How do you like the HM, Flex? I think that it is the best small fixed blade. I like it so much that I am going to get the 4 and 6 in HM flavour too. I have had a regular 3 and two regular 4s but the handles are just short and thin for me. The HM handle is superb.
Love it, the original 3 has always been my favorite ESEE but the 3 HM is better in every way IMO. I had the 6 HM and liked it but it didn't fit my hand like the 3 HM does.
A friend of mine made this awesome kydex for the 3HM. The belt clip is from a regular 3. The sheath has great retention.
As I continue to use my ESEE 3 with the uncoated blade, it begins to take on some patina. It occurs to me just how capable these 3s are. Make wood shavings? Sure. Slice veggies? You bet! Campfire to kitchen, just a well rounded cutting tool. I've noticed with the patina developing. It mostly disappears with a light coating of coconut oil. I use coconut because it is edible, it is anti-microbial, and it doesn't go rancid easily. I also use Walnut oil. Mineral oil will work. A trick I learned on another forum. Take one of those small sponges with the plastic scrubber on the back side. cut it in half, and soak it with some coconut oil. Place it in a small plastic bag. That way you can have both a scrubber if you need it and readily accessible oil for your blade.