He was too kind, he should have called you out for click bait, being a douch, AND WASTING EVERYONE'S TIME with this bullshit video. You talk and talk, yet you say nothing of value. Don't quit your day job junior.
I owned a master tanto with the brass. We used to have a lot of drug crimes and knives used in rip deals in my town so I bought it for self defense purposes. It’s a gorgeous knife, well balanced and very sharp. Length and weight makes it an impressive weapon. I never went anywhere without it but fortunately only had to unsheathe it twice against someone who pulled a knife on me. I guarantee you this knife will instantly freeze an opponent not willing to risk it all. (Never draw a knife unless you are absolutely willing to use it!) This size is perfect for being very intimidating and cause the instant regret reflex. Both the buck knife and dagger instantly fled the scene at first glance. If you don’t do spy jobs or night ops as a professional hitman then don’t get the black finish. Let your opponent get weak in the knees if there’s no way to avoid a fight. With this knife you show you mean business. Hopefully it will deter your attacker as it did mine. very scary experiences that would have ended differently if it wasn’t for my tanto 👍🏻
This is such a Good post. So informational! And accurate! You want the fear factor! For example, if you are about to be robed, act like a wild animal who has rabies and gone insane! The attacker will not want to mess with someone who is a legitimate crazy wild animal who is frothing at the mouth. The knife has a similar effect! I’m glad you had the knife on you AND did not need to use it. I’ve heard in knife fits, the loser dies on the concrete, and the winner dies in the ambulance. It’s a fight you want to avoid
It's an intimidating weapon, but if you use it and someone is injured or dead you can bet there are some prosecutors just licking their chops at prosecuting a case where this was used on someone....🤔
The Cold Steel Master Tanto is so iconic that it was in the logo before GSM bought Cold Steel out and changed the logo. I don't have the Master Tanto, but I have the Recon Tanto San Mai 3. This is the one with VG1 Steel that was made in Japan. It is one of my home defense knives. That American Tanto originally was from Japan in the form of the chokuto, a sword that predates the katana with the same American Tanto point style. Mr. Thompson brought an old Japanese blade point to the modern world and it put them on the map. All of my bladed tools are Cold Steel. Most of my non food prep knives are American Tanto. This includes all 3 of my machetes, 3 of my folding knives, and 2 of my fixed blades. The Cold Steel American Tanto Point is my all time favorite! Good review, by the way!
It's sad all CS high premium knives comes with Secure Ex sheaths,,,not only they dull the edge,,,they look very cheap plastic budget options of sheaths,,,in my opinion they shall be on Budget lines of knives only not on Premium San Mai,,,these deserve luxury = high quality leather sheaths not black pieces of loose plastic
I am a Marine too retired after 23 years in Dec 2003, I started out carrying the Ka-bar than which to the Gerber Mark II 22-01874 which I still have. I also used an AL Mar that I picked up in Japan, great Knife, I ended up my service carrying the Cold Steel War Craft, love this knife. I have looked at the Master Tanto just haven't got one yet.
I have an older Recon Tanto made with the 1095 steel that I purchased in 83. I use it until I got the Marine Corps in 85. I had already burned through a k-bar knife. And these knives were actually used in combat and in combat areas. Used for digging cutting slicing all kinds of things that you would need it for. It was used as a tool not just as a cutting edge. I believe the blades were 1095 carbon steel. I still have it. And I still use it when I need it. I'm 65 now. And now it's attached to one of my chest rings. It'll last forever. The Ka-Bar and the tanto Recon are the two best knives that I ever used in the Marine Corps.
I have owned a cold steel Master tanto since 1991.. aus 8 steel and brass guard and pummel. This knife was always next to me at night on my dresser.. and always next to me in my tent when I was camping.. over the years...
I bought a ‘85 Outdoorsman. It was a bit expensive, but worth every penny. The quality of it is noticeably higher than the stuff they do now. I always preferred the design of the Outdoorsman over the other knives.
I bought recently a Cold Steel Tai Pan in 3V steel. A mean looking double edge 7 1/2 inch dagger style blade. The handle is identical to the Recon Master Tanto. Its an option to this knife, with twice the cutting edge length! Huge fan of Cold Steel knives! Great video! Thumbs up!
Just picked the same exact blade up from the knife center and holy cow the grip man! By far my favorite dagger I own now. Possibly favorite fixed blade I own… you can really whip this thing around and trust yourself with it because of how freaking good the grip is. It’s a very intimidating blade. 😊
@@wpymes I feel that, but man they would have to have a death wish trying to fight anyone with a dagger like that. Cuts up, cuts down, and most of all pokey pokey. Very intimidating blade.
IMPORTANT PSA: NEVER PUT YOUR KNIFE IN A COLD STEEL SHEATH!!! For my Master Tanto 3V, the weird retention is accomplished when the widest part of the blade enters the sheath and, by design, the spine and THE EDGE are pressed against the glass reinforced polymer thus dulling the edge. WHO TF THOUGHT THIS WAS A GOOD IDEA?!? Love the blade, design, grind, balance (courtesy of the guys forty years ago who apparently knew something). This "Secure-Ex" sheath is a crime against humanity.
Hey Matt, like you, I love the CS Tantos. I want to point out a minor mistake in your description of the blade. What you referred to as the choil is actually the ricasso. Keep up your enthusiasm!
I bought mine years ago,back when they had leather sheaths for them.I like it better,but it has no way of securing on you.I had to have a belt loop added to it,but other than that,I LOVE THE KNIFE.
Hi! Please, share with us if you can how the retention of the secure-ex sheath is holding up? I have noticed on my Master Tanto that the finger guard is wearing out the sheath's material where it "catches" the knife. Does yours still hold the knife upside down? Thanks.
Thank you. It’s November 2024 and my Master Tanto, from Amazon, tax included, is $99.98; it will be here tomorrow. It is my first Tanto and my first Cold Steel.
