Cold Steel Swords - Are They Good Or Bad? A review of sorts, based upon my experiences with Cold Steel swords over the last 15+ years. / scholagladiatoria
@@Asthmos I think I have been supporting them since they were 'unnamed' wholesale. Cold steel is good, anyone try the 300 dollar cold steel gladius, the Honshu? I must have a spherical pommel on my gladius.
@@LairdErnst Swords aren't just mere accessories to look cool in a uniform. All military swords have had some significant service history explaining their adoption, usually from their use in battle. It would inappropriate for AF to suddenly adopt swords in 2019 when they have never carried one before in it's history.
I have a CS Grosse Messer that a drunk buddy went to town on a door frame with........after fifteen minutes most of the blade had full chunks taken out of it. The nest day when we were sober we found out how much damage he did to the cinder blocks the door frame was surrounded by. A lot. I still have the sword, it has a bent crossguard and the tip is missing. I basically view it has having a sharp first half and a serrated second half of the blade. The handle creaks a bit too. I have done nothing to it since that night.........I have owned the thing for well over a decade. I don't regret any of the decisions involved. It's still absolutely deadly.
I have a cold steel smallsword; it's a bit on the heavy side but at least it's really stiff to enable good penetration, and we all know that's all that really matters.
I have one, and it is very functional. I have many cold steel items, and they are quite good enough for what I use them for. I have the old master tanto. Great blade, very sharp.
@@cappierising1774 and stupid legislation to go along with it. A pocket light saber with a switch is legal but if the saber deploys with a button it's illegal and you get sent to the prison planet.
Brah everyone knows to buy a quality Kyber crystal immediately. Stock is trash. I recommend a wilson combat kyber crystal all 4 of mine have been reliable
@@svargyle I have one, and it handles like a baseball bat. I suppose it's meant as a crude hack and stab weapon wielded by sailors with tremendous grip and forearm strength, and it accomplishes that very well.
Just purchased my first sword, a Cold Steel “Viking Sword” (have since watched your video on Viking swords lol). I love my sword, but I certainly agree that it isn’t 100% accurate. I did enjoy hearing that Cold Steel is durable and well-made for what it is, and as I’m in the USA, my sword was quite affordable.
Well I do love spears myself, but I am not sure about Cold Steel's spears' quality and I'm not planning on buying one from them. However, I do want at least one spear from another company, preferably from one that makes historically accurate weapons. Even if I have to get the head and shaft separately.
@@fransthefox9682 That's what I'm worried about, I don't mind paying for quality but it's hard to do so when there really isn't a up to date and comprehensive list or video on what is good and what isn't.
I'm not sure where you are from, but consider finding a local hobby blacksmith. I know i would make you a spear head in whatever style you would like, for not much money. Shafting it would be up to you, but most hobby type smiths would do it just for the fun of it.
I actually sent mine back and got the arming sword. I think I discovered that I prefer a single handed sword, that I can always mix with a my CS buckler. PS: I even thought I must have posted this a year ago and was going to delete it, then I saw your name. lol!
Rock is not durable, it's brittle. If you want to use rock as a positive description for a sword, you could say hard as a rock.. depending on the sword. Durable would simply mean that it won't brake and has resistance for the wear. Good quality to describe a tool or a kitchen knife.
Over the years I’ve purchased a few cold steel products and have not been disappointed , the whole of boar spear , war hammer , kukri , all are quality stuff.
For the price (in the U.S.), and for what they are and intended for, their machete swords are very hard to beat. I have owned the barong machete for years now. Near indestructible, you can stab with it as well as cut and chop. Yes, there is a clunk factor. They are made for long use with lots of sharpening and loss of material in mind. They can be great if you mod them right. Aggressive sharpening on the blade and counter balance in the handle and lanyard hole. They currently retail for just over 20 USD. That is insanely cheap for what you get. I would not go cold steel for a long sword or a reproduction but a hybrid machete/sword/knife is right up their alley.
It is always a pleasure to listen to Matt because he is very clear and logical while showing his deep knowledge without showing off. He wastes no time on hype or irrelevant stuff. Just explains the what and the why in a clear and FAIR analysis. Great. I would trust him as a judge because of the way he reasons always taking a look at both sides of an issue and not jumping into a shallow judgement. This is an increasingly rare thing these days which is very sad.
yup. You see it when they do videos cutting rope etc. they overswing wildly because the blade has so much mass it`s hard to slow it down after the cut.
Missed mentioning that the main reason for the even thickness of blades is that it's cheaper to produce blades that don't need to be worked on so much. You get what you pay for, but as long as you know what you buy and why, it works out ok.
The best thing about CS swords are their variety , they really do have a broad range to choose from . Most people only ever buy one sword and if it’s not katana shaped then I always recommend CS because they won’t fall apart , will survive a bashing and people never have an original to compare too . Great swords for one off buyers or newbies
@@ogion539 Good comment, Patrick, but you know, even when I believe that absolutely anyone could tell that this man is both intelligent and cultivated, sadly, I witnessed that he always absolutely failed at grasping even the most glaring, blatant joke, or meme, someone could've made in the comments section, always reacting defensively, and leaving the goodwilled commenter baffled, and set aback. And humor, m'friend, is a fundamental sign of mental brightness as well :-) Have a nice day sir!
@@hansvonmannschaft9062 Your quibbling here is irrelevant and NOT well deserved. You do know that after about 1000 versions of the same joke (as in your 'gay' name Hands on 'MAN shaft') the joke ceases to be funny and just becomes tiresome. I too have myself made some of these jokes so I am not just picking on you but I have at least mostly ceased pointing out ´the obvious' which ceases to be funny anymore. 'Stairway to Heaven' really is one of many good Led Zeppelin songs but when I hear it come on the radio I switch channels as I am REALLY tired of that song. Matt get's tired of the same joke! Who can blame him?
Totally agree. I recently purchased a CS 1796 light cavalry sabre. It does have a distal taper, but it’s still a bit thick in the foible. But, I only paid $300 Canadian for it, so I can’t complain too much.
Cold steel is the name given to a hodgepodge of swords knives and machetes produced in different parts of world by different companies under contract Indian companies(windlass) make almost all of their Sabres and european swords Machetes are made by lasher tools,south africa Fixed blade knives are made by camillus cutlery USA And the katanas are made either in taiwan or china
The delta between Matt, a man of seemingly normal size and build, and the two guys that do the Cold Steel videos. Those guys are over 200 maybe 250. Way over 50kg. Matt is dedicated to speed and grace, not being a portly, stationary chopping machine.
I really like Cold Steel knives, their “Tri-Ad Lock” is phenomenally strong and for the price (here in the U.S. at least), they are the best quality and value. However, I know very little about swords (although I have been training in Atienza Kali) but I did own a Cold Steel “European Spear” and was severely disappointed by the quality and sharpness. (Generally all the knives I have received from Cold Steel have been pretty sharp). I did also own their Barong, which they sadly no longer produce, and was happy with that. I am very interested in HEMA and just love Ancient and Medieval/Renaissance swords and weapons. But I’ve heard the same issues Scholagladiatora has repeated by other people on the internet whose opinion I respect. So my question to Scholagladiatora is: What weapon manufacturers do you recommend for well-balanced, tapered, etc. swords and weapons from these periods?
I knew this about my Cold Steel saber before I bought it, but I wanted it more than rational thought would allow. Now I have this heavy club where I could have kept that money to save up for a good sword. But before this video I hadn't heard of Albion swords; Cold Steel was about the only brand I could find.
You should do a review of DarkSword Armory. Even tho Cold Steel isn't all that great, I admire the standard they set in the "absolute proof" videos and the challenge they laid down. It set a new standard. Zombie Tools and DarkSword Armory show that you can basically abuse the sword and it doesn't care, and that it handles like a real weapon. I'm no expert, but I think they'd be effective.
So if one were wanting a high quality, 18th or 19th c. cutlass, what would be the best option? There are many choices for medieval and Renaissance swords, but there really aren't many options for later weapons.
IMHO Cold Steel's best products are their machetes. While they don't have fancy features like more expensive machetes (distal taper, etc), they're rock solid in construction, and available in various historical blade shapes.
Machetes arr often suposed to be used as heavy duty choppers and would value a of the word better designed for durability so I'd agree that there machetes made with similar logic in mind would fair well
I've had the gladius machete for about 5 years now. Take it with me every time I'm in the woods. Thing has taken a lickin but keeps tickin. Keep a belt sander handy and one of these should service a life time for like $35 bucks
The distal taper is usually a matter of two things; cost and the modern methods of manufacturing. Back in the day swords were hammered out by hand and it was easier to control the thickness. You would just leave it thick at the base and hammer it flatter toward the tip. Modern swords are cut from a sheet of steel and then ground into shape. To get a thicker sword you would need to start with a thicker sheet and grind more. It would cost much more to make both in materials and labor to do it properly, which quality makers like Albion do…at a high price. Budget swords like Cold Steel can charge less because they use a thinner sheet and leave it thicker at the tip to avoid it being too light. If they did it right they would be charging as much as high end makers, and then they’d be competing with a much better product and in a different market where they would fare worse (serious sword collectors vs the less critical backyard cutter). As European swords and sabers become more popular this cost could go down, simply due to economies of scale. Just look at how the quality of budget katanas has improved with the increase in production. You can get a Masahiro Katana for $60 that has proper distal taper. Like Matt says they are fine for the price. It’s like buying Walmart boots; you buy them because they are cheap and disposable, but don’t expect them to compare to a custom made pair of boots. For what it’s worth some of the newer generation of Cold Steel swords have gotten better at distal taper. The 1860 US Heavy Cavalry saber starts at about 9mm and goes down to 3.
