Cold Steel Click-N-Cut Lockback Review

First Impressions of Cold Steel Click-N-Cut Lockback

The Cold Steel Click-N-Cut Lockback is an interesting offering from Cold Steel, a company known for its innovative and often aggressively-styled knives. This particular model intrigued me because of its interchangeable blade system, promising versatility in a compact package. I’ve spent years carrying various folding knives, from high-end custom pieces to budget-friendly options, and the Click-N-Cut’s concept immediately sparked my curiosity. It seems like a clever way to carry multiple blade profiles without needing to carry multiple knives.

I needed a lightweight, easily packable knife for both EDC (Everyday Carry) and potentially for inclusion in a small survival kit. I was specifically looking for something that could handle both fine cutting tasks and more robust utility work without breaking the bank.

The initial unboxing was fairly straightforward, revealing the knife, two additional blades, and a basic ABS sheath. The knife felt surprisingly light, almost toy-like, but the lockback mechanism seemed solid enough. The ABS handle felt a bit cheap, but I reserved judgment until I’d actually used it.

I considered the Kershaw Select Fire and the Gerber EAB Lite as alternatives. However, the Cold Steel Click-N-Cut Lockback won out due to its promise of multiple blade profiles and its significantly lower price point. I was hoping to get a taste of multiple tools in a single package.

Initially, I was cautiously optimistic about the Cold Steel Click-N-Cut Lockback. The concept was appealing, but the materials and construction raised some questions that only real-world use could answer.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Cold Steel Click-N-Cut Lockback to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Cold Steel Click-N-Cut Lockback on a weekend camping trip in the local state forest. I used it for everything from preparing food and cutting rope to whittling small pieces of wood for fire starting.

The knife performed adequately in dry conditions, although the handle became slippery when my hands were wet. The blade changing mechanism was relatively easy to use, even with slightly gloved hands, although not something I’d want to do in freezing weather. I swapped between the bowie blade and the serrated utility blade depending on the task.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the Cold Steel Click-N-Cut Lockback showed some signs of wear. The ABS handle scratched easily and the blade developed a slight wobble.

The lockback mechanism remained functional, but I noticed a decrease in its initial stiffness. Cleaning was simple, requiring only a quick wipe down and occasional lubrication of the pivot point. However, I wouldn’t consider it highly durable. It’s more of a budget option that works, rather than a premium tool.

Breaking Down the Features of Cold Steel Click-N-Cut Lockback

Specifications

The Cold Steel Click-N-Cut Lockback features a 2.5″ (6.35cm) 420J2 stainless blade. It has a Black ABS handle and a lanyard hole for added carry options. The knife includes two additional blades – a bowie blade and a serrated utility blade – and comes with a Black ABS belt sheath. The overall weight is a mere 0.24 lb.

These specifications are significant because they dictate the knife’s intended use and limitations. The 420J2 stainless steel is relatively soft, meaning it’s easy to sharpen but won’t hold an edge as long as higher-end steels. The ABS handle contributes to the knife’s lightweight nature, but sacrifices durability and grip.

Performance & Functionality

The Cold Steel Click-N-Cut Lockback performs reasonably well for light to medium-duty tasks. The blades are sharp enough for basic cutting, but the steel’s softness means they require frequent sharpening, particularly with heavy use. The blade changing mechanism is functional and relatively secure, but it’s not as rock-solid as a fixed blade or a higher-end folding knife.

The knife’s main strength lies in its versatility, offering three different blade profiles in a single package. The primary weakness is the quality of materials, which compromise durability and overall performance. It meets the basic expectations of a budget-friendly utility knife but falls short in demanding situations.

Design & Ergonomics

The Cold Steel Click-N-Cut Lockback features a simplistic, utilitarian design. The Black ABS handle is lightweight and provides a decent grip in dry conditions, but it lacks texture and can become slippery when wet.

The knife is easy to use, with a straightforward lockback mechanism and a blade changing system that requires minimal learning. However, the overall feel is somewhat cheap and unrefined.

Durability & Maintenance

The Cold Steel Click-N-Cut Lockback is not designed for heavy use or abuse. The 420J2 stainless steel is prone to corrosion if not properly maintained, and the ABS handle is susceptible to scratches and impacts.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only regular cleaning and occasional lubrication. However, the knife’s overall durability is questionable, especially with frequent or demanding use.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Cold Steel Click-N-Cut Lockback comes with a Black ABS belt sheath and two additional blades – a bowie blade and a serrated utility blade. There are no readily available aftermarket accessories or customization options for this knife.

The lack of customization is a drawback, but the included blade options provide some degree of versatility. The sheath is functional but basic, offering minimal protection and retention.

Pros and Cons of Cold Steel Click-N-Cut Lockback

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Who Should Buy Cold Steel Click-N-Cut Lockback?

The Cold Steel Click-N-Cut Lockback is perfect for casual campers, hikers, and anyone looking for an inexpensive and versatile utility knife. It’s a good option for beginners who want to experiment with different blade profiles without investing in multiple knives.

This knife is not suitable for serious survivalists, bushcrafters, or anyone who needs a highly durable and reliable tool. People who prioritize premium materials and construction should skip this product.

A must-have modification would be upgrading to better sheath, preferably one made of kydex or nylon, for better retention.

Conclusion on Cold Steel Click-N-Cut Lockback

The Cold Steel Click-N-Cut Lockback is a budget-friendly option that offers decent versatility in a lightweight package. While the materials and construction leave something to be desired, the interchangeable blade system provides a unique value proposition.

The price is justified for what you get, a capable tool for casual use. I would recommend it to those on a tight budget or those who need a backup knife for light tasks.

Ultimately, the Cold Steel Click-N-Cut Lockback is a decent option for those who understand its limitations and appreciate its versatility. Pick one up and see if it fits your needs, but don’t expect it to replace your favorite high-end blade.