Cold steel are the only knifes I buy. I EDC the spear point recon 1 special edition In S35VN steel. I’ve been EDCing the recon 1 for about 5 years. Never had a problem with knife cutting up my pockets. In my opinion, it’s the best knife on the market.
if you truly need such a beast...so far, i have not found a sturdier folder. i like to carry it around the cabin...or in the woods...it has a really good/secure feel in hand...
@@SpartanJohns Hi watch your channel. Can I ask a Favor. I know you have a Recon 1 Clip Point and a Recon 1 Spearpoint. Can you Please do a Video where you Put The Clip Point Knife and the Spearpoint knife on top of each other, where the Handles Lined up I just wanna Check if the Point of the Clip Point is Pointed Higher than the Spear point if the Handles where aligned with each other. Because in Defensive situations, I kinda want a want a Point that does Not Raise high. Thanks. More Pin Point accuracy in stabbing if at the centerline of the handle.
@@bryantherocker It's not about the point, it's about how you fight with the knife. Each blade profile emphasizes different cutting and fighting. The Clip will have a better belly for slicing, the Spear a better point for deep penetration without worrying about tip breakage. Each cuts and kills in its own best style.
I love your informative information you did not bore me I think it's how people deliver the message and you delivered it in a way that basically confirmed or gave me assurance of what I was purchasing so great job
Hi, I have EDC carried my Recon 1 spear point CTS XHP for about 2 years and it's seen a lot of heavy use, everything from normal everyday tasks and bushcraft tasks. The lock-up is still tight and rock solid. The steel is good holds a good edge with stroping. I'm happy with it and it serves it's purposes well (rough use EDC that can on occasion substitute for a fix blade). The size & weight don't bother me. For fine slicing I carry also a Victorinox Fieldmaster. There are only a couple of small negatives I have noticed. 1 the knife was very tight when new and required some break in time. As you mentioned the lock release was stiff and it took about a week of vigorous opening & closing before I could flip it open & close with one hand. The other thing is like most super steels if you let it get dull...be ready for some work to get a hair popping edge back. Do your maintenance with a strop and occasional touch up With a ceramic stone and it's a cutting machine. I have a Finn Wolf also that I EDC carried before the Recon 1. It's also a good knife but now it's a backup in my bushcraft bag and the Recon is EDC.
I carry my recon 1 daily and have no issues at all. That being said, I prefer to carry a larger knife. Also, I’m really starting to love the S35VN steel. Keeps an edge for a good while and is relatively easy to sharpen. I really want to pick up the American lawman. Good review! 🍻
I love carrying my Tanto Recon 1 even though I dont work in construction or the trades I find it very useful for opening huge bags of flour and sugar at the bakery I work at. I am hopefully going to go to HVAC school here soon so I might get a bit more use out of it lol 🤘🏻👍🏻
I slid another knife blade under the clip and lifted it ever so slightly. It now slides in and out of the pocket fine, yet still has plenty retention. I carry mine a lot, and I do mean, a lot. That is saying something, because as a collector, I have over 100 folding knives. With that many to choose from, saying I carry it a lot is not an insignificant thing. Then again, I like larger knives. I almost never carry anything with a 3" or under blade, and seldom under 3.5".
Excellent review! I have several Recon 1 and American Lawman in both FFG and the hollow grind. The Spearpoint hollow grind Spearpoint Recon 1 is truly a gem! Very thin behind the edge and still has a strong tip. If you can find one I strongly recommend this variant.
I guess guys my age are a bit different or maybe it's my trade background. I like a tight clip because I lost many spyderco knives a few kershaws they fall off work pants when yo have to climb an lay on your back also I like coldsteel locks had liner locks fail twice can't remember what brand or knife anymore but the lock an clip mean alot I'll never use benchmade overpriced an own gave to anti 2 amendment groups so I'm not their fanboy. I carry a large g10 espada everyday just got a vaquero xl because my espada can't be replaced anymore. But for the money you can't beat coldsteel an I'm no longer buy china made I'll buy Japanese but china no way later
Excellent review, thanks for posting. I've already got the Lawman in AUS8, but I just bought a Recon1 in S35vn so I'm keen to see the difference. The Lawman (for me) is more suitable for smaller/lighter tasks (even though it can do much more) and feels like a smaller knife. In the two days I've owned the Recon1, I noticed straight away how much bigger it is, but the handle profiling is superb and feels as though it was made for me personally. Early days I know, but I'm looking forward to using it.
I EDC mine every day, its the only folding blade I would trust in a combat situation to not break or close on my hand. The problem with your Benchmade is look how little it takes to close the folding mechanism that's why I don't carry my contego anymore. All they need is to put on a carbide glass breaker and the knife would be amazing.
Idk if I’ve ever heard of a cold steel tri-ad lock not being able to close or able to be opened in a safe position. I’ve hear cases of excess grit and debris interfering with the knife locking open
@@SpartanJohns Yep I just confirmed I was talking about the right now because I have eight cold steel boulders but yeah one strike Redbird strike anywhere match lite up with one strike very cool
I like the tanto myself. 4” blade is usable for self defense. A 3” blade for edc is smallish if you had to use it for defense, but sub 3” is better socially. Unless you live where I do. I have the Prolite tanto, which is easy to carry, but I want to go a bit bigger.
I have a few Recon 1 knives, in AUS8a and CTS XHP. I also trashed many pockets with that rough G10. I also have the Recon 1 XL Clip Point in CTS XHP and I like it, but I have found a reason to carry it. As an alternative, I sometimes carry a large Cold Steel Voyager CTS BD1 Clip Point, and it is a reasonable compromise, though the point is thin. If you respect the performance parameters of your tools, it does a great job. With the Cold Steel move of CTS BD1 in the Voyager series to AUS10a, these cheaper options may become more attractive.
Recon 1 is a great knife to carry, the S35VN steel is a big improvement over cold steel's former steels. The clip is a little tight but the G10 did not eat up my pocket. The only thing I carry in that pocket is a knife so size doesn't matter. Why would you carry your keys or anything else in your knife pocket? All you're going to do is scratch your knife all up.
