ZA-PAS EC95 Knife

› Polish knife makers, ZA-PAS, have only been making knives since 2016, but they have already established a reputation for producing good quality knives at very competitive prices. Typical of the knives in their range, the EC95 is a very simple and uncomplicated knife that concentrates on practicality rather than looks. At 8.4” overall, and with a blade length of just under 4”, it has a great handle-to-blade balance, making it very easy to use for a wide range of tasks.

What’s it made of?
The 3.5mm thick blade is made from D2 steel, a high carbon material that is harder than stainless steel and has great edge retention qualities. The material also has a high chromium content (13%), providing a greater level of corrosion resistance than most high-carbon steels. It does still require proper care and should be cleaned and dried immediately after use. It should also be well-oiled before being stored for any length of time. When the knife is stored, it should be kept out of the sheath, because it can attract moisture and stain the blade.
The full tang, drop point design with a generous belly is a very strong shape. Plus, the high, flat grind is a good profile for edge retention and ease of sharpening. The full-height grind also ensures easy and clean cutting of most materials, with minimal drag. The knife is supplied very sharp, and it cuts through endless piles of cardboard, various types of rope, and even heavy-duty hosepipe. All without dulling the edge.

Get a grip
The American walnut handle is simple, with a straight design. It is held in place with two large brass tubular grommets, one of which can also act as a fixing for a lanyard. The fine grain of the hardwood gives it a nice, smooth look. This can be further enhanced by applying a suitable oil or wax, which should be done regularly to protect and preserve the wood. Although simple, the handle does feel really nice in the hand and the grip is good and secure.
The sheath is made of 3mm thick leather, with double stitching and rivets at either end of the stitched edge for additional strength. The simple design holds the knife by friction, and the high profile protects more of the handle, providing an increased hold. There is also a single belt loop for a vertical carry.

Conclusion
This is a very tough tool, and even when you apply a strong twisting force to it, there is no flexing of the blade at all, because it is so thick and deep. This means that it will take a lot of use and a good degree of abuse, all without the blade bending or breaking. It also makes a good general-purpose kitchen knife, and it cuts meat and vegetables very cleanly, even after being used for more heavy-duty outdoor work.
When a knife is this simple, you know that the money has gone on quality materials and workmanship, resulting in a great-value all-purpose knife. Reviewer:
Mark Underwood
› Polish knife makers, ZA-PAS, have only been making knives since 2016, but they have already established a reputation for producing good quality knives at very competitive prices. Typical of the knives in their range, the EC95 is a very simple and uncomplicated knife that concentrates on practicality rather than looks. At 8.4” overall, and with a blade length of just under 4”, it has a great handle-to-blade balance, making it very easy to use for a wide range of tasks.

What’s it made of?
The 3.5mm thick blade is made from D2 steel, a high carbon material that is harder than stainless steel and has great edge retention qualities. The material also has a high chromium content (13%), providing a greater level of corrosion resistance than most high-carbon steels. It does still require proper care and should be cleaned and dried immediately after use. It should also be well-oiled before being stored for any length of time. When the knife is stored, it should be kept out of the sheath, because it can attract moisture and stain the blade.
The full tang, drop point design with a generous belly is a very strong shape. Plus, the high, flat grind is a good profile for edge retention and ease of sharpening. The full-height grind also ensures easy and clean cutting of most materials, with minimal drag. The knife is supplied very sharp, and it cuts through endless piles of cardboard, various types of rope, and even heavy-duty hosepipe. All without dulling the edge.
Get a grip
The American walnut handle is simple, with a straight design. It is held in place with two large brass tubular grommets, one of which can also act as a fixing for a lanyard. The fine grain of the hardwood gives it a nice, smooth look. This can be further enhanced by applying a suitable oil or wax, which should be done regularly to protect and preserve the wood. Although simple, the handle does feel really nice in the hand and the grip is good and secure.
The sheath is made of 3mm thick leather, with double stitching and rivets at either end of the stitched edge for additional strength. The simple design holds the knife by friction, and the high profile protects more of the handle, providing an increased hold. There is also a single belt loop for a vertical carry.

Conclusion
This is a very tough tool, and even when you apply a strong twisting force to it, there is no flexing of the blade at all, because it is so thick and deep. This means that it will take a lot of use and a good degree of abuse, all without the blade bending or breaking. It also makes a good general-purpose kitchen knife, and it cuts meat and vegetables very cleanly, even after being used for more heavy-duty outdoor work.
When a knife is this simple, you know that the money has gone on quality materials and workmanship, resulting in a great-value all-purpose knife.