Any experience with a Cold Steel tanto?

Question

I'm curious to learn about either of two knives by Cold Steel - the GI Tanto (1055 carbon steel blade) and the Recon Tanto (AUS 8A stainless steel blade). I have no experience with Cold Steel knives, and wonder about the field applications of a tanto as a hunting knife. I'm interested in your comments. Thanks.

Answer 1

Even though my closest experience with a CS tanto was kinda negative, I think they are some of the best blades on the market for the money.

One of my brothers had one of the first tantos produced by Cold Steel years ago, and, while looking it over, the new blade slipped in my grip and barely tapped my finger, but I was cut nearly to the bone by this minor touch.

Several times I have wished I could afford the price of one or another model of these excellent knives.

Answer 2

Cold steel are very good, I have several cold steels but they are not hunting knives. Tantos are for defense. Cold steel do make hunting knive but only a few and they are expensive. But you probably already knew that. Those tantos run for 180-250 somtimes.

Answer 3

I have one of their Tanto's originally purchased in 1988. It wouldn't make a good hunting knife at all but it's a heck of a defensive knife. Solid, thick, heavy blade but well balanced, razor sharp. I guess I would say that it's the best knife we own. You won't be sorry if you get one.

Answer 4

I've had one of their Recon Tanto for a couple years now, I keep it on the floor of my truck for emergencies.  So far, it doesn't have a speck of rust, and it still has a very solid edge.

As far as a hunting knife, though, I would not recommend it.  The tanto point is not well suited for skinning animals or cleaning fish.

For a well-written article on the various types of knives and their uses, read this article:

http://anarchangel.blogspot.com/2005/03/...

You will find it very imformative.

Answer 5

Tanto's are not good hunting knives, period. They were designed as a blade for puncturing armour. They are an excellent self defense weapon. Cold steel is an excellent company though. You can't go wrong with their knives.