The bonus is it works as a small machete/survival knife but it's pocketable/concealable so if you're going through places where you'd need to take your fixed knife off and backpack it, you don't have to waste time doing that 1000x with these. That and the triad lock is never going to fail on another folder, you may as well consider it as a fixed blade when it is open. I say it's a winner.
Ehhhhh there's a middle ground where that's true, and then there's knives that are far too big for that to make sense. Once a knife gets past 6" blade length or so is when it starts making sense to carry a smaller knife.
I disagree, there is a lot of fine work that you really don't want to do with a larger knife. Anytime you might need to make a precise cut or are working away material in a very confined area, you are going to wish you had a smaller knife. Likewise with a knife like this with a big belly and broad tip, any sort of point work is going to be far more difficult. I absolutely love big knives, but if you can comfortably carry a big knife, you can carry a small knife to go with it.
@@knate44 also once you get to a certain point of big knives you gotta ask yourself why you're wanting to carry a knife instead of something like a hatchet or machete that are arguably better tools for bigger jobs.
Cold Steel properly gets their steels heat treated well. That's why their AUS8A has been a long time favorite amongst some heavy users like myself, and definitely with more edge retention in their latest cost effective upgrade of AUS10A. AUS10A is a great field or workplace steel, for quick sharpening touch ups with a pocket knife sharpening stone/rod. The super steels out there are too expensive, and require either more time or a home sharpening systems to get a great edge nicely resharpened.
After the deputies stole my knife collection, the first thing I bought was the Rajahll. Now between foldings, xl foldings, fixed blade and machete I have 16 blades. Cold Steel fits my needs.
Just ordered mine been on my grail list for a while this review helped me FINALLY pull the trigger. I live in the UK so this knife is a HUUUUGE no no but I really, truly, honestly don't care this knife is cold steel at it's finest! Functional, fun, and crazy as all balls love the review love the knife already cannot wait to get it in hand 😍
I live in Ireland and love cold steels, unfortunately can't carry them over here too😭 I need to get a rajah 2 just haven't gotten around to it, if you think this is big you should get the espada XL, I own the g10 version and it's literally a pocket sword
If GSM (the new owners of Cold Steel and SOG) doesn't maintain the beloved standards set by the original founders, they'll be the Schrade brands of the future.
I got a new talwar from them and it seems perfect No lock stick and the lock bar is perfectly flush with the handle open or closed Actually there’s maybe about a hair width dip towards the front of the lock bar that is sunk down when it’s open but that’s it and I didn’t even notice it till now when I looked real close Actually checking my cold steel AD-10 it also has the slightest hair width dip towards the front of the lock bar when opened but neither have any stick besides the little click you’d expect from a lock back knife
I have this one and really like it. I did get it initially for the novelty of it, but find that I use it more than my machetes because it is easier to carry and have on me. Don't worry, at least this addiction is useful around the house 😆.
I finally got one after years of wanting one and thinking I'd missed the boat - I was so happy when I got the restock email. It's ace and I use it all the time for camping fire prep and food. People think it's ridiculous but I'm smitten. Had to take off the pocket clip tho, it was uncomfortable and it's easy enough to keep track of the knife without it...
Lynn Thompson's legacy to the knife world is the very large, over-built 'pocket' knife. Sometimes you just need a big knife to get work done (bigger blade, more leverage, more reach etc.). Love recurves - not suitable for all jobs but really assist with cutting action. Not only do you get more cutting edge but as Aaron says it allows material to run over the cutting edge. PS. don't be intimidated for resharpening. I use ceramic rods and a small amount of patience with no problems. Informative vid - thanks.
I have one of these. I EDC'd it for many years. It can be quite unobtrusive if carried in appropriate clothing. Loved how I could pull it out and make the blade deploy instantly. Used to shock the hell out of people by making an unexpected short sword appear in the blink of an eye.
I use a Ken Onion Deluxe Work Sharp. It works great, with the 1/2 wide belts. I also use a set of Smith Croc Sticks, aka, ceramic rods held at a 20 degree angle. Works like a charm. So hey, it is what it is. Yes, Steel Liners, I checked mine with a magnet.
There are only three moving parts. The blade, where it pivots, the lock bah, which also moves. And last but not lease is the spring which holds the Lock bar. I new have the Espada XL with the G10 handles, and a 7.5 inch blade. But I still prefer my Rajah 2 for camping and general knife work. I bought the Espada XL for self defense.
im a big guy 6'2 250. when i deploy this beast it makes me look small. and it carries like a reg folder. my pocket machete. thats what i call it. man i love this knife. i think the in modern day we have excepted the small 3 in knife to be the norm. and it s a shame. i want a 12in knife or bayonet every were i go. and this thing delivers. i just bought my 2nd one. im going to say it again ,man i love this knife.