9:21 You can keep your axis lock but give me a spyder hole, my EDC for urban evironment is a racing green ZDP-189 Delica. If you everyday carry a Spyderco like your Endura you will understand the difference, easier and faster than have to use two fingers to open your knife. Yes, I close the blade again one handed but against my right thigh, there is no need to use two hands because I am usually grabbing something with my left one.
I used/carried the endura model(endura/pacific salt) a lot. And now i use a stretch. I would take a tri-ad-lock any day over a regular backlock. Failing that: axis, comp, backlock, liner…in that order. As for ways of deployment: yes! I too like spyderco’s hole in the blade more than most thumbstuds or flippers.
There's nothing in the world like cold steel folding knifes so dam tough like Lyn Thompson says you can put your life on his knifes because they won't let you down anytime anywhere. I have a sr1 lite and pocket Bushman 2 fix blade peacemaker knifes a ti lite and 6 in Luzon I EDC all of them on a regular basis ready for anything with a cold steel knife. I baton wood with my pocket Bushman and sr1 lite and put holes in oil filters and cold steel knifes just ask for more. Also love my Swiss army knifes as well when I was 7 years old.
FYI, my S35VN, Recon 1 arrived with the non-aggressive textured G10. I guess that after so many comments about pockets getting frayed they made the modification. The previous owner perhaps did not sand down the handle.
Good review. I have a Recon 1 and find it to be a good knife but, a little to large for my taste as an EDC. It will never slice as well as the Opinel or a Mora, most knife company's continue to market a do it all compromise knife,, so you end up with a knife that does many things, but nun of them extremely well. i also agree on the Ganzo, I have an Enlan with axis lock and it is a very rugged well made knife. I also have a Benchmade axis lock , great knife but not used much. And that's just because, the Benchmade and the Enlan are very close in performance but one, costs $20 and the other $200. Anyone who has carried pocket knives or as they are called now EDC has lost a few of them. Great video but the audio seemed to fade in and out some.
Cold Steels Broken Skull is very slicey. Almost as proficient as an Opinel. The next one you should get. The G10 isn’t as aggressive either and it is light and slim.
The only reason I'm not carrying my recon 1 is that it gets left at home in favor of an xl voyager or large espada. I'm a big guy though so I prefer a larger knife
The cold steel recon 1's are much better customized ! I Lighten up the lock spring ( leaving enough for blade retention ) and the pocket clip ( smooth out the g10 and bend the clip so that it is 1/8" above the g10 ) . I even customize the handle by taking off the second finger choil and make the first choil larger ( matching both back and front top and bottom so they look nearly the same ) you can even modify the blade above where the stop pen hits to be a bottle opener then ! Love the green handle got one in xhp spear point plain edge my favorite ! My new favorite was going to be my crooke river until both lock srings boke ( banchmade's quality control blow goats , three knives six broken lock springs ) Recon 1 Can't leave home without one and the recon1xl in my pack ! Most reviewers stay away from the recon 1's because they have to say that there is no stronger or better knife for anywhere near the price on the market ! And whatever folding knife they are reviewing is inferior to the recon 1 !
I like the backlock tension with the Recon 1. Personally I prefer the axis lock for knives I will eventually abuse thru batoning. I tested lots of inexpesnive knives with an axis lock. I can't really afford to put a CS thru the same paces...breaking a 15$ knife is bearable but a 100$ knife...not so much.... I like the Recon 1 for the outdoors...but it does really benefit from a smaller edge angle and maybe a thinner grind.
@@SpartanJohns a triad lock will laugh at the abuse that will break a ganzo or a Benchmade with an axis lock. Just saying 😂 I love the axis lock for it's fun factor, but I've never seen another lock compare to the triad in terms of durability.
The Recon 1 now with the S35VN steel I have in a spearpoint is a mini-knife compared to other Cold Steel knives I have like the Extra Large Voyager and even the Large Voyager so maybe compare it to other Cold Steel knives instead of A Benchmade. This new Recon 1 is EXCELLENT for EDC for me to carry. I'm used to larger knives though. Smaller knives I also carry as back ups along with the Recon or a XL Manix.
I EDC my Recon 1 with no problem. But then again I don't wear those tight girlie pants either. Clip too tight? I slid a butter knife under the clip and gently pried it up slightly. Slides in and out of the pants without tearing it up.
Hi! Thanks for this video! I have a question though and weirdly, it’s more about your pants! I’m looking for that kinda pants with a lot of pockets, but not too much either, cargo AND confortable/flexible.I would like to know the brand of those pant please? :)
Hi! I also talked about these pants in a video years ago. Still the same pair. Fjallraven Barents. If "flexible" if what you're looking for these are not it! The G1000 is very rigid. But they are comfortable and very wear resistant. I have had this pair since 2014. That is how wear/washing machine resistant they are. th-cam.com/video/tVQH9Yuf3Iw/w-d-xo.html
I just got mine last Sunday there isn't another knife you can buy for the price with the quality.,sharpness, and durability of the Recon 1... forget about Benchmade zero tolerance and all that other overpriced crap that don't compare to this
I like a lot the recon 1, specially with clip point and tanto tip. The spartan from cold steel like me a lot too. And others from the brand. I like the tri ad lock a lot too. Regards!.
the tri-ad lock is nice. I still prefer the axis lock for an edc folder simply because i do not have to reposition my hand to close it I'd like to get my hand on a Spartan....they do look SERIOUS!
@@SpartanJohns Yes, the axis lock is funnier for playing and you can close the knife with one hand and so. And yes again, the spartan is a brutal knife but i like the design, is a self-defense knife not a bushcraft knife. There are other crazy knives from cold steel i like it like the talwar and some more. Regards!.