I hate the secure-ex sheaths they use with their premium knives. I wish they would go back to their old school leather sheaths. Secure-ex sheaths are fine for the SRK and some of their other lower end knives. But come on…. If you’re buying a premium blade, you should be getting a premium sheath for it.
I actually prefer the secure-ex sheath. Almost everyone i see hating on the sheats not "grabbing" the blade is literally not ppushing the knife deep enough. And with that said, the plastic sheats dont hold water and have steal rivits on the edge so the blade cannot easily cut its way out. I have a 5inch long scar on my quad where a nice leather sheath was cut thru when i was bucked off a horse....it was not so fun. I think a cold steel secure ex would've saved me big.
@@unknown-ql1fk I wouldn’t mind if they made Kydex sheaths for most of their knives. But a glass filled polymer sheath is just ridiculous. I’ve got 11 knives with Secure-Ex sheaths sitting beside me. Some hold the blades really well. Some don’t. I swapped the sheaths between my Outdoorsman and my Master Tanto because the Master Tanto sheath held the knife really well. Whereas the Outdoorsman sheath had very little blade retention. Also weird that they use the same sheath for those two knives. There is a broad range of blade retention for all of them. Some very little, some are difficult to pull. It has nothing to do with not pushing the knife far enough into the sheath. It has everything to do with poor quality control. As far as the leather sheaths go. I don’t ride horses. I ride motorcycles. I like leather sheaths, even if I have to pay extra attention to them. I would much rather have a Kydex sheath for their premium knives than Secure-Ex. But I would prefer leather for their premium knives and Kydex for they’re lower end knives. I think everyone would mostly agree that Kydex is far superior to Secure-Ex. I’m just not sure why Cold Steel doesn’t see it.
Cold steel Master tanto originally came with a leather sheath I believe there was an option to purchase a leather sheath for them years ago also... I'm glad my cold steel Master tanto I purchased in 1991 as a leather sheath...
Awsome video ! The Cold Steel Master Tanto is a great knife, however I would not recommend it over the Buck 119 Special / 120 General for a camp knife or hunting knife. Obviously the Master Tanto can cut but it excels at piercing.. better than a clip point Buck 119. It's not a great utility / outdoor blade though.
@@MattRoseKnives Agreed, the Buck 119 is already a great knife ! Pair that with s35vn & you are set ! I would also like one in s35vn or even s30v. I do have a 105 Pathfinder in 5160 carbon steel & absolutely love it. The steel upgrade on a 119 would just be fantastic.
I have not yet seen one knife that does it all. I believe you are right. I carry the the7.5" and the 9" Nightfall for defense. The 5.5" Recon1 XL saved my butt against an old pitbull.
I have a Master Tanto cpm-3v. I was thinking of buying Nightfall Tanto IX. But I confess I am in doubt whether to buy another Master Tanto in VG-10. Any suggestions?
To the fellow who commented on my cold steel knife that I bought in 82 or 83. Will my timing on that could not be off because I was in the Marine Corps then. And I served in Beirut and 83 and 84. So I'm just wondering how I ended up with a Cold steel Recon Tonto and those two years when it wasn't made yet?? Does it make sense. But I had it my hands then. I'm 65 now and I can't remember if it was 83 or 84 but I know an 84 I had it and use it quite extensively.
Awesome review, I completely agree with you. I really like the Master Tanto Series especially the nightfall which is why I bought both the San Mai and the Nightfall, I can't wait to get my hands on the New Master Tanto 3V steel. Top 3 choices 1-Master Tanto 3V, That Handle 2-Tai Pan 3V 3-Chaos Double Edge ....Need this in a 3V, Crossfingers that they make one. Great Review, You're on Point
@@MattRoseKnives bro it’s amazing. I don’t use it, I just admire it all the time haha! I actually got a pocket clip for my sheath from discreet carry concepts and will carry it some
My EDC is my COLD STEEL Kobun Tanto boot knive and my Cold Steel SR 1,... I carry those 24/7!! Always,.. And for chopping wood I have 2 COLD STEEL WILD WEST BOWIE's,.. 1 Wild West Bowie I have beaten the crap out of and custmized it by filing fingergroves in the handle and 1 in the blade,..
I have the srk and magnum tanto in san mai. I put em both in my Amazon cart and one at a time they went 50% off and i bought them, dont know if there was a reason for the discount but Ive used the magnum on pork roasts and turkeys and its like cutting soft butter, i don't know what steel mine are or much at all but they are hefty, grippy, and beautiful. I need a better sharpener though lol Great review
Great video! I just can’t make up my mind... I’m looking at the Cold Steel Tai Pan, and it currently comes in VG-10 San Mai and the CPM-3V (now silver finish), they both have great reviews so picking one or the other is driving me batty... 🤬 Could you recommend one based on what I plan to use it for? It’s mainly going to be used for self defense, I buy the bulk of my knives for this purpose. I want some thing razor sharp for max damage, and while I do value toughness, I don’t need it to stand up to a bomb. I just want it to be tough enough to block impact weapons, withstand hitting bone, etc. The VG-10 San Mai is $80 less on average, so it’s a decent chunk of change, just don’t know if the CPM-3V is worth the extra money...!
If it is primarily a defensive knife, meaning you won't have to put it through hell and you don't need superior edge retention.... Though 3v is a "better" steel, I would go with san mai. 1. You'll save some cash. And 2. You won't have to worry about rust due to the higher chromium content.
I have the 3V one, it’s been great so far (other than the fact that it came dull new in the box). You forgot to mention the plastic master tanto lol I keep one of those hanging in my shower 😉
I'm not sure I've ever had a Cold Steel knife come dull out of the box. I'm sure it happens, but it may have been a rarity. I love those plastic blades haha!
A dull coldsteel out of the box is almost unbelievable. But I have had CS that were razor sharp and some just sharp enough. But certainly never a dull specimen. Send it back!
