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Cold Steel Kobun
The Kobun takes its name from Japanese underworld terminology, where "kobun" denotes a soldier—someone who follows orders and gets the job done. Cold Steel designed this lightweight fixed blade to live up to that name, and it's become a favorite among military personnel who value its slim profile and reliable performance.
Design
The Kobun resembles Cold Steel's Master Tanto in profile but uses thinner blade stock to serve its primary purpose as a boot knife. At just 4.4 ounces with a 5.5-inch blade, it disappears on your person while still delivering serious capability. The reinforced American tanto point sets it apart from most boot knives, which typically feature thin, fragile tips prone to bending or breaking. The Kobun's point runs nearly to the full thickness of the spine, making it exceptionally resistant to damage during hard use.
The deeply checkered Kray-Ex handle maximizes grip while keeping the cross-section as thin as possible—roughly half an inch—so it won't print or create bulk. The contoured shape prevents the knife from shifting in your hand under stress. Each Kobun ships with a Secure-Ex sheath and a boot/belt clip for versatile carry.
Configurations
The standard Kobun (17T) features AUS-8A stainless steel with a satin finish. Cold Steel has used this steel for decades—it's tough, corrosion-resistant, holds an edge well, and sharpens easily in the field. This is the configuration that earned the Kobun its military following.
The serrated Kobun (17TS) adds aggressive teeth for cutting fibrous materials, webbing, and cordage where a plain edge would struggle.
The Lynn Thompson Signature Kobun upgrades to CPM S35VN steel and features an exclusive blade profile designed by Cold Steel's founder. Limited to 3,000 units worldwide, each knife is individually serial-numbered and features Thompson's signature engraved on the blade. The OD green Kray-Ex handle and matching sheath distinguish it visually from the standard models.
Why It Works
Boot knives often sacrifice durability for concealability. The Kobun doesn't. The tanto geometry and quality steel give you a blade that can handle real work, while the slim handle and lightweight construction keep it comfortable for all-day carry. It's a proven design that's earned its reputation one deployment at a time.