I have the same problem. I’ve had the Rajah II for over ten years…I think. Love it so much I bought a second one. There something to say about a knife that can serve in combat to wilderness survival and everything in between
Hahahah, this knife is a legend. When I saw it for the first time, I knew I had to have it and I do obviously. I used to EDC it and still sometimes do. I tested it brutally opening coco nuts - worked perfectly. If I had to choose just one knife from my collection to keep forever - it would be Rajah 2 :)
Same! I picked up several of the Cold Steel XL knives, and they are all sweet, but the Rajah II is a cut above. Once I got ahold of one, it instantly joined my EDC gear and now I wouldn't be without this multifunctional chopper.
Had it for a few years, can't count how many saplings and limbs around that size. The belly is perfect for chopping medium duty things, the back of the blade before the re curve is barely used for anything heavy so the edge stays razor sharp. In conjunction with the area before the blade used as a "choil" when choked up, gives great control. Sliding allllllll the way back gives amazing reach! With the capability and fun factor, there was about 2 full years I carried this blade ALWAYS(other smaller carries rode along too) SOOOOOO many times it's saved my butt
Food prep for me, means that the knife can peel an apple a potato etc. If I can't use it to peel, like scandis where they can not do that job, then I don't care if it cuts a fruit in half, because that's something that any knife can do. It's those other finer tasks, that a blade must be able to do, to call it a good knife at food prep.
I have a black coated rajah II, purchased years ago. Not even sure when now. Still looks new. It’s like a pet to me lol. Stays clean and unused for a rough day 😉. Hopefully never will use it! I’m a collector that ain’t afraid to use my toys if I have to, but looking at it and carrying is enough for me. Got mine for around $85 and haven’t seen a black one since! Great vid
A diamond rod to sharpen if needed, a ceramic rod to keep it sharp. I removed the clip to facilitate multiple grips, made a lightweight leather sheath for it which will attach to a daypack, and added some jimping, of course haha.
On a different note...I've been a sub for quite some time..great channel. I never knew Gideon's story til today. In a difficult time, his story teaches a great lesson. You make a difference on many levels. Just wanna say thanks. Keep it up. You are appreciated.
I been rocking cold steel blades since the 90’s. When the espada xl first came out I got it and the large. Now I have several xl espada and been carrying one almost daily!! Can’t beat their triad!! I tend to rely on xl folders during camping and hunting trips. Yes a fixed blade is stronger but the 4 max or sr1 or other big blade can do just as much with care while I bring a silky saw or Gransfors ax for chopping and splitting. I use to just carry a big knife like my bark river grizzly or CS trail master or Gurkha kukri. But now with my style outdoors I will carry a large or xl folder.
As always, another great review Aaron! I’ve owned a Rajah II for awhile now, but truly enjoyed hearing your opinions on it. I hope that you get your hands on the Lg G10 Espada in Aus10 eventually. I think you’d appreciate just how easily it carries, while still having similar strengths to the Rajah II.
That’s the newer model. The first productions in aus 10 didn’t have that unsharpened portion. The blade started immediately after the sharpening choil.
That’s weird you can see it clearly at 12:54 but I say it’s weird because the old talwars used to have a little unsharpend bit in front of the sharpening choil too but now the new GSM talwars are sharpened right to choil Weird how they would fix it in the talwar but then make it worse on the rajah And you can tell it’s the new gsm rajah because of the new logo
I own a Cold Steel Voyager XL 5 inch knife. I don't carry it however it was my "hotel" knife for when I traveled for my company. One particular experience made me think a suprising might be useful
I have always kind of scoffed at these massive CS folders. After your review, I'm starting to reconsider my stance on them. Totally cool Aaron, thanks. Great video as always.
I have to double down on my previous comment. This is the best folder ever created. No matter if in CTS-BD1 or AUS10. It can do it all! Cutting, chopping, batoning, carving, doing feather sticks, all while fitting in your pants' pocket. Would be great, if CS released a Rajah 1 version (aluminum bolsters, pseudo micarta) with CPM-3V steel blade.
I recently moved to North Carolina and unfortunately they have some stupid knife laws. One being you have to open carry a fixed blade, which Im not going to do unless I'm hiking or camping. So a large folder like this that can perform like a fixed blade makes alot of sense when I'm just out in town. Like Lynn says, a large knife can do anything a small knife can but not the other way around.
Back in 2015... I picked up the blackout version. It cost $104 back then! Now some folks would put this version as a 'Cold Steel Collectable' and name your asking scenario. Not sure what figure extent folks would go for now? As a user I'd go with the one you have in this video. I kept my Blackout in minty condition. Reason: On one of my AK-47 full-size (still carry it)... I had the Demko plate (wave-like feature) fall off. 'Old' Cold Steel company warranty was meaningless and a parts department made up of no parts availability and routinely false promises. I made quite a few efforts... nevertheless, could never get this resolved (maybe the new owners are better with customer services with satisfactory solutions). After that experience... I added med. Loctite to all my Cold-Steel thumb-plates same as used for scope bases. I'd still recommend doing the Loctite fix on yours for loss prevention. If Cold Steel is listening... sure would appreciate a replacement plate and proper hardware to fix my ol' favorite AK-47.