@@contentsdiffer5958 When I said it would cost more I wasn't talking about the materials. I was talking about the man hours to grind a 1/2 in bar into shape with a proper distal taper. It's much cheaper and easier to use 1/4 in and have less taper but about the same weight, so that's what most mass produced makers do. It won't handle the same. or have the same durability at the tang, but most people don't notice so they do it anyway. The part about controlling thickness isn't just about getting it thin near the tip; that's still easier to do with grinding. However there are forging tricks you can to to make the thick areas thicker without having to use a thicker bar stock. Watch this smith take 1/4 in steel and hammer it on the sides to turn it into around 3/8 or more for the tang. th-cam.com/video/ha1PwOzuo4k/w-d-xo.html
Mine works very well even for one-handed lunging. A lot of people don't understand that Cold Steel resell swords from different manufacturers, so it is very much a mixed bag. A mixed bag of crowbars and decent swords.
Are you sure? Look I’m working really hard to save up money and I wanna get into sword collecting. The Italian Longsword looks really cool but I’ve heard some negative things about it. I’m not experienced enough to know the companies I should avoid and where I can get real quality swords.
@@WearyFeline Cold Steel makes a lot of durable and worthy products, but I would look at other makers first when it comes to swords. Especially if you plan to use the sword to actually learn swordsmanship. Cold Steel swords are typically too thick in the wrong places, too heavy and awkward, and quite frankly overbuilt. If I’m buying a sword, I’m look for a blade that feels like a true weapon that was designed to fight and kill, I’m not looking for a sword-shaped object that hacks like an axe/hatchet. Of course most guys that buy those overbuilt sword really use them like toys. Cutting bottles, chopping trees (this always seems really stupid to me, but oh well). I’d just use an axe, the tool that was meant for that job. To reiterate, this isn’t a jab at Cold Steel’s reputation. But when it comes to swords, there are some issues.
@@WearyFeline No problem. It largely depends on how much you’re willing to spend, but you can find good things in all price ranges. I also believe Cold Steel has recently made revisions to their old swords, and I believe they’ve gotten slightly better. It’s really up to you.
I would love to see a review of the Cold Steel Thompson saber some day. Since he put his name on it, I would hope that it is a cut above the run of the mill products. Pardon the pun.
Totally agree. I have a Cold Steel Warrior series katana. The thing is a tank. Super heavy to the point of not usable. Tough but I would never choose it for fighting. Good thing that doesn't come up often. ;)
Cold Steel doesn't make swords. Their swords are produced by other firms, generally in India. Their scimitar is made by windlass. Some of their military sabers are produced by Universal Swords.
@M Ch Five times is an overstatement although I don't know the UK markup. Most of the original manufacturers retail at $200 to $300. Cold steel seems to run a $100 markup in the US for their name and sharpening service.
@@RokaizeThere are several threads on the subject at Sword Buyers Guide. One person's cold steel shamshir still had a visible Windlass makers mark etching on the blade.
My cold steel gladius machete is made in South Africa, along with most of their steel. I also own the cold steel European spear. It is battlefield ready 100%
@B4 freedomfighter Well yes, a medieval one.. It's better than the steel they would have had then due to modern production methods which cook/flux out inclusions and impurities. And ash is ash, so yes, it's a better spear than available during the time period..
Cold Steel swords not overbuilt, well balanced and good for fight are the Shamshir, the MAA messer and the MAA arming sword. I hope you'll try them one day. Cheers!
Luckily the Cold Steel Colichemarde is as optimized for thrusting as possible, regardless of the target. It's not a historical replica, however, but an interpretation. The forte is about twice as long as the historical models, and the cross section is diamond with a double fuller rather than the historical concave triangular cross section. Thus it's a bit heavier than the real thing, but a fine piece in its own right. If it can still be found, I recommend it highly.
I have many years of experience with Coldsteel products. I like their knives & hatchets but have no experience their swords as I have never been into their take on them. My impression of them is that they are a modern take from the views & needs of very large men who like to smash things but they have never made the claim that they are historically accurate either. Just my two cents.
It’s so hit or miss. Some are a fantastic bargain for a great weapon. Some are a waste of money, and you’ll never know which you’re getting. It’s a shame.
I own a Cold Steel 1796 light cavalry saber. It cuts great, looks great, and is very durable. If (god forbid) I ever had to use it, I doubt the other person would armed with a sword AND be trained with one. That being the case I am not too concerned about them being "not good for fighting with." I paid $100 used in the USA. Thanks for the video.
Cold steel Viking sword design does not look like a typical Viking sword, it’s much longer and tapered. The sword on the wall looks more like a Viking sword.
I have a few Cold Steel products. - Colichemarde Smallsword ( quite sharp for a double edged Smallsword) - Shell Guard Companion Dagger - Colichemarde Dagger - Heavy Duty Sword Cane ( this is pretty sharp and beefy) All are quite sharp. The Shell Guard Companion Dagger is quite quick to withdraw. Cold Steel tends to run heavier than normal. They evoke the spirit of the sword ,but are not exact replicas of any particular type. They certainly are robust. And the points on them are quite good too. I have yet to try their Pappenheimer Rapier and triangular Smallsword.
Excellent video with a few points I never considered before. Thanks! I notice in most things you can have either something designed for demonstration/sport, or something good for it's normal use and those are usually two different designs. In my former career (LEO) we had competitions wherein departments would compete with their K9 units putting them through some very cool-looking but impractical tests. Crowds would cheer and some dogs, especially from big, better funded departments would win handily. I was curious on those results because the K9 and handler that worked under me on my squad were, simply put, phenomenal at their job but fared poorly in the competition. In looking closer, I found that those champion K9 units did not work the street. They simply trained every day for competition. That begged the question, were these even really "working dogs" then? Nope, but they sure make the crowds stand up and cheer. When I used to shoot competitively (not saying I was any good, just that I competed, LOL) in was in law enforcement team competitions. We had guys that tried to use "race guns" and those were quickly regulated against as, while they were good at shooting tight groups and for run-and-gun stuff, they were not good for duty use and this was clearly designed as a duty-rig competition. You don't want a quick draw holster with practically zero retention and an open frame that exposes the weapon to the detritus of the world as a duty rig. You also don't want a weapon that only tolerates one or two specific loadings. Again, built for competition/sport, vs built for real-world use. Martial arts ... oh could go on for hours here, wrapping up my 34th year of martial arts study. The art I've been in for about 19 years now and teach the most is purely for combat (Jujutsu ... the Japanese - i.e. original - variety). Folks call me all the time and get frustrated that we aren't constantly running to competitions and stacking up trophies. Some of my students DO go to MMA matches and some have even competed in Judo matches (which comes with its own challenges if they have no specific judo rank) and usually do quite well. But those who've had real-life fights-for-their-lives are quick to point out how unrealistic competition is and they prefer our sparring and training. Judo, Taekwondo, and other stuff didn't keep some guys with knives from turning my insides into outsides a few times. But, gosh, they sure look at lot prettier in demonstrations. (IMPORTANT: I am not knocking ANY martial art/sport/way, simply stating that some are better designed for actual combat than others but ANY martial study is better than sitting on your butt).
When it comes to weapons, they MUST be functional, not ornamental only. I own an Albion Agincourt sword, early 15th century bastard/long sword. I'm fond of the quality and I'm currently waiting for my scabbard, which should be ready by July.
I handled a Cold Steel French something or other saber a few years ago when we were doing our pumpkin slaughter at the end of ren fest. It was nice looking, it felt substantial and decently built. It was sharp, but that's about it? it felt unbalanced and just...felt like something was "off" about it. A few years ago they put out a blunt "fencing" saber based on some kind of dueling saber. It wasn't any good in terms of fencing with it (way too stiff and brittle), but word on the street is that the hilt components were excellent and worth buying the weapon just to take the grip and guard off and put on a decent blade. It's no surprise their swords are built this way. They started out as a knife company and if you watch the promotional material for their swords you can clearly see that their philosophy is "fuck yeahhh buddyyyyy...you can listen to buttrock while you cut boots full of meat and pig heads with our swords."
Their Italian longsword is actually quite nice...IF you can get one that isn't flawed. Loose guards are so common on the longsword, retailers won't even accept returns for this issue as Cold Steel themselves do not consider this an issue. Cold Steel themselves will also blame the retailer if you try to get help on getting the problem solved. So unless you paid their stupidly high msrp, they won't help. At that price, you can get WAY better. But if you get a good one at the normal price, it does have good weight distribution and works well as a good fighting sword.
My only Cold Steel sword is the barong they sold in the early 2000s, and it does have a tapered blade. The handle is a bit thick, but it was designed for larger hands. The scabbard is not made like those of any other barong in my collection. My only real issue is that the blade gets stuck in the scabbard, but that also happens with a couple of my barongs purchased in the Philippines. I can't really complain since I bought it during one of their sales for only $75.00.