@@samthai818 Nah, I know how to sharpen so it’s not a big deal. Just took awhile with the 3v lol. To be fair, almost every other Cold Steel knife I bought had been razor sharp (others were sharp enough but needed a little honing).
I love my COLD STEEL, WILD WEST BOWIE!!! Kobun Tanto boot knive! SR 1LITE. Bushman Bushman Bowie GI Tanto,.. And my: CASE XX Bowie White!! Buck 109 Special Buck 102 Woodsmen,..
Good little Cold Steel collection it's small but you got some really quality models and it seems you got them for a good reason , the reason they are designed for. 😎⚔️😎
Just ordered the CPM-3V master tanto. Can't wait to hold it in my hand. I already use the Recon in SK5 for all of my bushcraft and camping trips. Big fan of CS, I have everything from the kobun to the trailmaster. My Bush ranger Aus8 is 35 years old. Great reviews btw!
Got it and it is a very well made high quality knife. Unfortunately i won't be using it much unless SHTF. It is kind of too blingged out with the stainless super shiny skull crusher base point pommel to use on outings. The heft and the feel of the Master Tanto is very comfortable. I have the magnum tanto ll 3V that I ordered at the same time from a different vendor. It has the DLC coating and is very nice also. I would be carrying and utilizing this probably more than the MTanto since it is a bit more subtle but a little longer. I also have the Recon Tanto in SK5 that I have used extensively and absolutely love. The Recon is indestructible maintaining its edge after a season of batoning, i have been delightfully surprised by the performance of the Recon SK5.
Size and guard are the only differences. The magnum is a little longer and has a full oval guard like the rest of the magnum series. The master has a half guard on the blade side. Both are of the same superb construction quality. The precision ground, beautifully satin polished San Mai steel is the same on both. You can’t go wrong with either.
I honestly prefer my old Cold Steel Recon hi carbon I bought in the early 90's, used and beat the crap outa it for 25 years before I retired it and just keep it for my collection. It has the old Leather sheath, much better in my opinion. I retired it for the Tops Skullcrusher and Operator 7. Both fantastic knives , especially the Skullcrusher
The original master tanto's came with a leather sheath... It would be great if Cold steel offered a leather sheath for its knives.. you could purchase aftermarket
@@DurzoBlint178 It's close but the Mini-Tanto was literally a mini version of the magnum, with the full stainless tsuba and the pommel as well. So it was really quite special.
My 1990s Master tanto is my nightstand knife... It also used to be on me when I went camping when my kids were a little.. slept with it next to me in the tent
Does anyone remember a cold steel blade which was that classical Tonto style in about six and a half or 7in with a sharp edge back? It may have been a in but I'm pretty sure it wasn't because I had a big Tonka which was a magnum I had a couple of Magnums one I believe had nine inch blade I believe the other had 10 inch blade. And I recall buying one in San Francisco on Market Street in the late 80s early 90s. At a Surplus Army store down there and I'm pretty sure it was about 6 in but was bigger in the back had a not really sharp but it was a pointed back it wasn't a flat back and I believe the Palmer or nah, but the cross guard was oval and it had the classics full course your pommel. I can't believe or remember if it had a hole in the pommel for wrapping cord or not thanks for reply
No. Lynns first Tanto beginning of the 80s was a Uddeholm Stainless blade with wooden handle and brass guard. Trust me...Btw good vid but do yourself a favour and buy a Mini Tanto 13ASG as well. ;)
@@angelheart7643 I own a cold steel Master tanto with brass guard and pummel a u s 8.. it is my nightstand protection knife and used to bring it with me when I went camping... I also own a cold steel mini tac tanto ..ORIGINAL MOD.. and the newer Cold steel mini tac tanto I carry around my neck...
Sorry to necro post but I'm watching Master Tanto videos because I'm considering one. It's interesting that you say it feels perfect in the hand because - I have a Recon Tanto (old Carvon V model) and have said the same thing, I have never felt a knife that was "just right" like my RT. I was a little worried because the MT has a 1" shorter blade than the RT so I don't know if it is gonna have that same "feel" but I think I'm gonna listen to ya here and grab one in San Mai III 👍 BTW - I'm old enough to remember when these first came out. They had some goofy ads but yea the MT and the Trail Master were their two flagships.
I have the Cold Steel Recon Tanto, Stamped USA made and Carbon V steel. Not sure if that is 5 or V. Its a good knife. But I would like a Master Tanto, just cant afford one.
So agreed. No one beats Cold Steel. I'm guessing when others say "Cold Steel knives are over the top" .... They're saying "I don't want to buy an actual knife with my money (or the best)." Ok then, buy an SOG. Looks cool but it's crap. This Tanto is one of my faves. Kukri is my true fave. I EDC the Vaquero Grande 6" serrated folder in my right pocket (for 25 years) and the Rajah ll in my left (for 1 year).
Some of cold steel is kinda pointless but some of the stuff is absolutely perfection, especially for the price, and no other brand does anything that compares. The voyager vaquero xl and espada xl are hands down the best tactical folders, and the Tai Pan is the most well-designed dagger I've ever seen.
@@elihollingsworth6852 - I would agree. Not everything they make is something I would carry or buy but they are the best over all. I would take ANY Cold Steel over another brand tho. I have over 45 blades from them, about 90ish various pieces total and I've never been 1% disappointed.... ever.
The 3v version is a better design. You can keep the tip profile as the bevel is follows the tip grind. ie flat. With the hollow grind the tip cannot stay flat as you grind it back so the secondary tip disappears, where a flat grind can just follow the main grind. The warcraft tanto is the best tanto!
@@MattRoseKnives I have two, I took the dlc coating from one, looks awesome. I also made different scales from g10, micarta and bison horn, and in middle of making carbon fibre scales.
They cut insanely well. The hollow grind plus the weight of the blade makes it fly through material. It feels like one blow to an attackers limb will leave it hanging by a thread.
