Expert Review First hogue knife - Hogue X5 Folding Knife

I chose the 3.5 inch Spearpoint X5 Folder.

Overall, I really like this knife. I am partial to flipper models in general, as well as being a knife junkie, so I was excited when Hogue announced this knife and eager to get my hands on one.

Made in the USA is not a huge priority for me but it is a nice added value.

The knife comes in a cordura zip pouch with a "flannel" like interior. Any included case/pouch that is more than a drawstring bag is a very nice addition, especially for knives over $150 (a lesson Benchmade hasn't learned).

The finger stud is a little taller than most but it gives you good leverage to deploy the blade and provides a significant finger choil when the blade is deployed.

There is a slight moment of stiff resistance but the deployment is smooth and easy.

The slight stiffness is likely there to ensure the blade does not deploy on accident, so I am fine with that.

I really like the blade shape and for as many edges as the handle has, there really aren't any hot spots or grip issues.

Comfortable in the hand whether holding normal or in reverse grip.

The push button lock is very easy and intuitive to use, although it is only on the left side of the knife. So while the blade comes with a lefty and a righty deep carry pocket clip, lefties cannot use their thumb to release the lock.

The lock seems to be fairly robust and has a lever to lock the button (again, left side only...sorry lefties). There is maybe a millimeter of side to side wiggle on the blade, nothing that concerns me though.

CPM154 steel so no complaints there.

Added this knife to my everyday carry rotation. It is a little more modern/tactical than some people may like but I think it is an attractive knife that isn't too flashy.

Very happy with this knife so far. I would maybe add some texture (knurling/jimping/etc) to the flipper stud but it really doesn't need it.