Cold Steel, generally speaking, match the form factor in terms of aesthetic but - as standard operating procedure - substantively increase the amount of material to the weapon which, depending on the weapon, can significantly effect handling characteristics. Now, this is done for the purpose of directly attempting to create very durable weapons, which is understandable, but depending on whether or not you are specifically looking for a 1 x 1 match to an original pattern / archetype - cold steel's offered variant may not be what you are looking for.
I carry the 14 inch chef knife from Cold Steel in a custom leather front pocket sheath with a racquetball style grip tape. A fighting weapon that is about 6 ounces and blade up ready, is a great everyday carry knife!! I call it as fast as I can point finger knife or the Spear of Destiny, lol
In 2017 I had the pleasure of being the armourer for a large outdoor play here in Denmark, done by the Royal Theatre, over the course of a few months. 75-odd swords, mixed between Paul Chens and Cold Steels. A grand total of 60hrs of use per weapon, traning, rehearsals, shows. The Cold Steel ones chipped, and the Paul Chen ones burred like crazy. Semi-contact vs. swords and re-enactment shields turned both kinds into friggin' saws! Put me off those two "brands". This year it'll be Kovex longswords and flamberges... Let's see if they put up "a better fight". I think it's cool to have an opportunity to see that big a sample size, for further information and decision-making.
If you hit metal to metal it will do things. I could be wrong but i think the one that chips for 1mm or two and then mushrooms would denote the higher quality blade. However quality and historical don't always line up as expected.
Thank you Matt for making this one. I know we have been asking for years.:) Im suprised no one has brought up in the comments the fact that a couple of web-based sword dealers, here in the states at least, i.e. Kult of Athena, offer no guarantee and dont offer a return service on cold steal swords. Due to an extreme lack of quality control. In the same shipment KoA got swords that were perfect and others with cracks in the steal or loose fittings or no edge at all on blades that are addvertised to be sharp and "battle ready". Has anyone else run into these problems? On another note. I have noticed lots of cutting tournaments use thier Italion longsword. Which reinforces Matts point about them being made as good cutter/choppers. I have handled some of the shamshirs they make and if held up next to the Windlass version, it looks like the blades were made at the same forge. Is there a chance they use the same supplier? Cheers!
I'm a relative newbie to CS; I bought a 12" San Mai Tanto couple months ago. Mine wasn't the sharpest but its super sick and the blade is very nice. Sheathe is kinda cheap but still cool. I've done my research and listened to many opinions from much more knowledgeable collectors. This is my take on Cold Steel: I don't think authenticity is on their mind, nor do I think fit and finish particularly matter to them. I think their whole point is to make modern blades out of modern materials that will stand up to use and punishment. I don't think they want you to buy their stuff and put it on the wall. They probably wouldn't mind you using the blade, unlike many smiths. To me, that makes Cold Steel very respectable in my eyes. Don't go looking for authentic reproductions I guess, but that being said....my blade is a work of art. One last thing: I've never been in a battle, nor do any of the collectors that I watch. But most of us like to hit soda bottles and tree limbs and other junk. So the point about blades not being made for battle, though valid, is pretty moot in the 21st century. I don't think humans are going to be doing battle with medieval weapons ever again, save the few crazy exceptions. I do realize this is a disappointment to us all, but we can stop pretending we aren't pretending lol.
their katanas are pretty good quality, i think their the best you can get without flying to Okinawa and paying 10 grand, i have a warrior series chisa katana and i love it, not to mention, if i ever had to use one for defense or (fighting) i think in 2020, i very unlikely that that person will also have a sword as well lol
I had a Cold Steel MAA Norman Sword and it had a threaded tang and pommel and the threads on the tang were welded on very very poorly and it snapped at the weld on the first (rather light) strike on a cardboard box. Haven’t bought from Cold Steel since.
I have the 1796 and their English backsword and I'll second these statements. I'm nothing but happy with what I got because I wanted beautiful, largely accurate swords that will last for ages for a good price (I'm in America). That's what I got. The 1796 (which I got around 2 years ago now) feels like a chopper that i wouldn't want to duel with against another guy with a saber. I also will never need that and it'll stsnd the test of time better than most. Which is what I wanted.
Thank you for answering that question I have had for a long time! I have a Katana from Cold Steel and it's very heavy compared to what I had imagined one to be like.
As an American with a Cold Steel 1796, I agree. The distal half was razor-sharp out of the box, also the false edge on the back of the tip, kinda loose quality control (the wings on the metal bit of the grip don't quite fit against the leather bit), and as Matt said, it just don't feel right. My M1832 Japanese infantry saber is a delightful little weapon, the Cold Steel 1796 , not so good for fencing. And the Shin-gunto is a damn three-foot razor. (Katana jokes aside, actual real ones are pretty cool.) (both Japanese swords were inherited from my grandfather who brought them back from WWII, presumably won them in a poker game with the Marines that captured them.) Matt, if you ever happen to be in my neck of the woods in Texas, you're welcome to play with my recent-production 1796 and my other swords, and I'll buy you a drink. (in exchange for a small discount on the next original 1796 that comes through your store, of course, and I'll compare them and report the results.)
And before anybody flips their lid, I plan to donate the war-trophy swords to a museum or maybe even try to find the owner of the one that has a maker's name on the tang and give it back to the family. Know anybody specializing in Japanese swords?
i dont own any swords or martial weapons but im looking to change that. i do know a fair bit about ColdSteel, and one thing i do love about them is the steel they choose to use for their knives and their, function and reliability over looks and status mentality. ive heard mixed things about their swords from the hema community. thanks for the info, sounds about right and fair.
I bought an Italian longsword from Balaur Arms that appears to be decent quality, light weight and well balanced. My only issue was the blade edge was chipped by the sharpening service and I am contemplating whether or not I want to exchange it for a new one or just have a knife sharpening shop file it out for me.
They certainly are different than original as you said. I think you are right about them being built for durability/backyard chopping, but I think part of the reason is also a thinking, on the part of the company's higher ups, that the user of the blades should generally be better fed and stronger than people in the relatively distant past, so the added weight/difference in balance should be fairly easily overcome. Also if the sword is used to actually fight someone, that someone probably isn't going to be armed with a comparable weapon, or wearing armor. I don't know this to be the case, but based on things Lynn Thompson has said, I surmise it to be the case.
I have the Italian Longsword. Its perfect for my size, and its a historical weight and balance, and is incredibly sharp. Granted, it is the ONLY cold steel sword i own, but i also have their shillelagh, which is far heavier than it has any right to be. I can vouch for the Italian longsword, but not much else. My example is very tight and solid, but i have heard that some people get wobbly, rattling guards. They have certainly been getting much better over the years, but they do have some ways to go.
Cold Steel swords are very good. I own about 20 of them, and don't have much to complain about. Only if you buy them from dealers at discount, they might be "factory seconds". But if you pay normal price and buy from trusted dealer, they're usually quite high quality for the price. I'd say you get what you pay for, if not even more. They're usually more battle worthy than any other swords at that price range. Not many other sword could get through all those brutal tests of the Cold Steel. Some of them are bit on the heavy side, which I appreciate, because they're great for gymnastics and you'll get used to it quite fast. After getting used to them, they are absolutely devastatingly powerful and still quite agile. But I'm the kind of guy that prefers to get the heavier sword over a lighter one, especially when it counts for added durability. I'd say they don't cheat what they say about their swords, even if it's hard to believe for some people. I can highly recommend. But I repeat, if you buy them dirty cheap, used, or at discount, they might be those "factory seconds" that have cost Cold Steel swords some reputational losses. Some dealers might try to sell those without telling that they're second class quality.
@Joe Blow I own about 20 of Cold Steel swords, and you're saying I don't know what I'm talking about? I know exactly what I'm talking, after buying 20 of these and haven't have any issues. They work fine. I've bought some of my replicas from cheaper manufacturers like Windlass and Hanwei. But the Cold Steel is way above those. After all, I've got quite a collection of pretty decent replicas, but without having them cost too much. Good enough for me. They all look good, and I've been happy to practice with them. Once you learn how to use them, they can be quite effective, I can assure you.
@@attentatdefecitdisorder4348 The Cold Steel used to sell those factory seconds officially at discount at their website, and parking lot sales. Anyone could buy them, and it can be that some dealers sold them forward. And judging from the prices I've seen them sold in some places, that's exactly what they have done. It can be also some dealers to blame for that bad reputation. Many dealers even sold them at discount admitting they were flawed. That means they're factory seconds. If you buy them there, it's no surprise they are like that. But the dealers should have made more clear of that.
Their reputation is very specifically linked to 3 things. 1) Being too heavy (eg not having a distal taper) and 2) Using an inappropriately stiff/brittle steel which would be better suited to knives and 3) Their appalling customer service.
Babbling Babblator It's the handling that's the problem. I've also got a few different CS swords and some handle much better than others. Like their Chinese war sword, while being way heavier than any original, can get away with that as long as used two handed it will still be agile cause it's a short sword with a long handle. Others are kinda shit but still fully useable (for fighting/fencing), and others like their greatsword are completely worthless. So it varies with models. But they are all good "backyard cutters", which is what CS seem to want them to be.
