Let’s Talk About Cold Steel Chieftan’s Sax Fixed Blade Knife
The Cold Steel Chieftan’s Sax Fixed Blade Knife is a modern take on a historical weapon, designed to evoke the spirit of Viking chieftains and their ever-present sidearm. Cold Steel has a reputation for producing durable and affordable blades, often with a historical flair, and this sax appears to be no exception. The key features that caught my eye were the “broke back” blade profile, the intricately carved handle, and the included period-correct scabbard.
I’ve always been fascinated by edged weapons throughout history. I wanted a functional piece that could serve as both a conversation starter and a capable outdoor tool, and the Chieftan’s Sax seemed to fit the bill. Upon unboxing, I was immediately drawn to the size and heft of the blade. It felt substantial and well-made, although I had some reservations about the handle’s ergonomics based on initial inspection.
I considered the Condor Tool & Knife Viking Sax and the Hanwei Practical Viking Sword. The Condor was more affordable but lacked the refined aesthetic, while the Hanwei was significantly more expensive and primarily a sword, not a versatile sax. I chose the Cold Steel Chieftan’s Sax Fixed Blade Knife for its balance of historical appeal, functionality, and price point.
I was excited to finally get my hands on a sax of this size and design. The initial impression was one of awe, quickly followed by a desire to put it through its paces. It seemed like a formidable tool, but only real-world testing would reveal its true potential.
Real-World Testing: Putting Cold Steel Chieftan’s Sax Fixed Blade Knife to the Test
First Use Experience
I primarily tested the Cold Steel Chieftan’s Sax Fixed Blade Knife during a weekend camping trip in the dense forests of the Pacific Northwest. I used it for tasks ranging from batoning firewood and clearing brush to preparing food. The weather was damp, with occasional rain showers, providing a good test of the blade’s grip and rust resistance.
The sax performed surprisingly well in wet conditions. The handle, despite its intricate carving, provided a secure grip, even when wet. However, the length made it slightly unwieldy for fine tasks like carving small pieces of wood.
The biggest surprise was how well it batoned. I was initially skeptical, but the thick blade and robust construction made short work of splitting logs for the campfire. No issues were encountered after the first use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Cold Steel Chieftan’s Sax Fixed Blade Knife has held up remarkably well. The 1055 Carbon Steel blade has retained its edge, requiring only occasional stropping to maintain sharpness. Minor scratches are visible on the blade’s satin finish, which adds character in my opinion.
The wood handle shows no signs of cracking or loosening, even after repeated use in challenging conditions. Regular cleaning and oiling have kept the blade free from rust. The leather scabbard has also proven durable, although the leather lacing has required some minor tightening.
In comparison to other large fixed-blade knives I’ve used, the Cold Steel Chieftan’s Sax Fixed Blade Knife offers a unique combination of chopping power and historical appeal. It outperforms many similar blades in terms of chopping ability. However, it does not match the finesse of smaller knives for intricate work.
Breaking Down the Features of Cold Steel Chieftan’s Sax Fixed Blade Knife
Specifications
- Blade Length: 13.87 inches. This substantial blade length provides significant leverage for chopping and cutting tasks.
- Overall Length: 19.5 inches. The overall length makes it a sizeable tool, requiring some familiarity to wield effectively.
- Blade Shape: Clip Point. The “broke back” clip point design enhances piercing ability while maintaining a strong cutting edge.
- Blade Material: 1055 Carbon Steel. This steel offers a good balance of toughness and edge retention, suitable for heavy use.
- Serrated: Plain. The plain edge allows for clean, efficient cuts and is easier to sharpen compared to serrated edges.
- Knife Application: Fixed Blade. The fixed blade design ensures maximum strength and reliability.
- Handle Material: Wood. The wood handle provides a comfortable grip and adds to the knife’s aesthetic appeal.
- Handle Color: Wood. The natural wood color complements the overall design and gives it a classic look.
