Let’s Dive into Cold Steel Finn Wolf Folding Knife
The Cold Steel Finn Wolf Folding Knife is a modern interpretation of the classic Finnish Puukko, brought to life by a collaboration between Cold Steel President Lynn C Thompson and custom knife-maker Andrew Demko. This isn’t just another folding knife; it’s a testament to functional design, blending traditional inspiration with modern engineering and materials. Its lightweight construction, robust Tri-Ad lock, and razor-sharp AUS8A steel blade make it a contender for the “perfect everyman” knife.
What drove me to the Finn Wolf? I needed a reliable, easily carried knife for everyday tasks, hiking, and the occasional camping trip. I wanted something that could handle food prep, light bushcraft, and general cutting chores without feeling like I was lugging around a tactical sword.
Unboxing the Cold Steel Finn Wolf Folding Knife was a pleasant surprise. The OD Green Griv-Ex handle felt comfortable and secure in hand, and the knife’s overall weight was impressively light. The blade arrived razor-sharp, reflecting Cold Steel’s reputation for edge quality.
I was choosing between the Finn Wolf, a Spyderco Tenacious, and an Ontario RAT Model 1. The Spyderco is a solid choice, but the Finn Wolf’s more traditional blade shape appealed to me. The RAT Model 1 is known for its durability, but the Finn Wolf’s lighter weight and Tri-Ad lock ultimately won me over.
My first impression of the Cold Steel Finn Wolf Folding Knife was one of excitement. It felt like a serious cutting tool in a compact and manageable package. I was eager to put it through its paces and see how it would perform in real-world situations.
Real-World Testing: Putting Cold Steel Finn Wolf Folding Knife to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Cold Steel Finn Wolf Folding Knife on a weekend camping trip in the local state forest. I used it for various tasks, from preparing food to feathering sticks for a fire. The blade’s zero-ground edge made slicing vegetables and carving wood incredibly easy.
The weather was damp, and the handle provided a secure grip even with wet hands. The knife opened smoothly and locked securely thanks to the Tri-Ad lock. I experienced no issues with slippage or discomfort.
It took me no time at all to get used to the Finn Wolf. The ergonomic handle and intuitive deployment made it feel like a natural extension of my hand. This knife is extremely easy to use.
After the first camping trip, I was impressed with the Cold Steel Finn Wolf Folding Knife. The only minor issue was some slight discoloration on the blade after cutting acidic fruits, but that was easily cleaned. The blade held its edge well throughout the weekend.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Cold Steel Finn Wolf Folding Knife has held up remarkably well. I’ve used it for everything from opening packages to more demanding tasks like cutting rope and processing small game. There were no issues during these tasks.
There are minimal signs of wear and tear. The Griv-Ex handle shows no scratches or damage. The blade still locks up tight and securely.
Cleaning the Finn Wolf is simple. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the pivot point is all it takes. It is an extremely low-maintenance knife.
Compared to other folding knives I’ve owned, the Cold Steel Finn Wolf Folding Knife is one of the most reliable and versatile. It has consistently outperformed my expectations in terms of edge retention, comfort, and overall durability. This knife is amazing!
Breaking Down the Features of Cold Steel Finn Wolf Folding Knife
Specifications
- Weight: 3.4 oz. Its lightweight design makes it ideal for everyday carry.
- Blade Thickness: 3 mm. This provides a good balance between slicing ability and durability.
- Blade Length: 3 1/2″. The blade length is perfect for a variety of tasks without being cumbersome.
- Handle: 4 3/8″ OD Green Griv-Ex™. The Griv-Ex material offers a secure and comfortable grip in various conditions.
- Overall: 7 7/8″. The overall length provides ample reach for most cutting tasks.
- Steel: Japanese AUS 8A Stainless. AUS 8A is known for its good edge retention, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening.
- Pocket Clip: Ambidextrous Pocket / Belt Clip. This allows for convenient carry for both right- and left-handed users.
- Locking Mechanism: Tri-Ad Lock. The Tri-Ad lock is renowned for its strength and reliability, ensuring safe use.