Okay, I just dropped the hammer on one. I have also just bought the Voyager Clip Point XL, and its not as big but it is fun to carry, and I used it tonight in the kitchen. And it worked well cutting up chicken. So the Rajah II will be my second XL folder. And since I love the Khukuri design. I had to get one. As far as use, um, well, yeah, Self Defense. It might even deter some one from attacking, if you pull it out and show them. I ride a bike and walk a lot. So that is whey I will carry it.
@@gideonstactical Isn't that the truth. What a beast. I put it in my second bug out bag. I have a serious bug out bag on my bed. I want one when driving around that is my second bob. It can do some much that needs done in a situation where shtf.
That swell, is some what a copy of what a real Khukuri has at the butt. Cant walk around town with a large fixed blade, but this fits in your pocket. So no one but you know you have it ;)
This knife is highly impressive but I've gone for the Voyager XL clipoint. It's a foot long open, with a 5.5 inch blade so you don't have the recurve to worry about. As well as the clipoint, the tanto and the spear point there is a Vauquero style blade much like this Rajah.
Great showcase. Amazing knife. You should try the largest version of the holdout, also surprisingly fun and effective as a stand-in machete. Also not very expensive. You can also get a fully serrated version of it, giving in an edge or difference to the other xl cold steel knives.
I sold mine a few years back, and I'm obviously watching this for a reason.. what were you just cutting in half, ground turkey? My screen goes dim when I type on here😂 But I'm most likely going to purchase one this weekend, cause of this now
All of their lock bars on the rajah 2 models are recessed I have 3 different ones and their like that looking to add the aus 10 model to the collection 😅
I keep mine sharp with a Ken Onion Deluxe Work sharp. Works great, then I touch it up using ceramic rods. Okay, mine isn't sharp enough to shave with, but it will slice and dice things nicely. And boy do I get stared at when I pull it out to use. It is my favorite EDC knife. Also good for self defense.
Is that a black stone griddle?? I love mine, I have the 36" cook top one and dang I love it! Thanks for the content, I"m happy for you and your family being out there enjoying each other and life. I mean that's what it's all about. Keep on trucking:
I bought this about 4 years ago. The blade wasn’t marked, but I’m assuming AUS-8 and was very sharp, and has only required minimal touch ups, but I haven’t used it nearly as hard as in your video. I bought my first Cold Steel sometime around 1984, and the one thing they had over most other knives was being incredibly razor sharp out of the box. That changed with AUS-10, and I actually had to check that the two knives I bought in it weren’t counterfeits as the blades were literally butter knife dull. There’s no way their edges had been anywhere near a grinder, I couldn’t believe it. I had to put it down to the company changing hands at the time, but it put me off AUS-10 big time and I haven’t tried again. Last CS I bought was super sharp S35VN. My Rajah II is slightly textured, but has a much smoother texturing on the handle; I like the looks of yours as it looks grippier, but it may be easier on pockets to have a less aggressive texture. Agree, for hard work you should lose the big ass pocket clip, it creates a hot spot pretty fast. This is a good enough knife that it justifies a click in place Kydex pouch sheath. I think I paid around $90 for mine, along with the CS Spartan for $75 IIRC, which is another big knife I think you’d like. Appreciate your always excellent content! 👍
It is an impressive knife.I have one and I assume it is in AUS 8 steel. As a matter of fact it is a inside of pants Kukri and carrying it that way no one ever noticed it.
Man, this is a powerful all around knife and a dependable tough thus safe locking folder for its power. All the grips make so much sense, adding much to this knife for use. For some reason I do not own one, but I do have the Spartan which I dig with its recurved blade similar to the Rajah II but only 4.5" and its a hollow ground heavy spine blade. Spartan comes with R and L clips too. I gotta get this Rajah II. I cant understand why I haven't already, except Im not rich, but its too good a deal not to own. My dog is eating good and I know I can make good use of it. Fuck yeah! I Locktight my clips
Im not surprised you love it, but Im glad to hear it. I have been kinda wanting a Talwar, but I dont really have the money to spend right now. Of course the materials are not as nice, and the Talwar is more stabby, but for the price...I think this is a great substitute, and Im gonna go ahead and just pick one up...Still prob get the Talwar down the road, but this thing is great. Thanks Aaron.
