Let’s Talk About Cold Steel American Lawman, 3.5in Blade Length, American S35VN w/ DLC Coating Knife
The Cold Steel American Lawman, 3.5in Blade Length, American S35VN w/ DLC Coating Knife is a rugged folding knife designed for everyday carry and tactical use. Cold Steel intended this knife to withstand significant impact and shock, making it a reliable tool for law enforcement and anyone needing a dependable blade.
For years, I’ve carried various folders, searching for one that balanced strength, cutting performance, and discreet carry. I needed a knife that could handle everything from opening packages to more demanding tasks in the field.
The Cold Steel American Lawman arrived in a simple box, but the knife itself felt substantial in hand. The G-10 handle offered excellent grip, and the blade was impressively sharp right out of the box. Its overall design screamed durability and practicality.
Compared to my Spyderco Paramilitary 2 and Benchmade 940, the American Lawman seemed more robust, though slightly heavier. I chose the American Lawman for its reputation for extreme toughness and the renowned Tri-Ad locking system.
My first impression was excitement mixed with a touch of awe. The Cold Steel American Lawman felt like a serious tool, built to withstand hard use, and I couldn’t wait to put it to the test.
Real-World Testing: Putting Cold Steel American Lawman, 3.5in Blade Length, American S35VN w/ DLC Coating Knife to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Cold Steel American Lawman during a week-long camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. I used it for tasks like food preparation, cutting rope, and whittling kindling for the fire.
The knife performed admirably in the damp and sometimes muddy conditions. The G-10 handle provided a secure grip even when wet, and the S35VN steel held its edge well. I was particularly impressed with how easily it sliced through thick cardboard and tough rope. After the first few hours, I noticed no hotspots in my hand while gripping the knife.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Cold Steel American Lawman continues to impress me. The DLC coating on the blade has proven highly resistant to scratches and corrosion. The Tri-Ad lock remains rock solid, inspiring confidence in its reliability.
I’ve noticed only minimal wear on the G-10 handle, and the blade still sharpens to a razor’s edge. Maintenance involves simple cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the pivot point. The American Lawman outperforms many of my previous EDC knives in terms of sheer durability and edge retention.
Breaking Down the Features of Cold Steel American Lawman, 3.5in Blade Length, American S35VN w/ DLC Coating Knife
Specifications
- Blade Length: 3.5 inches. This length offers a good balance between cutting ability and ease of carry.
- Blade Steel: American S35VN. This steel is known for its excellent edge retention, toughness, and corrosion resistance.
- Blade Thickness: 3.5mm. This thickness provides strength and stability for demanding cutting tasks.
- Handle Length: 4.63 inches. This length provides a comfortable and secure grip for most hand sizes.
- Handle Material: G-10. This material is extremely durable, lightweight, and offers excellent grip, even when wet.
- Overall Length: 8.13 inches. This gives the knife a good reach without being overly cumbersome.
- Weight: 4.5 oz. This weight balances strength and portability, making it suitable for everyday carry.
- Blade Finish: DLC Coating. The Diamond-Like Carbon coating enhances corrosion resistance and reduces friction.
- Locking Mechanism: Tri-Ad lock. This renowned locking system provides exceptional strength and safety.
- Pocket Clip: Ambidextrous Stainless Steel. This allows for convenient and versatile carry options.
These specifications translate to a knife that is both capable and reliable. The combination of S35VN steel, G-10 handle, and Tri-Ad lock makes the American Lawman a true workhorse.
Performance & Functionality
The Cold Steel American Lawman performs exceptionally well in a variety of tasks. Its drop point blade is well-suited for slicing, piercing, and general utility work. The edge geometry allows for smooth cutting performance, and the S35VN steel holds its sharpness for an impressively long time.
One minor weakness is that the handle texture can be slightly aggressive for prolonged use without gloves. Overall, the knife meets and exceeds expectations in terms of cutting power, reliability, and ease of deployment.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is outstanding, with tight tolerances and precise fit and finish. The G-10 handle is nicely contoured and provides a very secure grip. There’s no real learning curve – the knife feels natural in hand and is easy to operate.
Durability & Maintenance
The American Lawman is built to last, with robust materials and a solid construction. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service. Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Cold Steel American Lawman comes with an ambidextrous pocket clip. While aftermarket scales are not widely available, some users may choose to customize the pocket clip or lanyard. The knife is compatible with most standard knife maintenance tools and lubricants.
Pros and Cons of Cold Steel American Lawman, 3.5in Blade Length, American S35VN w/ DLC Coating Knife
Pros
- Exceptional strength and reliability due to the Tri-Ad lock. This ensures the blade stays securely locked during use.
- Excellent edge retention thanks to the S35VN steel. This means less frequent sharpening.
- Durable DLC coating that protects the blade from corrosion and scratches. This keeps the knife looking good for longer.
- Secure and comfortable G-10 handle provides a solid grip in all conditions. This increases safety and control during use.
- Versatile drop point blade shape is suitable for a wide range of tasks. This makes it a great EDC option.
Cons
- The handle texture can be slightly aggressive for prolonged use without gloves. This can cause discomfort during extended cutting tasks.
- The knife is relatively heavy compared to some other EDC options. This may be a concern for those prioritizing lightweight carry.
Who Should Buy Cold Steel American Lawman, 3.5in Blade Length, American S35VN w/ DLC Coating Knife?
The Cold Steel American Lawman is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and anyone needing a dependable and rugged EDC knife. It’s also a great choice for outdoorsmen who demand high performance from their tools.
Those prioritizing a lightweight and less aggressive handle texture might want to consider other options. Must-have accessories include a quality sharpening stone and a good lubricant for the pivot point.
Conclusion on Cold Steel American Lawman, 3.5in Blade Length, American S35VN w/ DLC Coating Knife
The Cold Steel American Lawman, 3.5in Blade Length, American S35VN w/ DLC Coating Knife is a superbly built and exceptionally strong folding knife. Its price is justified by its premium materials, robust construction, and outstanding performance. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable and durable EDC tool. If you need a knife that can handle demanding tasks and withstand hard use, the Cold Steel American Lawman is an excellent choice. Add one to your kit and experience the difference for yourself!