The Cold Steel Knock Off of the Tru Bal Bowie Axe is a fine blade, but he plastic scales held on with Chicago screws will just snap off when thrown about twice.
American here and competed in a Cold Steel comp. Have quite a bit of Lynn Thompson's stuff. Broke all the silly "special forces" throwing axes years ago. But the spears and typical axes have been awesome. I recently bought a short Japanese sword and it came sharp and worked well on a thick rope set. I did find some broken edges on the blade, so I think hardened too much to show some brittleness. The spears are awesome as I have yet to break one over hundreds of throws. Still have all the throwing heavy axes as well.
I have four CS knives, the kukri, 2 tantos, and an Ax. I’m the function over looks type... My experience with everything I own of theirs is it’s Durable beyond belief. I’ve literally taken down small trees with the tanto, a medium sized tree, 30 ft. With the kukri. And the camping Ax has held up for Years now worth of camping trips... You would be correct sir in saying they’re not as sharp as possible fresh out box, but very few blades I’ve bought have been... I have high standards and sharpen 75-80% of the blades I do buy, fresh out the box.🤷♂️ But the Durability more then covers the extra cost associated with the brand, IMO.
Well its just like he says. They great for mucking around in the back yard and hacking stuff up. Its what the guys at CS do so its no surprise that thats what they are made to do well. Matt is a compedative HEMA sabre fencer. He uses swords for fighting essentially. More historically accurate sport fencing if you like. He collects real swords that where functional weapons actually designed and evolved for their real purpose which is combat. Not chopping things up. Its obvious cold steel is a knife company that dabbles in swords and not the otherway around. Its a pretty accurate assessment.
@@adznz11 First of all, HEMA isn't isn't real combat, much like airsoft isn't a real gunfight. It's a fun sport and all, but I wouldn't call it combat. While many of these people can speculate what actual armed combat may have been like, nearly none of them have any experience in a life or death melee with swords on a battlefield. Secondly, he based his appraisal seemingly as a fencer but using an example of a cavalry sabre which has a much different point of balance by design. Not saying he's particularly wrong in his assessment necessarily, just that it could be off if he's basing everything on infantry or dueling sabers or modified cavalry sabers. Since militaries issued light cavalry sabers to infantry, it was common for infantrymen to modify and regrind the sabers to be more wieldy in infantry combat where you aren't just riding through the infantry and cutting as you go by.
I bought a Cold Steel Chisa Katana, which came with a very sharp edge from the factory, but refining the edge with ceramic stones, followed by leather stropping, and final edge polishing with an agate burnisher, it's nearly scalpel sharp. I've also bought a cheaper Roman Gladius machete sword that they make, and it's deadly sharp out of the box as well, but a file rough edge - perfect for a machete.
I got the Katana Warrior series from ColdSteel. I think that this is the strongest katana tempered out of high carbon steel. The only downside is it's quite heavy.
Most of Cold Steel's swords are made by Windlass Steelcrafts. They are hit and miss depending on the specific model and all lack a distal taper. For the price, some of them are pretty good cutters though.
Great video. Thank you for this one. I’ve never really been a sword guy. But the more I watch your channel, the more I want to get a sword. I look at the Cold Steel line because they are somewhat reasonable in price, but don’t have enough experience to make an informed purchase.
I own two swords from dynasty forge , a ko katana , and a kogarasumaru , both well made , and came razor sharp ! got them on sale in 2011 , got the pair at half price ! and for their age , they are in pretty much the same condition as when purchased ! I consider it ,money well spent !
I bought a CS Gladius machete, which in my hands is a perfect sword with one hell of a historical fighting reputation. Thank you Cold Steel. Well done.
Their Italian Longsword (the product most similar to the longsword you're demonstrating) is actually very light and well balanced. I'd even say they might have gone too far and made it a little flexy for a type XVa
Are you sure? Look I’m working really hard to save up money and I wanna get into sword collecting. The Italian Longsword looks really cool but I’ve heard some negative things about it. I’m not experienced enough to know the companies I should avoid and where I can get real quality swords.
EQG Darvy It's 1270 g without the scabbard with CM about 10 cm from the grip and CoP about 25 cm from the tip. The edge came sharp though quite thick. The blade was well polished. There is no distal taper. The grip leather eventually came loose so I had to glue it. The crossguard also has a little bit of play after substantial cutting of trees. The hilt assembly is compressed by a pommel nut through the wood grip so it will eventually come loose. I think the sword design is overall quite attractive. For the $150 I paid no complaints.
CS sucks at QC, maybe not when it comes to the blade, but everything else is munition grade at best. Be prepared for rattling guards, blades stuck into the handle at an oblique angle, unnecessary protrusions in the grip, poor coating or painting etc.
If you buy them dirty cheap, used, or at discount, they might be those "factory seconds" that have cost Cold Steel swords some reputational losses. Some dealers might try to sell those without telling that they're second class quality.
@@babblingbabblator9259 I bought mine from kult of Athena. They buy them in bulk and then sort them into two qualities and sell the dropouts cheaper with remarks on what is wrong, but in my case they overlooked several blemishes... I didn't return it, because the transport is too costly.
![[Full] 4 ต่อ 4 Celebrity EP.910 | 22 ก.ย. 67 | one31](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/4TR3MVpOiw8/mqdefault.jpg)
I love that they made way more product lines than could possibly be profitable. Someone at the company is clearly just passionate about it.
lynn c thompson, the owner, is absolutely mental about bladed weapons! 😊
@@Asthmos I think I have been supporting them since they were 'unnamed' wholesale. Cold steel is good, anyone try the 300 dollar cold steel gladius, the Honshu? I must have a spherical pommel on my gladius.
One thing I know of Matt is that, regardless of how much it rains, he's always superdry.
Pretty good
Dry indeed, doubtless because he's English...
He is so dry, I have to get a drink
My dad to
What is superdry anyways? He does wear their stuff a lot. I’m an American, so I might not get the reference or something.
I have a cold steel sword for my dress uniform. So far, the wardroom has not been attacked, So I think it has done its job.
And, when you hear "Away all boarding parties", you will be prepared.
Really wish the Air Force wore swords as part of the uniform. Totally would get something real for just such an emergency.
@@LairdErnst Swords aren't just mere accessories to look cool in a uniform. All military swords have had some significant service history explaining their adoption, usually from their use in battle. It would inappropriate for AF to suddenly adopt swords in 2019 when they have never carried one before in it's history.
Adam C I don’t care. It’s my opinion and has nothing to do with tradition. It would look cool, and that is all.
@@LairdErnst there is an AF dress sword. I don't like it. www.atlantacutlery.com/us-air-force-officers-sword
Cold steel. Overbuilt and heavy, super strong. May not be balanced like original swords. But, they will outlive you.
IMO, Cold Steel are the Ruger of swords. :-P
I have a CS Grosse Messer that a drunk buddy went to town on a door frame with........after fifteen minutes most of the blade had full chunks taken out of it. The nest day when we were sober we found out how much damage he did to the cinder blocks the door frame was surrounded by. A lot. I still have the sword, it has a bent crossguard and the tip is missing. I basically view it has having a sharp first half and a serrated second half of the blade. The handle creaks a bit too. I have done nothing to it since that night.........I have owned the thing for well over a decade. I don't regret any of the decisions involved. It's still absolutely deadly.
@@cptsmkwgn LOL
My lasted 8 years hitting wood metal other swords and finally broke but that’s not what there’s used for tatami mats it probably will never dull
Repeated bs. Stop being a sheep how many cold steel swords do you own?
I bought their Nodachi, nothing else is half as much fun for hedge maintenance.
My main problem with their "Nodachi" is that they misnamed it. It's actually a Nagamaki.
Is the shaft shaped to allow for easier hedge alignment?
Hedge maintenance sounds fun.
Great for trimming cactus.
@@fransthefox9682 I had to google Cold Steel Nodachi and you are right, that is a damn Nagamaki and not a Nodachi. Looks pretty nice though.
I have a cold steel smallsword; it's a bit on the heavy side but at least it's really stiff to enable good penetration, and we all know that's all that really matters.
Heh.
That's what my girl tells me too! ;-)
Your girl sure has her priorities straight! ;D
www.kultofathena.com/product.asp?item=CS88SMS This is the one I have, couldn't ask for more stiffness.
I have one, and it is very functional. I have many cold steel items, and they are quite good enough for what I use them for. I have the old master tanto. Great blade, very sharp.
I own a cold steel Jedi light saber, I cut through a bank vault and two storm troopers. Then the battery went dead.
What if the star Wars universe had pocket knife nerds but it was lightsabers
@@cappierising1774 and stupid legislation to go along with it. A pocket light saber with a switch is legal but if the saber deploys with a button it's illegal and you get sent to the prison planet.
Brah everyone knows to buy a quality Kyber crystal immediately. Stock is trash. I recommend a wilson combat kyber crystal all 4 of mine have been reliable
@@realtalk4real243 I bought a tactical black non slip hilt with quick deploy switch even though I work in an office building on Courasant
I put a suppressor on mine to get rid of the power up sound but it got disintegrated. Terrible suppressor, 10/10 would not recommend.
I have a 1917 naval cutless. Its nice, I like it, cuts just fine. Matt really knows his stuff and this channel is invaluable. Thanks Matt!