I edc the lawman all day long get a small carabiner to clip your keys too then put your wallet in your right pocket or back pocket and your phone in your left pocket if your going to put something in your right pocket make sure its something you dont use often to mitigate irritating bulk from the knife. You can carry bigger knives with this system
the recon 1's lock is not going to be damaged without insane abuse ! I can slice tomatoes very thin with my reacon1s ! yeah the locks are ridiculously top hard ( I take a few pounds off of them )! I might be able to fix the axis (G) lock ! my crooked river mini came with up and down movement and a broken lock spring it works perfect now ! i was very disappointed with benchmade as I have a few and the only ones that were not really messed up were the ones I bought used the crooked river large was nearly totally unfinished ( the side of the blade was like a file that was almost ground flat but not quit ) $200.00 pos in a box only buy benchmade used and clones are far better than new knives from benchmade ! from a user point of view ! I only collect clomes of high priced for no real reason knives like benchmade micro-tech and spyderco reeves high end clone collection ! I tune them up and use them ! get 2 and keep one nice !
Thanks for the review, very interesting as always. But I missed one thing I am really courious about: What about the S35VN steel? Generally and compared to the CTS XHP or any other steel? There are lot of very differing opinions out there concerning S35VN, especially if it is better / worse / the same as S30V concerning edge retention, sharpenability and toughness. I have only one knife in S35VN (Native 5) and one in S30V (Military), can´t tell a real difference concerning the steels so far, but than I am far from beeing an expert in steels or sharpening. Maybe you find the time to give your input, Denis (or any other commenter)
@John Dimambro Maybe a step up for knifemakers, since S35VN is a bit easier to grind and to work with than S30V... For the customer it depends on what you´re looking for: S30V has a bit better edge retention, S35VN is a bit tougher and a bit easier to sharpen. Though I actually think that 99% of knife-users would not be able to experience a difference between the two steels in a blind test (I certainly could NOT).
my 940 just broke anther lock spring ! sometimes I carry a 940 and a recon 1 ! I can't make myself leave home without a custom recon 1( custom by me including a lock spring mod ,makes them a lot nicer to use )and I usually take another small knife for little jobs ! then I have another tiny keychain knife on the neck with o AAA light ! and a recon 1 micro on the keychain with a leatherman squirt and a p38 and and ! I try a bunch of knives in rotation from the sherp pile to the sharpen pile . you do pretty good review like a knife is really used !
One more question please: You often talk about getting your knifes on the secondary market: Could you (or anybody else) tell me, where one can do so? I am not aware of online-platforms where one could sell or purchase knifes (and I am quite interested in doing both). Thanks a lot
I think the Lawman is fine. I like the 940 Osborne, but I prefer the Ganzo over them, because they are expendable in my opinion and they are very well made and durable. By the way, have you seen the new Benchmade 200 Puukko? Thoughts?
I still have the Broken Skull to review...The Code 4 is nice but I don't know if it's for me. I like the rough CS folders....The Code 4 seems to be to me a more edc-ish style handle However...if I find it for a good price i think i will give it a try
Very good videos, my only point of disagreement is a Ganzo axis lock being better for battoning than Cold steel. I have yet to damage my Cold Steel with severe use. where as my two Ganzos have been rendered useless with less abuse. I took the Ganzos apart and the stop pins are thin hollow steel so i can see why they didn't last.
Hollow stop pins? That is a bit strange. if you have the time watch my videos on the Ganzo G720. That amount of batoning and the force with which I hit the knife...I would not do that to my CS. The bladeplay which resulted was because the liners were bent after the abuse. But the stop pins were definitely not hollow. I will look and see for newer models. Thank you for bringing up. Now I am very curious indeed
from what i could notice this one was really ok. I must mention here that this is my only S35VN blade. Many people said S35VN is crap. I do not share that opinion. Based on this knife alone
Excuse me but unlike the title of the video , you don't compare specifically the tow kind of the steel , i thought i can get the answer here " what's the best steel of both s35vn or the ctsxhp ? " Would you please tell me according to your experience
I merely presented these 2. I have 4 CS folders. 3 with CTS XHP steel. The S35VN I have not tested/played with as much. With the initial grind/edge my CS Broken Skull has held a more than decent edge for about a month of regular edc tasks. Keep in mind that I do not work in an environment where I need to cut stuff all day long. Mainly paper, cardboard, tape, food, zip ties. If I had to choose, knowing as little about S35VN as I do at the moment I would choose CTS XHP. I hope this helps
@@SpartanJohns thank you but i was about to buy CS ultimate hunter which is now become with s35vn steel while it used to come with cts xhp , i think i may postpone the decision for now or to seek for used one with cts xhp
@@SpartanJohns unfortunately yes , looks like the ctsxhp became rare and valuable now , keep yours in a good shape 😂 because we don't know when we will find this steel again , respect and best wishes for you
@@amrahmed5790 in any cutting test I have seen, ctsxhp from cold steel wins in edge retention by a decent margin. My personal experience, I don't really notice a huge difference. I will say my s35vn models seem to have tougher edges and better corrosion resistance.
Didn’t tell you about the scale mod? Poor form. “Pocket hogger”Patent pending. Don’t see a way to differentiate between FFG and hollow as the CS site does not say. Am I missing something? I could never disengage my CS one handed and let it tap my fingers. It’s too sharp. 😏 You found some truth there in your incredibly real statement about cutting difference between opinel and CS styles. Well my friend...another excellent video. Truly agreed with your thoughts in this one. And I’ve already come to appreciate Cold Steel solely based upon my experience with my entry level Prolite Tanto. I’ve come to see the Recon 1 Tanto as a grail knife and hope one day to hold it in my hands and count on it throughout my day. Thanks for this video buddy Be well Craig
Forestwalker111 I think in the new stock of these models, the tanto is the only hollow grind. I read that somewhere and I have all three blade shapes and the clip point and spear point are both ffg. Tanto is hollow ground.
The second hand market is full of Cold Steel Recon 1's. I seriously recommend you get one used... You can find them from everywhere and the price is less than half of the new price of a Recon 1. As for which are now available in a hollow grind....i am not sure...for the American Lawman they added a "flat" in the description...
I do like the spear point more because of the size of the knife. However I do prefer the CTS XHP so far. Because this is a big knife I see it used more for rougher stuff so a spear point makes more sense. The clip point might be more useful when working wood. A spear point blade with a hollow grind would be my personal favorite.
