Let’s Talk About Cold Steel Double Safe Hunter Folding Knife
The Cold Steel Double Safe Hunter Folding Knife is a budget-friendly option that aims to deliver solid performance. Cold Steel has modeled this knife after their popular Voyager series, offering a wide clip-point blade, a glass-filled nylon (GFN) handle, and a secure rocker lock with a secondary safety. This knife promises a blend of functionality and affordability, making it an interesting option for those seeking a reliable tool without breaking the bank.
I was looking for an everyday carry knife that could handle both routine tasks and the occasional field dressing of small game while hunting. I needed something lightweight, dependable, and easy to maintain, without the hefty price tag often associated with higher-end knives.
My initial impression upon unboxing the Cold Steel Double Safe Hunter Folding Knife was one of practical simplicity. The knife felt surprisingly sturdy for its price point, although the GFN handle had a decidedly utilitarian feel. It wasn’t flashy, but it seemed ready for work.
Compared to my Benchmade Griptilian (more expensive) and my Kershaw Blur (faster opening), the Cold Steel Double Safe Hunter Folding Knife stood out with its focus on strength and straightforward design. I chose this knife over others primarily due to its reputation for lock strength and its affordable price. I hoped it would be a durable and dependable companion for my outdoor adventures.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic; I was eager to test its cutting performance and lock strength in real-world scenarios. While it lacked the premium feel of my higher-end knives, the Cold Steel Double Safe Hunter Folding Knife sparked curiosity about its practical utility and ruggedness.
Real-World Testing: Putting Cold Steel Double Safe Hunter Folding Knife to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Cold Steel Double Safe Hunter Folding Knife on a weekend camping trip in the Ozark Mountains. The knife was used for basic camp chores such as preparing kindling, food preparation, and cutting rope.
The Cold Steel Double Safe Hunter Folding Knife performed adequately in dry conditions, though the GFN handle felt a little slick when wet. The blade held an edge reasonably well, and the clip point proved useful for detail work, though not outstanding.
The knife was easy to use, and the thumb stud offered a decent, if not lightning-fast, opening experience. However, engaging the secondary safety required a deliberate action that slowed down deployment.
The secondary safety on the Cold Steel Double Safe Hunter Folding Knife was initially stiff, making it a bit cumbersome to engage and disengage.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of occasional use, the Cold Steel Double Safe Hunter Folding Knife has held up well. The lock remains solid, and the blade still locks up tight with no play.
There are some minor scratches on the blade’s satin finish and some slight wear on the pocket clip. However, the Cold Steel Double Safe Hunter Folding Knife shows no signs of critical failure or significant deterioration.
Cleaning the Cold Steel Double Safe Hunter Folding Knife is straightforward; a quick rinse and a drop of oil on the pivot point are generally sufficient. Sharpening the 8Cr13MoV blade is also relatively easy, bringing it back to a working edge with minimal effort.
The Cold Steel Double Safe Hunter Folding Knife has not outperformed my higher-end knives in terms of edge retention or overall fit and finish. However, it has proven to be a reliable and budget-friendly option that is perfectly adequate for most everyday tasks, exceeding my expectations given its price point.
Breaking Down the Features of Cold Steel Double Safe Hunter Folding Knife
Specifications
The Cold Steel Double Safe Hunter Folding Knife boasts a 3.5-inch blade made from 8Cr13MoV steel, tempered to 57-58 Rockwell hardness. Its closed length is 4.88 inches, with an overall length of 8.38 inches.
The knife features a clip point blade shape, a glass-filled nylon (GFN) handle, a satin blade finish, and a blade thickness of 0.14 inches. The Cold Steel Double Safe Hunter Folding Knife utilizes the Tri-Ad lock with a secondary safety, has a hollow blade grind, a camo handle color, and weighs 5 ounces.
These specifications translate to a knife that is lightweight enough for comfortable carry, with a blade shape suitable for a variety of tasks. The Tri-Ad lock is known for its strength and reliability, and the 8Cr13MoV steel offers a decent balance of edge retention, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening.
Performance & Functionality
The Cold Steel Double Safe Hunter Folding Knife performs its core function of cutting reasonably well. The blade is sharp enough for most everyday tasks and the clip point allows for precision work.
Its primary strength lies in its lock strength and overall durability, making it a reliable tool for demanding tasks. The main weakness is the somewhat slick GFN handle when wet and the slightly slow deployment due to the secondary safety.
The Cold Steel Double Safe Hunter Folding Knife largely meets expectations for a budget-friendly folding knife. It is not exceptional in any one area but delivers consistent performance and reliability.
Design & Ergonomics
The Cold Steel Double Safe Hunter Folding Knife has a utilitarian design with a focus on functionality. The GFN handle is lightweight, but lacks the premium feel of more expensive materials like G10 or Micarta.
The knife is reasonably user-friendly, although the secondary safety mechanism adds a slight learning curve to the deployment process. The Cold Steel Double Safe Hunter Folding Knife offers a secure and comfortable grip in most conditions.
Durability & Maintenance
The Cold Steel Double Safe Hunter Folding Knife is built to last, thanks to its sturdy construction and the reliable Tri-Ad lock. With proper care, the knife should provide years of reliable service.
Maintaining the knife is relatively simple: regular cleaning and occasional sharpening are all that’s needed to keep it in good working order. The 8Cr13MoV steel is easy to sharpen and resists corrosion, making maintenance hassle-free.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Cold Steel Double Safe Hunter Folding Knife comes with a steel pocket clip, which can be mounted for ambidextrous carry. There are limited customization options available directly from Cold Steel.
While there are no official accessories, the knife is compatible with some aftermarket pocket clips and lanyards. Some users may also choose to modify the handle with grip tape for enhanced traction.
Pros and Cons of Cold Steel Double Safe Hunter Folding Knife
Pros
- Exceptional lock strength thanks to the Tri-Ad lock system.
- Affordable price makes it an excellent value for a durable, working knife.
- 8Cr13MoV steel offers a good balance of edge retention and ease of sharpening.
- Lightweight and comfortable for everyday carry.
- Versatile clip point blade suitable for a variety of tasks.
Cons
- GFN handle can feel slick when wet.
- Secondary safety mechanism slows down deployment.
- Lacks the premium feel of higher-end knives.
Who Should Buy Cold Steel Double Safe Hunter Folding Knife?
The Cold Steel Double Safe Hunter Folding Knife is perfect for budget-conscious individuals, hunters, campers, and anyone needing a reliable and durable everyday carry knife. It’s also suitable for those who prioritize lock strength and safety features.
This knife might not be ideal for users who demand the absolute best edge retention or prefer a knife with a more refined aesthetic. Also, those who need a knife that can be opened quickly with one hand might find the secondary safety a drawback.
A sharpening stone or steel and some lubricating oil are must-have accessories to maintain the edge and smooth operation of the Cold Steel Double Safe Hunter Folding Knife. Adding grip tape to the handle could also enhance its performance in wet conditions.
Conclusion on Cold Steel Double Safe Hunter Folding Knife
The Cold Steel Double Safe Hunter Folding Knife is a reliable and affordable option that delivers solid performance without breaking the bank. Its impressive lock strength and durable construction make it a dependable tool for a variety of tasks.
At a price of $42.58, the Cold Steel Double Safe Hunter Folding Knife offers an excellent value proposition. It is a well-made knife that punches above its weight class.
I would recommend the Cold Steel Double Safe Hunter Folding Knife to anyone looking for a budget-friendly and reliable everyday carry knife. It’s a no-nonsense tool that gets the job done.