDC folders. After viewing the video, I will purchase this knife. Love the handle design especially, overall blade design, and size.
What's your opinion of the hole on the blade to assist it in opening? I feel that's the 1 weak point in this knife. Battoning through wood i feel it could break that section of steel.
You gotta love these overbuilt american beast of knives. Here in Europe brands mostly do fishing and hunting knives. Which is great but those are not tanks like this SOG.
I like a decent sized knife as well, one that doesn't bottom out on a steak. All these little 3.2" & under pussified knives are saving me lots of money. Made in USA? I just bought one. :) Too bad they lost the skull logo...Wouldn't mind if it were a little lighter & thinner. Love the flipper/cross bar lock combo. Not sure why we don't see more configured like this.
Like the looks of this blade. I have several fixed blades, some good ones too. My folders end up getting waaay more use so I can see a heavy duty folder hitting a sweet spot beyond an EDC folder. This or the Cold Steel Ultimate Hunter Folder 3.5 in Plain G-10??? Will wait for better pricing as it’s a little pricey right now
Ive been looking at this 🔪 for a while is it still one that would good knife or is there something newer you would recommend? Thank you for your awesome videos my wife and i love them!
I really want to check out that super thin sog ultra XR I think it’s called it’s not on the market for a month or three but it uses the Benchmade lock or the hogue Abel lock fly’s open and closed one of the thinnest knives I’ve seen that can be used as a money clip if u want. It comes with really cool real carbon fiber handles and weighs under 1oz also have to say I don’t own a sog I’ve never liked their designs and logo but I have to admit they have made some knives I’d actually buy being shown at shot show 2020. PS I have a few knives for trade I’d send 1st a mint Almar sere in camo g10 handles vg10 steel made in Japan and a super thick liner lock opens and closes one handed with ease a beast just not a camo fan and it goes online for $250 my other knife is another mint condition hogue EX-05 that goes by blind for around $200 dollars sand colored aluminum handles with a crazy strong grip its a flipper that fly’s open and is easy to close one handed also and it uses cpm154 which is probably my top two favorite stainless steels along with AEB-L stainless and an older 0350kw ZT also in mint condition goes online for $125 to $150 flips great and is assisted which is why I want to trade it very thick liner a total beast great grip sporting an s30v steel blade anyone interested that seriously wants to make a fair trade hit me up if u want one of these knives I promise you will be happy some don’t come with original box but will come with a knife box from another knife with a cleaning microfiber towel and a knife pouch from hogue Benchmade HK or whatever I have laying around.
I’m a need to try to batten with it to test that locking mechanism. More info on that damn lock, and why it won’t close in the grabbing, twisting knife fight I’m hoping to win.
I all ways like your channel been a fan long time I'm considering a folder for hiking and I like the concept of a beefy folder .I always carried fixed blade and a SAK in my pocket. I'm going to change it up for a folder now see if like it.keep up the awsome work you do.
I disagree, I’ve always found SOG knives to be overpriced for what you get. Example, I’ve seen a few of there knives that were going for $60-$80 for AUS8 steel. Great video as always though. Always look forward to new reviews.
