First Impressions of Cold Steel Large Luzon Linerlock DT CS20NQXDTST
The Cold Steel Large Luzon Linerlock DT CS20NQXDTST is a folding knife that immediately grabs your attention with its distinct design and size. Manufactured by Cold Steel, a company known for its robust and often intimidating blades, the Luzon is their take on the Balisong style folder, but without the flipping complexity. I’d read some things about the design but I wanted to experience its ergonomics and lockup myself.
For years, I’ve carried various folding knives for daily tasks and outdoor adventures. I needed a sturdy, reliable knife for basic camp chores and self-defense when hiking in remote areas. I needed a folding knife with a decent blade length that wouldn’t break the bank.
Unboxing the Luzon, I was struck by the handle length and the blade profile. The desert tan GFN (Glass Filled Nylon) handle felt surprisingly grippy, despite its smooth appearance. The 6-inch blade appeared well-centered and the liner lock seemed solid.
I had been considering a SOG Trident and a Kershaw Blur before settling on the Luzon. Both are solid options, but the Luzon‘s unique style and size appealed to me more, and the price made it an easy decision. It offered a distinct look and a good blade length at a very accessible price point.
My initial impression was a mix of intrigue and slight apprehension. I was excited about the size and potential utility but wondered how well it would hold up under real-world use. The Cold Steel Large Luzon Linerlock DT CS20NQXDTST immediately looked like it could handle some serious work.
Real-World Testing: Putting Cold Steel Large Luzon Linerlock DT CS20NQXDTST to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Cold Steel Large Luzon Linerlock DT CS20NQXDTST during a weekend camping trip in the Angeles National Forest. I used it primarily for basic camp tasks like food preparation, cutting cordage, and feathering sticks for fire starting. The dry, sunny conditions were ideal for getting a feel for the knife’s ergonomics and cutting ability.
The knife performed admirably. It was easy to deploy one-handed using the thumb stud, and the long handle provided a secure grip even with gloved hands.
I didn’t experience any immediate issues. The lockup felt secure, and the blade held its edge reasonably well during initial use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Cold Steel Large Luzon Linerlock DT CS20NQXDTST has proven to be a reliable companion. I’ve carried it on several hiking trips, used it for yard work, and even kept it in my vehicle as part of my emergency kit. It has held up remarkably well.
The desert tan GFN handle shows minimal signs of wear, and the blade has remained relatively sharp with occasional stropping. The liner lock has maintained its integrity, with no noticeable play or loosening.
Cleaning the Luzon is straightforward. A quick rinse with water and a light coat of oil on the blade are usually sufficient to keep it in good working order. Compared to some of my more expensive knives, the Luzon requires very little maintenance, and I appreciate that. The Cold Steel Large Luzon Linerlock DT CS20NQXDTST has become a trustworthy tool in my outdoor kit.
Breaking Down the Features of Cold Steel Large Luzon Linerlock DT CS20NQXDTST
Specifications
The Cold Steel Large Luzon Linerlock DT CS20NQXDTST features a 6-inch clip point blade made from 8Cr13MoV stainless steel. The blade offers a good balance between edge retention and ease of sharpening. The desert tan GFN handle is 7.5 inches long, bringing the overall length to 13.5 inches when open.
The knife weighs in at 0.58 lb. The liner lock mechanism provides secure blade lockup, and the thumb stud allows for ambidextrous one-handed opening. The handle also features a lanyard hole for added carry options. These specifications highlight the knife’s intended use as a large, durable folding knife suitable for a variety of tasks.
Performance & Functionality
The Cold Steel Large Luzon Linerlock DT CS20NQXDTST performs well for its intended purpose. The blade is sharp enough out of the box to handle most cutting tasks, and the long handle provides excellent leverage. Its usability is enhanced by the thumb stud for quick deployment.
The knife’s strengths lie in its size, secure grip, and affordability. The biggest weakness is the steel type; while it’s decent for the price, it won’t hold an edge like premium steels.
The Cold Steel Large Luzon Linerlock DT CS20NQXDTST generally meets my expectations for a budget-friendly, large folding knife.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is solid for a knife in this price range. The GFN handle is lightweight yet feels durable, and the blade is well-centered. It’s comfortable to hold for extended periods thanks to its textured handle.
There’s a slight learning curve due to its size. The Cold Steel Large Luzon Linerlock DT CS20NQXDTST isn’t the best choice for pocket carry due to its overall length.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Cold Steel Large Luzon Linerlock DT CS20NQXDTST should last for years. The 8Cr13MoV stainless steel blade is corrosion-resistant, and the GFN handle is impact-resistant. Regular cleaning and occasional sharpening are all that’s needed to keep it in top condition.
Disassembly for deep cleaning is possible but not necessary for routine maintenance. It’s a very user-friendly knife in terms of upkeep.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Cold Steel Large Luzon Linerlock DT CS20NQXDTST comes with minimal accessories. The only accessory is a simple box. Customization options are limited, but a different lanyard can be added through the lanyard hole.
It is not designed to be heavily customized. It’s a functional tool that works well in its original form.
Pros and Cons of Cold Steel Large Luzon Linerlock DT CS20NQXDTST
Pros
- Large, imposing blade for serious cutting tasks.
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to a wide range of users.
- Secure and comfortable grip thanks to the textured GFN handle.
- Reliable liner lock mechanism ensures safe blade lockup.
- Lightweight design for its size, making it easy to carry.
Cons
- The 8Cr13MoV steel requires more frequent sharpening than premium steels.
- Size can be cumbersome for everyday carry in some situations.
Who Should Buy Cold Steel Large Luzon Linerlock DT CS20NQXDTST?
The Cold Steel Large Luzon Linerlock DT CS20NQXDTST is perfect for outdoorsmen, campers, and anyone needing a large, reliable folding knife for general utility tasks. It’s also a good choice for those looking for an affordable self-defense option. It really shines for someone on a budget who wants a lot of knife for the money.
Those who prefer smaller, more discreet knives for everyday carry should skip this product. Someone who needs a knife that will hold its edge for a very long time between sharpenings should also avoid it.
A sturdy belt sheath would be a must-have accessory for this knife, especially for convenient carry.
Conclusion on Cold Steel Large Luzon Linerlock DT CS20NQXDTST
The Cold Steel Large Luzon Linerlock DT CS20NQXDTST is a solid performer at an unbeatable price. It offers a lot of knife for the money, with a large, useful blade and a comfortable, secure grip. It isn’t a premium tool, but it’s a reliable one.
The price is absolutely justified given its size, build quality, and functionality. You’re getting a lot of bang for your buck.
I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a large, affordable folding knife for general utility or self-defense purposes. It’s a great value proposition. If you need a large folding knife that won’t break the bank, the Cold Steel Large Luzon Linerlock DT CS20NQXDTST is an excellent choice!