The 3 was my first ESEE and still my favorite, I also carry it daily for work. I say if you are going to slice/cut more with it get the 3, if you need to pry with it get the 4. FYI I do not own a 4 but have LS, 5, 6 etc. and though I really want a 4 I just seem to want something else when I go to buy one (especially the PR4 if it ever gets here).
Get the Esee-3. I had a Esee-4, traded it and bought a 3. It's a much better slicer. If you don't like finger choils on small knives, consider the Esee-3HM.
Another difference is how important the glass breaker is to you. The ESEE 3 has it as an option, whereas unfortunately (at least to my knowledge) the ESEE 4 doesn't. The usefulness of such a feature could be debated endlessly, but it's just something to be mindful of.
Glad to hear you're happy with your new sharp. Now if I can figure out which of the two I'd like, everyone can win. Okay, maybe not my wallet, but everyone else.
my vote is both .....remove scales place blades North/ south with handles together fab some scales and the you have the first ESSE 7!?
Glass pommel? Sounds fragile. I've only ever seen 4's with a pointed pommel, not the ground to a point glass breaker type like on the 3's.
OK yeah I guess that's true. I've always figured them to be the same tool. What other use would the pointed tip on the 4 serve? Just curious.
I honestly have no idea. I suppose you could take a 4 with a pointed pommel and grind/file it into a glass breaker easily enough if you wished.
As others have said, 3 is lighter and more nimble, but still good toughness. Feels just right. A great fit for your purpose IMO. I reach for the 3 a lot more than the 4
