First Impressions of Cold Steel Talwar Lockback Serrated
The Cold Steel Talwar Lockback Serrated is a folding knife that immediately commands attention with its aggressively upswept blade and sturdy construction. Manufactured by Cold Steel, a company known for its robust and reliable designs, the Talwar aims to deliver serious cutting power in a package that’s still relatively easy to carry. This isn’t your grandpa’s pocketknife; it’s a tool built for demanding tasks.
I was seeking a folding knife that could handle both everyday utility and more challenging outdoor situations. My aging back often makes carrying larger fixed blades difficult, so a robust folder with a reliable locking mechanism was a necessity. The Cold Steel Talwar Lockback Serrated seemed like the perfect balance of strength and portability.
Upon unboxing, the Cold Steel Talwar Lockback Serrated felt substantial and well-made. The black G10 handle provided a secure grip, even with wet hands, and the blade was razor-sharp right out of the box. The satin finish on the S35VN steel gave it a sleek, professional appearance.
I considered the Spyderco Paramilitary 2 and the Benchmade Griptilian before settling on the Talwar. The Paramilitary 2 is a great knife, but I wanted something with a more substantial feel and a stronger lock. The Griptilian is reliable, but the Talwar’s blade shape and S35VN steel appealed to me more.
My first impression was excitement mixed with a healthy dose of respect. This isn’t a knife to be taken lightly; it’s a tool designed for serious work. I was eager to put it to the test and see if it lived up to its aggressive appearance.
Real-World Testing: Putting Cold Steel Talwar Lockback Serrated to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for the Cold Steel Talwar Lockback Serrated was a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. I used it for various tasks, including food preparation, fire starting (feather sticking), and cutting rope for setting up my tent. The serrated blade made quick work of fibrous materials like rope and small branches.
The Talwar performed exceptionally well in the damp conditions. The G10 handle remained secure and comfortable, even when wet. The blade’s upswept design proved useful for slicing and skinning, and the lockback mechanism provided confidence during more demanding tasks.
The knife was easy to use, though the size took a little getting used to when performing finer tasks. Its larger profile demanded a conscious awareness of its positioning and blade angle. After a few hours, it felt like a natural extension of my hand.
The only surprise was the aggressive nature of the serrations; they bit deep and required a deliberate touch. It wasn’t an issue, but something to be mindful of during use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Cold Steel Talwar Lockback Serrated has proven to be remarkably durable. I’ve used it extensively during hunting trips, fishing expeditions, and various outdoor projects around the house. The blade has held its edge well, and the lockback mechanism remains solid.
There are minimal signs of wear and tear, primarily some slight scratches on the satin finish of the blade. The G10 handle shows no signs of chipping or cracking, despite being subjected to considerable abuse. The pocket clip remains secure and functional.
Maintaining the Talwar is straightforward. I clean it after each use with a damp cloth and apply a small amount of oil to the pivot point. Sharpening the serrated blade requires a specialized tool, but the S35VN steel holds an edge for an impressive amount of time.
Compared to other folding knives I’ve owned, the Talwar stands out for its robust construction and reliable performance. It outperforms my previous knives in terms of cutting power and edge retention, making it a clear upgrade. It instills confidence that it will hold up under pressure.
Breaking Down the Features of Cold Steel Talwar Lockback Serrated
Specifications
The Cold Steel Talwar Lockback Serrated boasts impressive specifications tailored for demanding use. It features a 5.5-inch satin finish serrated S35VN stainless steel upswept blade. The closed length is 7.38 inches, and it weighs in at 0.58 lb.
The black G10 handle provides a secure and comfortable grip, even in wet conditions. It includes a thumb disk for easy one-handed opening. A lanyard hole adds versatility for carrying options.
The pocket clip allows for convenient and secure everyday carry. The lockback mechanism provides exceptional strength and reliability, ensuring the blade remains securely locked during use. These specifications are well-suited for tasks requiring strength, precision, and durability.
Performance & Functionality
The Cold Steel Talwar Lockback Serrated excels in its primary function: cutting. The S35VN steel provides excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance, while the serrated edge effortlessly slices through fibrous materials. It’s reliable, easy to deploy with one hand, and comfortable to use for extended periods.