I agree,I was at Lowe’s a couple years ago and had recently misplaced my work knife (Spyderco Paramilitary 2 in S30V)..being a Lowe’s there wasn’t much variety to choose from so I ended up buying a SOG Flash 2($65) and it was complete trash..Spyderco Tenacious,OKC RAT 1,Buck 110,Buck 112,multiple Kershaw knives,etc are much better choices and can all be bought for less..1)the AUS8 had terrible edge retention,I know AUS8 is nothing special in the first place but I’m convinced the heat treatment was off..2)I don’t see the point of adding a saftey to an assisted opening folder 3)the safety is beyond annoying considering every time you take it out,you have to flip the safety off..unfortunately,you can’t leave it off without rigging it up(I epoxied it) 4)the pocket clip is as trash as it gets,it didn’t take long to lose the little retention it once had.it got so bad the knife would literally fall out of my pocket sometimes 5)it felts ridiculously cheap and was too lightweight for my liking(which some people love in a pocket knife but not me).I like a little bit of weight in my knives unless it’s a titanium knife.this Flash 2 is mostly glass filled nylon which I wouldn’t mind if it had some type of metal liners (stainless or atleast aluminum) I could squeeze the handle and feel them compressing together.I feel like I could squeeze it to the point of it breaking..there was literally nothing I liked about it.I carried it for about 2 or 3 weeks before I gave it to a coworker..with that being said,I think the upcoming Flash 3 looks like it will be a much better knife..after everything I’ve seen from Shot Show 2020,I quickly realized D2 is gonna be a really popular steel for budget knives this year..Kershaw,SOG,CRKT,Gerber,etc upcoming Chinese made models are mostly gonna be in D2 instead of AUS8,8CR13MOV,etc..which is a welcome upgrade for anyone in the market for a budget knife..D2 certainly isn’t the greatest steel in the knife world but it’s a tough steel and is good for a hard use knife..only thing I don’t like about D2 is the fact it’s a pain in the ass to sharpen..definitely a nice step up from the Chinesium
Why do you think they are releasing knives like this? They are making a comeback wether you like it or not. Any of the XR knives blow benchmade, spyderco, ZT out of the water
I've had my Seal XR for about 2 months also , it's an awesome knife , mine has a really stiff detent , so I just use the XR lock to open it. The knife is really fun to play with , but as a super hard use folder the bearings kill it for me , I would definitely take the Recon 1 or AD10 or even the Voyager over it for those situations. I also own the Terminus XR , I like it , it's wicked smooth also , I am happy to see Sog making a comeback, they have a few nice folders coming out this year too , I can't wait to get them in hand ...
"It says it can withstand 1500lbs. I'm not gonna hang 1500lbs off of it but I'm sure somebody will" *stares in Cold Steel*
😂😂😂
That's definitely not the sog I think of when they come to mind. That thing is serious. I like it.
i just ordered one for my boyfriend 😂 😊 that’s why i’m here trying to make sure i made the right decision. i got it straight from sog.
Yea. You made the right decision. It's a one sweet blade. Did your bf like it?
Damn you get him gifts like that he needs to put a 💍 on your finger.
Best choice!!! What was the reaction? Did he like it?
You know how to buy gifts for a man!! A rare quality!
Keirin that is one hell of a lovely lifetime gift. A man could carry that knife all of his life.
You give the most clear and concise reviews on knives of anyone on RUclips. I think I might have to pick one of these up, it's fairly simple and extremely durable looking knife
Kevin Roberts thanks!Glad the videos help
Carry mine every day, used as often as possible and it performs fantastically. The coating on the blade has worn off but the edge holds extremely well.
I’ve handled this knife at Sportsmans warehouse in Kentucky and it definitely is a hoss of a knife. To me, unless I get a pouch to carry this in, it’s a no-go. Takes up the entire pocket. It’s worth the money to someone that’s a police officer, emt, S&R, or military. To them, I’d say GET IT!!!
This SOG SEAL XR definitely 110% gets my admiration! I wish I had the extra cash to go pick one of these up actually... thanks for the great review & compassion buddy!🔪🤙🏻🤘🏻💪🏻🇺🇸
American steel, built like a Tank, sharp, lots of jimping and a lifetime guarantee? Yeah, I'm ordering one! Great video!
I like my Benahmade Griptillian, but the XR seems like it is more of a genuine work knife that can stand up to heavy use around the house, at work, and on the trail. I like the idea of a heavy use folder because it is easier to conceal and wearing a fixed blade on your belt gets a lot of negative attention. Thanks for this excellent review.
I absolutely love the looks of the seal xr, and the cutting capability vs its size and thickness is impressive. But when you compared it to the recon 1, it seems alot less practical for their intended purpose. It feels like they tried to make a hard-use fidget knife, and in my opinion they should remain separate flavors. But that's just me.
I have it and it actually works really well. I was stunned SOG knocked it out of the park.