- Blade Grind: Flat. The flat grind enhances slicing ability and makes sharpening relatively straightforward.
- Condition: New. The knife comes brand new.
- Sheath Material: Leather. The leather sheath provides safe and secure storage and transportation.
- Hand: Ambidextrous. The design is suitable for both left- and right-handed users.
These specifications are important because they define the knife’s capabilities. The 1055 Carbon Steel means it can withstand a good amount of abuse. The blade’s shape and grind affect how effectively it can be used for various tasks.
Performance & Functionality
The Cold Steel Chieftan’s Sax Fixed Blade Knife excels at chopping, batoning, and general cutting tasks. Its weight and blade length provide significant power for clearing brush or processing firewood. However, its size makes it less suitable for fine work, such as detailed carving or food preparation.
A strength is its ability to withstand heavy use without significant damage. A weakness is its limited versatility due to its size and weight. Overall, it meets expectations as a robust and capable chopping tool.
Design & Ergonomics
The Cold Steel Chieftan’s Sax Fixed Blade Knife boasts a unique and aesthetically pleasing design, reminiscent of historical Viking weaponry. The wood handle, with its intricate carvings, provides a secure grip. However, the handle can be slightly uncomfortable during prolonged use due to the lack of contouring.
The weight is substantial but manageable. There is a slight learning curve in mastering the blade because of its size and unique shape.
Durability & Maintenance
The Cold Steel Chieftan’s Sax Fixed Blade Knife is built to last. The 1055 Carbon Steel blade is known for its durability and resistance to chipping. Regular cleaning and oiling are essential to prevent rust, but the maintenance is straightforward.
Repair should not be needed under normal use. The simple construction makes it a durable tool.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Cold Steel Chieftan’s Sax Fixed Blade Knife comes with a period-correct brown leather scabbard with brass accents and leather carrying straps. Customization options are limited due to the specific historical design. One might consider aftermarket handle wraps for added comfort.
The sax should be compatible with some generic fixed-blade knife accessories, such as sharpening stones and maintenance oils. It is unlikely that other brands will make specialized accessories for this niche product.
Pros and Cons of Cold Steel Chieftan’s Sax Fixed Blade Knife
Pros
- Robust and Durable: Built with 1055 Carbon Steel, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Excellent Chopping Power: The substantial blade length and weight provide significant leverage for chopping tasks.
- Aesthetically Pleasing: The intricate handle carving and period-correct scabbard add to its historical appeal.
- Secure Grip: The handle, despite its design, provides a surprisingly secure grip, even when wet.
- Good Value for Money: Offers a unique combination of historical appeal and functionality at an affordable price point.
Cons
- Limited Versatility: Size and weight make it less suitable for fine work.
- Handle Comfort: The intricate carvings can become uncomfortable during prolonged use.
Who Should Buy Cold Steel Chieftan’s Sax Fixed Blade Knife?
Perfect for: history enthusiasts, collectors, outdoorsmen needing a robust chopping tool, and those seeking a unique and conversation-starting blade.
Who should skip this product? Those looking for a lightweight, versatile knife for fine tasks or everyday carry.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A quality sharpening stone and rust-preventative oil are essential for maintaining the blade. You could add aftermarket handle wraps.
Conclusion on Cold Steel Chieftan’s Sax Fixed Blade Knife
The Cold Steel Chieftan’s Sax Fixed Blade Knife is a unique and capable tool that blends historical aesthetics with modern durability. While it is not the most versatile knife, it excels at chopping and other heavy-duty tasks, making it a valuable addition to any collection or outdoor kit.
The price is justified given the quality of materials and construction. I would personally recommend it to anyone seeking a robust, historically inspired blade that can handle demanding tasks.
If you’re looking for a conversation piece that can also perform, the Cold Steel Chieftan’s Sax Fixed Blade Knife is worth considering. Pick one up and experience the power of the Viking chieftain’s sidearm.