I'm interested in this sword as well. Do you know how its weight distribution is compared to an original?
@@svargyle I have one, and it handles like a baseball bat. I suppose it's meant as a crude hack and stab weapon wielded by sailors with tremendous grip and forearm strength, and it accomplishes that very well.
C U T L A S S, waterhead.
You talk out of both sides of your mouf
Just purchased my first sword, a Cold Steel “Viking Sword” (have since watched your video on Viking swords lol). I love my sword, but I certainly agree that it isn’t 100% accurate. I did enjoy hearing that Cold Steel is durable and well-made for what it is, and as I’m in the USA, my sword was quite affordable.
I want to salut you about your last sentence !!!🍻
Yes, somehow EVERYTHING in usa is way cheaper than hier in Europe.
I'm more interested in their spears. It's hard to find any reviews on them and other companies since nobody seems to love spears.
Zephri Zi I do
first weapon in existance
Well I do love spears myself, but I am not sure about Cold Steel's spears' quality and I'm not planning on buying one from them. However, I do want at least one spear from another company, preferably from one that makes historically accurate weapons. Even if I have to get the head and shaft separately.
@@fransthefox9682 That's what I'm worried about, I don't mind paying for quality but it's hard to do so when there really isn't a up to date and comprehensive list or video on what is good and what isn't.
I'm not sure where you are from, but consider finding a local hobby blacksmith. I know i would make you a spear head in whatever style you would like, for not much money. Shafting it would be up to you, but most hobby type smiths would do it just for the fun of it.
I bought a cold steel Italian long sword, it’s razor sharp and is durable as a rock
I actually sent mine back and got the arming sword. I think I discovered that I prefer a single handed sword, that I can always mix with a my CS buckler.
PS: I even thought I must have posted this a year ago and was going to delete it, then I saw your name. lol!
But I can break a rock with a hammer....
Rock is not durable, it's brittle. If you want to use rock as a positive description for a sword, you could say hard as a rock.. depending on the sword. Durable would simply mean that it won't brake and has resistance for the wear. Good quality to describe a tool or a kitchen knife.
@@MrThule if you want to nerd out, you cant say rocks are hard and wear resistant either. Not all are.
Can you suggest the best overall claymore and katana
Oh, hey, Superdry is back
Hey, oh Superback is dry
Great and honest review. Very respectful and to the point.
Thanks. 🙏🙏🙏
Over the years I’ve purchased a few cold steel products and have not been disappointed , the whole of boar spear , war hammer , kukri , all are quality stuff.
For the price (in the U.S.), and for what they are and intended for, their machete swords are very hard to beat. I have owned the barong machete for years now. Near indestructible, you can stab with it as well as cut and chop. Yes, there is a clunk factor. They are made for long use with lots of sharpening and loss of material in mind. They can be great if you mod them right. Aggressive sharpening on the blade and counter balance in the handle and lanyard hole. They currently retail for just over 20 USD. That is insanely cheap for what you get. I would not go cold steel for a long sword or a reproduction but a hybrid machete/sword/knife is right up their alley.
It is always a pleasure to listen to Matt because he is very clear and logical while showing his deep knowledge without showing off. He wastes no time on hype or irrelevant stuff. Just explains the what and the why in a clear and FAIR analysis. Great. I would trust him as a judge because of the way he reasons always taking a look at both sides of an issue and not jumping into a shallow judgement. This is an increasingly rare thing these days which is very sad.
I think you nailed it with Cold Steel blades being designed for cutting and durability.
yup. You see it when they do videos cutting rope etc. they overswing wildly because the blade has so much mass it`s hard to slow it down after the cut.
yeah, I would never have bought one... but it's nice to see a nuanced view on what for and what against rather than the usual internet hyperbole.
Missed mentioning that the main reason for the even thickness of blades is that it's cheaper to produce blades that don't need to be worked on so much.
You get what you pay for, but as long as you know what you buy and why, it works out ok.
The best thing about CS swords are their variety , they really do have a broad range to choose from . Most people only ever buy one sword and if it’s not katana shaped then I always recommend CS because they won’t fall apart , will survive a bashing and people never have an original to compare too . Great swords for one off buyers or newbies
Not having watched the video yet. However, let's making an educated guess. Matt may say: "Well, it depends, BUT..." ;-)
King of Context
That's the best way :)
you mean BUTT
@@ogion539 Good comment, Patrick, but you know, even when I believe that absolutely anyone could tell that this man is both intelligent and cultivated, sadly, I witnessed that he always absolutely failed at grasping even the most glaring, blatant joke, or meme, someone could've made in the comments section, always reacting defensively, and leaving the goodwilled commenter baffled, and set aback. And humor, m'friend, is a fundamental sign of mental brightness as well :-) Have a nice day sir!
@@hansvonmannschaft9062 Your quibbling here is irrelevant and NOT well deserved. You do know that after about 1000 versions of the same joke (as in your 'gay' name Hands on 'MAN shaft') the joke ceases to be funny and just becomes tiresome. I too have myself made some of these jokes so I am not just picking on you but I have at least mostly ceased pointing out ´the obvious' which ceases to be funny anymore. 'Stairway to Heaven' really is one of many good Led Zeppelin songs but when I hear it come on the radio I switch channels as I am REALLY tired of that song. Matt get's tired of the same joke! Who can blame him?
I love my Chisa katana. It's part of the Warrior series. Balanced, cuts well, and tough as nails.
Totally agree. I recently purchased a CS 1796 light cavalry sabre. It does have a distal taper, but it’s still a bit thick in the foible. But, I only paid $300 Canadian for it, so I can’t complain too much.
As an aside, while I’m relatively pleased with what I got for what I paid, I doubt I’ll be picking up any other Cold Steel swords.
There's just something about the word foible that gets me chuckling, I have no idea why.
Good take but I must compliment you for having Firefly in the shelf. Excellent series.
Ohh there. Really hard to see. Do you look for copies of Firefly professionally?
@@tobiasschmidt1894 Lol nah I just saw something familiar and recognized it.
@Hugo Adrian Wilkins the best space Western series of all time.
Cold steel is the name given to a hodgepodge of swords knives and machetes produced in different parts of world by different companies under contract
Indian companies(windlass) make almost all of their Sabres and european swords
Machetes are made by lasher tools,south africa
Fixed blade knives are made by camillus cutlery USA
And the katanas are made either in taiwan or china
The delta between Matt, a man of seemingly normal size and build, and the two guys that do the Cold Steel videos. Those guys are over 200 maybe 250. Way over 50kg. Matt is dedicated to speed and grace, not being a portly, stationary chopping machine.
I really like Cold Steel knives, their “Tri-Ad Lock” is phenomenally strong and for the price (here in the U.S. at least), they are the best quality and value. However, I know very little about swords (although I have been training in Atienza Kali) but I did own a Cold Steel “European Spear” and was severely disappointed by the quality and sharpness. (Generally all the knives I have received from Cold Steel have been pretty sharp). I did also own their Barong, which they sadly no longer produce, and was happy with that. I am very interested in HEMA and just love Ancient and Medieval/Renaissance swords and weapons. But I’ve heard the same issues Scholagladiatora has repeated by other people on the internet whose opinion I respect. So my question to Scholagladiatora is: What weapon manufacturers do you recommend for well-balanced, tapered, etc. swords and weapons from these periods?
I knew this about my Cold Steel saber before I bought it, but I wanted it more than rational thought would allow. Now I have this heavy club where I could have kept that money to save up for a good sword. But before this video I hadn't heard of Albion swords; Cold Steel was about the only brand I could find.
I always appreciate an experienced opinion especially one in conjunction with a comprehensive analysis. Thank you!
I'm a huge Cold Steel fan. Thanks for the honest review. You should check out their Kukris. I think you would be really impressed. I have several.
I own the cold steel 1796, it's very heavy and unwieldy, has a pommel nut, and is a wrist breaker with even mild movement
Thank you, this is a subject I’ve always had questions on. Cheers!
You should do a review of DarkSword Armory. Even tho Cold Steel isn't all that great, I admire the standard they set in the "absolute proof" videos and the challenge they laid down. It set a new standard. Zombie Tools and DarkSword Armory show that you can basically abuse the sword and it doesn't care, and that it handles like a real weapon. I'm no expert, but I think they'd be effective.
So if one were wanting a high quality, 18th or 19th c. cutlass, what would be the best option? There are many choices for medieval and Renaissance swords, but there really aren't many options for later weapons.
Great explanation of the importance of weight distribution.
I spot a Firefly show on your shelve Matt.
Shiny ;)
Fairly certain I see some Black Library as well.
Makes me wonder how much this variance in mass and weight distribution was a common thing back in the day even between blacksmiths in a town or city.
My general impression of them is they are cheaper, decent in durability, sometimes have issue with quality control.
IMHO Cold Steel's best products are their machetes. While they don't have fancy features like more expensive machetes (distal taper, etc), they're rock solid in construction, and available in various historical blade shapes.
Agreed. I beat the heck out of the couple I have and they have held up spectacularly.
