Cold Steel Peace Maker II 10.5in Fixed Blade Knife Review

Let’s Dive into Cold Steel Peace Maker II 10.5in Fixed Blade Knife

The Cold Steel Peace Maker II 10.5in Fixed Blade Knife is a tool that immediately evokes a sense of practicality and reliability. Cold Steel has a reputation for producing robust blades, and the Peace Maker II seems to fit that mold perfectly. It’s a no-nonsense knife designed for utility, self-defense, and everything in between, offered at a price point that makes it accessible to almost anyone.

I was looking for a dependable fixed blade that I could keep readily accessible, both for camp chores and as a backup self-defense option when hiking in areas with unpredictable wildlife. The Peace Maker II’s combination of discreet carry options and a substantial blade seemed like a good fit. Upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by how lightweight it felt for its size; the build quality seems solid enough for the price, though the handle material does feel a bit basic.

Compared to something like a Ka-Bar USMC Fighting Knife (much larger and heavier), or a smaller, more specialized knife like a Benchmade Bushcrafter (considerably more expensive), the Peace Maker II offers a middle ground. It provides a decent-sized blade without the bulk of a dedicated fighting knife, and at a fraction of the cost of a high-end bushcraft knife. My first impression was cautiously optimistic; it seemed like a good value for the money, but I was eager to see how it would perform in real-world use.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Cold Steel Peace Maker II 10.5in Fixed Blade Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I primarily tested the Cold Steel Peace Maker II 10.5in Fixed Blade Knife during a weekend camping trip in the nearby state forest. The weather was mixed, with periods of light rain and damp conditions throughout the weekend. I used it for tasks like preparing kindling, cutting rope, and food preparation around the campsite.

The knife performed reasonably well in these initial tasks, although the handle became a little slippery when wet. I didn’t experience any major issues, but the blade felt a little less sharp than I expected out of the box; the edge needed some touching up before I felt confident using it for finer tasks. The Secure-Ex sheath held the knife securely, even during rigorous movement.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of intermittent use, the Cold Steel Peace Maker II 10.5in Fixed Blade Knife has held up surprisingly well, particularly given its budget-friendly price. There are some minor scratches on the blade’s finish, but the edge retention has been decent after the initial sharpening. The handle shows no signs of cracking or damage, despite being exposed to varying temperatures and weather conditions.

Cleaning and maintaining the knife is straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth and occasional oiling of the blade is all it takes to keep it in good working order. Compared to some of my higher-end knives, which require more meticulous care, the Peace Maker II is remarkably low-maintenance. Overall, it has outperformed my initial expectations in terms of durability and reliability.

Breaking Down the Features of Cold Steel Peace Maker II 10.5in Fixed Blade Knife

Specifications

The Cold Steel Peace Maker II 10.5in Fixed Blade Knife boasts the following specifications:

• Blade Length: 5.5 inches. This provides a good balance between cutting power and portability.
• Overall Length: 10.25 inches. A manageable size for various tasks and carry options.
• Blade Thickness: 3 mm. Offers a decent level of strength without being overly bulky.
• Blade Material: German 4116 Stainless Steel. Known for its corrosion resistance and ease of sharpening, making it a practical choice for outdoor use.
• Handle Material: Kray-Ex. A synthetic rubber that offers a secure grip, even in wet conditions, though it can feel somewhat basic.
• Weight: 5.4 oz. Remarkably lightweight for its size, making it comfortable to carry for extended periods.
• Sheath: Secure-Ex Sheath. A durable, injection-molded sheath that provides secure retention and various carry options.

These specifications translate into a knife that is lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and relatively easy to maintain, making it a practical choice for a variety of outdoor and self-defense applications. The German 4116 steel strikes a good balance between edge retention and ease of sharpening, while the Kray-Ex handle provides a secure grip even in challenging conditions.

Performance & Functionality

The Cold Steel Peace Maker II 10.5in Fixed Blade Knife performs its intended job reasonably well. The blade is suitable for general cutting tasks, and the Scandi grind makes it relatively easy to resharpen. The handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, even when wet.

However, the initial sharpness of the blade could be improved, and the handle material does feel a bit basic compared to higher-end knives. Overall, it meets expectations for a knife in its price range, but it doesn’t necessarily exceed them.

Design & Ergonomics

The Cold Steel Peace Maker II 10.5in Fixed Blade Knife has a simple, functional design. The blade is a classic drop point shape, which is versatile for a variety of tasks. The Kray-Ex handle is comfortable and provides a secure grip, even in wet conditions.

The knife is lightweight and well-balanced, making it comfortable to use for extended periods. There is a slight learning curve to drawing the knife smoothly from the Secure-Ex sheath.

Durability & Maintenance

The German 4116 stainless steel blade is corrosion-resistant and relatively easy to maintain, ensuring that the knife will last for many years with proper care. The Kray-Ex handle is also durable and resistant to damage from the elements.

Cleaning and maintaining the knife is straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth and occasional oiling of the blade is all that is required.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Cold Steel Peace Maker II 10.5in Fixed Blade Knife comes with a Secure-Ex sheath, which provides secure retention and various carry options. There are no readily available aftermarket accessories or customization options specifically designed for this knife.

However, the Secure-Ex sheath can be easily attached to a belt or pack using aftermarket clips or straps.

Pros and Cons of Cold Steel Peace Maker II 10.5in Fixed Blade Knife

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Who Should Buy Cold Steel Peace Maker II 10.5in Fixed Blade Knife?

The Cold Steel Peace Maker II 10.5in Fixed Blade Knife is perfect for campers, hikers, and anyone looking for a dependable, affordable fixed blade knife for general utility tasks and self-defense. It’s also a great option for gifting to friends and relatives, as the user feedback suggests.

This knife is not ideal for those seeking a high-end, premium knife with superior steel and materials.

A must-have modification would be a sharpening stone or steel to maintain the blade’s edge.

Conclusion on Cold Steel Peace Maker II 10.5in Fixed Blade Knife

The Cold Steel Peace Maker II 10.5in Fixed Blade Knife is a solid, no-frills knife that offers good value for its price. While it may not be the most refined or feature-rich knife on the market, it is a dependable and practical tool that will get the job done.

The price is definitely justified, making it an excellent option for those on a budget. I would recommend it to anyone looking for an affordable and reliable fixed blade knife for general utility or self-defense purposes.

If you’re seeking a practical, budget-friendly knife that can handle a variety of tasks, give the Cold Steel Peace Maker II 10.5in Fixed Blade Knife a try!