I love my Rajah II and all my other CS XL blades. Absolute beasts and the Triad-Lock is fantastic. I tend to carry my 4Max and AD15 as EDC knives, but occasionally sport the Rajah II, Spartan or one of my Voyager XLs just for the heck of it.
I use to carry "regular" sized folders with blades 3" or less, and discovered that 4 plus inch blades offer more cutting surface, leverage, reach, thicker blade stock (depending on the design philosophy), and more comfortable/larger handles.
@@TheScotchaholic Same here. I still have some smaller, heck more petite (vs Cold Steel 😉) blades in the 3 inch range that have their place in my rotation, but my go to blades every day are solid, thick 4" as they just get the job done. And if I go into the office and I want to have some fun I'll take a Voyager XL, my Rajah II or my Espada XL for sh*ts and giggles 😁
@@henryvandeventer2457 Obviously, taking out XLs at work means you're not surrounded by sheeple normies. Otherwise HR would get complaints about "potentially dangerous" coworkers, lol.
@@TheScotchaholic funnily enough it's most of the guys in the office that seem to be intimidated even when it's a more subtle blade like the AD15 or my Mikov Elipse. The ladies in the office are the ones that are most intrigued by the XLs, especially when I jokingly referenced "The Long Kiss Goodnight" saying that I never want Geena Davis to say to me "Oh honey, only 4 inches" after a male colleague asked me why I carry big knives. Our HR director is cool though, she would just laugh as she recently upgraded her Delica to a PM2 😆
@@henryvandeventer2457 Yeah, it really depends on the various individuals and their reactions. It might be that some women feel the need for self defense tools, which is why they don't react adversely to larger blades. Also, there's more soy boys around, depending on the workplace environment and local culture.
I own the 3-1/2 in RAJAH lll.. serrated not only is this legal just about everywhere being under 4 in.. it it looks and cuts & chops much larger than its size..let's on ...
I cut my pizza tonight with mine, what a sick absurd but highly useful tool!
The bonus is it works as a small machete/survival knife but it's pocketable/concealable
so if you're going through places where you'd need to take your fixed knife off and backpack it, you don't have to waste time doing that 1000x with these.
That and the triad lock is never going to fail on another folder, you may as well consider it as a fixed blade when it is open.
I say it's a winner.
The rajah 2 was the first big folder from cold steel I picked up. Such an underrated blade, usually gets obscured by the Espada xl
Do You Know What Year This Awesome 👍 Knife Was Introduced ??
🤔🤔
U mean to say Espada is better ?
Mine too !!
A big knife can do everything a small knife can do but a small knife can NOT do everything a big knife can do .👍
Exactly.
Also in terms of "tactical" use, bigger is better. Reach and a little useful weight, makes a big difference.
Ehhhhh there's a middle ground where that's true, and then there's knives that are far too big for that to make sense. Once a knife gets past 6" blade length or so is when it starts making sense to carry a smaller knife.
FACTS
I disagree, there is a lot of fine work that you really don't want to do with a larger knife. Anytime you might need to make a precise cut or are working away material in a very confined area, you are going to wish you had a smaller knife. Likewise with a knife like this with a big belly and broad tip, any sort of point work is going to be far more difficult. I absolutely love big knives, but if you can comfortably carry a big knife, you can carry a small knife to go with it.
@@knate44 also once you get to a certain point of big knives you gotta ask yourself why you're wanting to carry a knife instead of something like a hatchet or machete that are arguably better tools for bigger jobs.
Damn. I was clean for 6month now! This video made me fall back! Hours of therapies go out of the window!
I hear you brother, I hear you. Being addicted to knives is a hard habit to break. But I am trying.
Been carrying that knife for the last seven years totally agree it’s an amazing unit
Love the Rajah II in AUS-10. I've used mine for a lot. Baton, slashing/ hacking slicing, you name it. Great tool from Cold Steel!!
Cold Steel properly gets their steels heat treated well. That's why their AUS8A has been a long time favorite amongst some heavy users like myself, and definitely with more edge retention in their latest cost effective upgrade of AUS10A.
AUS10A is a great field or workplace steel, for quick sharpening touch ups with a pocket knife sharpening stone/rod.
The super steels out there are too expensive, and require either more time or a home sharpening systems to get a great edge nicely resharpened.
After the deputies stole my knife collection, the first thing I bought was the Rajahll. Now between foldings, xl foldings, fixed blade and machete I have 16 blades. Cold Steel fits my needs.
Just ordered mine been on my grail list for a while this review helped me FINALLY pull the trigger. I live in the UK so this knife is a HUUUUGE no no but I really, truly, honestly don't care this knife is cold steel at it's finest! Functional, fun, and crazy as all balls love the review love the knife already cannot wait to get it in hand 😍
I live in Ireland and love cold steels, unfortunately can't carry them over here too😭 I need to get a rajah 2 just haven't gotten around to it, if you think this is big you should get the espada XL, I own the g10 version and it's literally a pocket sword
Saw a video that there is an increase in knife crime in the UK. Is it overblown or is it for real?
its ok brother, I too have this same addiction... breathe... its nothing to be ashamed of...