Machetes arr often suposed to be used as heavy duty choppers and would value a of the word better designed for durability so I'd agree that there machetes made with similar logic in mind would fair well
Blade Shapes Compared: Falchions and Machetes th-cam.com/video/i9FtGY-lcvI/w-d-xo.html
I've had the gladius machete for about 5 years now. Take it with me every time I'm in the woods. Thing has taken a lickin but keeps tickin. Keep a belt sander handy and one of these should service a life time for like $35 bucks
I have the two hand machete and have had it for many years. Love it.
Two dislikes from Mr Cold and Mr Steel.
The folding knives are great.
The distal taper is usually a matter of two things; cost and the modern methods of manufacturing.
Back in the day swords were hammered out by hand and it was easier to control the thickness. You would just leave it thick at the base and hammer it flatter toward the tip. Modern swords are cut from a sheet of steel and then ground into shape. To get a thicker sword you would need to start with a thicker sheet and grind more. It would cost much more to make both in materials and labor to do it properly, which quality makers like Albion do…at a high price.
Budget swords like Cold Steel can charge less because they use a thinner sheet and leave it thicker at the tip to avoid it being too light. If they did it right they would be charging as much as high end makers, and then they’d be competing with a much better product and in a different market where they would fare worse (serious sword collectors vs the less critical backyard cutter).
As European swords and sabers become more popular this cost could go down, simply due to economies of scale. Just look at how the quality of budget katanas has improved with the increase in production. You can get a Masahiro Katana for $60 that has proper distal taper.
Like Matt says they are fine for the price. It’s like buying Walmart boots; you buy them because they are cheap and disposable, but don’t expect them to compare to a custom made pair of boots.
For what it’s worth some of the newer generation of Cold Steel swords have gotten better at distal taper. The 1860 US Heavy Cavalry saber starts at about 9mm and goes down to 3.
@@contentsdiffer5958 When I said it would cost more I wasn't talking about the materials. I was talking about the man hours to grind a 1/2 in bar into shape with a proper distal taper. It's much cheaper and easier to use 1/4 in and have less taper but about the same weight, so that's what most mass produced makers do. It won't handle the same. or have the same durability at the tang, but most people don't notice so they do it anyway.
The part about controlling thickness isn't just about getting it thin near the tip; that's still easier to do with grinding. However there are forging tricks you can to to make the thick areas thicker without having to use a thicker bar stock. Watch this smith take 1/4 in steel and hammer it on the sides to turn it into around 3/8 or more for the tang. th-cam.com/video/ha1PwOzuo4k/w-d-xo.html
the italien longsword is the best of cold steel, it is very light very good balanced und has a distel taper :-)
Mine works very well even for one-handed lunging. A lot of people don't understand that Cold Steel resell swords from different manufacturers, so it is very much a mixed bag. A mixed bag of crowbars and decent swords.
Are you sure? Look I’m working really hard to save up money and I wanna get into sword collecting. The Italian Longsword looks really cool but I’ve heard some negative things about it. I’m not experienced enough to know the companies I should avoid and where I can get real quality swords.
@@WearyFeline Cold Steel makes a lot of durable and worthy products, but I would look at other makers first when it comes to swords. Especially if you plan to use the sword to actually learn swordsmanship.
Cold Steel swords are typically too thick in the wrong places, too heavy and awkward, and quite frankly overbuilt. If I’m buying a sword, I’m look for a blade that feels like a true weapon that was designed to fight and kill, I’m not looking for a sword-shaped object that hacks like an axe/hatchet.
Of course most guys that buy those overbuilt sword really use them like toys. Cutting bottles, chopping trees (this always seems really stupid to me, but oh well). I’d just use an axe, the tool that was meant for that job.
To reiterate, this isn’t a jab at Cold Steel’s reputation. But when it comes to swords, there are some issues.
@@Divine_Serpent_Geh Good to know. Thanks!
@@WearyFeline No problem. It largely depends on how much you’re willing to spend, but you can find good things in all price ranges.
I also believe Cold Steel has recently made revisions to their old swords, and I believe they’ve gotten slightly better.
It’s really up to you.
I would love to see a review of the Cold Steel Thompson saber some day. Since he put his name on it, I would hope that it is a cut above the run of the mill products. Pardon the pun.
their Trail Boss axe is actually pretty damn good, I was shocked. For the money you can't beat it, bit of sharpening and its a handy tool.
Totally agree. I have a Cold Steel Warrior series katana. The thing is a tank. Super heavy to the point of not usable. Tough but I would never choose it for fighting. Good thing that doesn't come up often. ;)
You'll just have to learn how to use it. It's not about the weight, it's about the right technique.
Cold Steel doesn't make swords. Their swords are produced by other firms, generally in India. Their scimitar is made by windlass. Some of their military sabers are produced by Universal Swords.
Jeff Acheson Citation please. I’m not saying that you are lying, but id like to see the proof for this claim.
@M Ch Five times is an overstatement although I don't know the UK markup. Most of the original manufacturers retail at $200 to $300. Cold steel seems to run a $100 markup in the US for their name and sharpening service.
@@RokaizeThere are several threads on the subject at Sword Buyers Guide. One person's cold steel shamshir still had a visible Windlass makers mark etching on the blade.
My cold steel gladius machete is made in South Africa, along with most of their steel. I also own the cold steel European spear. It is battlefield ready 100%
@B4 freedomfighter Well yes, a medieval one.. It's better than the steel they would have had then due to modern production methods which cook/flux out inclusions and impurities. And ash is ash, so yes, it's a better spear than available during the time period..
Now I know what distal taper is and why I need it. This just improved my sword knowledge for the better. Thank You! 😎
Cold Steel swords not overbuilt, well balanced and good for fight are the Shamshir, the MAA messer and the MAA arming sword.
I hope you'll try them one day.
Cheers!
Luckily the Cold Steel Colichemarde is as optimized for thrusting as possible, regardless of the target. It's not a historical replica, however, but an interpretation. The forte is about twice as long as the historical models, and the cross section is diamond with a double fuller rather than the historical concave triangular cross section. Thus it's a bit heavier than the real thing, but a fine piece in its own right. If it can still be found, I recommend it highly.
I have many years of experience with Coldsteel products. I like their knives & hatchets but have no experience their swords as I have never been into their take on them. My impression of them is that they are a modern take from the views & needs of very large men who like to smash things but they have never made the claim that they are historically accurate either. Just my two cents.
I have their US 1860 saber. It has a nice distal taper. It doesn’t feel like a baseball bat, it feels like a good weapon. Plus the brass is pretty :)
It’s so hit or miss. Some are a fantastic bargain for a great weapon. Some are a waste of money, and you’ll never know which you’re getting. It’s a shame.
joe v yep that's what ive found from cold steel. hit or miss.
The cutless with the clip point is purity descent
seems to me that the sabers from cold steel are pretty beefy. like Matt says in this video they really are made to backyard cut.
I own a Cold Steel 1796 light cavalry saber. It cuts great, looks great, and is very durable. If (god forbid) I ever had to use it, I doubt the other person would armed with a sword AND be trained with one. That being the case I am not too concerned about them being "not good for fighting with." I paid $100 used in the USA. Thanks for the video.
Cold steel Viking sword design does not look like a typical Viking sword, it’s much longer and tapered. The sword on the wall looks more like a Viking sword.
I have a few Cold Steel products.
- Colichemarde Smallsword ( quite sharp for a double edged Smallsword)
- Shell Guard Companion Dagger
- Colichemarde Dagger
- Heavy Duty Sword Cane ( this is pretty sharp and beefy)
All are quite sharp. The Shell Guard Companion Dagger is quite quick to withdraw.
Cold Steel tends to run heavier than normal. They evoke the spirit of the sword ,but are not exact replicas of any particular type. They certainly are robust. And the points on them are quite good too.
I have yet to try their Pappenheimer Rapier and triangular Smallsword.
Excellent video with a few points I never considered before. Thanks!
I notice in most things you can have either something designed for demonstration/sport, or something good for it's normal use and those are usually two different designs. In my former career (LEO) we had competitions wherein departments would compete with their K9 units putting them through some very cool-looking but impractical tests. Crowds would cheer and some dogs, especially from big, better funded departments would win handily. I was curious on those results because the K9 and handler that worked under me on my squad were, simply put, phenomenal at their job but fared poorly in the competition. In looking closer, I found that those champion K9 units did not work the street. They simply trained every day for competition. That begged the question, were these even really "working dogs" then? Nope, but they sure make the crowds stand up and cheer.
When I used to shoot competitively (not saying I was any good, just that I competed, LOL) in was in law enforcement team competitions. We had guys that tried to use "race guns" and those were quickly regulated against as, while they were good at shooting tight groups and for run-and-gun stuff, they were not good for duty use and this was clearly designed as a duty-rig competition. You don't want a quick draw holster with practically zero retention and an open frame that exposes the weapon to the detritus of the world as a duty rig. You also don't want a weapon that only tolerates one or two specific loadings. Again, built for competition/sport, vs built for real-world use.