Love your passion for the knife. Nevertheless, for the grandiosity of the title of this vid, it is too basic, repetitive, and unenlightening. Sorry, just giving honest feedback. Best wishes.
Tanto is pronounced like this Ta is like the ta in taco 🌮 N is like the n in November To is a deeper O like that in door but you will have the t and no r
Depends :) A few years back, before the advent of the "super steel" it was highly lauded as one of the best steel's out there. I would still classify it as very well-balanced steel, but it is by no means on the same page as some of the newer, powdered metallurgy steel's (s35vn, Cpm 3-v/4-v, m390, 20cv, etc)
I love the knives, but hate the sheats. Classy knife in mass prodused glass filled nylon is just crasy. I have most of the SanMat Tanto's and several Bowie knives, lots of the XL folders and the really huge ones😁 But a Laredo Bowie or the Trailmaster in glass filled nylon sheats. No i dont like that, i have to make my own sheats. And that should not be nessesary with such knives. The sheats are not fitting for the knife types.
Complete WASTE of time just a commercial for why you should buy this Tanto
Awwww you’re too kind
He was too kind, he should have called you out for click bait, being a douch, AND WASTING EVERYONE'S TIME with this bullshit video. You talk and talk, yet you say nothing of value. Don't quit your day job junior.
It was actually very good IMO. Haters going to hate lol. Toxic people!!!
Protoze je to krasny nozik chlape!Proto.
Waste of time.
I owned a master tanto with the brass. We used to have a lot of drug crimes and knives used in rip deals in my town so I bought it for self defense purposes. It’s a gorgeous knife, well balanced and very sharp. Length and weight makes it an impressive weapon. I never went anywhere without it but fortunately only had to unsheathe it twice against someone who pulled a knife on me. I guarantee you this knife will instantly freeze an opponent not willing to risk it all. (Never draw a knife unless you are absolutely willing to use it!)
This size is perfect for being very intimidating and cause the instant regret reflex. Both the buck knife and dagger instantly fled the scene at first glance. If you don’t do spy jobs or night ops as a professional hitman then don’t get the black finish. Let your opponent get weak in the knees if there’s no way to avoid a fight. With this knife you show you mean business. Hopefully it will deter your attacker as it did mine. very scary experiences that would have ended differently if it wasn’t for my tanto 👍🏻
This is such a Good post. So informational! And accurate! You want the fear factor! For example, if you are about to be robed, act like a wild animal who has rabies and gone insane! The attacker will not want to mess with someone who is a legitimate crazy wild animal who is frothing at the mouth.
The knife has a similar effect! I’m glad you had the knife on you AND did not need to use it.
I’ve heard in knife fits, the loser dies on the concrete, and the winner dies in the ambulance. It’s a fight you want to avoid
🙂😉👍Drz se chlape!Take mam tohle tanto i celou sadu!Jsou to krasne noze!
It's an intimidating weapon, but if you use it and someone is injured or dead you can bet there are some prosecutors just licking their chops at prosecuting a case where this was used on someone....🤔
@@johnruiz6743 True. But the potential alternative is being injured or dead yourself, so... yeah. No real "winning" situation there. :\
Best self-defense technique (not that anyone can it) is to run
I loved watching some of the earlier proof videos of Lynn Thompson's guys stabbing a master tanto through a car hood. And a steel drum.. just amazing
Those were sick haha
The Cold Steel Master Tanto is so iconic that it was in the logo before GSM bought Cold Steel out and changed the logo. I don't have the Master Tanto, but I have the Recon Tanto San Mai 3. This is the one with VG1 Steel that was made in Japan. It is one of my home defense knives. That American Tanto originally was from Japan in the form of the chokuto, a sword that predates the katana with the same American Tanto point style. Mr. Thompson brought an old Japanese blade point to the modern world and it put them on the map. All of my bladed tools are Cold Steel. Most of my non food prep knives are American Tanto. This includes all 3 of my machetes, 3 of my folding knives, and 2 of my fixed blades. The Cold Steel American Tanto Point is my all time favorite! Good review, by the way!
Thanks so much! Yeah I love a tanto as well!
Tang dao has a secondary point, predates chokuto
@@jt6648The words Tang Dao are so similar to tanto that I wouldn't be surprised if that is where the word tanto derived from.
mine has been riding my 6' since the mid late 80's and no regrets what so ever it's been used and somewhat abused and still looks damn good
I would love to see them do more leather sheaths or revamp the secure ex so it doesn’t dull the damn blade
I do like a polymer sheath, but nothing beats leather, even though it'll retain water. Still love em!
It's sad all CS high premium knives comes with Secure Ex sheaths,,,not only they dull the edge,,,they look very cheap plastic budget options of sheaths,,,in my opinion they shall be on Budget lines of knives only not on Premium San Mai,,,these deserve luxury = high quality leather sheaths not black pieces of loose plastic
I am a Marine too retired after 23 years in Dec 2003, I started out carrying the Ka-bar than which to the Gerber Mark II 22-01874 which I still have. I also used an AL Mar that I picked up in Japan, great Knife, I ended up my service carrying the Cold Steel War Craft, love this knife. I have looked at the Master Tanto just haven't got one yet.
I have an older Recon Tanto made with the 1095 steel that I purchased in 83. I use it until I got the Marine Corps in 85. I had already burned through a k-bar knife. And these knives were actually used in combat and in combat areas. Used for digging cutting slicing all kinds of things that you would need it for. It was used as a tool not just as a cutting edge. I believe the blades were 1095 carbon steel. I still have it. And I still use it when I need it. I'm 65 now. And now it's attached to one of my chest rings. It'll last forever. The Ka-Bar and the tanto Recon are the two best knives that I ever used in the Marine Corps.
the recon tonto came out in the late 80's very early 90's
This has ben my go to knife since I replaced my Al Marr Worrior with it many many years ago.
