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EJ Work is probably not a company name that you are familiar with — but it is definitely one that you should be. EJ Work produces handmade and custom knives that would be a prize piece in any discerning outdoorsman’s collection, thanks to the functional and aesthetically pleasing designs and top-notch craftsmanship. Recently, EJ Work has also began crafting EDC and tactical-style knives with the same attention to detail found in their robust outdoor knife lineup.
For a custom and handmade knifemaker, attention to detail and the ability to design functional knives that set you apart from the pack often takes years, and Emmet, the maker behind EJ Work, started his knifemaking journey at 12 years old. Over the last three years, Emmet has really come into his own. You read that right — Emmet is a 15-year-old knifemaker!
The Commando Dagger
EJ Work’s Commando Dagger is reminiscent of the fighting daggers popularized by the British SAS and U.S. OSS during World War II. Though Emmet’s version is far more compact compared to the early military models, it is still a viable self-defense tool in an easy-to-carry EDC format.
Carrying the Commando
At just 8.25 inches in length and weighing 3.4 ounces, the EJ Work’s Commando Dagger is a lightweight carry option. The thin profile allows the Commando dagger to be easily and discretely carried in your pocket, on your belt, or in your waist band. The custom Kydex sheath can accept numerous mounting options, giving the user the option to mount the dagger to a pack, plate carrier, or chest rig.
Tough and Effective
80crV2 is commonly used by custom and handmade knifemakers. This steel is easier to heat treat and work within smaller shops that lack the large and expensive equipment major manufacturers have on hand. Fortunately for us, it is also a great steel option for a hard-use knife. 80crV2 is a high carbon steel known for being incredibly tough, which is ideal for a knife with a very fine tip like a dagger and many other tactical-style knives. While 80crV2 lacks the corrosion resistance found in stainless options, EJ Work coats the dagger blade to ensure long-lasting use without worrying about rust even in wet conditions.
EJ Work offers the standard version of the Commando Dagger in either G10 or Micarta handle scales. Both materials are known for their durability, chemical resistance, and provide a good grip even when wet. Emmet has included textured grooves in the handle that provides additional grip.
Ergonomics
The 4.25-inch handle is enough to provide my large-sized gloved hand a full grip. There are small grooves on the top of that handle that your finger can rest on to provide more control when handling and using the knife. The handle has “coke bottle” contouring that swells toward the center of the handle, providing a comfortable grip that locks into your palm and reducing the chance of slipping out during use. The handle has dual blade guards to protect your fingers from the sharpened blade while in use.
Use Case
The Commando Dagger is designed to be a self-defense tool. Like all daggers, EJ Work’s version is primarily designed to pierce. The edges of the Commando Dagger are sharpened; however, they are purposely not as razor sharp as a typical single-edged knife. The dual edges are sharp enough to cut softer material (skin, muscle, organs, etc.), and in a pinch they could do some utility cutting, but that is outside the blade style’s intended use.
The Commando Dagger is an excellent option for people who want to carry a compact easy-to-use self-defense tool. While I will always recommend that anyone who carries a knife for self-defense trains in proper use, dagger use is simpler when compared to martial fighting styles for single-edged fighting knives.
Self-defense use for the Commando Dagger extends beyond just defending against people. The 4-inch blade is larger than most common pocketknives, making it a good last-ditch option should you encounter an aggressive small- or mid-sized animal when traversing the wilderness.
Beyond self-defense, the Commando Dagger can also be a great addition to a hunter’s tool kit. The 4-inch blade and exceptional piercing capabilities allow for the ability to efficiently and humanely dispatch a wounded animal.
A Note on Legality
Unlike single-edged knives that often have utility functions, daggers are broadly viewed as weapons in most states. This often leads to restrictions on ownership and carry. Even in states where daggers are legal to own and use on your property, there are often restrictions on where and how they can be carried outside your home or business.
Final Thoughts
EJ Work’s Commando Dagger pays homage to the classic fighting knives that were vital to the success of military forces during WWII. Though smaller, the spirit of the original designs is seen in both Emmet’s design and material choices. If you are fortunate enough to work in a profession or live in a state that allows the carry of a dagger, EJ Work’s Commando Dagger is definitely one you should add to your lineup. Even if you do not plan on carrying the Commando Dagger outside your home or business, it is a great addition to any knife enthusiast’s collection.
I have been a knife user and collector for decades and have had the opportunity to professionally review hundreds of knives, and I can honestly say EJ Work has really impressed me. Emmet’s attention to detail and workmanship is incredible for any knifemaker and even more impressive coming from a 15-year-old. The Commando Dagger is my first experience with Emmet’s work, but I can confidently say it will not be my last.
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