Martial arts ... oh could go on for hours here, wrapping up my 34th year of martial arts study. The art I've been in for about 19 years now and teach the most is purely for combat (Jujutsu ... the Japanese - i.e. original - variety). Folks call me all the time and get frustrated that we aren't constantly running to competitions and stacking up trophies. Some of my students DO go to MMA matches and some have even competed in Judo matches (which comes with its own challenges if they have no specific judo rank) and usually do quite well. But those who've had real-life fights-for-their-lives are quick to point out how unrealistic competition is and they prefer our sparring and training. Judo, Taekwondo, and other stuff didn't keep some guys with knives from turning my insides into outsides a few times. But, gosh, they sure look at lot prettier in demonstrations. (IMPORTANT: I am not knocking ANY martial art/sport/way, simply stating that some are better designed for actual combat than others but ANY martial study is better than sitting on your butt).
Thanks for the information.
I have been waiting (and am getting it this week) for the cold steel hand and a half.
It’s a new batch.
Wow brother, you are incredibly detail oriented. Far more so than skallagrim and even more than shadiversity.
When it comes to weapons, they MUST be functional, not ornamental only. I own an Albion Agincourt sword, early 15th century bastard/long sword. I'm fond of the quality and I'm currently waiting for my scabbard, which should be ready by July.
Coldsteel the edgeheg
I handled a Cold Steel French something or other saber a few years ago when we were doing our pumpkin slaughter at the end of ren fest. It was nice looking, it felt substantial and decently built. It was sharp, but that's about it? it felt unbalanced and just...felt like something was "off" about it. A few years ago they put out a blunt "fencing" saber based on some kind of dueling saber. It wasn't any good in terms of fencing with it (way too stiff and brittle), but word on the street is that the hilt components were excellent and worth buying the weapon just to take the grip and guard off and put on a decent blade. It's no surprise their swords are built this way. They started out as a knife company and if you watch the promotional material for their swords you can clearly see that their philosophy is "fuck yeahhh buddyyyyy...you can listen to buttrock while you cut boots full of meat and pig heads with our swords."
Their machetes are fantastic
That's exactly what I want in a sword, a "backyard cutter". I really don't plan on going to battle with one anytime soon.
Their Italian longsword is actually quite nice...IF you can get one that isn't flawed. Loose guards are so common on the longsword, retailers won't even accept returns for this issue as Cold Steel themselves do not consider this an issue. Cold Steel themselves will also blame the retailer if you try to get help on getting the problem solved. So unless you paid their stupidly high msrp, they won't help. At that price, you can get WAY better. But if you get a good one at the normal price, it does have good weight distribution and works well as a good fighting sword.
My only Cold Steel sword is the barong they sold in the early 2000s, and it does have a tapered blade.
The handle is a bit thick, but it was designed for larger hands. The scabbard is not made like those of any other barong in my collection. My only real issue is that the blade gets stuck in the scabbard, but that also happens with a couple of my barongs purchased in the Philippines.
I can't really complain since I bought it during one of their sales for only $75.00.
Thanks for explaining what distal taper is for people who don't know...uhm, those people thank you deeply. I might know a cople.
Cold Steel, generally speaking, match the form factor in terms of aesthetic but - as standard operating procedure - substantively increase the amount of material to the weapon which, depending on the weapon, can significantly effect handling characteristics. Now, this is done for the purpose of directly attempting to create very durable weapons, which is understandable, but depending on whether or not you are specifically looking for a 1 x 1 match to an original pattern / archetype - cold steel's offered variant may not be what you are looking for.
In your opinion are Cold Steel katanas good for fighting or for kenjutsu? An authentic katana does not have much distal taper.
I carry the 14 inch chef knife from Cold Steel in a custom leather front pocket sheath with a racquetball style grip tape. A fighting weapon that is about 6 ounces and blade up ready, is a great everyday carry knife!! I call it as fast as I can point finger knife or the Spear of Destiny, lol
In 2017 I had the pleasure of being the armourer for a large outdoor play here in Denmark, done by the Royal Theatre, over the course of a few months. 75-odd swords, mixed between Paul Chens and Cold Steels. A grand total of 60hrs of use per weapon, traning, rehearsals, shows. The Cold Steel ones chipped, and the Paul Chen ones burred like crazy. Semi-contact vs. swords and re-enactment shields turned both kinds into friggin' saws! Put me off those two "brands".
This year it'll be Kovex longswords and flamberges... Let's see if they put up "a better fight".
I think it's cool to have an opportunity to see that big a sample size, for further information and decision-making.
If you hit metal to metal it will do things.
I could be wrong but i think the one that chips for 1mm or two and then mushrooms would denote the higher quality blade.
However quality and historical don't always line up as expected.
If your blocking a weapon with an edge of another you are a moron
Thank you Matt for making this one. I know we have been asking for years.:)
Im suprised no one has brought up in the comments the fact that a couple of web-based sword dealers, here in the states at least, i.e. Kult of Athena, offer no guarantee and dont offer a return service on cold steal swords. Due to an extreme lack of quality control. In the same shipment KoA got swords that were perfect and others with cracks in the steal or loose fittings or no edge at all on blades that are addvertised to be sharp and "battle ready".
Has anyone else run into these problems?
On another note. I have noticed lots of cutting tournaments use thier Italion longsword. Which reinforces Matts point about them being made as good cutter/choppers.
I have handled some of the shamshirs they make and if held up next to the Windlass version, it looks like the blades were made at the same forge. Is there a chance they use the same supplier?
Cheers!
I'm a relative newbie to CS; I bought a 12" San Mai Tanto couple months ago. Mine wasn't the sharpest but its super sick and the blade is very nice. Sheathe is kinda cheap but still cool. I've done my research and listened to many opinions from much more knowledgeable collectors. This is my take on Cold Steel:
I don't think authenticity is on their mind, nor do I think fit and finish particularly matter to them. I think their whole point is to make modern blades out of modern materials that will stand up to use and punishment. I don't think they want you to buy their stuff and put it on the wall. They probably wouldn't mind you using the blade, unlike many smiths. To me, that makes Cold Steel very respectable in my eyes. Don't go looking for authentic reproductions I guess, but that being said....my blade is a work of art.
One last thing: I've never been in a battle, nor do any of the collectors that I watch. But most of us like to hit soda bottles and tree limbs and other junk. So the point about blades not being made for battle, though valid, is pretty moot in the 21st century. I don't think humans are going to be doing battle with medieval weapons ever again, save the few crazy exceptions. I do realize this is a disappointment to us all, but we can stop pretending we aren't pretending lol.
well if nato and putin have a nuke throw down. that sword may be super valuable when the ammo runns out.
Speaking of dynasty forge. Are you considering reviewing the German Artillery sword they make?
I own the Cold Steel 3V Master Tanto and love it. Razorsharp.
I know nothing about swords but enjoy your channel.
Cheers.
their katanas are pretty good quality, i think their the best you can get without flying to Okinawa and paying 10 grand, i have a warrior series chisa katana and i love it, not to mention, if i ever had to use one for defense or (fighting) i think in 2020, i very unlikely that that person will also have a sword as well lol
I had a Cold Steel MAA Norman Sword and it had a threaded tang and pommel and the threads on the tang were welded on very very poorly and it snapped at the weld on the first (rather light) strike on a cardboard box. Haven’t bought from Cold Steel since.
I have the 1796 and their English backsword and I'll second these statements. I'm nothing but happy with what I got because I wanted beautiful, largely accurate swords that will last for ages for a good price (I'm in America). That's what I got. The 1796 (which I got around 2 years ago now) feels like a chopper that i wouldn't want to duel with against another guy with a saber. I also will never need that and it'll stsnd the test of time better than most. Which is what I wanted.
Thank you for answering that question I have had for a long time! I have a Katana from Cold Steel and it's very heavy compared to what I had imagined one to be like.
As an American with a Cold Steel 1796, I agree. The distal half was razor-sharp out of the box, also the false edge on the back of the tip, kinda loose quality control (the wings on the metal bit of the grip don't quite fit against the leather bit), and as Matt said, it just don't feel right. My M1832 Japanese infantry saber is a delightful little weapon, the Cold Steel 1796 , not so good for fencing. And the Shin-gunto is a damn three-foot razor. (Katana jokes aside, actual real ones are pretty cool.) (both Japanese swords were inherited from my grandfather who brought them back from WWII, presumably won them in a poker game with the Marines that captured them.)
Matt, if you ever happen to be in my neck of the woods in Texas, you're welcome to play with my recent-production 1796 and my other swords, and I'll buy you a drink. (in exchange for a small discount on the next original 1796 that comes through your store, of course, and I'll compare them and report the results.)
And before anybody flips their lid, I plan to donate the war-trophy swords to a museum or maybe even try to find the owner of the one that has a maker's name on the tang and give it back to the family. Know anybody specializing in Japanese swords?
My first and only sword is by Cold Steel. Yes it is heavy but still makes a swosh sound.
i dont own any swords or martial weapons but im looking to change that. i do know a fair bit about ColdSteel, and one thing i do love about them is the steel they choose to use for their knives and their, function and reliability over looks and status mentality. ive heard mixed things about their swords from the hema community. thanks for the info, sounds about right and fair.
I recently got the Damascus Viking sword. It even came pretty sharp.
I just got their Zweihänder greatsword. For the sheer size of it, it’s pretty great.
I bought an Italian longsword from Balaur Arms that appears to be decent quality, light weight and well balanced. My only issue was the blade edge was chipped by the sharpening service and I am contemplating whether or not I want to exchange it for a new one or just have a knife sharpening shop file it out for me.
