Cold Steel Large Luzon 13.5in Folding Knife Review

Let’s Talk About Cold Steel Large Luzon 13.5in Folding Knife

The Cold Steel Large Luzon 13.5in Folding Knife is an imposing folder from Cold Steel, a brand known for its durable and often aggressively-designed blades. This knife is designed as an affordable, large-format folding knife inspired by the traditional Filipino Balisong, but with a safer and more practical locking mechanism. It’s a budget-friendly option for those seeking a large, capable blade for utility, self-defense, or even just to make a statement.

My journey to the Cold Steel Large Luzon 13.5in Folding Knife started with a need for a reliable camp knife that could handle tasks beyond the capabilities of my smaller everyday carry (EDC) folder. I wanted something big enough to prep firewood kindling, prepare food, and handle basic camp chores without being as bulky or unwieldy as a fixed blade. The Luzon seemed to fit the bill with its impressive size and folding design.

Upon unboxing, the Cold Steel Large Luzon 13.5in Folding Knife immediately impressed with its size. The bamboo-inspired GFN handle, while feeling lightweight, seemed sturdy enough, and the satin-finished blade looked sharp. My initial impression was that it felt like a lot of knife for the price, though I did have slight reservations about the overall durability due to the lightweight materials.

Compared to other large folding knives like the SOG Trident AT or the Gerber Applegate-Fairbairn Folder, the Luzon stood out for its significantly lower price point and unique handle design. I chose the Luzon primarily for its affordability and the promise of a unique aesthetic, hoping it would provide a similar level of functionality as the more expensive options. I was excited to put it to the test and see if it lived up to its reputation.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Cold Steel Large Luzon 13.5in Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real-world test of the Cold Steel Large Luzon 13.5in Folding Knife came during a weekend camping trip in the local mountains. The conditions were relatively mild, with dry weather and temperatures ranging from 50 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. I primarily used the knife for preparing kindling, cutting rope, and opening food packages.

The blade performed well for most tasks, easily slicing through rope and cardboard. The size of the blade was definitely an advantage when processing smaller pieces of wood for the campfire. However, the handle felt a bit slippery when my hands were damp, and the locking mechanism initially felt a bit stiff.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Cold Steel Large Luzon 13.5in Folding Knife has held up surprisingly well, considering its budget-friendly price. There are some minor scratches on the blade from use, but the edge has remained relatively sharp. The handle has proven to be more durable than I initially anticipated, showing no signs of cracking or bending.

The locking mechanism has become smoother with use, but it still requires a firm push to disengage. Cleaning the knife is relatively easy; I simply rinse it with water and apply a small amount of oil to the blade pivot to prevent rust. Compared to my previous camp knives, the Luzon performs adequately for light to medium-duty tasks.

Breaking Down the Features of Cold Steel Large Luzon 13.5in Folding Knife

Specifications

• The Cold Steel Large Luzon 13.5in Folding Knife boasts a 6-inch blade, making it a formidable folder for various tasks. This provides ample cutting surface for larger jobs.
• Its 7.5-inch closed length and 13.5-inch overall length contribute to its substantial size. While large, it still folds for relatively easy carry.
• The blade is crafted from 8Cr13MoV steel, a budget-friendly steel known for its decent edge retention and ease of sharpening. This makes it a practical choice for regular use.
• Weighing in at 9.3 oz or 9.8 oz, depending on the model, the Luzon feels substantial without being overly heavy. This weight provides a good balance between sturdiness and portability.
• The handle is made from GFN (Glass Filled Nylon), offering a lightweight yet reasonably durable grip. The bamboo-inspired texture improves grip without being overly aggressive.
• It features a Clip Point blade shape, known for its versatility in piercing and slicing. This makes it well-suited for a variety of cutting tasks.
• The blade has a Satin finish, which helps to resist corrosion and provides a sleek appearance. This also helps to hide scratches and wear.
• The 3.5 mm blade thickness adds to the knife’s strength and ability to handle tougher cutting tasks. This thickness gives the blade a solid, reliable feel.

Performance & Functionality

The Cold Steel Large Luzon 13.5in Folding Knife performs admirably as a large utility folder, capable of handling most cutting tasks with ease. The blade’s length and shape make it particularly well-suited for slicing, chopping, and piercing. Its robust construction inspires confidence during use.

The knife’s main strength lies in its size and affordability, offering a lot of blade for the price. However, the handle’s grip could be improved, and the locking mechanism, while sturdy, can be stiff. The blade steel, while decent, is not on par with higher-end steels in terms of edge retention. The Luzon meets my expectations as a budget-friendly, large-format folder.

Design & Ergonomics

The Cold Steel Large Luzon 13.5in Folding Knife features a distinctive bamboo-inspired handle design that, while visually appealing, might not be the most ergonomic for all users. The GFN handle is lightweight and adequately durable, but some may find it lacks the premium feel of more expensive materials. The overall balance of the knife is decent, but the large blade can make it feel slightly unwieldy in hand.

The knife has a learning curve due to its size and locking mechanism. It takes some practice to open and close the knife smoothly and safely. The placement of the secondary safety lock also requires some getting used to.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its materials and construction, the Cold Steel Large Luzon 13.5in Folding Knife is expected to last a reasonable amount of time with proper care. The blade steel is relatively easy to sharpen, and the GFN handle is resistant to most common chemicals and solvents. Regular cleaning and lubrication will help to ensure smooth operation and prevent rust.

Repairing the knife may be difficult due to its construction. However, replacement parts are unlikely to be readily available. Overall, the Luzon is designed to be a disposable tool rather than a heirloom piece.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Cold Steel Large Luzon 13.5in Folding Knife doesn’t come with many accessories. The knife only comes with the basic packaging. There are limited customization options available for the Luzon.

Aftermarket scales and clips may be difficult to find due to the unique handle shape and size. Some users may choose to modify the handle texture for improved grip or add a lanyard for easier carry.

Pros and Cons of Cold Steel Large Luzon 13.5in Folding Knife