First Impressions of Cold Steel AD-10 Lockback Black
The Cold Steel AD-10 Lockback Black isn’t just another folding knife; it’s a statement. Cold Steel has a reputation for building rugged, dependable tools, and the AD-10 lives up to that legacy with its burly design and robust lock mechanism. The combination of a premium S35VN steel blade, grippy G10 handle, and the renowned Tri-Ad lock immediately signaled that this knife was built for serious work.
As someone who spends a significant amount of time outdoors, both professionally and recreationally, I was looking for a folding knife that could handle demanding tasks without fail. My old EDC knife, while reliable for everyday chores, felt inadequate when I needed a tool that could withstand the rigors of field dressing game or preparing kindling in a survival situation. The AD-10 promised that kind of dependability.
Unboxing the Cold Steel AD-10 Lockback Black, my first impression was its substantial feel. It’s a hefty knife, which speaks to its robust construction, and the G10 handle offers an incredibly secure grip. The blade came razor-sharp right out of the box, a welcome sign of Cold Steel’s commitment to quality.
I considered the Benchmade Adamas and the Spyderco Paramilitary 2 before settling on the Cold Steel AD-10 Lockback Black. While the Adamas is similarly robust, the AD-10’s Tri-Ad lock has a legendary reputation for strength. The Paramilitary 2 is a fantastic EDC knife, but I needed something more substantial for tougher tasks.
My initial reaction was excitement. The Cold Steel AD-10 Lockback Black appeared to be exactly the kind of heavy-duty folding knife I needed, a tool built to withstand the demands of the backcountry and provide reliable service for years to come.
Real-World Testing: Putting Cold Steel AD-10 Lockback Black to the Test
First Use Experience
My first real test of the Cold Steel AD-10 Lockback Black was during a week-long elk hunting trip in the Colorado Rockies. I used it for everything from preparing food around the campsite to field dressing a bull elk. The knife’s performance was immediately impressive.
The Cold Steel AD-10 Lockback Black handled everything with ease, even in the wet, cold conditions that frequently plague the high country. The G10 handle provided a secure grip even with wet hands, and the S35VN blade retained its edge exceptionally well throughout the week. There were no issues with deployment or lockup, even after repeated use in demanding situations.
The only adjustment I needed to make was getting used to the knife’s size and weight. It’s a bigger knife than I was accustomed to carrying, but the added heft translates directly to increased confidence and capability. I did experience a slightly sore thumb from actuating the lock initially, but this quickly resolved after a few days of use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Cold Steel AD-10 Lockback Black has proven to be exceptionally durable. There are no signs of blade play, and the lock remains as solid as it was on day one. The G10 handle still looks new, and the S35VN blade continues to impress with its edge retention.
The blade has seen use cutting rope, cardboard, wood, and various other materials. I’ve been diligent about cleaning and oiling the blade after each use, which has helped to maintain its performance. Maintenance involves a quick wipe down with a damp cloth, followed by a light application of oil to the blade pivot.
Compared to my previous experiences with other folding knives, the Cold Steel AD-10 Lockback Black is in a different league. Its robust construction, reliable lock mechanism, and excellent edge retention make it a clear winner for anyone who needs a dependable tool for demanding tasks. It has outperformed my expectations in terms of durability and overall performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Cold Steel AD-10 Lockback Black
Specifications
The Cold Steel AD-10 Lockback Black features a 3.5-inch blade made from S35VN stainless steel, known for its excellent edge retention, toughness, and corrosion resistance. It has a closed length of 5.25 inches and an overall weight of 0.48 lbs, making it substantial but still manageable for everyday carry. The handle is constructed from black G10, providing a secure and comfortable grip, even in wet conditions.
The extended tang provides added strength and serves as a thumb rest for added control. A thumb stud allows for easy one-handed opening, while the lanyard hole offers additional carry options. A pocket clip allows for tip-up carry.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the knife’s performance and usability. The S35VN steel provides excellent edge retention and toughness, crucial for demanding tasks. The G10 handle offers a secure grip in all conditions. The robust lock mechanism ensures safe and reliable blade deployment.
