Cold Steel Tiger Claw Plain Edge Folding Knife Review

Let’s Talk About Cold Steel Tiger Claw Plain Edge Folding Knife

The Cold Steel Tiger Claw Plain Edge Folding Knife is a unique and aggressively styled karambit designed by Andrew Demko. Cold Steel is known for its innovative and sometimes controversial designs, and the Tiger Claw certainly fits that bill. It’s a folding knife meant for self-defense and utility, combining a hawkbill blade with a robust locking mechanism.

I was looking for a folding karambit that I could reliably carry every day. I wanted something that was both functional for everyday tasks and capable of being deployed quickly for self-defense if needed. The Tiger Claw’s aggressive hawkbill blade shape and reputation for strong lockup were key factors in my decision.

My first impression upon unboxing was that this knife is substantial. The G-10 handle felt grippy and secure, and the blade arrived incredibly sharp. It’s definitely a unique design, and I appreciated the attention to detail.

I considered the Fox 479 G10 Black Karambit and the Bastinelli Creations Dragotac, both high-quality karambits. I chose the Cold Steel Tiger Claw Plain Edge Folding Knife due to its more affordable price point and Cold Steel’s reputation for durability. The lockback mechanism also gave me more confidence than some of the liner lock options on other karambits.

Initially, I was excited but also slightly intimidated. The hawkbill blade is definitely more specialized than your average EDC knife, but I was eager to see how it performed.

Real-World Testing: Putting Cold Steel Tiger Claw Plain Edge Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Cold Steel Tiger Claw Plain Edge Folding Knife around the property performing various utility tasks. This included cutting rope, opening boxes, and trimming small branches. The hawkbill blade was surprisingly effective at these tasks, allowing for efficient hooking and pulling cuts.

I tested the knife during a light rain shower to assess its grip. The G-10 handle provided excellent traction even when wet. The thumb disc was easy to access and operate with wet hands as well.

The knife required a bit of getting used to due to the unusual blade shape. The curved blade takes some practice to control precisely, but once I got the hang of it, it felt very natural. The ergonomics are fairly good for a karambit with a secure grip.

The only issue I encountered was the stiffness of the lockback mechanism. It was difficult to disengage initially, requiring significant force. I hoped this would improve with break-in.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Cold Steel Tiger Claw Plain Edge Folding Knife has proven to be quite durable. The blade has held its edge well, requiring only occasional stropping to maintain sharpness. There are no signs of blade play, and the lockup remains solid.

I’ve noticed some minor scratches on the satin blade finish and the edges of the G-10 handle. However, this is to be expected with regular use and hasn’t affected performance. The S35VN steel seems resistant to corrosion.

Maintenance has been straightforward. I clean the blade and pivot area with a dry cloth after each use and occasionally apply a small amount of lubricant to the pivot. The lockback mechanism is still stiff but has loosened slightly with continued use.

Compared to other folding knives I’ve used, the Tiger Claw stands out for its unique blade shape and specialized purpose. It’s not as versatile as a drop-point blade, but it excels at tasks that require hooking and pulling cuts. The Cold Steel Tiger Claw Plain Edge Folding Knife fills a specific niche well.

Breaking Down the Features of Cold Steel Tiger Claw Plain Edge Folding Knife

Specifications

The Cold Steel Tiger Claw Plain Edge Folding Knife boasts a 3.25-inch blade made from S35VN steel. This steel is known for its excellent edge retention, toughness, and corrosion resistance, making it a premium choice for knife blades. It has a satin finish.

The overall length is 9.1 inches, and the handle is made of black G-10. The G-10 material provides a very secure grip even in wet or slippery conditions. The blade thickness is 0.13 inches, and the blade shape is a Hawkbill.

The knife weighs 5 ounces, which is reasonable for its size and construction. It utilizes a lockback mechanism for secure blade lockup. The opening method is via a thumb disk, making it ambidextrous.

The flat grind on the blade helps with slicing performance. The handle length is 6.25 inches, providing ample room for a secure grip even with gloved hands. The Cold Steel Tiger Claw Plain Edge Folding Knife is designed for right or left-hand use.

These specifications are important because they contribute to the knife’s overall performance and durability. The S35VN steel ensures the blade stays sharp longer, while the G-10 handle provides a secure and comfortable grip. The lockback mechanism offers a strong and reliable lockup, essential for safety.