I have owned a cold steel Master tanto since 1991.. aus 8 steel and brass guard and pummel. This knife was always next to me at night on my dresser.. and always next to me in my tent when I was camping.. over the years...
Awesome man
I bought a ‘85 Outdoorsman. It was a bit expensive, but worth every penny. The quality of it is noticeably higher than the stuff they do now. I always preferred the design of the Outdoorsman over the other knives.
I have a small blacked out Tanto 440 stainless steel made in Japan had over 25 years great knife.
Dude that’s dope man
I ordered a leather sheath from Cold Steel , my kydex sheath separated, a numbered master tanto #301, picked up many years ago. Great Review 👍
Wish they still offered that as an option!
I bought recently a Cold Steel Tai Pan in 3V steel. A mean looking double edge 7 1/2 inch dagger style blade. The handle is identical to the Recon Master Tanto. Its an option to this knife, with twice the cutting edge length! Huge fan of Cold Steel knives! Great video! Thumbs up!
Just picked the same exact blade up from the knife center and holy cow the grip man! By far my favorite dagger I own now. Possibly favorite fixed blade I own… you can really whip this thing around and trust yourself with it because of how freaking good the grip is. It’s a very intimidating blade. 😊
@@Moldugas I put a paracord to secure it around my wrist. Id hate somebody grabbing or knocking it off my hand.
@@wpymes I feel that, but man they would have to have a death wish trying to fight anyone with a dagger like that. Cuts up, cuts down, and most of all pokey pokey. Very intimidating blade.
I have an original sog Tom cat. Never used. Just picked up a recon tanto. It's my EDC. Love it.
Super cool
They’re best bought for collection displays. For EDC usage a Guardian Tactical OTF is my favorite.
IMPORTANT PSA: NEVER PUT YOUR KNIFE IN A COLD STEEL SHEATH!!! For my Master Tanto 3V, the weird retention is accomplished when the widest part of the blade enters the sheath and, by design, the spine and THE EDGE are pressed against the glass reinforced polymer thus dulling the edge. WHO TF THOUGHT THIS WAS A GOOD IDEA?!? Love the blade, design, grind, balance (courtesy of the guys forty years ago who apparently knew something). This "Secure-Ex" sheath is a crime against humanity.
It needs to be broken in.
Hey Matt, like you, I love the CS Tantos. I want to point out a minor mistake in your description of the blade. What you referred to as the choil is actually the ricasso. Keep up your enthusiasm!
Thanks!!! You’re right haha
I bought mine years ago,back when they had leather sheaths for them.I like it better,but it has no way of securing on you.I had to have a belt loop added to it,but other than that,I LOVE THE KNIFE.
Hi! Please, share with us if you can how the retention of the secure-ex sheath is holding up? I have noticed on my Master Tanto that the finger guard is wearing out the sheath's material where it "catches" the knife. Does yours still hold the knife upside down? Thanks.
Thank you. It’s November 2024 and my Master Tanto, from Amazon, tax included, is $99.98; it will be here tomorrow. It is my first Tanto and my first Cold Steel.
Store it spine at the bottom inside the sheath. Same way the Samurai held their katanas in their waist--sharp edge up, to prevent dulling.
I hate the secure-ex sheaths they use with their premium knives. I wish they would go back to their old school leather sheaths. Secure-ex sheaths are fine for the SRK and some of their other lower end knives. But come on…. If you’re buying a premium blade, you should be getting a premium sheath for it.
Sammmeeee
This ^
I actually prefer the secure-ex sheath. Almost everyone i see hating on the sheats not "grabbing" the blade is literally not ppushing the knife deep enough. And with that said, the plastic sheats dont hold water and have steal rivits on the edge so the blade cannot easily cut its way out. I have a 5inch long scar on my quad where a nice leather sheath was cut thru when i was bucked off a horse....it was not so fun. I think a cold steel secure ex would've saved me big.
@@unknown-ql1fk I wouldn’t mind if they made Kydex sheaths for most of their knives. But a glass filled polymer sheath is just ridiculous. I’ve got 11 knives with Secure-Ex sheaths sitting beside me. Some hold the blades really well. Some don’t. I swapped the sheaths between my Outdoorsman and my Master Tanto because the Master Tanto sheath held the knife really well. Whereas the Outdoorsman sheath had very little blade retention. Also weird that they use the same sheath for those two knives. There is a broad range of blade retention for all of them. Some very little, some are difficult to pull. It has nothing to do with not pushing the knife far enough into the sheath. It has everything to do with poor quality control. As far as the leather sheaths go. I don’t ride horses. I ride motorcycles. I like leather sheaths, even if I have to pay extra attention to them. I would much rather have a Kydex sheath for their premium knives than Secure-Ex. But I would prefer leather for their premium knives and Kydex for they’re lower end knives. I think everyone would mostly agree that Kydex is far superior to Secure-Ex. I’m just not sure why Cold Steel doesn’t see it.
Never been fan of plastic sheath. Most of the knives that comes with it makes rattle noises where as leather hugs it.
I absolutely luv Cold Steel American Tanto's! Well done, Bro! :-) Peace, Stiletto :-)
Thanks man!
I'm trying to find the 3v versions. From the srk, outdoorsman, I'm thinking about the tanto I use for bushcraft and hunting.
I only wish it had a rounded pommel instead of a pointy one to execute push techniques.
Fair
What about the magnum tanto 2 or the San mai tai pan?
Just bought the Magnum Tanto II and it looks great. I would say buy one, Cheers.
Both fantastic blades. I've owned a Magnum Tanto, would absolutely recommend. Haven't owned a tai pan, but I've handled them and they're great.
Cold steel Master tanto originally came with a leather sheath I believe there was an option to purchase a leather sheath for them years ago also... I'm glad my cold steel Master tanto I purchased in 1991 as a leather sheath...
Lucky my friend!
