Cold Steel Range Boss Lockback Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of Cold Steel Range Boss Lockback Folding Knife

The Cold Steel Range Boss Lockback Folding Knife is a no-nonsense, working knife designed with practicality and durability in mind. From Cold Steel, a company known for its robust and often over-engineered designs, the Range Boss promises a solid cutting tool without breaking the bank. The selling point is its combination of a highly functional blade shape, grippy handle, and the renowned Tri-Ad lock – a lock known for its exceptional strength.

I’ve been searching for a reliable, everyday carry (EDC) knife that can withstand the rigors of outdoor use without costing a fortune. Too many “budget” knives fail quickly, and I needed something tough. When compared to flashier knives that often prioritize aesthetics over performance, the Range Boss’s focus on functional design appealed to my practical side.

Upon unboxing, the knife feels surprisingly solid for its weight. The Zy-Ex handle has a decent texture, promising a good grip, and the blade deploys smoothly and locks up tightly. The stonewashed finish on the blade also seems like a practical choice for hiding scratches. I was hoping for a dependable, no-frills tool, and my initial impression is that Cold Steel delivered.

The Cold Steel Range Boss stands out from knives like the Ontario RAT Model 1 or the Spyderco Tenacious because it is lighter. The other two knives are similarly priced but larger and heavier. The Cold Steel won due to its lighter weight.

I was pleasantly surprised by the initial feel and lockup of the Cold Steel Range Boss Lockback Folding Knife. It exceeded my expectations for a knife in this price range.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Cold Steel Range Boss Lockback Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I first took the Cold Steel Range Boss Lockback Folding Knife on a weekend camping and fishing trip in the Appalachian Mountains. It was used extensively for basic camp chores such as food preparation, cutting rope, and whittling kindling. The weather was consistently damp, offering a good test of the blade’s rust resistance and the handle’s grip in wet conditions.

The knife performed admirably, maintaining a secure grip even with wet hands, and the blade held its edge reasonably well after processing a good amount of wood. Deployment was easy, even with gloves on, and the Tri-Ad lock gave me confidence during tougher cutting tasks. One minor surprise was that the stonewashed finish seemed to attract dirt, but it wiped clean without issue.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Cold Steel Range Boss continues to hold up well. There are some minor scratches on the blade, which is to be be expected, but no significant signs of wear and tear. The lock remains solid, with no blade play, and the handle material is proving to be quite durable.

Cleaning the knife is simple. A quick wash with soap and water followed by a light oiling of the blade is all it takes to keep it in good working order. Compared to a high-end knife with a more complex mechanism, the Range Boss is remarkably low-maintenance. The Range Boss is outperforming other budget folders I’ve owned in terms of edge retention and lock strength.

Breaking Down the Features of Cold Steel Range Boss Lockback Folding Knife

Specifications

• The Cold Steel Range Boss Lockback Folding Knife has a 4-inch blade crafted from 4034SS stainless steel. This steel offers a good balance of edge retention, ease of sharpening, and corrosion resistance, making it suitable for general-purpose use.
• The knife weighs in at 3.4 ounces, making it light enough for comfortable everyday carry. A closed length of 5.25 inches and an overall length of 9.25 inches places it in the mid-size category, offering a decent amount of cutting power without being too bulky.
• The handle is made of Zy-Ex, a glass-reinforced nylon that is known for its toughness and resistance to impact and abrasion. The clip point blade shape is versatile, suitable for piercing, slicing, and general utility tasks.
• The blade boasts a 3.5mm thickness, providing ample strength for demanding cutting tasks. The Tri-Ad lock system is a signature feature of Cold Steel knives, renowned for its exceptional strength and resistance to failure under heavy loads.

These specifications translate to a knife that is lightweight, durable, and capable of handling a variety of cutting tasks. The Tri-Ad lock in particular ensures that the blade remains securely locked during use, providing added safety and confidence.

Performance & Functionality

The Cold Steel Range Boss Lockback Folding Knife performs its intended job as a reliable and versatile cutting tool very well. The blade is sharp out of the box and maintains a decent edge, even after extended use.

The clip point blade allows for precise cutting. The knife’s light weight and ergonomic handle make it comfortable to use for extended periods. The main weakness is that the 4034SS steel is not a premium steel and needs to be sharpened more often. The Cold Steel Range Boss meets and exceeds my expectations for a budget-friendly EDC knife.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is solid. The Cold Steel Range Boss Lockback Folding Knife uses durable materials, and is surprisingly lightweight. The handle is comfortable in hand, due to its ergonomic design and textured surface, despite its utilitarian appearance.

There is a slight learning curve due to the stiffness of the lock when new, but it breaks in with use. It is user friendly.

Durability & Maintenance

The Cold Steel Range Boss Lockback Folding Knife seems built to last. With proper care, I expect it will provide many years of service.

Maintenance is easy. Keep it clean and lightly oiled to prevent rust.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Cold Steel Range Boss Lockback Folding Knife does not come with many accessories. It is a simple, no-frills tool. There is a pocket clip for easy carry.

While there are no specific Cold Steel accessories or modifications for the Range Boss, aftermarket pocket clips designed for similar knives may fit. Custom handle scales are not readily available due to the integral nature of the Zy-Ex handle.

Pros and Cons of Cold Steel Range Boss Lockback Folding Knife

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Who Should Buy Cold Steel Range Boss Lockback Folding Knife?

The Cold Steel Range Boss Lockback Folding Knife is perfect for anyone looking for a reliable, durable, and affordable EDC knife. It is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, campers, hikers, and anyone who needs a dependable cutting tool for everyday tasks. Its strength and functionality also make it a good choice for survivalists or preppers who want a budget-friendly option in their kit.

People looking for a premium knife with high-end steel, extensive customization options, or a more refined aesthetic should skip this product.

A must-have modification would be a higher quality aftermarket pocket clip, should the original fail.

Conclusion on Cold Steel Range Boss Lockback Folding Knife

The Cold Steel Range Boss Lockback Folding Knife is a solid, no-frills cutting tool that prioritizes functionality and durability over aesthetics. Its lightweight design, comfortable handle, and exceptionally strong Tri-Ad lock make it a reliable companion for everyday carry and outdoor adventures.

At a price of $51.99, the Range Boss offers excellent value for the money. It punches far above its weight class in terms of performance and build quality.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Cold Steel Range Boss Lockback Folding Knife to anyone in need of a dependable and affordable EDC knife. If you value practicality and durability over flashy features, the Range Boss is a tool you can trust. Add the Cold Steel Range Boss to your kit today and experience the reliability of a true working knife.