- Blade Grind: Smooth. The smooth blade grind allows for easy sharpening and cleaning.
These specifications translate to a knife that is easy to carry, comfortable to use, and capable of handling a wide range of tasks. The AUS8A steel provides a good balance between performance and ease of maintenance, while the Tri-Ad lock ensures safe and secure operation. This is a perfect design.
Performance & Functionality
The Cold Steel Finn Wolf Folding Knife excels at a variety of tasks. The razor-sharp blade and ergonomic handle make it a joy to use for everything from food prep to light bushcraft. This is an extremely versatile blade.
Its strengths lie in its excellent edge retention, comfortable grip, and secure lockup. The only minor weakness is that the AUS8A steel requires more frequent sharpening than some premium steels. It is also not as wear-resistant.
The Finn Wolf definitely exceeds my expectations for a knife in this price range. It offers a level of performance and reliability that is usually found in more expensive models. This is a great value.
Design & Ergonomics
The Cold Steel Finn Wolf Folding Knife features a simple yet effective design. The OD Green Griv-Ex handle provides a secure and comfortable grip, even in wet conditions. This handle is designed for anyone.
The knife is incredibly user-friendly, with a smooth opening action and intuitive lock release. There is no learning curve required.
Durability & Maintenance
The Cold Steel Finn Wolf Folding Knife is built to last. The robust construction and high-quality materials ensure that it can withstand years of use and abuse. This is a durable product.
Maintaining the Finn Wolf is easy. Regular cleaning and occasional lubrication are all that’s needed to keep it in top condition. It is also easily sharpened.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Cold Steel Finn Wolf Folding Knife comes with a reversible pocket clip for ambidextrous carry. There are no readily available aftermarket accessories or customization options specifically designed for the Finn Wolf. The pocket clip is great.
While there are no dedicated accessories, the Finn Wolf is compatible with generic knife maintenance tools such as sharpening stones and lubricants. You can easily sharpen it on the go.
Pros and Cons of Cold Steel Finn Wolf Folding Knife
Pros
- Unbeatable Tri-Ad Lock: Provides exceptional strength and safety. This is a key selling point.
- Razor-Sharp AUS 8A Blade: Excellent edge retention and easy to sharpen. Great steel choice.
- Lightweight & Compact: Perfect for everyday carry without being bulky. An ideal size and weight.
- Ergonomic Griv-Ex Handle: Comfortable and secure grip in all conditions. You’ll never lose your grip.
- Exceptional Value: High-quality performance at an affordable price. A perfect price point.
Cons
- AUS 8A Steel Requires More Frequent Sharpening: Compared to premium steels, it needs more attention. This requires regular maintenance.
- Limited Customization Options: Not many aftermarket accessories are available. There is not a lot you can do.
Who Should Buy Cold Steel Finn Wolf Folding Knife?
The Cold Steel Finn Wolf Folding Knife is perfect for anyone looking for a reliable and versatile everyday carry knife. It’s ideal for:
- Hikers and Campers: Its lightweight design and versatile blade make it perfect for outdoor adventures.
- Everyday Carry (EDC) Enthusiasts: A great choice for everyday tasks and self-defense.
- Hunters: Capable of light game processing.
Who should skip this product? Those who prioritize premium steel and extensive customization options might want to look elsewhere. These buyers should look at more expensive options.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A quality sharpening stone is essential for maintaining the blade’s edge. Some people may prefer to replace the pocket clip with a deeper carry option.
Conclusion on Cold Steel Finn Wolf Folding Knife
The Cold Steel Finn Wolf Folding Knife is an outstanding value for the money. It offers exceptional performance, reliability, and durability in a lightweight and compact package. It’s a great all-around knife.
The price is more than justified given the quality of materials and construction. The Tri-Ad lock alone makes it worth the investment. This is more than worth the cost.
I would absolutely recommend the Cold Steel Finn Wolf Folding Knife to anyone looking for a dependable EDC knife. It’s a fantastic tool that will serve you well in a variety of situations. You won’t be disappointed.
Add the Cold Steel Finn Wolf Folding Knife to your collection today and experience the perfect blend of tradition and innovation!