Cold Steel Kobun Fixed Blade Review

First Impressions of Cold Steel Kobun Fixed Blade

The Cold Steel Kobun Fixed Blade is a knife that immediately exudes purpose. Manufactured by Cold Steel, this compact tanto-style blade is designed for close-quarters combat and general utility. I was intrigued by its reputation for being lightweight, strong, and easily concealable.

My need for a reliable, easily carried fixed blade drove me to the Cold Steel Kobun Fixed Blade. I wanted something that could serve as a backup self-defense tool, as well as a practical cutting tool for everyday tasks and outdoor adventures. I needed something more robust than a folding knife.

Upon unboxing, I was struck by the Cold Steel Kobun Fixed Blade‘s clean lines and no-nonsense design. The black finish on the blade and the black Kray-Ex handle give it a tactical, understated look. The weight is surprisingly light for its size, which is a definite plus for everyday carry.

I was considering the SOG Seal Pup Elite and the Gerber Strongarm before settling on the Cold Steel Kobun Fixed Blade. While the SOG boasts a thicker blade and more aggressive sawback, it’s also bulkier. The Gerber is incredibly robust, but felt too large for comfortable concealed carry. The Cold Steel Kobun Fixed Blade seemed to offer the best balance of size, weight, and cutting power.

My first impression was one of quiet confidence. The Cold Steel Kobun Fixed Blade isn’t flashy or intimidating, but it feels like a serious tool that won’t let you down when you need it. It’s a no-frills, functional knife, and I was eager to put it to the test.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Cold Steel Kobun Fixed Blade to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Cold Steel Kobun Fixed Blade on a week-long backcountry hiking trip in the Smoky Mountains. I used it for a variety of tasks, from preparing food and cutting rope to whittling kindling and opening stubborn packages. The conditions were a mix of dry and humid, with temperatures ranging from 50 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

The Cold Steel Kobun Fixed Blade performed admirably in all tasks. The AUS-8A stainless steel blade held its edge well, even after repeated use on tough materials. The Kray-Ex handle provided a secure and comfortable grip, even when my hands were sweaty.

The Cold Steel Kobun Fixed Blade‘s Secure-Ex sheath allowed for multiple carry options, including belt carry and attachment to my backpack. I found the draw to be smooth and quick. The only minor issue I encountered was a slight bit of play between the knife and the sheath, which caused a faint rattling sound when hiking.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Cold Steel Kobun Fixed Blade has proven to be a reliable and durable tool. I’ve used it for everything from yard work and opening boxes to more demanding tasks like processing firewood and cleaning fish. The blade has shown minimal signs of wear.

I have noticed some minor scratching on the blade’s black finish, but this is purely cosmetic. The AUS-8A stainless steel has resisted rust and corrosion despite exposure to moisture and salt air. The Kray-Ex handle remains grippy and comfortable.

Maintaining the Cold Steel Kobun Fixed Blade is simple. I clean the blade with a damp cloth after each use and occasionally apply a light coat of oil to prevent corrosion. The Kray-Ex handle can be easily cleaned with soap and water. Compared to other fixed blades I’ve owned, the Cold Steel Kobun Fixed Blade requires very little maintenance to keep it in top condition. It has definitely outperformed my expectations for a knife in this price range.

Breaking Down the Features of Cold Steel Kobun Fixed Blade

Specifications

The Cold Steel Kobun Fixed Blade boasts the following specifications:

• Overall Length: 9.88 inches (25.1 cm)
• Blade Length: 5.5 inches (13.97 cm)
• Blade Material: AUS-8A Stainless Steel
• Handle Material: Black Kray-Ex
• Weight: 0.52 lb (8.32 ounces)
• Sheath: Black Secure-Ex
• Additional Features: Lanyard Hole

These specifications are crucial for several reasons. The blade length offers a good balance between reach and maneuverability. The AUS-8A stainless steel provides a good combination of edge retention, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening. The lightweight design makes the Cold Steel Kobun Fixed Blade comfortable to carry all day.

Performance & Functionality

The Cold Steel Kobun Fixed Blade performs exceptionally well as a general-purpose cutting tool and self-defense weapon. The tanto blade design is particularly effective for piercing and thrusting. The blade comes razor-sharp from the factory and can be easily resharpened with a honing steel or sharpening stone.

The Cold Steel Kobun Fixed Blade‘s strengths lie in its lightweight design, comfortable grip, and versatile blade shape. One weakness is the Secure-Ex sheath, which can be noisy and lacks adjustable retention. Overall, the Cold Steel Kobun Fixed Blade meets and exceeds expectations for a knife in its class.

Design & Ergonomics

The Cold Steel Kobun Fixed Blade features a simple, functional design. The Kray-Ex handle is ergonomically shaped and provides a secure grip in all conditions. The balance is slightly blade-heavy, which enhances its piercing and chopping capabilities.

The Cold Steel Kobun Fixed Blade is exceptionally user-friendly. The handle is comfortable for extended use, and the blade is easy to control. There is no learning curve; it’s ready to use straight out of the box.

Durability & Maintenance

The Cold Steel Kobun Fixed Blade is built to last. The AUS-8A stainless steel blade is tough and resistant to corrosion. The Kray-Ex handle is virtually indestructible.

The Cold Steel Kobun Fixed Blade is easy to maintain. Regular cleaning and occasional oiling are all that’s needed to keep it in top condition. The simple design makes it easy to disassemble and reassemble for thorough cleaning.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Cold Steel Kobun Fixed Blade comes with a Secure-Ex sheath and a lanyard hole. There are limited customization options available directly from Cold Steel.

Aftermarket options include custom sheaths made from leather or Kydex. Some users also choose to replace the factory lanyard with a custom paracord lanyard. The Cold Steel Kobun Fixed Blade is compatible with most generic knife accessories.

Pros and Cons of Cold Steel Kobun Fixed Blade

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Cold Steel Kobun Fixed Blade?

The Cold Steel Kobun Fixed Blade is perfect for:

• Law enforcement and security personnel needing a reliable backup weapon.
• Hikers and campers seeking a lightweight and versatile utility knife.
• Survivalists requiring a durable and dependable tool for emergency situations.

Who should skip this product? Those who prefer a larger, more substantial fixed blade or those who require a sheath with adjustable retention.

Must-have accessories or modifications? A custom Kydex sheath for improved retention and reduced noise.

Conclusion on Cold Steel Kobun Fixed Blade

The Cold Steel Kobun Fixed Blade is a well-designed, durable, and versatile knife that offers exceptional value for the price. Its lightweight design, comfortable grip, and strong AUS-8A stainless steel blade make it an excellent choice for everyday carry and outdoor adventures.

The price is definitely justified by the quality and performance of the Cold Steel Kobun Fixed Blade. It punches well above its weight class and offers a level of reliability and durability that is rarely found in knives at this price point.

I would personally recommend the Cold Steel Kobun Fixed Blade to anyone looking for a dependable and affordable fixed blade knife. It’s a no-frills tool that gets the job done without any unnecessary flash or fanfare. So, if you’re looking for a reliable and versatile knife that won’t break the bank, the Cold Steel Kobun Fixed Blade is definitely worth considering. Add one to your gear collection today.