ESEE Avispa handle scales
ESEE Avispa handle scales
In 2015–2016, ESEE Knives—founded by survival experts Jeff Randall and Mike Perrin—expanded into folding knives with the Avispa (BRK1301 series), following the success of the budget Zancudo (~2013–2014). Designed in-house by Randall and Perrin (endorsed by Randall's Adventure & Training / RAT), it debuted around mid-2015 (early reviews and availability noted 2015, with full release by 2016) as a larger, more capable EDC folder—named "Avispa" (Spanish for "wasp") for its aggressive sting
The ESEE Avispa features a 3.5-inch drop-point blade in reliable AUS-8 stainless steel (stonewash or black-coated finish, full-flat grind) for excellent slicing, edge retention, and corrosion resistance—echoing the proven shape from ESEE's Laser Strike fixed blade. Weighing ~4.5 oz with 8.5-inch overall length, it includes a sturdy frame lock (nested stainless steel), thumb-stud deployment, textured FRN (nylon) handles (black, OD green, desert tan variants), ambidextrous 4-way pocket clip, and forward jimping—ideal for camp, hike, and everyday carry (EDC knives)
Produced by Blue Ridge Knives (BRK) in Taiwan for affordability (~$40–$60 MSRP), early units had minor pocket clip tweaks (lock bar interference fixed post-launch). It earned praise for smooth action, strong lockup, and value—positioning the Avispa as ESEE's mid-size workhorse in folding knives, complementing fixed-blade heritage with practical, durable tactical EDC performance