They certainly are different than original as you said. I think you are right about them being built for durability/backyard chopping, but I think part of the reason is also a thinking, on the part of the company's higher ups, that the user of the blades should generally be better fed and stronger than people in the relatively distant past, so the added weight/difference in balance should be fairly easily overcome. Also if the sword is used to actually fight someone, that someone probably isn't going to be armed with a comparable weapon, or wearing armor.
I don't know this to be the case, but based on things Lynn Thompson has said, I surmise it to be the case.
I have the Italian Longsword. Its perfect for my size, and its a historical weight and balance, and is incredibly sharp. Granted, it is the ONLY cold steel sword i own, but i also have their shillelagh, which is far heavier than it has any right to be. I can vouch for the Italian longsword, but not much else. My example is very tight and solid, but i have heard that some people get wobbly, rattling guards. They have certainly been getting much better over the years, but they do have some ways to go.
I have it too. My hand guard doesnt rattle either but the tip came curled like many reviews stated. In case anyone was looking at it.
Cold Steel swords are very good. I own about 20 of them, and don't have much to complain about. Only if you buy them from dealers at discount, they might be "factory seconds". But if you pay normal price and buy from trusted dealer, they're usually quite high quality for the price. I'd say you get what you pay for, if not even more. They're usually more battle worthy than any other swords at that price range. Not many other sword could get through all those brutal tests of the Cold Steel. Some of them are bit on the heavy side, which I appreciate, because they're great for gymnastics and you'll get used to it quite fast. After getting used to them, they are absolutely devastatingly powerful and still quite agile. But I'm the kind of guy that prefers to get the heavier sword over a lighter one, especially when it counts for added durability. I'd say they don't cheat what they say about their swords, even if it's hard to believe for some people. I can highly recommend.
But I repeat, if you buy them dirty cheap, used, or at discount, they might be those "factory seconds" that have cost Cold Steel swords some reputational losses. Some dealers might try to sell those without telling that they're second class quality.
If CS sell unmarked factory seconds they only have themselves to blame for reputational damage.
@Joe Blow I own about 20 of Cold Steel swords, and you're saying I don't know what I'm talking about? I know exactly what I'm talking, after buying 20 of these and haven't have any issues. They work fine. I've bought some of my replicas from cheaper manufacturers like Windlass and Hanwei. But the Cold Steel is way above those. After all, I've got quite a collection of pretty decent replicas, but without having them cost too much. Good enough for me. They all look good, and I've been happy to practice with them. Once you learn how to use them, they can be quite effective, I can assure you.
@@attentatdefecitdisorder4348 The Cold Steel used to sell those factory seconds officially at discount at their website, and parking lot sales. Anyone could buy them, and it can be that some dealers sold them forward. And judging from the prices I've seen them sold in some places, that's exactly what they have done. It can be also some dealers to blame for that bad reputation. Many dealers even sold them at discount admitting they were flawed. That means they're factory seconds. If you buy them there, it's no surprise they are like that. But the dealers should have made more clear of that.
Their reputation is very specifically linked to 3 things. 1) Being too heavy (eg not having a distal taper) and 2) Using an inappropriately stiff/brittle steel which would be better suited to knives and 3) Their appalling customer service.
Babbling Babblator
It's the handling that's the problem. I've also got a few different CS swords and some handle much better than others.
Like their Chinese war sword, while being way heavier than any original, can get away with that as long as used two handed it will still be agile cause it's a short sword with a long handle.
Others are kinda shit but still fully useable (for fighting/fencing), and others like their greatsword are completely worthless.
So it varies with models.
But they are all good "backyard cutters", which is what CS seem to want them to be.
The Cold Steel Knock Off of the Tru Bal Bowie Axe is a fine blade, but he plastic scales held on with Chicago screws will just snap off when thrown about twice.
American here and competed in a Cold Steel comp. Have quite a bit of Lynn Thompson's stuff. Broke all the silly "special forces" throwing axes years ago. But the spears and typical axes have been awesome. I recently bought a short Japanese sword and it came sharp and worked well on a thick rope set. I did find some broken edges on the blade, so I think hardened too much to show some brittleness. The spears are awesome as I have yet to break one over hundreds of throws. Still have all the throwing heavy axes as well.
A happy surprise -- I didn't expect much general info here, just discussion of one brand.
I have four CS knives, the kukri, 2 tantos, and an Ax. I’m the function over looks type... My experience with everything I own of theirs is it’s Durable beyond belief. I’ve literally taken down small trees with the tanto, a medium sized tree, 30 ft. With the kukri. And the camping Ax has held up for Years now worth of camping trips... You would be correct sir in saying they’re not as sharp as possible fresh out box, but very few blades I’ve bought have been... I have high standards and sharpen 75-80% of the blades I do buy, fresh out the box.🤷♂️ But the Durability more then covers the extra cost associated with the brand, IMO.
Well its just like he says. They great for mucking around in the back yard and hacking stuff up. Its what the guys at CS do so its no surprise that thats what they are made to do well. Matt is a compedative HEMA sabre fencer. He uses swords for fighting essentially. More historically accurate sport fencing if you like. He collects real swords that where functional weapons actually designed and evolved for their real purpose which is combat. Not chopping things up. Its obvious cold steel is a knife company that dabbles in swords and not the otherway around. Its a pretty accurate assessment.
@@adznz11 First of all, HEMA isn't isn't real combat, much like airsoft isn't a real gunfight. It's a fun sport and all, but I wouldn't call it combat. While many of these people can speculate what actual armed combat may have been like, nearly none of them have any experience in a life or death melee with swords on a battlefield. Secondly, he based his appraisal seemingly as a fencer but using an example of a cavalry sabre which has a much different point of balance by design. Not saying he's particularly wrong in his assessment necessarily, just that it could be off if he's basing everything on infantry or dueling sabers or modified cavalry sabers. Since militaries issued light cavalry sabers to infantry, it was common for infantrymen to modify and regrind the sabers to be more wieldy in infantry combat where you aren't just riding through the infantry and cutting as you go by.
I bought a Cold Steel Chisa Katana, which came with a very sharp edge from the factory, but refining the edge with ceramic stones, followed by leather stropping, and final edge polishing with an agate burnisher, it's nearly scalpel sharp. I've also bought a cheaper Roman Gladius machete sword that they make, and it's deadly sharp out of the box as well, but a file rough edge - perfect for a machete.
I got the Katana Warrior series from ColdSteel. I think that this is the strongest katana tempered out of high carbon steel. The only downside is it's quite heavy.
Most of Cold Steel's swords are made by Windlass Steelcrafts. They are hit and miss depending on the specific model and all lack a distal taper. For the price, some of them are pretty good cutters though.
Great video. Thank you for this one.
I’ve never really been a sword guy. But the more I watch your channel, the more I want to get a sword.
I look at the Cold Steel line because they are somewhat reasonable in price, but don’t have enough experience to make an informed purchase.
I own two swords from dynasty forge , a ko katana , and a kogarasumaru , both well made , and came razor sharp ! got them on sale in 2011 , got the pair at half price ! and for their age , they are in pretty much the same condition as when purchased ! I consider it ,money well spent !
I hope we get to a point as a race where you no longer need to ask forgiveness
or apologize for your opinions..
Unfortunately we are heading quite the opposite direction
I bought a CS Gladius machete, which in my hands is a perfect sword with one hell of a historical fighting reputation. Thank you Cold Steel. Well done.
Their Italian Longsword (the product most similar to the longsword you're demonstrating) is actually very light and well balanced. I'd even say they might have gone too far and made it a little flexy for a type XVa
Are you sure? Look I’m working really hard to save up money and I wanna get into sword collecting. The Italian Longsword looks really cool but I’ve heard some negative things about it. I’m not experienced enough to know the companies I should avoid and where I can get real quality swords.
EQG Darvy It's 1270 g without the scabbard with CM about 10 cm from the grip and CoP about 25 cm from the tip. The edge came sharp though quite thick. The blade was well polished. There is no distal taper. The grip leather eventually came loose so I had to glue it. The crossguard also has a little bit of play after substantial cutting of trees. The hilt assembly is compressed by a pommel nut through the wood grip so it will eventually come loose. I think the sword design is overall quite attractive. For the $150 I paid no complaints.
@@appa609 You got it for 150?! They're charging 489.99$ for it...
EQG Darvy used
Bill Kong Ah, ok that makes more sense😅
I have a Cold Steel Viking ax and a Dragonfly katana they’re both great.
I was considering getting a Cold Steel winged spear. My only actual sword is some wall hanger, not sure who made it, but it's not Cold Steel.
CS sucks at QC, maybe not when it comes to the blade, but everything else is munition grade at best. Be prepared for rattling guards, blades stuck into the handle at an oblique angle, unnecessary protrusions in the grip, poor coating or painting etc.
If you buy them dirty cheap, used, or at discount, they might be those "factory seconds" that have cost Cold Steel swords some reputational losses. Some dealers might try to sell those without telling that they're second class quality.
@@babblingbabblator9259 I bought mine from kult of Athena. They buy them in bulk and then sort them into two qualities and sell the dropouts cheaper with remarks on what is wrong, but in my case they overlooked several blemishes... I didn't return it, because the transport is too costly.