Steel, size, performance, and locking mechanism are essential to me. Good points about blade tip differences, triad lock performance, and usage. I carry my EDC primarily for protection and everyday use. I carry a different pocket knife for work. In woods I carry a fixed blade. However, since one may find himself in an unexpected situation, it is good to know the capabilities of your EDC. Overall good review. I would have liked to hear mention of sharpening this steel. Also the accent, is this Eastern European? Just curious. Good job on slicing/chopping too.
I have not sharpened the steel yet. It has a pretty steep edge angle so it stayed sharp so far. I do plan to reduce the edge angle and i will probably make an update after testing it with that angle. I also like to have a solid knife with me. but i am also one to go for performance. that is why i modify edge angles on thicker blades. Thank you. Glad you liked the video and my comments on the knife And yes the accent is eastern european. Romanian. But i never thought it shined thru ;)
I look forward to the testing update. Hence, I will subscribe. You did mention about the leather strop. I have ordered one, but I have not tried it yet. I have used diamond bench stone. Accent is fine. We all have them. I am from the South, so I get reminded constantly. Last time was by an Asian in Australia.
Hi watch your channel. Can I ask a Favor. I know you have a Recon 1 Clip Point and a Recon 1 Spearpoint. Can you Please do a Video where you Put The Clip Point Knife and the Spearpoint knife on top of each other, where the Handles Lined up I just wanna Check if the Point of the Clip Point is Pointed Higher than the Spear point if the Handles where aligned with each other. Because in Defensive situations, I kinda want a Point that does Not Raise high. Thanks. More Pin Point accuracy in stabbing if at the centerline of the handle.
I have a recon 1, was too much for EDC. Right now I carry the finnwolf, but have an American lawman on the way. For the g10 ripping up pants, I unscrewed the pocket clip and lightly sanded the area under the clip. Been working good and easy to clip into pants pockets
the S35VN version was modified by its previous owner. The other one will not be. I like the fact that it is rough. does not bother me at all as for it being too big for edc...i agree...but for some people, who need such a big sturdy pocket knife i can imagine that they are willing to make that sacrifice
I like the drop point shape more. if the DP version came with a hollow grind it would be the best of both worlds. for practical reasons I see myself using the clip point more. As the Recon 1 is such a big folder I do see the DP with the thicker grind making more sense.
@@SpartanJohns Yeah I was looking at ESEE and I love them, the only cons I've ever seen about them is tip strength. But even if you do break it I've heard their warranty is stellar.
there are several groups. check facebook first. that should work. if not: just google it. If you are in the US finding something like that should be no problem
@@SpartanJohns Actually, I am in the U.S. and getting these knives isn't a problem at all. Finding the CTS-XHP versions is a problem. Also, I would love to find some used versions for a good deal. Only thing is, I never have, do not and never will do Facebook. Thanks for all the great videos and lessons though my Bladed Brother ⚔️👍
I understand. I use facebook mainly for such groups. EDC, Outdoor, Bushcraft.... I have a lot of friends overseas who also do not like using facebook. I understand the reasons behind it. There are forums.... Try looking for those.
Bought recon 1 last year with the CTS steel....the blade steel is too soft, yet sort of brittle at the same time. Junk steel that should only be used for drill bits, etc....this is why cold steel went to s35vn.
@@hossman8499 no, that is complete BS. That might have been their marketing excuse...but real world users of the CTS steel know better. Thanks. *Note...the makers of CTS steel say on their website that they have a surplus of it too*
when in the woods i have more knives with me simply because I am always testing out something. In this video it was the ESEE 6 which i have been testing for quite some time now. In my backpack I have another 2-3 knives...it is simply because I like to see which one does better and when
Cold steel are the only knifes I buy. I EDC the spear point recon 1 special edition In S35VN steel. I’ve been EDCing the recon 1 for about 5 years. Never had a problem with knife cutting up my pockets.
In my opinion, it’s the best knife on the market.
Agreed ,when you have a cold steel you don't need another!
Carrying a Cold Steel Recon is like carrying a fixed blade without the hassle of carrying a fixed blade. I am EDCing my right now here in Brazil.
if you truly need such a beast...so far, i have not found a sturdier folder. i like to carry it around the cabin...or in the woods...it has a really good/secure feel in hand...
I love mine too
@@SpartanJohns Hi watch your channel. Can I ask a Favor. I know you have a Recon 1 Clip Point and a Recon 1 Spearpoint. Can you Please do a Video where you Put The Clip Point Knife and the Spearpoint knife on top of each other, where the Handles Lined up I just wanna Check if the Point of the Clip Point is Pointed Higher than the Spear point if the Handles where aligned with each other. Because in Defensive situations, I kinda want a want a Point that does Not Raise high. Thanks. More Pin Point accuracy in stabbing if at the centerline of the handle.
Just got my tanto in OD green and love it
@@bryantherocker It's not about the point, it's about how you fight with the knife. Each blade profile emphasizes different cutting and fighting. The Clip will have a better belly for slicing, the Spear a better point for deep penetration without worrying about tip breakage. Each cuts and kills in its own best style.
I love your informative information you did not bore me I think it's how people deliver the message and you delivered it in a way that basically confirmed or gave me assurance of what I was purchasing so great job
Hi, I have EDC carried my Recon 1 spear point CTS XHP for about 2 years and it's seen a lot of heavy use, everything from normal everyday tasks and bushcraft tasks. The lock-up is still tight and rock solid. The steel is good holds a good edge with stroping. I'm happy with it and it serves it's purposes well (rough use EDC that can on occasion substitute for a fix blade). The size & weight don't bother me. For fine slicing I carry also a Victorinox Fieldmaster. There are only a couple of small negatives I have noticed. 1 the knife was very tight when new and required some break in time. As you mentioned the lock release was stiff and it took about a week of vigorous opening & closing before I could flip it open & close with one hand. The other thing is like most super steels if you let it get dull...be ready for some work to get a hair popping edge back. Do your maintenance with a strop and occasional touch up
With a ceramic stone and it's a cutting machine. I have a Finn Wolf also that I EDC carried before the Recon 1. It's also a good knife but now it's a backup in my bushcraft bag and the Recon is EDC.