Cold Steel is a great company, hopefully the new ownership continues that tradition of quality, monster knives.
If GSM (the new owners of Cold Steel and SOG) doesn't maintain the beloved standards set by the original founders, they'll be the Schrade brands of the future.
@@TheScotchaholic Right!
I got a new talwar from them and it seems perfect
No lock stick and the lock bar is perfectly flush with the handle open or closed
Actually there’s maybe about a hair width dip towards the front of the lock bar that is sunk down when it’s open but that’s it and I didn’t even notice it till now when I looked real close
Actually checking my cold steel AD-10 it also has the slightest hair width dip towards the front of the lock bar when opened but neither have any stick besides the little click you’d expect from a lock back knife
I deal with a lot of vehicle accidents at work, I've used the Rajah II to cut a bumper off of a car. I have nothing but good things to say about it.
A metal bumper ?
@@darynschultz It was a plastic bumper but a car bumper is tough to cut through for a knife.
@@diceglenn7528 ohhh ok I was like goodness a metal bumper lol but yeah the plastics ones are really tough I know exactly what your talking about
I have this one and really like it. I did get it initially for the novelty of it, but find that I use it more than my machetes because it is easier to carry and have on me. Don't worry, at least this addiction is useful around the house 😆.
I finally got one after years of wanting one and thinking I'd missed the boat - I was so happy when I got the restock email. It's ace and I use it all the time for camping fire prep and food. People think it's ridiculous but I'm smitten. Had to take off the pocket clip tho, it was uncomfortable and it's easy enough to keep track of the knife without it...
U got the best knife channel hands down
Lynn Thompson's legacy to the knife world is the very large, over-built 'pocket' knife. Sometimes you just need a big knife to get work done (bigger blade, more leverage, more reach etc.). Love recurves - not suitable for all jobs but really assist with cutting action. Not only do you get more cutting edge but as Aaron says it allows material to run over the cutting edge. PS. don't be intimidated for resharpening. I use ceramic rods and a small amount of patience with no problems. Informative vid - thanks.
I have one of these. I EDC'd it for many years. It can be quite unobtrusive if carried in appropriate clothing. Loved how I could pull it out and make the blade deploy instantly. Used to shock the hell out of people by making an unexpected short sword appear in the blink of an eye.
The lock is far smoother than all of the other dozens of CS folders I have and it carries well in the pocket. 👍
If MacGyver had Rajah II, the series would still be going on.
The khukri blade shape is an excellent utility blade shape. There’s a reason why the Nepalese use these blades for just about everything.
I use a Ken Onion Deluxe Work Sharp. It works great, with the 1/2 wide belts. I also use a set of Smith Croc Sticks, aka, ceramic rods held at a 20 degree angle. Works like a charm. So hey, it is what it is. Yes, Steel Liners, I checked mine with a magnet.
There are only three moving parts. The blade, where it pivots, the lock bah, which also moves. And last but not lease is the spring which holds the Lock bar. I new have the Espada XL with the G10 handles, and a 7.5 inch blade. But I still prefer my Rajah 2 for camping and general knife work. I bought the Espada XL for self defense.
im a big guy 6'2 250. when i deploy this beast it makes me look small. and it carries like a reg folder. my pocket machete. thats what i call it. man i love this knife. i think the in modern day we have excepted the small 3 in knife to be the norm. and it s a shame. i want a 12in knife or bayonet every were i go. and this thing delivers. i just bought my 2nd one. im going to say it again ,man i love this knife.
I have the same problem. I’ve had the Rajah II for over ten years…I think. Love it so much I bought a second one. There something to say about a knife that can serve in combat to wilderness survival and everything in between
Hahahah, this knife is a legend. When I saw it for the first time, I knew I had to have it and I do obviously. I used to EDC it and still sometimes do. I tested it brutally opening coco nuts - worked perfectly. If I had to choose just one knife from my collection to keep forever - it would be Rajah 2 :)
Same! I picked up several of the Cold Steel XL knives, and they are all sweet, but the Rajah II is a cut above. Once I got ahold of one, it instantly joined my EDC gear and now I wouldn't be without this multifunctional chopper.
I have two. Just in case. I love Coldsteel. I use the work sharp knife sharpener.
Glad to see you finally got a review on this beast! I love mine and it's amazing
Had it for a few years, can't count how many saplings and limbs around that size. The belly is perfect for chopping medium duty things, the back of the blade before the re curve is barely used for anything heavy so the edge stays razor sharp. In conjunction with the area before the blade used as a "choil" when choked up, gives great control. Sliding allllllll the way back gives amazing reach!