Awsome video ! The Cold Steel Master Tanto is a great knife, however I would not recommend it over the Buck 119 Special / 120 General for a camp knife or hunting knife. Obviously the Master Tanto can cut but it excels at piercing.. better than a clip point Buck 119. It's not a great utility / outdoor blade though.
That is what the Outdoorsman is for (the nearest knife of the table.
I would have to agree with you! I love my Buck 119. Wanting to pick one up in the new s35vn
@@MattRoseKnives Agreed, the Buck 119 is already a great knife ! Pair that with s35vn & you are set ! I would also like one in s35vn or even s30v. I do have a 105 Pathfinder in 5160 carbon steel & absolutely love it. The steel upgrade on a 119 would just be fantastic.
I have not yet seen one knife that does it all. I believe you are right. I carry the the7.5" and the 9" Nightfall for defense. The 5.5" Recon1 XL saved my butt against an old pitbull.
Nice Review! Just bought one myself!
You'll love it!
I have a Master Tanto cpm-3v. I was thinking of buying Nightfall Tanto IX. But I confess I am in doubt whether to buy another Master Tanto in VG-10. Any suggestions?
I am about to pickup a Magnum Tanto IX in 3v as well!
To the fellow who commented on my cold steel knife that I bought in 82 or 83. Will my timing on that could not be off because I was in the Marine Corps then. And I served in Beirut and 83 and 84. So I'm just wondering how I ended up with a Cold steel Recon Tonto and those two years when it wasn't made yet?? Does it make sense. But I had it my hands then. I'm 65 now and I can't remember if it was 83 or 84 but I know an 84 I had it and use it quite extensively.
I have that SRK too. To prevent the edge contacting the secure-Ex, try glue a piece of leather inside the sheath on the edge side?
That's a great idea! Did you have to do any dissembling of the sheath?
@@MattRoseKnives i tried it, impossible because the gap is too narrow. I'm considering to buy SRK leather sheath now. 😅
Why’d they change their tanto San mai from vg10to vg1?
It’s the opposite, they changed from vg1 to vg10. Probably because of production stuff and also to add a bit of edge retention
Snap Cut. I don't have a Master Tanto but I have the Recon Tanto in San Mai. My Go To Fixed Blade...
Snap cut! That's it! Love the Recon tanto as well, I'll do a review on that eventually.
Very precise review.
Thanks!
Awesome review, I completely agree with you. I really like the Master Tanto Series especially the nightfall which is why I bought both the San Mai and the Nightfall, I can't wait to get my hands on the New Master Tanto 3V steel.
Top 3 choices
1-Master Tanto 3V, That Handle
2-Tai Pan 3V
3-Chaos Double Edge ....Need this in a 3V, Crossfingers that they make one.
Great Review, You're on Point
All fantastic choices!
just purchased bro! fabulous review sir
Many thanks! How are you liking yours so far?
@@MattRoseKnives bro it’s amazing. I don’t use it, I just admire it all the time haha! I actually got a pocket clip for my sheath from discreet carry concepts and will carry it some
My recon tanto is a crazy slicer, but it's hollow ground!!!
Haha yeah it just depends. I think they were going more for strength with the 3v
Can you compare the sharpness of the Tanto Magnum 2 vs Ka Bar.
I own a cold steel SRK (survival rescue knife) VG San Mai III..OMG ..so strong & SHARP !!! ....
They’re great’
My EDC is my COLD STEEL Kobun Tanto boot knive and my Cold Steel SR 1,... I carry those 24/7!! Always,..
And for chopping wood I have 2 COLD STEEL WILD WEST BOWIE's,..
1 Wild West Bowie I have beaten the crap out of and custmized it by filing fingergroves in the handle and 1 in the blade,..
Awesome! I’ve got a review on the Wild West Bowie. The loving is a great blade as wel
Does the Master Tanto Sheath click in Good? I mean does it slip out or something?
Depends on the sample you get. They all seem to lock well enough, and you can always use the retention strap
@@MattRoseKnives my Cold Steel SRK VG-10 San Mai has great Retention
I have the srk and magnum tanto in san mai. I put em both in my Amazon cart and one at a time they went 50% off and i bought them, dont know if there was a reason for the discount but Ive used the magnum on pork roasts and turkeys and its like cutting soft butter, i don't know what steel mine are or much at all but they are hefty, grippy, and beautiful. I need a better sharpener though lol
Great review
Great video! I just can’t make up my mind...
I’m looking at the Cold Steel Tai Pan, and it currently comes in VG-10 San Mai and the CPM-3V (now silver finish), they both have great reviews so picking one or the other is driving me batty... 🤬
Could you recommend one based on what I plan to use it for? It’s mainly going to be used for self defense, I buy the bulk of my knives for this purpose. I want some thing razor sharp for max damage, and while I do value toughness, I don’t need it to stand up to a bomb. I just want it to be tough enough to block impact weapons, withstand hitting bone, etc. The VG-10 San Mai is $80 less on average, so it’s a decent chunk of change, just don’t know if the CPM-3V is worth the extra money...!
If it is primarily a defensive knife, meaning you won't have to put it through hell and you don't need superior edge retention.... Though 3v is a "better" steel, I would go with san mai. 1. You'll save some cash. And 2. You won't have to worry about rust due to the higher chromium content.
I have the 3V one, it’s been great so far (other than the fact that it came dull new in the box). You forgot to mention the plastic master tanto lol I keep one of those hanging in my shower 😉
How is that possible?
Where did you buy it
@@trinajska how is what possible, to have one made of plastic? Cold Steel sells/sold them, I bought mine on eBay.
I'm not sure I've ever had a Cold Steel knife come dull out of the box. I'm sure it happens, but it may have been a rarity. I love those plastic blades haha!
A dull coldsteel out of the box is almost unbelievable. But I have had CS that were razor sharp and some just sharp enough. But certainly never a dull specimen. Send it back!
@@samthai818 Nah, I know how to sharpen so it’s not a big deal. Just took awhile with the 3v lol. To be fair, almost every other Cold Steel knife I bought had been razor sharp (others were sharp enough but needed a little honing).