Hi @gideonstactical first I want to thank you for your content for me you are the best knives reviewers out there. I am a big fan from Algeria. I bought the Seal XR, when there is no review yet on the net and I love It the s35vn is awesome no issue with the gimping and really I think the XR lock is even better then the axis lock also the GRN or GFN that sog is using is incredible no comparison with plastic material of other companies. Nice knife 8n overall.
Great review! I love my SOG Seal XR. Heck, I have most of the new / larger XRs and love them all!
Waiting for it to become available on Amazon at a reasonable price. Was not in the market for yet another knife, but this one is designed for ‘unique’ applications. SOG finally outdid themselves this time.
Have this love it! Also saw the fixed blade version is coming out gonna get it too. Thanks bud for sharing
Great job on this one SOG
I love it! I think I have waited a year for this to come out. Idk why no one else has reviewed it yet. This is the sog I have been wanting and waiting for. Thank you for the review you are always doing a great job on the vids.
Aaron I waited and waited for it to drop . I finally was able to order it on black Friday and holy crap was I shocked when I got it. Every complaint I've ever had about a SOG folder doesn't exist on this knife. It's a 100% home run.
Live in Maryland, this makes better sense than a fixed blade for edc. We can have( outside of a couple metro areas) any size folder, but no length fixed can be concealed. Must be open carry.
Finally got one of these! I love it. Super sturdy and overbuilt. Probably going to replace my benchmade adamas....which was my favorite monster folder. Thanks Aaron!
I like the idea of an overly built folder, it would definitely be a plus for people who work outdoors for a living. And in an urban setting if/when a “Situation “ was to ever happen. Thanks Aaron have a great weekend
I couldn't think of a better comparison than the recon 1 and geber 06!!!!
Great job
This knife looks awesome. I really like the newer SOG knives you have reviewed. I'd like to get this and the Flash. That Pillar is awesome too. SOG hasn't really hit my radar much till now. I thought they were mostly all low end Chinese made stuff which they still have lots of but this higher end and mid range stuff looks great. Thanks for showing them all to us.
Update ; I've had this knife around 12 months now and it has held up Fantastically, I'm a hard use guy and I don't like bearings but surprisingly I haven't had any problems with these , the detent finally broke in and is now smooth as "budda" and I'm super impressed with Sog's heat treat on this S35VN, they did an excellent job with it , it's one of the Best I've used , this knife is flat out Awesome , and I'm a Huge Cold Steel Fan , I never even liked Sog because of their poor quality, but obviously that has all changed and they have come out with some cool designs and finally upgrade their old ones , which is great. If this knife had Bronze washers I would put it right next to my Cold Steel Recon 1's , AD10 , and 4 Max as one of the Best hard use knives out , but the washers still hold it back in that category, for me , but still a Fantastic blade. Also, this knife is Super Grippy with all the jimping , so if you have soft hands or work in a office , this knife is definitely NOT for you .....🤭🤣😜😹
Still holding good?
I'm not a connoisseur, I'm now gathering data to search for some good knives that I'll probably buy this year.
I think I'm definitely gonna buy the Seal XR, I'm not really gonna use it that much, but I like the look of it and it seems like one that, hopefully, I could pass on to a son.
Since you seem knowledgeable, if you'd be so kind and have any advice or anything to some of my concerns laid below.
With the XR, and my limited use of it, I imagine I could keep it for years without needing to try to disassemble it and grease it or anything. Right?
Would it be safe to use to open cans and whatnot and not have to really worry for the coating to scratch?
Should I just in case try to oil the blade from time to time?
They now have a version where they put some titanium inside to reduce weight, and they also have the blade with magnacut. It's insane how much more lighter it is now. Supposedly, from 235 grams to 159 grams. The new version would indeed be better, right?
I'm a bit worried cause sometimes modifications are made just for marketing and may even be worse than the original, and I do want my piece to last and last.
I'm thinking buying also another folder, haven't decided which, that would be a tad more lightweight, but that would also last a long time. I would imagine a recon 1 or ad-10 would be good, but the XR is already pretty big, I'm a short fellow, I have a hard time for now finding a good knive that is a tad smaller. The mini or lite versions seem to be a tad too small or with a blade quality that I would imagine is not good enough if you hope to last for years and years, 8CR or AUS8.
