Cold Steel Knives Tri-Ad lock mechanism, developed with custom knifemaker Andrew Demko, uses a stop pin system to redistribute stress from the lock bar during blade impact. This modified lockback design has consistently outperformed competing mechanisms in destructive testing. The lock remains functional after blade spine impacts that cause other systems to fail. Models with the Tri-Ad lock include the Recon 1, American Lawman, AD-10, and Spartan. The AD-15 uses Demko's Scorpion Lock, a hybrid system with a 6061 aluminum yoke and compression spring for one-handed ambidextrous operation.
CPM S35VN and CTS-XHP Blade Steels
Cold Steel upgraded core production models from AUS-8A to CTS-XHP and CPM S35VN stainless steels, improving edge retention without sacrificing toughness or corrosion resistance. The American Lawman, Code 4, and newer Recon 1 variants feature S35VN hardened for durability in demanding cutting tasks. Select models use AUS-10A steel, offering about 20% better edge holding than AUS-8A while maintaining similar strength. The company's proprietary San Mai III laminated steel construction layers high-carbon core steel between stainless outer layers on fixed blade models, combining edge performance with corrosion protection.
G10 and Kraton Handle Construction
Cold Steel pioneered checkered Kraton rubber handles in production knives, delivering shock absorption and secure grip on fixed blades like the Master Hunter and SRK. Folding knife handles use aggressive peel-ply G10 texturing on models such as the American Lawman and Recon 1, providing traction in wet conditions. The linerless G10 construction on the American Lawman screws directly into aluminum backspacers and steel lock bars, reducing weight while maintaining structural integrity. Code 4 models feature slim aluminum handles with light texturing for reduced pocket wear and comfortable all-day carry at about 4.3 ounces.
American Tanto Blade Geometry
Cold Steel popularized the Americanized tanto blade profile in production knives during the 1980s, featuring a reinforced tip with angular geometry for penetration tasks. This blade shape appears across folding and fixed blade models, combining the piercing capability of traditional Japanese tanto designs with flatter primary grinds for tactical and utility use. Drop point blades on models like the American Lawman receive high hollow grinds for aggressive slicing, while kukri-inspired profiles on the Rajah series present flat-ground edges at cutting angles that exceed conventional blade shapes of similar size.
Recon 1 and Code 4 EDC Folders
The Recon 1 series delivers heavy-duty folding knife performance with 4-inch blades, G10 handles, and Tri-Ad lock construction for hard-use applications. The Code 4 provides similar strength in a slimmer profile suited to law enforcement and professional carry, using aluminum handles about 9mm thick compared to the Recon 1's more substantial grip. Both lines offer clip point, spear point, and tanto blade configurations with ambidextrous thumb studs and tip-up pocket clips. Taiwan manufacturing ensures consistent quality control and heat treatment across production runs.
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