I'm getting a CS master tanto, but I'm wavering between San Mai iii or CPM3V.
If you plan on using it, spring for the 3v! If it will be a show piece I’d say go for the San mai. Has that cool lamination line :)
I love my COLD STEEL,
WILD WEST BOWIE!!!
Kobun Tanto boot knive!
SR 1LITE.
Bushman
Bushman Bowie
GI Tanto,..
And my:
CASE XX Bowie White!!
Buck 109 Special
Buck 102 Woodsmen,..
All great knives!
Recon tanto vs master tanto which one is better
Ooff I think I like the master Tanto more
Good little Cold Steel collection it's small but you got some really quality models and it seems you got them for a good reason ,
the reason they are designed for. 😎⚔️😎
Thanks!
8:07
Actually, VG10 and 3V are almost identical in edge retention, according to knifesteelnerds blog.
Hmmm I’ve never heard that before
On Point review, Thank You!
Thanks!
Just ordered the CPM-3V master tanto. Can't wait to hold it in my hand. I already use the Recon in SK5 for all of my bushcraft and camping trips. Big fan of CS, I have everything from the kobun to the trailmaster. My Bush ranger Aus8 is 35 years old. Great reviews btw!
Did you get it, and if so how do you like it?
Got it and it is a very well made high quality knife. Unfortunately i won't be using it much unless SHTF. It is kind of too blingged out with the stainless super shiny skull crusher base point pommel to use on outings. The heft and the feel of the Master Tanto is very comfortable. I have the magnum tanto ll 3V that I ordered at the same time from a different vendor. It has the DLC coating and is very nice also. I would be carrying and utilizing this probably more than the MTanto since it is a bit more subtle but a little longer. I also have the Recon Tanto in SK5 that I have used extensively and absolutely love. The Recon is indestructible maintaining its edge after a season of batoning, i have been delightfully surprised by the performance of the Recon SK5.
Great video thanks! Is this better than Magnum Tanto? What's the key difference?
Size and guard are the only differences. The magnum is a little longer and has a full oval guard like the rest of the magnum series. The master has a half guard on the blade side. Both are of the same superb construction quality. The precision ground, beautifully satin polished San Mai steel is the same on both. You can’t go wrong with either.
@@RedShiftedDollar what he said :D
I honestly prefer my old Cold Steel Recon hi carbon I bought in the early 90's, used and beat the crap outa it for 25 years before I retired it and just keep it for my collection. It has the old Leather sheath, much better in my opinion. I retired it for the Tops Skullcrusher and Operator 7. Both fantastic knives , especially the Skullcrusher
The original master tanto's came with a leather sheath... It would be great if Cold steel offered a leather sheath for its knives.. you could purchase aftermarket
Agreed!
you should add the kobun to your collection.
I've thought about that one! Definitely will get to it eventually
@@MattRoseKnives Don't buy. It's shit.
@@Теоретик-с4л why?
I have since bought the Kobun. Be looking out for a review soon!
Wish Cold Steel would bring back the Mini Tanto in a good steel with a nice kydex IWB sheath... come on guys, you can do it!
Those were dope!
look at the Cold Steel Kobun...it is pretty much what you just said
@@DurzoBlint178 It's close but the Mini-Tanto was literally a mini version of the magnum, with the full stainless tsuba and the pommel as well. So it was really quite special.
@@Buffalohump77 oh...that would be really awesome
My 1990s Master tanto is my nightstand knife... It also used to be on me when I went camping when my kids were a little.. slept with it next to me in the tent
That’s awesome!
And when a gun is brought to the party? Should have both so you don't bring a knife to a gunfight!🤔
The only san mai I have is the srk, and recon tanto both in vg-10 san mai!!!
Both great blades!
Does anyone remember a cold steel blade which was that classical Tonto style in about six and a half or 7in with a sharp edge back? It may have been a in but I'm pretty sure it wasn't because I had a big Tonka which was a magnum I had a couple of Magnums one I believe had nine inch blade I believe the other had 10 inch blade. And I recall buying one in San Francisco on Market Street in the late 80s early 90s. At a Surplus Army store down there and I'm pretty sure it was about 6 in but was bigger in the back had a not really sharp but it was a pointed back it wasn't a flat back and I believe the Palmer or nah, but the cross guard was oval and it had the classics full course your pommel. I can't believe or remember if it had a hole in the pommel for wrapping cord or not thanks for reply
I don’t think I recall that one
@@MattRoseKnives It was called the Outdoorsman. You show one in the video!
I have the 9" magnum tanto with the spined back from '88 or '89, not san mai but i believe aus 10 at the time, damn nice but i don't carry it.
The original Master tanto by Cold steel..was AUS 8 steel & brass guard & pommel
No. Lynns first Tanto beginning of the 80s was a Uddeholm Stainless blade with wooden handle and brass guard. Trust me...Btw good vid but do yourself a favour and buy a Mini Tanto 13ASG as well. ;)
@@angelheart7643 I own a cold steel Master tanto with brass guard and pummel a u s 8.. it is my nightstand protection knife and used to bring it with me when I went camping... I also own a cold steel mini tac tanto ..ORIGINAL MOD.. and the newer Cold steel mini tac tanto I carry around my neck...
Sorry to necro post but I'm watching Master Tanto videos because I'm considering one. It's interesting that you say it feels perfect in the hand because - I have a Recon Tanto (old Carvon V model) and have said the same thing, I have never felt a knife that was "just right" like my RT. I was a little worried because the MT has a 1" shorter blade than the RT so I don't know if it is gonna have that same "feel" but I think I'm gonna listen to ya here and grab one in San Mai III 👍 BTW - I'm old enough to remember when these first came out. They had some goofy ads but yea the MT and the Trail Master were their two flagships.