I need something like elmax, S35 or sleipner, right?
About the finish, I see some saying that stonewash is better than to have coating, cause in time it will look better. Is that so, or if it's a good brand, cerakote or some other finishes are good enough that you won't worry much for scratches?
If you have any thoughts about those aspects. Thanks.
Awesome awesome Knife! I have the OD Green Scales. This folder is awesome EDC knife. Also good for taking into woods too.
Yeah, I own one. It is a beast of a knife. I bought the OD green version. Love it.
SOG has always built some heftier folders along with their typical middle to lightweight offerings. They don't get much exposure because people tend to think of SOG as a lower cost builder. It's a shame because they do build some great blades. Writing them off is akin to ignoring the Chevy Corvette because the same company also built the Chevette. 😂 Thanks for the review!
Ok... so I never imagined I would lay out this kind of dough for a knife, but I just did.
My first multi-tool was a used SOG, and I have liked SOG products ever since. Too bad that original SOG multi-tool got swiped.
I used to be a minimalist/lightest weight item kind of guy until I realized that a puny tool is just that - a puny tool that may not do the job when needed. My EDC carry is now all fully capable or I won’t carry the weight at all.
I know this is a heavy knife - thanks for the comparison to the weight of a Leatherman Wave; that gave me the reference point I needed.
Nice report. Thanks. Subbed.
dave the barber welcome to the GT family, hope the knife serves you well.
I just bought one, and I can’t believe how easily this beef cake flips open! So far very impressed. It just might replace my griptilian 550hg. Great video boss🤙🏻
Thanks for going into great detail with these knives. I appreciate it big time. It really helps me when making a decision on my next knife. Those guys from blade hq can learn something.
👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼
Love this KNIFE SOG!! Got it last week and it is a MONSTER!!. Great for Self-defense also.. S35VN is my new favorite material. The jimping in my opinion is for gloved hands in wet and COLD below freezing conditions. It basically is a COMBAT FOLDER for LE or Military use. Lefty friendly for sure. The Gerber doesn't make a lefty auto which is ridiculous!!!. Not many companies do. PRO-TECH thank GOD does!!.. 💥👍👌SOG 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟STAR'S F.F.finish!!
Most excited I've been about a SOG knife in yrs.thanks for they review.been in the fence on purchasing.thunk I may go ahead and pull the flipper!
It certainly got my attention BUT when the thick plastic pieces went flying!? Whoa!!!
I handled this knife. With gloves it was fine. WITHOUT gloves, it was a hot mess. It assured me that my Cold Steel Recon 1 Spear Point Desert Warrior was the best purchase for me.
Thanks for the video my Bladed Brother 👍⚔️✝️
Thanks for filming
Nice review. Hey, I bought a Microtech Socom Elite in July and carry it most days. It's large 9-3/16" OAL, 5-3/16" handle, and 9/16" thick, but only weighs 4.7 oz. and has 204P steel. A very heavy duty knife that's barely affordable 4" blade. It's kinda the ideal HD knife before you need a fixed blade. In 2009 I picked up a SOG Vulcan because my job didn't allow fixed blade knives and sometimes I had to dig into dying trees. I needed a heavy knife. It was OK at the time but nothing like a Microtech.
I've been obsessing about this knife since it's release. I don't think it has any real world practicality for me but it's just awesome!
Yes ball bearing pivot is open and prone to attract dirt, pocket dust and debris. I have a Crusader Forge Vis Metro that has bearings and I use a spray on lubricant called Rem DriLube that sprays on dry that has Teflon in it that does not attract dirt or debris. Rem DriLube is an AMAZING lubricant, I won't use anything but it.
I love mine, it’s awesome. Fantastic knife. Much better action than my terminus xr in S35VN. Too bad they didn’t use this jimping on the terminus instead of the really sharp jimping you see. The Kiku is next to try. Great review Aaron. 🍻
Never been a fan of tacticool or dog because that's what I mainly see in their products but really love this, and just ordered one. Made in USA and a monster of a folder. Saw the recon 1 and been wanting something similar but that had a flipper and a frame lock because of full one hand use. main goal is for camping and to throw in a bugout bag when I make one.