Performance & Functionality

The Cold Steel Tiger Claw Plain Edge Folding Knife performs its intended purpose exceptionally well. The hawkbill blade excels at tasks requiring hooking and pulling cuts. It’s ideal for cutting rope, opening boxes, and even some self-defense applications.

The knife’s strengths lie in its specialized blade shape, secure grip, and strong lockup. The hawkbill blade allows for efficient and controlled cuts. The G-10 handle provides excellent traction. The lockback mechanism ensures the blade stays securely in place during use.

The main weakness is the stiffness of the lockback mechanism, which can make it difficult to disengage. Also, the hawkbill blade shape is not as versatile as other blade shapes. It can be challenging to use for tasks that require a straight edge.

The knife meets my expectations for a durable and reliable folding karambit. It’s a specialized tool that excels at its intended purpose. I trust it for EDC and I feel confident in its reliability.

Design & Ergonomics

The Cold Steel Tiger Claw Plain Edge Folding Knife is designed for both functionality and aesthetics. The hawkbill blade is aggressively styled, and the G-10 handle provides a secure and comfortable grip. The thumb disk is easily accessible and allows for ambidextrous operation.

The build quality is excellent. The materials used are high-quality, and the knife feels solid and well-constructed. At 5 ounces, it’s not the lightest knife, but the weight contributes to its overall sturdiness.

There is a slight learning curve due to the specialized blade shape. However, once you get used to it, the knife feels natural and comfortable in hand. The ergonomics are generally good.

Durability & Maintenance

The Cold Steel Tiger Claw Plain Edge Folding Knife is built to last. The S35VN steel blade is known for its durability and edge retention. The G-10 handle is resistant to wear and tear. The lockback mechanism is robust and reliable.

With proper care, the knife should last for many years. The S35VN steel is corrosion-resistant, and the G-10 handle is virtually indestructible. Regular cleaning and lubrication will help maintain its performance.

Maintenance is relatively simple. Clean the blade and pivot area with a dry cloth after each use. Apply a small amount of lubricant to the pivot occasionally. Sharpen the blade as needed using a sharpening stone or other sharpening tool.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Cold Steel Tiger Claw Plain Edge Folding Knife does not come with many accessories. However, there are some customization options available.

You can replace the pocket clip with a different one to suit your carry preferences. You can also add a lanyard for added security and ease of retrieval. While the knife isn’t specifically designed for extensive customization, some users may choose to modify the handle scales or blade finish.

The knife is compatible with standard pocket clips, so there are plenty of aftermarket options available. The knife is not specifically compatible with accessories from other brands, however, generic knife accessories will typically work.

Pros and Cons of Cold Steel Tiger Claw Plain Edge Folding Knife

Who Should Buy Cold Steel Tiger Claw Plain Edge Folding Knife?

The Cold Steel Tiger Claw Plain Edge Folding Knife is perfect for individuals who appreciate unique and specialized tools. It’s ideal for self-defense practitioners, martial artists, and those who frequently need a knife for tasks requiring hooking and pulling cuts. Collectors who appreciate innovative knife designs will also find it appealing.

This knife is NOT suitable for those who need a general-purpose EDC knife. Its specialized blade shape limits its versatility. Also, it’s not ideal for users who prefer lightweight or easily concealed knives.

A must-have accessory is a sharpening stone or strop to maintain the blade’s edge. A high-quality lubricant is also recommended for maintaining the smooth operation of the pivot and lockback mechanism.

Conclusion on Cold Steel Tiger Claw Plain Edge Folding Knife

The Cold Steel Tiger Claw Plain Edge Folding Knife is a well-built and reliable folding karambit. Its unique hawkbill blade, secure grip, and strong lockup make it a standout choice. The S35VN steel ensures excellent edge retention, and the G-10 handle provides a comfortable and secure grip.

The price of $119.79 is justified considering the quality of materials and construction. It’s a good value for a specialized knife of this caliber.

I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a durable and functional folding karambit. The Cold Steel Tiger Claw Plain Edge Folding Knife offers excellent performance in a unique and aggressively styled package. If you’re looking for a specialized tool that excels at hooking and pulling cuts, this knife is an excellent choice.