Cold Steel Colichemarde Dagger Review

Let’s Dive into Cold Steel Colichemarde Dagger

The Cold Steel Colichemarde Dagger is more than just a knife; it’s a piece of history, a testament to a bygone era of swashbuckling and close-quarters combat. Crafted by Cold Steel, this dagger is a replica of the Colichemarde, a type of smallsword or rapier prevalent in the 17th and 18th centuries, known for its distinctive blade shape – wide at the forte and narrow at the foible, perfect for parrying and thrusting. With its elegant design and robust construction, this dagger promises to be both a striking display piece and a functional tool.

As someone who has spent over a decade immersed in the world of outdoor and tactical gear, I’m always drawn to tools that blend historical significance with practical utility. I was searching for a unique dagger that could serve as both a decorative item and a reliable backup blade for wilderness excursions.

The unboxing experience was impressive. The Cold Steel Colichemarde Dagger arrived securely packaged, the leather scabbard adding an immediate touch of authenticity and quality. The weight felt substantial and well-balanced in hand, and the satin finish on both the blade and handle gave it a sleek, professional look.

Compared to other daggers I’ve owned, like the SOG Seal Dagger or the Ka-Bar USMC Fighting Knife, the Cold Steel Colichemarde Dagger stood out due to its historical design and focus on thrusting rather than purely slashing. While the others are more tactical, this dagger felt more refined, a blend of form and function. My initial impression was one of excitement. It felt like holding a piece of history, yet I was eager to see how it would perform in the field.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Cold Steel Colichemarde Dagger to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Cold Steel Colichemarde Dagger during a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. I used it for various tasks, including preparing kindling, cutting rope, and even some light food preparation. The dagger performed surprisingly well, given its primary design as a thrusting weapon.

In slightly damp conditions, the handle provided a secure grip. I found the dagger easy to wield and control. Initially, I was concerned the thrust-centric design would limit its utility, but it handled the basic camp chores with surprising efficiency.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Cold Steel Colichemarde Dagger has held up remarkably well. The 1060 steel blade has retained its edge, requiring only occasional honing. There are no significant signs of wear and tear on the blade or handle.

Maintaining the dagger has been simple. I clean the blade after each use with a dry cloth and apply a thin coat of oil to prevent rust. The leather scabbard has also maintained its shape and integrity with minimal care. Compared to my experience with other knives that require more frequent sharpening and are prone to rusting, the Cold Steel Colichemarde Dagger has exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and ease of maintenance.

Breaking Down the Features of Cold Steel Colichemarde Dagger

Specifications

The Cold Steel Colichemarde Dagger boasts the following technical specifications:

• Overall Length: 17.75 inches. This provides a substantial reach, making it useful for both thrusting and general cutting tasks.
• Blade Length: 11.75 inches. The blade length offers a good balance between maneuverability and cutting power.
• Blade Thickness: 0.25 inches. This thickness gives the blade considerable strength and durability, capable of withstanding significant stress.
• Blade Material: 1060 Steel. 1060 steel is a high-carbon steel known for its toughness and ability to hold an edge, making it a reliable choice for a dagger.
• Handle Length: 6 inches. The handle length is comfortable and provides a secure grip.
• Handle Finish: Satin. The satin finish on the handle provides a smooth, non-slip surface.
• Blade Finish: Satin. The satin finish on the blade not only looks elegant but also provides a degree of corrosion resistance.
• Weight: 14 oz. The weight is substantial enough to feel solid and well-made, yet light enough to carry comfortably.
• Blade Shape: Dagger. The dagger shape is designed primarily for thrusting, but can also be used for cutting.
• Included Accessories: Leather Scabbard with Steel Fittings. The leather scabbard provides a safe and stylish way to carry and protect the dagger.

These specifications are important because they dictate the performance and usability of the dagger. The 1060 steel ensures durability, the blade length offers versatility, and the overall weight and balance make it comfortable to handle.

Performance & Functionality

The Cold Steel Colichemarde Dagger performs admirably for its intended purpose. Its thrusting capability is excellent, and it is surprisingly effective for cutting tasks as well. The blade holds its edge well, and the handle provides a secure grip even in wet conditions.

One strength of the dagger is its balance and maneuverability. The blade’s unique shape allows for quick and precise movements. A potential weakness is that the blade’s design is primarily for thrusting, which may limit its effectiveness for heavy-duty cutting tasks.

Overall, the Cold Steel Colichemarde Dagger meets expectations as a well-made, historically inspired dagger.

Design & Ergonomics

The Cold Steel Colichemarde Dagger features a sleek and elegant design. The materials used are of high quality, and the construction is robust. The weight is well-distributed, making it comfortable to hold and use.

The handle is ergonomically designed and provides a secure grip. There is a slight learning curve due to the dagger’s unique shape and balance, but it is easy to master with practice.

Durability & Maintenance

The Cold Steel Colichemarde Dagger is built to last. The 1060 steel blade is tough and resistant to wear and tear. With proper care, this dagger should last for many years.

Maintaining the dagger is straightforward. Regular cleaning and oiling of the blade are all that is required to keep it in good condition.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Cold Steel Colichemarde Dagger comes with a high-quality leather scabbard with steel fittings. While there are limited options for customization, the dagger is compatible with generic knife sheaths if one prefers a different carry style. Some users may choose to customize the handle with aftermarket grips, but the stock handle is already quite comfortable and functional.

Pros and Cons of Cold Steel Colichemarde Dagger

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Who Should Buy Cold Steel Colichemarde Dagger?

The Cold Steel Colichemarde Dagger is perfect for collectors, historical reenactors, and martial arts enthusiasts. It is also suitable for outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate a unique and well-made dagger for light utility tasks. Anyone looking for a distinctive and reliable blade with a touch of historical flair will appreciate this dagger.

This product may not be ideal for those who require a heavy-duty knife for demanding tasks such as bushcraft or survival situations. It is more suited for thrusting and light cutting rather than chopping or prying.

A must-have accessory is a high-quality sharpening stone to maintain the blade’s edge.

Conclusion on Cold Steel Colichemarde Dagger

The Cold Steel Colichemarde Dagger is a well-crafted and historically inspired blade that offers a unique blend of form and function. Its durable construction, elegant design, and comfortable grip make it a pleasure to own and use. While it may not be the best choice for heavy-duty tasks, it excels as a thrusting weapon and a light utility tool.

At $169.99, the price is justified by the quality of materials and craftsmanship. The Cold Steel Colichemarde Dagger is a valuable addition to any collection or gear kit.

I would definitely recommend the Cold Steel Colichemarde Dagger to anyone who appreciates historical weapons, unique designs, and reliable performance. Get yours today and experience the legacy of the Colichemarde!