I'm in your Ball Park I've sold and collected many knives in my life. Own 3 SOGS Getting this Seal XR Folder will make it 4
I see you have the first Gen, like I had . The second Gen is out with a cerakoted blade and rust resistant improved liners. They’ve also gotten away from the SOG logo. The second Gen has “Studies and Observations Group” on the presentation side instead of SOG.
Great review.
Wow it’s maybe the only Folder I’d take over my Adamas lol and it’s a heck of a lot cheaper. It seems like a Beast and Made in the wonderful USA.!! Great review my Friend Semper Fidelis
Glad to help!!
Just got mine yesterday I used it at work today and man I love this knife my new edc I don’t see anything replacing it can you do an update on it
Great review! It's going on my to buy list.
I've never been one to measure ounces. If it serves a good purpose and fills a niche then I carry it. Maybe I will be moving a little slower in the field due to weight, but when I'm in camp I will have all the right tools! Lol
This review convinced me. Definitely gonna buy one. Thanks for the decent content.
This is NOT a USA made knife. Only the blade is made in America. The remainder of the knife is made and assembled in SOG’s asian facility; not sure if that is Taiwan or China? Just wanted to point that out in case it matters to a potential purchaser. For me, I’d need to see the price drop to about $139.00 MSRP before I’d consider it. Beautiful knife regardless.
Check the "Desert Fox" from Fox Knives.
This SOG Seal XR seems like a nice knife, maybe a bit heavy but that Pillar looks amazing. I going to look into that one.
Awesome looking knife. Definitely one of those big scary looking knives that I tend to gravitate toward because I live in California, land of the sheeple and I'm the jerk who loves to draw WTF looks from them. Have you batoned it or struck a ferro rod with it? I'm really curious as to its full capability as a folding survival knife
That knife is ONLY scary on California and ONLY causes cancer in California 💩
My only negative was the clip. Had to rebend it to add tension so it would grab my pocket.
Nice vid. Actual real life application. Considering getting one myself
Very interesting knife. My local dealer just got one of these again. Looking pretty strong and a part of me just loves black blades. Im just not the biggest fan of cerakoting since my cerakoted knives tend to get a lot of scratches while my dlc coated knife is holding up better. Over 8 ounzes is also a lot for a under 4 inch blade. Maybe titanium liners would have been the way to go.
I bought mine at my local sportsmans warehouse and this is an awsome knife for hard use
The amount of sharp jimping on this knife is insane. I don't use gloves when I carry a knife, even when i was in the military and would not buy this knife because of it.
That 06 is looking badass now man. Knives look better to me with some use on'em!!
Actually like the look of this knife. Nice to see them use good steel.
Based a lot on your review; and as many others I could find; I ordered one and love it so far.
Thanks!
Extraordinary test, thank you very much, it has helped me to decide, it is a really good knife. My question is whether to buy it with a smooth or smooth / serrated edge, which one do you recommend?
Back in the 80's SOG made beastly knives! Sog tomcat...sog sidewinder'
man I haven't bought a sog in over ten years I think you just found my next dog!!!
Looks like a good choice for a heavy folder.
Years ago, I purchased a Zero Tolerance ZT0200. It weighs in at 8 ounces. This is too heavy for any pants other than jeans. I found that it was much better to find a suitable pouch that I could attach to my belt. With the weight on my belt it is much better than when it was hanging onto the edge of my pocket.
I love my Seal Pup Elite.
Great motorcycle knife.
If I were to only pick one out of these 3 folders to survive in the island for a week I’d choose the cold steel recon 1 all day baby
I love your show doing a good job I love your personal gear thank and Happy Thanksgiving to all
Just received mine today. WHAT A BEAST!
What about a comparison against bench made ADDAMAS
And the Cold Steel Bush Ranger too. That would be an awesome three way test⚔️
Fix blade or folder would be determined by legality and useage. Fixed blade carry is not nearly as concealable as a folder. I want my EDC knife concealable since #1) I do not want an attacker aware of my knife. #2) Laws are often not friendly for open carry as they are for concealed carry. In the woods, hunting, or hiking I would choose a fixed blade since the usage would favor the stronger, fixed blade. The 2 fixed blades shown are excellent.