Performance & Functionality
The Cold Steel AD-10 Lockback Black excels at its primary job: providing a reliable and durable cutting tool for demanding tasks. The blade’s sharpness and edge retention are exceptional, and the handle provides a secure and comfortable grip. The Tri-Ad lock is incredibly strong and reliable, ensuring that the blade stays securely locked in place during use.
The main strength of the Cold Steel AD-10 Lockback Black is its durability and reliability. The only area for improvement would be the initial stiffness of the lock, which requires a bit of break-in. Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations as a heavy-duty folding knife.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Cold Steel AD-10 Lockback Black is exceptional. The materials used are top-notch, and the knife feels solid and well-balanced in hand. The G10 handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, even with wet or gloved hands.
The knife is designed with user-friendliness in mind. The thumb stud allows for easy one-handed opening, and the lock is easy to actuate with a bit of practice. The overall design is simple and functional, with no unnecessary frills.
Durability & Maintenance
The Cold Steel AD-10 Lockback Black is built to last. The S35VN steel blade is highly resistant to wear and corrosion, and the G10 handle is virtually indestructible. With proper care and maintenance, this knife should provide many years of reliable service.
The Cold Steel AD-10 Lockback Black is easy to maintain and repair. The simple design makes it easy to disassemble and clean, and replacement parts are readily available if needed. Regular cleaning and oiling will help to keep the knife in top condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Cold Steel AD-10 Lockback Black comes with a standard pocket clip for tip-up carry. While there are no official customization options offered directly by Cold Steel, the aftermarket provides several options. Some users may choose to replace the pocket clip with a different style or material.
The knife is compatible with many aftermarket accessories, such as lanyards and aftermarket screws.
Pros and Cons of Cold Steel AD-10 Lockback Black
Pros
- Exceptional durability: The robust construction and high-quality materials ensure that this knife can withstand demanding use.
- Superior edge retention: The S35VN steel blade holds its edge for a long time, even after repeated use.
- Secure grip: The G10 handle provides a comfortable and secure grip in all conditions.
- Strong and reliable lock: The Tri-Ad lock is one of the strongest and most reliable lock mechanisms on the market.
- Versatile design: The knife is suitable for a wide range of tasks, from everyday carry to hunting and survival situations.
Cons
- Stiff lock initially: The Tri-Ad lock can be a bit stiff at first, requiring a break-in period.
- Hefty weight: The Cold Steel AD-10 Lockback Black is heavier than some other folding knives, which may not be ideal for everyone.
Who Should Buy Cold Steel AD-10 Lockback Black?
The Cold Steel AD-10 Lockback Black is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, hunters, survivalists, and anyone who needs a reliable and durable cutting tool for demanding tasks. It’s also a great choice for law enforcement and military personnel.
This knife may not be ideal for someone who prefers a lightweight and compact EDC knife. Anyone with smaller hands might find the handle a bit bulky.
A must-have accessory for the Cold Steel AD-10 Lockback Black is a high-quality sharpening system to maintain the blade’s edge.
Conclusion on Cold Steel AD-10 Lockback Black
The Cold Steel AD-10 Lockback Black is an exceptional folding knife that delivers on its promise of durability, reliability, and performance. Its robust construction, secure grip, and excellent edge retention make it a standout choice for anyone who needs a dependable tool for demanding tasks.
The price of $149.49 is justified by the knife’s high-quality materials, robust construction, and exceptional performance. It’s an investment in a tool that will provide many years of reliable service.
I would highly recommend the Cold Steel AD-10 Lockback Black to anyone looking for a heavy-duty folding knife that can handle demanding tasks without fail. If you’re in the market for a dependable and durable cutting tool, look no further than the Cold Steel AD-10 Lockback Black. Get yours today and experience the difference!