I carry my recon 1 daily and have no issues at all. That being said, I prefer to carry a larger knife. Also, I’m really starting to love the S35VN steel. Keeps an edge for a good while and is relatively easy to sharpen. I really want to pick up the American lawman. Good review! 🍻
I love carrying my Tanto Recon 1 even though I dont work in construction or the trades I find it very useful for opening huge bags of flour and sugar at the bakery I work at. I am hopefully going to go to HVAC school here soon so I might get a bit more use out of it lol 🤘🏻👍🏻
I dont know if you guys agree but the Recon 1 don't cut your breath until you beat on it . what a great EDC knife . I have one and I love it !!!!!!!!
I slid another knife blade under the clip and lifted it ever so slightly. It now slides in and out of the pocket fine, yet still has plenty retention. I carry mine a lot, and I do mean, a lot. That is saying something, because as a collector, I have over 100 folding knives. With that many to choose from, saying I carry it a lot is not an insignificant thing. Then again, I like larger knives. I almost never carry anything with a 3" or under blade, and seldom under 3.5".
Excellent review! I have several Recon 1 and American Lawman in both FFG and the hollow grind. The Spearpoint hollow grind Spearpoint Recon 1 is truly a gem! Very thin behind the edge and still has a strong tip. If you can find one I strongly recommend this variant.
I guess guys my age are a bit different or maybe it's my trade background. I like a tight clip because I lost many spyderco knives a few kershaws they fall off work pants when yo have to climb an lay on your back also I like coldsteel locks had liner locks fail twice can't remember what brand or knife anymore but the lock an clip mean alot I'll never use benchmade overpriced an own gave to anti 2 amendment groups so I'm not their fanboy. I carry a large g10 espada everyday just got a vaquero xl because my espada can't be replaced anymore. But for the money you can't beat coldsteel an I'm no longer buy china made I'll buy Japanese but china no way later
Excellent review, thanks for posting. I've already got the Lawman in AUS8, but I just bought a Recon1 in S35vn so I'm keen to see the difference. The Lawman (for me) is more suitable for smaller/lighter tasks (even though it can do much more) and feels like a smaller knife. In the two days I've owned the Recon1, I noticed straight away how much bigger it is, but the handle profiling is superb and feels as though it was made for me personally. Early days I know, but I'm looking forward to using it.
I EDC mine every day, its the only folding blade I would trust in a combat situation to not break or close on my hand. The problem with your Benchmade is look how little it takes to close the folding mechanism that's why I don't carry my contego anymore. All they need is to put on a carbide glass breaker and the knife would be amazing.
Idk if I’ve ever heard of a cold steel tri-ad lock not being able to close or able to be opened in a safe position. I’ve hear cases of excess grit and debris interfering with the knife locking open
added bonus the handle can strike a strike anywhere match very well.
never tried it....but i bet it does!
@@SpartanJohns Yep I just confirmed I was talking about the right now because I have eight cold steel boulders but yeah one strike Redbird strike anywhere match lite up with one strike very cool
I like the tanto myself. 4” blade is usable for self defense. A 3” blade for edc is smallish if you had to use it for defense, but sub 3” is better socially. Unless you live where I do. I have the Prolite tanto, which is easy to carry, but I want to go a bit bigger.
Glad you’re back! I still love my PM2!
LastCAPatriot ...me too.
Get that blurple pm2 and pm3 they make a great pair
I have a few Recon 1 knives, in AUS8a and CTS XHP. I also trashed many pockets with that rough G10. I also have the Recon 1 XL Clip Point in CTS XHP and I like it, but I have found a reason to carry it. As an alternative, I sometimes carry a large Cold Steel Voyager CTS BD1 Clip Point, and it is a reasonable compromise, though the point is thin. If you respect the performance parameters of your tools, it does a great job. With the Cold Steel move of CTS BD1 in the Voyager series to AUS10a, these cheaper options may become more attractive.
Aus8 or cts for a recon 1 ? Wich one is better ?
Recon 1 is a great knife to carry, the S35VN steel is a big improvement over cold steel's former steels. The clip is a little tight but the G10 did not eat up my pocket. The only thing I carry in that pocket is a knife so size doesn't matter. Why would you carry your keys or anything else in your knife pocket? All you're going to do is scratch your knife all up.
Ahhhhh the good ole days, when benchmade wasn’t putting a 200 dollar markup simply bc they made it.
true dat!
9:21 You can keep your axis lock but give me a spyder hole, my EDC for urban evironment is a racing green ZDP-189 Delica. If you everyday carry a Spyderco like your Endura you will understand the difference, easier and faster than have to use two fingers to open your knife. Yes, I close the blade again one handed but against my right thigh, there is no need to use two hands because I am usually grabbing something with my left one.
I used/carried the endura model(endura/pacific salt) a lot. And now i use a stretch. I would take a tri-ad-lock any day over a regular backlock. Failing that: axis, comp, backlock, liner…in that order. As for ways of deployment: yes! I too like spyderco’s hole in the blade more than most thumbstuds or flippers.
There's nothing in the world like cold steel folding knifes so dam tough like Lyn Thompson says you can put your life on his knifes because they won't let you down anytime anywhere. I have a sr1 lite and pocket Bushman 2 fix blade peacemaker knifes a ti lite and 6 in Luzon I EDC all of them on a regular basis ready for anything with a cold steel knife. I baton wood with my pocket Bushman and sr1 lite and put holes in oil filters and cold steel knifes just ask for more. Also love my Swiss army knifes as well when I was 7 years old.
FYI, my S35VN, Recon 1 arrived with the non-aggressive textured G10. I guess that after so many comments about pockets getting frayed they made the modification. The previous owner perhaps did not sand down the handle.
Hi! Sorry for the late reply...yes...i heard that too. lately they have ben putting less aggressive textures on their handle scales.
Good review. I have a Recon 1 and find it to be a good knife but, a little to large for my taste as an EDC. It will never slice as well as the Opinel or a Mora, most knife company's continue to market a do it all compromise knife,, so you end up with a knife that does many things, but nun of them extremely well. i also agree on the Ganzo, I have an Enlan with axis lock and it is a very rugged well made knife. I also have a Benchmade axis lock , great knife but not used much. And that's just because, the Benchmade and the Enlan are very close in performance but one, costs $20 and the other $200. Anyone who has carried pocket knives or as they are called now EDC has lost a few of them. Great video but the audio seemed to fade in and out some.