Its strengths include its exceptional cutting power, robust lockback mechanism, and secure grip. The serrations can be a double-edged sword, proving incredibly useful for some tasks but less ideal for others requiring a clean, smooth cut. The blade geometry is aggressive, catering to more demanding, tactical type tasks.
The knife meets and often exceeds expectations for a folding knife in its class. It offers performance that rivals smaller fixed-blade knives, making it a valuable tool for outdoor enthusiasts and professionals alike. It inspires confidence that it will function as needed, when needed.
Design & Ergonomics
The Cold Steel Talwar Lockback Serrated features a design that prioritizes functionality and durability. The G10 handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, even with wet or gloved hands. The upswept blade shape offers excellent slicing and skinning capabilities.
The knife’s weight is substantial but not cumbersome, striking a good balance between robustness and portability. The pocket clip is well-positioned and allows for deep carry, keeping the knife discreet and secure. There is a slight learning curve to its use, especially when fine detail work is needed, but overall, it feels naturally in hand.
Durability & Maintenance
The Cold Steel Talwar Lockback Serrated is built to last. The S35VN steel is known for its exceptional wear resistance and corrosion resistance. The G10 handle is virtually indestructible.
Maintaining the Talwar is relatively easy. Regular cleaning and lubrication will keep it in optimal condition. Sharpening the serrated blade requires a specialized tool, but with proper care, it should hold its edge for an extended period.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Cold Steel Talwar Lockback Serrated comes with a standard pocket clip. There are no factory customization options available.
However, the knife is compatible with aftermarket pocket clips designed for Cold Steel knives. Some users may choose to replace the factory clip with a different style or color. Lanyard beads can also be added to the lanyard hole for personalization. Aftermarket sheaths may also be available.
Pros and Cons of Cold Steel Talwar Lockback Serrated
Pros
- Exceptional Cutting Power: The combination of S35VN steel and a serrated edge provides outstanding cutting performance on a wide range of materials.
- Robust Lockback Mechanism: The lockback design offers a secure and reliable blade lock, ensuring safety during demanding tasks.
- Secure G10 Handle: The black G10 handle provides a comfortable and slip-resistant grip, even in wet conditions.
- Durable Construction: The knife is built to withstand heavy use and harsh environments, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- One-Handed Opening: The thumb disk allows for easy and convenient one-handed blade deployment.
Cons
- Serrated Edge Limitations: The serrated edge is not ideal for all cutting tasks, particularly those requiring a clean, smooth cut.
- Sharpening Complexity: Sharpening a serrated blade requires specialized tools and skills.
Who Should Buy Cold Steel Talwar Lockback Serrated?
The Cold Steel Talwar Lockback Serrated is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, hunters, survivalists, and anyone who needs a reliable and powerful cutting tool. It’s also well-suited for law enforcement and military personnel who require a robust folding knife for tactical applications.
This product might not be the best choice for individuals who primarily need a knife for delicate tasks or prefer a smaller, more discreet EDC (Everyday Carry) option. The aggressive blade shape and serrated edge can be overkill for simple tasks like opening packages or cutting paper.
A sharpening tool specifically designed for serrated blades would be a must-have accessory. Also, a high-quality lubricant for the pivot point will help maintain smooth operation.
Conclusion on Cold Steel Talwar Lockback Serrated
The Cold Steel Talwar Lockback Serrated is a formidable folding knife that delivers exceptional cutting power and reliability. Its robust construction, secure lockback mechanism, and comfortable G10 handle make it a valuable tool for demanding tasks. While the serrated edge may not be suitable for all applications, it excels in cutting fibrous materials and provides added versatility.
At a price of $168.49, the Talwar represents a solid value proposition. The quality of materials and construction, combined with its impressive performance, justify the investment. It’s a durable piece of kit.
I would personally recommend the Cold Steel Talwar Lockback Serrated to anyone who needs a dependable and powerful folding knife for outdoor adventures or tactical applications. If you’re looking for a knife that can handle serious work and hold up under pressure, the Talwar is an excellent choice. Don’t hesitate – add the Cold Steel Talwar Lockback Serrated to your gear collection today and experience its unmatched cutting power and reliability!