With the capability and fun factor, there was about 2 full years I carried this blade ALWAYS(other smaller carries rode along too)
SOOOOOO many times it's saved my butt
My absolute favorite is the Voyager Vaquero XL serrated. But I never sharpen it. Is only for self-defense.😅
Food prep for me, means that the knife can peel an apple a potato etc. If I can't use it to peel, like scandis where they can not do that job, then I don't care if it cuts a fruit in half, because that's something that any knife can do. It's those other finer tasks, that a blade must be able to do, to call it a good knife at food prep.
I have a black coated rajah II, purchased years ago. Not even sure when now. Still looks new. It’s like a pet to me lol. Stays clean and unused for a rough day 😉. Hopefully never will use it! I’m a collector that ain’t afraid to use my toys if I have to, but looking at it and carrying is enough for me. Got mine for around $85 and haven’t seen a black one since! Great vid
I lovemine so much I've carry it every day for the last 5 or 6 years. I took down a 4" diameter tree in less than 20 swings. So good I own 3.
This thing is hella awesome! Never though I’d need an XL folder, but here we are, LOL.
What do you think about is the XL voyager drop point?
Loooks sweet. I just bought the Espada Large and X Large voyager. Coming later this week. 🤣
@@gideonstactical hahaha! Once you go espada....
Still have it in CTS-BD1 and consider a 2nd one in AUS10 or the original Rajah1 - if I can find one. Incredibly great blade.
"I am completely powerless over knives !"
Now that I've gotten into kukris, maybe I'll pick one of those up.
Happy to hear you're visiting us down here in the South. Glad to have you. Be sure to bring your bug spray
A diamond rod to sharpen if needed, a ceramic rod to keep it sharp. I removed the clip to facilitate multiple grips, made a lightweight leather sheath for it which will attach to a daypack, and added some jimping, of course haha.
Those were my exact thoughts, "I don't know what I'd do with it, but I need it!"
Probably my #1 CS folder. Such an awesome tool. Enjoyed the review.
I've had my eye on this for a few years now. I'm so glad it comes with a pocket clip, I wouldn't want it to get lost in my clown pants 🤣
I have been owning one for many years now and it's a beast
On a different note...I've been a sub for quite some time..great channel.
I never knew Gideon's story til today.
In a difficult time, his story teaches a great lesson. You make a difference on many levels. Just wanna say thanks. Keep it up. You are appreciated.
Thanks so much appreciate you!
I too love these ultra-pocket swords….they are surprisingly comfortable in the pocket and easy to carry…and impressive when brought out
i have found that almost everything coming out of Taiwan is of good quality and workmanship.
I been rocking cold steel blades since the 90’s. When the espada xl first came out I got it and the large. Now I have several xl espada and been carrying one almost daily!! Can’t beat their triad!! I tend to rely on xl folders during camping and hunting trips. Yes a fixed blade is stronger but the 4 max or sr1 or other big blade can do just as much with care while I bring a silky saw or Gransfors ax for chopping and splitting. I use to just carry a big knife like my bark river grizzly or CS trail master or Gurkha kukri. But now with my style outdoors I will carry a large or xl folder.
Glad you’ve joined the big pocket knife club! God bless.
As always, another great review Aaron! I’ve owned a Rajah II for awhile now, but truly enjoyed hearing your opinions on it. I hope that you get your hands on the Lg G10 Espada in Aus10 eventually. I think you’d appreciate just how easily it carries, while still having similar strengths to the Rajah II.
That’s the newer model. The first productions in aus 10 didn’t have that unsharpened portion. The blade started immediately after the sharpening choil.
You are right!! that spot gives me concerns. i ll have to put an edge there for sure
That’s weird you can see it clearly at 12:54 but I say it’s weird because the old talwars used to have a little unsharpend bit in front of the sharpening choil too but now the new GSM talwars are sharpened right to choil
Weird how they would fix it in the talwar but then make it worse on the rajah
And you can tell it’s the new gsm rajah because of the new logo
Great video! Great knife. I love mine for camping. Put it in your pocket, it takes care of any job that comes up.
I own a Cold Steel Voyager XL 5 inch knife.
I don't carry it however it was my "hotel" knife for when I traveled for my company. One particular experience made me think a suprising might be useful
I was waiting for the Mayhem to drop... but why? This thick girl is cheaper, ready to go and may actually be a better chopper!
I have the blackout version back in 2014 and still one of my favorite cold steel knives that i have.
I have always kind of scoffed at these massive CS folders. After your review, I'm starting to reconsider my stance on them. Totally cool Aaron, thanks. Great video as always.
I have to double down on my previous comment. This is the best folder ever created. No matter if in CTS-BD1 or AUS10. It can do it all! Cutting, chopping, batoning, carving, doing feather sticks, all while fitting in your pants' pocket. Would be great, if CS released a Rajah 1 version (aluminum bolsters, pseudo micarta) with CPM-3V steel blade.