Cold Steels Broken Skull is very slicey. Almost as proficient as an Opinel. The next one you should get. The G10 isn’t as aggressive either and it is light and slim.
Agree, great slicey knife
About to have both. Broken skull is a more edc friendly big blade. Recon 1 is a tank.
Just sand under the clip. And if lock is too damn stiff leave the blade half open overnight and it should be good.
The only reason I'm not carrying my recon 1 is that it gets left at home in favor of an xl voyager or large espada. I'm a big guy though so I prefer a larger knife
I really like the XL Voyager..and would like to someday try an Espada....i think they're awesome
The cold steel recon 1's are much better customized ! I Lighten up the lock spring ( leaving enough for blade retention ) and the pocket clip ( smooth out the g10 and bend the clip so that it is 1/8" above the g10 ) . I even customize the handle by taking off the second finger choil and make the first choil larger ( matching both back and front top and bottom so they look nearly the same ) you can even modify the blade above where the stop pen hits to be a bottle opener then ! Love the green handle got one in xhp spear point plain edge my favorite ! My new favorite was going to be my crooke river until both lock srings boke ( banchmade's quality control blow goats , three knives six broken lock springs )
Recon 1 Can't leave home without one and the recon1xl in my pack !
Most reviewers stay away from the recon 1's because they have to say that there is no stronger or better knife for anywhere near the price on the market ! And whatever folding knife they are reviewing is inferior to the recon 1 !
I like the backlock tension with the Recon 1.
Personally I prefer the axis lock for knives I will eventually abuse thru batoning. I tested lots of inexpesnive knives with an axis lock. I can't really afford to put a CS thru the same paces...breaking a 15$ knife is bearable but a 100$ knife...not so much....
I like the Recon 1 for the outdoors...but it does really benefit from a smaller edge angle and maybe a thinner grind.
@@SpartanJohns a triad lock will laugh at the abuse that will break a ganzo or a Benchmade with an axis lock. Just saying 😂 I love the axis lock for it's fun factor, but I've never seen another lock compare to the triad in terms of durability.
Didnt find a problem with the recon 1 in my pocket in the Jean's I wear. But that's me so mileage may very.
The Recon 1 now with the S35VN steel I have in a spearpoint is a mini-knife compared to other Cold Steel knives I have like the Extra Large Voyager and even the Large Voyager so maybe compare it to other Cold Steel knives instead of A Benchmade. This new Recon 1 is EXCELLENT for EDC for me to carry. I'm used to larger knives though. Smaller knives I also carry as back ups along with the Recon or a XL Manix.
The recon 1 is great and very easy to edc.
I EDC my Recon 1 with no problem. But then again I don't wear those tight girlie pants either.
Clip too tight? I slid a butter knife under the clip and gently pried it up slightly. Slides in and out of the pants without tearing it up.
Hi! Thanks for this video! I have a question though and weirdly, it’s more about your pants! I’m looking for that kinda pants with a lot of pockets, but not too much either, cargo AND confortable/flexible.I would like to know the brand of those pant please? :)
Hi!
I also talked about these pants in a video years ago. Still the same pair. Fjallraven Barents.
If "flexible" if what you're looking for these are not it! The G1000 is very rigid. But they are comfortable and very wear resistant. I have had this pair since 2014. That is how wear/washing machine resistant they are.
th-cam.com/video/tVQH9Yuf3Iw/w-d-xo.html
@@SpartanJohns Thank you VERY much!! It’s well appreciate!!! 🙂👍
I just got mine last Sunday there isn't another knife you can buy for the price with the quality.,sharpness, and durability of the Recon 1... forget about Benchmade zero tolerance and all that other overpriced crap that don't compare to this
I like a lot the recon 1, specially with clip point and tanto tip. The spartan from cold steel like me a lot too. And others from the brand. I like the tri ad lock a lot too.
Regards!.
the tri-ad lock is nice. I still prefer the axis lock for an edc folder simply because i do not have to reposition my hand to close it
I'd like to get my hand on a Spartan....they do look SERIOUS!
@@SpartanJohns Yes, the axis lock is funnier for playing and you can close the knife with one hand and so.
And yes again, the spartan is a brutal knife but i like the design, is a self-defense knife not a bushcraft knife. There are other crazy knives from cold steel i like it like the talwar and some more.
Regards!.
I edc the lawman all day long get a small carabiner to clip your keys too then put your wallet in your right pocket or back pocket and your phone in your left pocket if your going to put something in your right pocket make sure its something you dont use often to mitigate irritating bulk from the knife. You can carry bigger knives with this system
the recon 1's lock is not going to be damaged without insane abuse ! I can slice tomatoes very thin with my reacon1s ! yeah the locks are ridiculously top hard ( I take a few pounds off of them )! I might be able to fix the axis (G) lock ! my crooked river mini came with up and down movement and a broken lock spring it works perfect now ! i was very disappointed with benchmade as I have a few and the only ones that were not really messed up were the ones I bought used the crooked river large was nearly totally unfinished ( the side of the blade was like a file that was almost ground flat but not quit ) $200.00 pos in a box only buy benchmade used and clones are far better than new knives from benchmade ! from a user point of view ! I only collect clomes of high priced for no real reason knives like benchmade micro-tech and spyderco reeves high end clone collection ! I tune them up and use them ! get 2 and keep one nice !
Drop point S35VN or Clip point CTS XHP ... Which is Heavier or more Blade Heavy ?
The Recon 1 and SR1 are best in a magazine pouch attached to my belt
The SR1, I could almost see that for a pistol magazine. The Recon 1 is fairly thin and I find it pocketable, but that is just me.
Thanks for the review, very interesting as always. But I missed one thing I am really courious about: What about the S35VN steel? Generally and compared to the CTS XHP or any other steel?
There are lot of very differing opinions out there concerning S35VN, especially if it is better / worse / the same as S30V concerning edge retention, sharpenability and toughness.
