Cold Steel Kiridashi Folding Knife Review

Let’s Talk About Cold Steel Kiridashi Folding Knife

The Cold Steel Kiridashi Folding Knife is a modern take on a traditional Japanese utility knife, offering a unique blend of practicality and portability. Manufactured by Cold Steel, this folding knife features a razor-sharp blade and a robust locking mechanism, making it an intriguing option for everyday carry and tactical applications. My curiosity was piqued by its unusual design and the reputation of Cold Steel for producing durable knives.

I was looking for a compact and versatile knife that could handle various tasks without being bulky or intimidating. The Kiridashi’s profile seemed perfect for detail work and general utility, fitting my need for a capable yet discreet cutting tool. Upon unboxing, the Cold Steel Kiridashi Folding Knife felt surprisingly solid for its size. The Griv-Ex handle offered a secure grip, and the blade’s stonewash finish gave it a utilitarian aesthetic.

I briefly considered the Spyderco Dragonfly 2 and the Benchmade Bugout, both popular EDC choices, before settling on the Cold Steel Kiridashi Folding Knife. The Spyderco, while excellent, felt too small for some tasks, and the Benchmade, while lighter, was more expensive. The Kiridashi offered a unique blend of affordability, strength, and a distinct aesthetic. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. It felt well-made, but I needed to see how it performed in real-world scenarios to truly assess its value.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Cold Steel Kiridashi Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Cold Steel Kiridashi Folding Knife on a weekend camping trip in the local national forest. The damp conditions provided a good test of its grip, and I used it for various tasks, including preparing kindling, cutting cordage, and opening packages. It performed admirably in the wet conditions, maintaining a solid grip thanks to the textured Griv-Ex handle.

The blade’s unique shape made it exceptionally useful for detail work on the kindling, allowing me to create fine feather sticks with ease. I was impressed with how easily it sliced through paracord and opened tough plastic packaging. There were no initial issues. The knife felt comfortable in hand, and the Tri-Ad lock instilled confidence.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Cold Steel Kiridashi Folding Knife has proven to be a reliable and capable tool. There are minimal signs of wear and tear on the blade and handle, despite using it for various tasks. The 4034SS stainless steel blade has held its edge reasonably well, requiring only occasional stropping to maintain its sharpness.

Cleaning is straightforward, and the Griv-Ex handle is resistant to stains and odors. Compared to my previous EDC knife, a Kershaw Leek, the Cold Steel Kiridashi Folding Knife feels significantly more robust and capable of handling tougher tasks. It’s not as sleek or pocket-friendly as the Leek, but the added durability is a worthwhile trade-off.

Breaking Down the Features of Cold Steel Kiridashi Folding Knife

Specifications

• Blade Length: 2.5 inches. This compact blade length makes it ideal for EDC and detailed cutting tasks.
• Blade Material: 4034SS Stainless Steel. This steel offers a good balance of corrosion resistance and edge retention for everyday use.
• Overall Length: 6.5 inches. The compact overall length makes it easy to carry and maneuver.
• Handle Material: Grivory (Griv-Ex). This material is durable, lightweight, and provides a secure grip.
• Blade Finish: Stonewash. The stonewash finish helps to hide scratches and wear, maintaining a clean look.
• Blade Thickness: 0.11 inches. This provides a good balance of cutting ability and strength.
• Lock Type: Lockback (Tri-Ad Lock). The Cold Steel Tri-Ad lock is renowned for its exceptional strength and reliability.
• Blade Grind: Flat. A flat grind offers excellent slicing performance.
• Weight: 2.4 oz. The light weight makes it comfortable to carry all day.
• Opening Method: Thumb Stud. This allows for easy one-handed opening.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the knife’s performance, durability, and overall user experience. The 4034SS steel ensures the blade resists rust and maintains a usable edge, while the Tri-Ad lock provides exceptional safety and peace of mind. The Griv-Ex handle is lightweight and grippy, making it comfortable to use even in wet conditions.

Performance & Functionality

The Cold Steel Kiridashi Folding Knife performs exceptionally well for its intended purpose: everyday carry and utility tasks. The blade’s shape and grind make it perfect for slicing, carving, and detail work. Its strengths lie in its robust construction, secure grip, and razor-sharp edge.

The only potential weakness is that the 4034SS steel may require more frequent sharpening than higher-end steels. However, for the price point, the performance is more than satisfactory. It exceeds my expectations for a budget-friendly EDC knife.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is excellent for a knife in this price range. The materials used are durable and well-finished. The weight is perfect for comfortable carry, and the Griv-Ex handle provides a secure and ergonomic grip.

There is no significant learning curve. The knife is easy to open, close, and use. The thumb stud is well-positioned, and the lockback mechanism is smooth and reliable.

Durability & Maintenance

The Cold Steel Kiridashi Folding Knife is built to last. The 4034SS blade is corrosion-resistant, and the Griv-Ex handle is virtually indestructible. With proper care and maintenance, this knife should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning and occasional sharpening are all that is required to keep the knife in top condition. The Griv-Ex handle can be easily cleaned with soap and water.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Cold Steel Kiridashi Folding Knife doesn’t come with a wide array of accessories, focusing on a minimalist approach. It includes a pocket clip for convenient carry. There are limited options for aftermarket customization due to its unique design.

While you might find some third-party pocket clips, the overall design doesn’t lend itself well to significant modifications. It’s designed to be a functional and reliable tool in its stock configuration. Aftermarket scales or blade replacements are not readily available, reinforcing the focus on its inherent design.

Pros and Cons of Cold Steel Kiridashi Folding Knife

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Who Should Buy Cold Steel Kiridashi Folding Knife?

The Cold Steel Kiridashi Folding Knife is perfect for: Everyday Carry (EDC) enthusiasts, outdoorsmen, and anyone looking for a reliable and affordable utility knife. Its unique design and robust construction make it a great choice for various tasks.

Who should skip this product? Those seeking a high-end knife with premium steel or extensive customization options might find the Cold Steel Kiridashi Folding Knife lacking.

A must-have accessory is a quality sharpening stone or strop to maintain the blade’s edge.

Conclusion on Cold Steel Kiridashi Folding Knife

The Cold Steel Kiridashi Folding Knife is a surprisingly capable and well-built knife that offers exceptional value for the price. Its unique design, robust construction, and reliable locking mechanism make it a standout in the budget-friendly EDC category.

The price is absolutely justified. You get a lot of knife for your money.

I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable EDC option. If you’re looking for a unique and capable utility knife that won’t break the bank, the Cold Steel Kiridashi Folding Knife is definitely worth considering. Add one to your collection today!