Thanks Aaron! Awesome video as usual.
I like that you can wave deploy that monstah. Thanks for the good review
I recently moved to North Carolina and unfortunately they have some stupid knife laws. One being you have to open carry a fixed blade, which Im not going to do unless I'm hiking or camping. So a large folder like this that can perform like a fixed blade makes alot of sense when I'm just out in town. Like Lynn says, a large knife can do anything a small knife can but not the other way around.
Serrated would be nice. Can we make that happen? Spartan is no offered up in serrated.
Well almost definitely going to puck this up now! Theres just something about giant folders I live! Great review as always!
this is one freakishly large knife and I love it and love your review ! keep up the good work, man !!
Back in 2015... I picked up the blackout version. It cost $104 back then! Now some folks would put this version as a 'Cold Steel Collectable' and name your asking scenario. Not sure what figure extent folks would go for now? As a user I'd go with the one you have in this video. I kept my Blackout in minty condition. Reason: On one of my AK-47 full-size (still carry it)... I had the Demko plate (wave-like feature) fall off. 'Old' Cold Steel company warranty was meaningless and a parts department made up of no parts availability and routinely false promises. I made quite a few efforts... nevertheless, could never get this resolved (maybe the new owners are better with customer services with satisfactory solutions). After that experience... I added med. Loctite to all my Cold-Steel thumb-plates same as used for scope bases. I'd still recommend doing the Loctite fix on yours for loss prevention. If Cold Steel is listening... sure would appreciate a replacement plate and proper hardware to fix my ol' favorite AK-47.
Would love a blacked out one.
This is my favorite folder of all time...
Especially for the price.
Okay, I just dropped the hammer on one. I have also just bought the Voyager Clip Point XL, and its not as big but it is fun to carry, and I used it tonight in the kitchen. And it worked well cutting up chicken. So the Rajah II will be my second XL folder. And since I love the Khukuri design. I had to get one. As far as use, um, well, yeah, Self Defense. It might even deter some one from attacking, if you pull it out and show them. I ride a bike and walk a lot. So that is whey I will carry it.
Had the rajah 2 for like 10 years. After a little bit, the side play of the knife is substantial, but lockup is still good.
I made a mistake and bought his knife. Now I need suspenders. Off today to buy suspenders and a belt to hold up my new Rajah II.
Good problem to have!!
@@gideonstactical Isn't that the truth. What a beast. I put it in my second bug out bag. I have a serious bug out bag on my bed. I want one when driving around that is my second bob. It can do some much that needs done in a situation where shtf.
I ordered one of these a few days ago and I'm exited for it to arrive.
That swell, is some what a copy of what a real Khukuri has at the butt. Cant walk around town with a large fixed blade, but this fits in your pocket. So no one but you know you have it ;)
Ohhhh and I'm starting my new rotation with the XL Espada!
So there's that...... 😊
This knife is highly impressive
but I've gone for the Voyager XL clipoint.
It's a foot long open, with a 5.5 inch blade so you don't have the recurve to worry about.
As well as the clipoint, the tanto and the spear point there is a
Vauquero style blade much like this Rajah.
*Love it, getting it for all the reasons you mention.*
Awesome!!!!
Really cool. I have the CS voyager XL tanto and I friggin love that thing! Probably need to get this as well.
The blade shape´s originally purpose is to cause maximum trauma. But yes you can use it for food prepping to...
Great showcase. Amazing knife. You should try the largest version of the holdout, also surprisingly fun and effective as a stand-in machete. Also not very expensive. You can also get a fully serrated version of it, giving in an edge or difference to the other xl cold steel knives.
Cold Steel makes the best Big Folders 🔥🔪 Great review!
I sold mine a few years back, and I'm obviously watching this for a reason.. what were you just cutting in half, ground turkey? My screen goes dim when I type on here😂 But I'm most likely going to purchase one this weekend, cause of this now
I own two of these. One for each front pocket!
Preach on brother.
All of their lock bars on the rajah 2 models are recessed I have 3 different ones and their like that looking to add the aus 10 model to the collection 😅
I keep mine sharp with a Ken Onion Deluxe Work sharp. Works great, then I touch it up using ceramic rods. Okay, mine isn't sharp enough to shave with, but it will slice and dice things nicely. And boy do I get stared at when I pull it out to use. It is my favorite EDC knife. Also good for self defense.
Is that a black stone griddle?? I love mine, I have the 36" cook top one and dang I love it! Thanks for the content, I"m happy for you and your family being out there enjoying each other and life. I mean that's what it's all about. Keep on trucking:
This made the "dude I want that" list for sure!