I have only one knife in S35VN (Native 5) and one in S30V (Military), can´t tell a real difference concerning the steels so far, but than I am far from beeing an expert in steels or sharpening.
Maybe you find the time to give your input, Denis (or any other commenter)
@John Dimambro Maybe a step up for knifemakers, since S35VN is a bit easier to grind and to work with than S30V... For the customer it depends on what you´re looking for: S30V has a bit better edge retention, S35VN is a bit tougher and a bit easier to sharpen.
Though I actually think that 99% of knife-users would not be able to experience a difference between the two steels in a blind test (I certainly could NOT).
Why don't you just switch the more aggressive g10 onto the spear point blade? Best of both worlds
because the drop point blade is S35VN. I prefer CTS XHP so far....
Very well informed review. Thanks. I do have one and like it a lot, but I've certainly learned a lot from this review.
Thank you! Glad you liked the video
my 940 just broke anther lock spring ! sometimes I carry a 940 and a recon 1 ! I can't make myself leave home without a custom recon 1( custom by me including a lock spring mod ,makes them a lot nicer to use )and I usually take another small knife for little jobs ! then I have another tiny keychain knife on the neck with o AAA light ! and a recon 1 micro on the keychain with a leatherman squirt and a p38 and and ! I try a bunch of knives in rotation from the sherp pile to the sharpen pile . you do pretty good review like a knife is really used !
Love your vids!
Thank you
The tanto version is the strongest of the three.
I prefer the drop point version
Everything you say is 100% true.
Good point of view.
Pozdrav Denis!
Wow man . You must have a huge collection of knives by now.
One more question please: You often talk about getting your knifes on the secondary market: Could you (or anybody else) tell me, where one can do so? I am not aware of online-platforms where one could sell or purchase knifes (and I am quite interested in doing both). Thanks a lot
Bladeforums
Did you ever find out where? (Aside from eBay)
Awesome video thank u for making 👍
I think the Lawman is fine. I like the 940 Osborne, but I prefer the Ganzo over them, because they are expendable in my opinion and they are very well made and durable.
By the way, have you seen the new Benchmade 200 Puukko? Thoughts?
Good review on lawman & recon 1. Will the CS Code 4 be next..?
TQ
I still have the Broken Skull to review...The Code 4 is nice but I don't know if it's for me. I like the rough CS folders....The Code 4 seems to be to me a more edc-ish style handle
However...if I find it for a good price i think i will give it a try
Very good videos, my only point of disagreement is a Ganzo axis lock being better for battoning than Cold steel. I have yet to damage my Cold Steel with severe use. where as my two Ganzos have been rendered useless with less abuse. I took the Ganzos apart and the stop pins are thin hollow steel so i can see why they didn't last.
Hollow stop pins? That is a bit strange. if you have the time watch my videos on the Ganzo G720. That amount of batoning and the force with which I hit the knife...I would not do that to my CS. The bladeplay which resulted was because the liners were bent after the abuse. But the stop pins were definitely not hollow. I will look and see for newer models.
Thank you for bringing up. Now I am very curious indeed
My Ganzo’s were not the G720 but the copy of the Benchmade Griptilian. So that’s probably the discrepancy. Again, great reviews
@@jeffhayden2737 I have one of those. They I will have a look and see. Thanks for the info. For me this is an interesting point you just brought up
is a cpm s35vn a good steel from cold steel?
from what i could notice this one was really ok. I must mention here that this is my only S35VN blade.
Many people said S35VN is crap. I do not share that opinion. Based on this knife alone
@@SpartanJohns thanks and greetings from Ukraine))
Excuse me but unlike the title of the video , you don't compare specifically the tow kind of the steel , i thought i can get the answer here " what's the best steel of both s35vn or the ctsxhp ? " Would you please tell me according to your experience
I merely presented these 2.
I have 4 CS folders. 3 with CTS XHP steel. The S35VN I have not tested/played with as much.
With the initial grind/edge my CS Broken Skull has held a more than decent edge for about a month of regular edc tasks. Keep in mind that I do not work in an environment where I need to cut stuff all day long. Mainly paper, cardboard, tape, food, zip ties.
If I had to choose, knowing as little about S35VN as I do at the moment I would choose CTS XHP.
I hope this helps
@@SpartanJohns thank you but i was about to buy CS ultimate hunter which is now become with s35vn steel while it used to come with cts xhp , i think i may postpone the decision for now or to seek for used one with cts xhp
@@amrahmed5790 that is also the case on the RECON 1 model. They started using S35VN instead of CTS XHP
@@SpartanJohns unfortunately yes , looks like the ctsxhp became rare and valuable now , keep yours in a good shape 😂 because we don't know when we will find this steel again , respect and best wishes for you
@@amrahmed5790 in any cutting test I have seen, ctsxhp from cold steel wins in edge retention by a decent margin. My personal experience, I don't really notice a huge difference. I will say my s35vn models seem to have tougher edges and better corrosion resistance.
Didn’t tell you about the scale mod? Poor form.
“Pocket hogger”Patent pending.
Don’t see a way to differentiate between FFG and hollow as the CS site does not say. Am I missing something?
I could never disengage my CS one handed and let it tap my fingers. It’s too sharp. 😏
You found some truth there in your incredibly real statement about cutting difference between opinel and CS styles.
Well my friend...another excellent video. Truly agreed with your thoughts in this one. And I’ve already come to appreciate Cold Steel solely based upon my experience with my entry level Prolite Tanto. I’ve come to see the Recon 1 Tanto as a grail knife and hope one day to hold it in my hands and count on it throughout my day.
Thanks for this video buddy
Be well
Craig
Forestwalker111 I think in the new stock of these models, the tanto is the only hollow grind. I read that somewhere and I have all three blade shapes and the clip point and spear point are both ffg. Tanto is hollow ground.
Tony Canniffe that’s great! Thank you so much for the info brother! Much appreciated! 🤓🙂
Be well
Craig
The second hand market is full of Cold Steel Recon 1's. I seriously recommend you get one used...
You can find them from everywhere and the price is less than half of the new price of a Recon 1.
As for which are now available in a hollow grind....i am not sure...for the American Lawman they added a "flat" in the description...