Good info on the lock. I was not familiar with it. Blade: S35VN is a great steel for edge retention and corrosion resistance. Right length (>3.5"). Thick spine and excellent coating.
Handle: Front and rear quillons, finger grooves in between, plenty of jimping = excellent grip. Butt pommel. I like a full sized. good grip, longer blade.
You do a good job on reviews, covering specs, internal operation (locks, liners, etc), and testing. I have the Recon 1, and it is one of my favorite EDC folders. After viewing the video, I will purchase this knife. Love the handle design especially, overall blade design, and size.
Happy Saturday
What's your opinion of the hole on the blade to assist it in opening? I feel that's the 1 weak point in this knife. Battoning through wood i feel it could break that section of steel.
Damn I need one of those! But that price is steep. But it seems worth it. If I had the money I'd go for it right now lol.
I love it for the simple reason Dede will finish my collection of sog I also like the style
Excellent presentation, clean, clear, and concise. Thanks. Eudiamonia
Big, heavy, Chunky, YES PLEASE
Great knife ! Good review , thanks for sharing !
You gotta love these overbuilt american beast of knives. Here in Europe brands mostly do fishing and hunting knives. Which is great but those are not tanks like this SOG.
With a large "hard use" collection, I feel this one would sit well next to the Contego.
Its like a Bk2 folder, built like a tank
Getting mine tomorrow. Have a 06 G10 handle also
Oh nice!!
Best video out there on this knife. Thanks
wow pretty impressive for SOG all though little pricey
It's made in 'murica - worth saving up for!
I like a decent sized knife as well, one that doesn't bottom out on a steak. All these little 3.2" & under pussified knives are saving me lots of money. Made in USA? I just bought one. :) Too bad they lost the skull logo...Wouldn't mind if it were a little lighter & thinner. Love the flipper/cross bar lock combo. Not sure why we don't see more configured like this.
Good looking overbuilt hard use folder. If it's going to come coated I would prefer the less chippy S30V.
Like the looks of this blade. I have several fixed blades, some good ones too. My folders end up getting waaay more use so I can see a heavy duty folder hitting a sweet spot beyond an EDC folder.
This or the Cold Steel Ultimate Hunter Folder 3.5 in Plain G-10???
Will wait for better pricing as it’s a little pricey right now
Ive been looking at this 🔪 for a while is it still one that would good knife or is there something newer you would recommend? Thank you for your awesome videos my wife and i love them!
Nice to see a Serious Knife from SOG, looks like an amazing priece. A bit pricey but at least there s an option.
I really want to check out that super thin sog ultra XR I think it’s called it’s not on the market for a month or three but it uses the Benchmade lock or the hogue Abel lock fly’s open and closed one of the thinnest knives I’ve seen that can be used as a money clip if u want. It comes with really cool real carbon fiber handles and weighs under 1oz also have to say I don’t own a sog I’ve never liked their designs and logo but I have to admit they have made some knives I’d actually buy being shown at shot show 2020. PS I have a few knives for trade I’d send 1st a mint Almar sere in camo g10 handles vg10 steel made in Japan and a super thick liner lock opens and closes one handed with ease a beast just not a camo fan and it goes online for $250 my other knife is another mint condition hogue EX-05 that goes by blind for around $200 dollars sand colored aluminum handles with a crazy strong grip its a flipper that fly’s open and is easy to close one handed also and it uses cpm154 which is probably my top two favorite stainless steels along with AEB-L stainless and an older 0350kw ZT also in mint condition goes online for $125 to $150 flips great and is assisted which is why I want to trade it very thick liner a total beast great grip sporting an s30v steel blade anyone interested that seriously wants to make a fair trade hit me up if u want one of these knives I promise you will be happy some don’t come with original box but will come with a knife box from another knife with a cleaning microfiber towel and a knife pouch from hogue Benchmade HK or whatever I have laying around.
Nice REVIEW!!. Glad i found this video and your site!!..👌👌👍👍😃.. B4 i bought this i watched your review.