I absolutely love mine. I also love my XL Espada
I bought this about 4 years ago. The blade wasn’t marked, but I’m assuming AUS-8 and was very sharp, and has only required minimal touch ups, but I haven’t used it nearly as hard as in your video.
I bought my first Cold Steel sometime around 1984, and the one thing they had over most other knives was being incredibly razor sharp out of the box. That changed with AUS-10, and I actually had to check that the two knives I bought in it weren’t counterfeits as the blades were literally butter knife dull. There’s no way their edges had been anywhere near a grinder, I couldn’t believe it. I had to put it down to the company changing hands at the time, but it put me off AUS-10 big time and I haven’t tried again. Last CS I bought was super sharp S35VN.
My Rajah II is slightly textured, but has a much smoother texturing on the handle; I like the looks of yours as it looks grippier, but it may be easier on pockets to have a less aggressive texture. Agree, for hard work you should lose the big ass pocket clip, it creates a hot spot pretty fast. This is a good enough knife that it justifies a click in place Kydex pouch sheath. I think I paid around $90 for mine, along with the CS Spartan for $75 IIRC, which is another big knife I think you’d like. Appreciate your always excellent content! 👍
It is an impressive knife.I have one and I assume it is in AUS 8 steel.
As a matter of fact it is a inside of pants Kukri and carrying it that way no one ever noticed it.
The biggest I am going to own is the SR1 and AD10. I own both and I don’t feel the need to have a pocket machete.
Man, this is a powerful all around knife and a dependable tough thus safe locking folder for its power. All the grips make so much sense, adding much to this knife for use.
For some reason I do not own one, but I do have the Spartan which I dig with its recurved blade similar to the Rajah II but only 4.5" and its a hollow ground heavy spine blade. Spartan comes with R and L clips too. I gotta get this Rajah II. I cant understand why I haven't already, except Im not rich, but its too good a deal not to own. My dog is eating good and I know I can make good use of it. Fuck yeah! I Locktight my clips
Totally worth every penny that is a super great knife hey thank you for sharing it spread the love 💕
Im not surprised you love it, but Im glad to hear it. I have been kinda wanting a Talwar, but I dont really have the money to spend right now. Of course the materials are not as nice, and the Talwar is more stabby, but for the price...I think this is a great substitute, and Im gonna go ahead and just pick one up...Still prob get the Talwar down the road, but this thing is great. Thanks Aaron.
Never thought I would say this, but I need one...😅
What is an R rajah2? Is that another version? Mine doesn't say that!
If I was a land surveyor ....that would be in my truck.
I feel you, im stuck on the voyager tanto xl.
I almost bought the 3. Still kinda want it. Not sure id ever carry the 2
Back in 2014 I got in a pinch and had to sell mine. I'm jealous.
Yep, Im also into CS XL Folders! I just ordered this knife. I also have the XL Talwar serrated. Good vid man.🔪🗡
I love my Rajah II and all my other CS XL blades. Absolute beasts and the Triad-Lock is fantastic.
I tend to carry my 4Max and AD15 as EDC knives, but occasionally sport the Rajah II, Spartan or one of my Voyager XLs just for the heck of it.
I use to carry "regular" sized folders with blades 3" or less, and discovered that 4 plus inch blades offer more cutting surface, leverage, reach, thicker blade stock (depending on the design philosophy), and more comfortable/larger handles.
@@TheScotchaholic Same here. I still have some smaller, heck more petite (vs Cold Steel 😉) blades in the 3 inch range that have their place in my rotation, but my go to blades every day are solid, thick 4" as they just get the job done.
And if I go into the office and I want to have some fun I'll take a Voyager XL, my Rajah II or my Espada XL for sh*ts and giggles 😁
@@henryvandeventer2457
Obviously, taking out XLs at work means you're not surrounded by sheeple normies.
Otherwise HR would get complaints about "potentially dangerous" coworkers, lol.
@@TheScotchaholic funnily enough it's most of the guys in the office that seem to be intimidated even when it's a more subtle blade like the AD15 or my Mikov Elipse.
The ladies in the office are the ones that are most intrigued by the XLs, especially when I jokingly referenced "The Long Kiss Goodnight" saying that I never want Geena Davis to say to me "Oh honey, only 4 inches" after a male colleague asked me why I carry big knives.
Our HR director is cool though, she would just laugh as she recently upgraded her Delica to a PM2 😆
@@henryvandeventer2457
Yeah, it really depends on the various individuals and their reactions.
It might be that some women feel the need for self defense tools, which is why they don't react adversely to larger blades.
Also, there's more soy boys around, depending on the workplace environment and local culture.
I own the 3-1/2 in RAJAH lll.. serrated not only is this legal just about everywhere being under 4 in.. it it looks and cuts & chops much larger than its size..let's on ...
I am getting one to use as a mobile kitchen knife...those Veggies have it coming!!!