Outstanding video John :-) getting the spear-point because of your recommendation :-)
I do like the spear point more because of the size of the knife. However I do prefer the CTS XHP so far. Because this is a big knife I see it used more for rougher stuff so a spear point makes more sense. The clip point might be more useful when working wood. A spear point blade with a hollow grind would be my personal favorite.
@@SpartanJohns thanks again John:-) keep the videos coming
Steel, size, performance, and locking mechanism are essential to me. Good points about blade tip differences, triad lock performance, and usage. I carry my EDC primarily for protection and everyday use. I carry a different pocket knife for work. In woods I carry a fixed blade. However, since one may find himself in an unexpected situation, it is good to know the capabilities of your EDC. Overall good review. I would have liked to hear mention of sharpening this steel. Also the accent, is this Eastern European? Just curious. Good job on slicing/chopping too.
I have not sharpened the steel yet. It has a pretty steep edge angle so it stayed sharp so far. I do plan to reduce the edge angle and i will probably make an update after testing it with that angle.
I also like to have a solid knife with me. but i am also one to go for performance. that is why i modify edge angles on thicker blades.
Thank you. Glad you liked the video and my comments on the knife
And yes the accent is eastern european. Romanian. But i never thought it shined thru ;)
I look forward to the testing update. Hence, I will subscribe. You did mention about the leather strop. I have ordered one, but I have not tried it yet. I have used diamond bench stone. Accent is fine. We all have them. I am from the South, so I get reminded constantly. Last time was by an Asian in Australia.
Hi watch your channel. Can I ask a Favor. I know you have a Recon 1 Clip Point and a Recon 1 Spearpoint. Can you Please do a Video where you Put The Clip Point Knife and the Spearpoint knife on top of each other, where the Handles Lined up I just wanna Check if the Point of the Clip Point is Pointed Higher than the Spear point if the Handles where aligned with each other. Because in Defensive situations, I kinda want a Point that does Not Raise high. Thanks. More Pin Point accuracy in stabbing if at the centerline of the handle.
I can have a look and maybe tell you...if i don't forget...however I'd like to refrain from such videos as for me knives are not weapons but tools.
@@SpartanJohns Thanks :)
@@SpartanJohns Drop point S35VN or Clip point CTS XHP ... Which is Heavier or more Blade Heavy ?
Hi John, like your vids a lot - BUT please, could you make them a bit shorter (max. 15 minutes) and a little more on the spot? Cheers from Germany
I have a recon 1, was too much for EDC. Right now I carry the finnwolf, but have an American lawman on the way.
For the g10 ripping up pants, I unscrewed the pocket clip and lightly sanded the area under the clip. Been working good and easy to clip into pants pockets
the S35VN version was modified by its previous owner. The other one will not be. I like the fact that it is rough. does not bother me at all
as for it being too big for edc...i agree...but for some people, who need such a big sturdy pocket knife i can imagine that they are willing to make that sacrifice
Cold steel reduced the traction on the S35VN G10
They made the scales less aggressive? I did not know that
You definetaly cool man💪💪💪👍
Great review!!!
Thanks!
Thanks for the video my Bladed Brother⚔️ Hav you seen the Ganzo FH11 yet?
I have seen it....tried to get my hands on one but here...nobody would ship it....yet...
I am very curious...heard only good things about it...
My manix is a real pocket hog. Try a belt sheath for large folders.
Do you prefer clip or drop point on recon 1?
I like the drop point shape more. if the DP version came with a hollow grind it would be the best of both worlds.
for practical reasons I see myself using the clip point more.
As the Recon 1 is such a big folder I do see the DP with the thicker grind making more sense.
daniel Dan i like the spearpoint
@SpartanJohns what fixed blade is that you have on you?
ESEE 6. I have been carrying this one for over a year now, using and testing it. For what I need/like this is a pretty good one.
@@SpartanJohns Yeah I was looking at ESEE and I love them, the only cons I've ever seen about them is tip strength. But even if you do break it I've heard their warranty is stellar.
It’s seems to cut better than ur other blade
Ce părere ai despre cuțitele de la halfface - halffaceblades, se zvonește a fi cu adevărat deosebite și unice
Trebuie sa fiu sincer si sa iti spun ca nu am auzit de halffaceblades pana la acest comentariu. arata interesant...mai mult nu pot spune
White-Balance disco.
Good video
Thank you!
Dang. Lost me away gonzo for moral reasons
My father always stressed, "The machine will always break before the man."
Your father is illogical.
Hey brother. Which is this second hand market that has so many Recon 1's available? I'm only asking because I'm interested. Please reply. Thank you ⚔️
there are several groups. check facebook first. that should work.
if not: just google it. If you are in the US finding something like that should be no problem
@@SpartanJohns Actually, I am in the U.S. and getting these knives isn't a problem at all. Finding the CTS-XHP versions is a problem. Also, I would love to find some used versions for a good deal. Only thing is, I never have, do not and never will do Facebook. Thanks for all the great videos and lessons though my Bladed Brother ⚔️👍
I understand. I use facebook mainly for such groups. EDC, Outdoor, Bushcraft....
I have a lot of friends overseas who also do not like using facebook. I understand the reasons behind it.
There are forums.... Try looking for those.
I don’t know about you man. You would baton with a Ganzo, but not with a Recon 1? You value your money more than your flesh, I guess.
Bought recon 1 last year with the CTS steel....the blade steel is too soft, yet sort of brittle at the same time. Junk steel that should only be used for drill bits, etc....this is why cold steel went to s35vn.
Wrong, they went to S35 because there is a shortage of XHP and cant reliably get it.
@@hossman8499 no, that is complete BS. That might have been their marketing excuse...but real world users of the CTS steel know better. Thanks.
*Note...the makers of CTS steel say on their website that they have a surplus of it too*
You also carry a fixed blade in the video, so the recon 1 is redundant
when in the woods i have more knives with me simply because I am always testing out something. In this video it was the ESEE 6 which i have been testing for quite some time now. In my backpack I have another 2-3 knives...it is simply because I like to see which one does better and when
First! 🙄🤮