Awesome review! Those looked like pretty nice leather gloves. Where did you get them?
I’m a need to try to batten with it to test that locking mechanism. More info on that damn lock, and why it won’t close in the grabbing, twisting knife fight I’m hoping to win.
I all ways like your channel been a fan long time I'm considering a folder for hiking and I like the concept of a beefy folder .I always carried fixed blade and a SAK in my pocket. I'm going to change it up for a folder now see if like it.keep up the awsome work you do.
Great video. Ty.
Might be my next hunting/light bushcraft knife...
Did you try it on a Ferro rod?
Doesn't look like that would work, very well.
I wonder how it stacks up to the Cold Steel 4Max. Because I haven't taken that out of my pocket for months now, it's just too awesome.
Would love to see your take and review of the SOG Kiku XR in the near future.
I disagree, I’ve always found SOG knives to be overpriced for what you get. Example, I’ve seen a few of there knives that were going for $60-$80 for AUS8 steel. Great video as always though. Always look forward to new reviews.
Yeah, SOG lost me years ago for making over priced and under built crap
I agree,I was at Lowe’s a couple years ago and had recently misplaced my work knife (Spyderco Paramilitary 2 in S30V)..being a Lowe’s there wasn’t much variety to choose from so I ended up buying a SOG Flash 2($65) and it was complete trash..Spyderco Tenacious,OKC RAT 1,Buck 110,Buck 112,multiple Kershaw knives,etc are much better choices and can all be bought for less..1)the AUS8 had terrible edge retention,I know AUS8 is nothing special in the first place but I’m convinced the heat treatment was off..2)I don’t see the point of adding a saftey to an assisted opening folder 3)the safety is beyond annoying considering every time you take it out,you have to flip the safety off..unfortunately,you can’t leave it off without rigging it up(I epoxied it) 4)the pocket clip is as trash as it gets,it didn’t take long to lose the little retention it once had.it got so bad the knife would literally fall out of my pocket sometimes 5)it felts ridiculously cheap and was too lightweight for my liking(which some people love in a pocket knife but not me).I like a little bit of weight in my knives unless it’s a titanium knife.this Flash 2 is mostly glass filled nylon which I wouldn’t mind if it had some type of metal liners (stainless or atleast aluminum) I could squeeze the handle and feel them compressing together.I feel like I could squeeze it to the point of it breaking..there was literally nothing I liked about it.I carried it for about 2 or 3 weeks before I gave it to a coworker..with that being said,I think the upcoming Flash 3 looks like it will be a much better knife..after everything I’ve seen from Shot Show 2020,I quickly realized D2 is gonna be a really popular steel for budget knives this year..Kershaw,SOG,CRKT,Gerber,etc upcoming Chinese made models are mostly gonna be in D2 instead of AUS8,8CR13MOV,etc..which is a welcome upgrade for anyone in the market for a budget knife..D2 certainly isn’t the greatest steel in the knife world but it’s a tough steel and is good for a hard use knife..only thing I don’t like about D2 is the fact it’s a pain in the ass to sharpen..definitely a nice step up from the Chinesium
Why do you think they are releasing knives like this? They are making a comeback wether you like it or not. Any of the XR knives blow benchmade, spyderco, ZT out of the water
I love you Show And your personal gear Specially Your I wear Goggles I also wear my Goggles Everywhere I go Safety is always number one
Great review mate, cheers
I own the cold steel ad15. Is it as good as this one. Same steel same price. Think the lock on ad15 might be a little better.
Lol. It is. 👍
I've had my Seal XR for about 2 months also , it's an awesome knife , mine has a really stiff detent , so I just use the XR lock to open it. The knife is really fun to play with , but as a super hard use folder the bearings kill it for me , I would definitely take the Recon 1 or AD10 or even the Voyager over it for those situations. I also own the Terminus XR , I like it , it's wicked smooth also , I am happy to see Sog making a comeback, they have a few nice folders coming out this year too , I can't wait to get them in hand ...
i would love to see you review the new SOG KIKU XR! i cant really find any "good" in depth reviews on it!