BOUGHT A SAI MAI IN 1983 MADE IN JAPAN FOR $160 WITH LEATHER SHEALTH. HAS BRASS GUARD AND POMMEL.
Dang man, I bet that thing is gorgeous!
@@MattRoseKnives IT SURE IS.
I had a folding tanto from Cold Steel. Laminated blade. Someone got off with it.
Dang, that's bad luck, that!
Isn't the SRK a hollow ground blade?
I think you may be right. The sk5 anyway. The 3v is saber I believe
weird mine has brass pommel and hand gaurd
I know they used to use brass on the older models
I like it but I can’t afford it so I am stuck with my Kobun,which is decent full tang knife 🔪…
Still a great choice!
I want to get the master hunter knife.
It’s a great knife!
I have 8 of the first brass tantos, including the rare bead blasted ones. I prefer the newer SS model.
That’s awesome man! Quite the collection
I've found that you have to pull it out a couple dozen times before it's even beginning to be a big issue.
Agree! Maybe with a lower quality steel it would dull quicker
I have the Cold Steel Recon Tanto, Stamped USA made and Carbon V steel. Not sure if that is 5 or V. Its a good knife. But I would like a Master Tanto, just cant afford one.
It’s a 5 :)
@@MattRoseKnives Thanks!
Love a strong tip.
Who doesn’t :D?
Now I know why his arms have no hair on them 🔪💪🏼🗡💪🏼⚔️😂
:'D
My 1980's vintage Master Tanto has served me well for decades in fileting LARGE catfish, and butchering/dressing other game...
That’s awesome! Pretty rare to see them used as an outdoors knife but I think they perform adequately well
Try a filet knife. They work exceptionally well for fish.
@@Beef5 Why bother with one of those when you have a Cold Steel Master Tanto?
Master tanto 💯
All dayyyyy
It’s not a tan-toe, like your toe got some sun. It’s a tahn-to. The A is an ahh sound.
"🤓"
So agreed. No one beats Cold Steel.
I'm guessing when others say "Cold Steel knives are over the top" ....
They're saying "I don't want to buy an actual knife with my money (or the best)."
Ok then, buy an SOG. Looks cool but it's crap.
This Tanto is one of my faves. Kukri is my true fave. I EDC the Vaquero Grande 6" serrated folder in my right pocket (for 25 years) and the Rajah ll in my left (for 1 year).
Yeah man! Love me some Cold Steel!
Some of cold steel is kinda pointless but some of the stuff is absolutely perfection, especially for the price, and no other brand does anything that compares. The voyager vaquero xl and espada xl are hands down the best tactical folders, and the Tai Pan is the most well-designed dagger I've ever seen.
@@elihollingsworth6852 - I would agree. Not everything they make is something I would carry or buy but they are the best over all. I would take ANY Cold Steel over another brand tho. I have over 45 blades from them, about 90ish various pieces total and I've never been 1% disappointed.... ever.
@@redfaux74 yeah any fixed blade that can compare in quality and design is 3-5 times more expensive, and no one does a big folding knife
ok its a great knife so why watch this before I get buy one
The 3v version is a better design. You can keep the tip profile as the bevel is follows the tip grind. ie flat. With the hollow grind the tip cannot stay flat as you grind it back so the secondary tip disappears, where a flat grind can just follow the main grind. The warcraft tanto is the best tanto!
I do love me a Warcraft Tanto!
@@MattRoseKnives I have two, I took the dlc coating from one, looks awesome. I also made different scales from g10, micarta and bison horn, and in middle of making carbon fibre scales.
The question is do they cut?
They cut insanely well. The hollow grind plus the weight of the blade makes it fly through material. It feels like one blow to an attackers limb will leave it hanging by a thread.
Very well 👍
Love your passion for the knife. Nevertheless, for the grandiosity of the title of this vid, it is too basic, repetitive, and unenlightening. Sorry, just giving honest feedback. Best wishes.
To each their own, my friend.
@@MattRoseKnives Cheers.
Tanto is pronounced like this
Ta is like the ta in taco 🌮
N is like the n in November
To is a deeper O like that in door but you will have the t and no r
Yeahhhhh I know this, and I always forgot to pronounce it correctly. :D
I like that you're saying "tanto" and not "tonto" like the indian.
Yeah I know, I’ve tried to switch it up lately
Woah. It's $180 in our country.. Anyone know where I can buy for about $100??
Sorry friend! Knives seem to be a bit cheaper here in the states
"Defensive tasks"? You watch too Nanyang movies. Back in Nam, we didn't consider it a task; it was a DUTY
Okay bro 😎
VG10 is highly overrated is it not?
Depends :) A few years back, before the advent of the "super steel" it was highly lauded as one of the best steel's out there. I would still classify it as very well-balanced steel, but it is by no means on the same page as some of the newer, powdered metallurgy steel's (s35vn, Cpm 3-v/4-v, m390, 20cv, etc)
nice looking knife bad heat treat blade bends to easy the harding of the steel is the most important thing with knives
India started making steel 400BC.
"🤓"
Wrong.
Do these knives say China or Taiwan on them?
Taiwan
nice video
Thanks!
Legal
Sure?
👍👍
Why is this better than coldsteel kobun ?
Not necessarily better, just more stout. Thicker blade and handle.
@@MattRoseKnives thanks
I love the knives, but hate the sheats. Classy knife in mass prodused glass filled nylon is just crasy. I have most of the SanMat Tanto's and several Bowie knives, lots of the XL folders and the really huge ones😁 But a Laredo Bowie or the Trailmaster in glass filled nylon sheats. No i dont like that, i have to make my own sheats. And that should not be nessesary with such knives. The sheats are not fitting for the knife types.
Спасибо!!! Здорово!
would never edc any of them they look great but are way to big.
👍🏽👍🏽👏👏
R they all full tang at all
Though the tang is not visible to the pommel, it is full tang.
O ok then
Looks like it would make a great weapon, but useless as a tool.
I dont stab people very often