Cold Steel Espada Series S35VN Review: A Tactical Folding Knife That Commands Attention

 

The Cold Steel Espada Series S35VN folding knives are a bold reimagining of the traditional Spanish navaja, blending classic aesthetics with modern engineering. Designed by Andrew Demko, these knives are built for heavy-duty use, featuring premium materials and Cold Steel’s renowned Tri-Ad Lock mechanism. Available in multiple sizes—Large (5.5"), Extra-Large (7.5"), and even a Mini model—the Espada offers something for both collectors and practical users.

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Blade & Steel: S35VN Excellence

The heart of the Espada is its CPM S35VN blade steel, a premium stainless alloy known for its excellent edge retention, corrosion resistance, and toughness. Compared to its predecessor, AUS-8A, S35VN offers superior performance, making it a better choice for both tactical and everyday cutting tasks.

The blade features a hollow grind with a trailing point shape, optimized for slicing and piercing. Its satin finish adds a touch of elegance, while the razor-sharp edge ensures reliable performance.

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Locking Mechanism: Tri-Ad Lock

Cold Steel’s patented Tri-Ad Lock is a standout feature of the Espada. This mechanism enhances the strength of a traditional lock by incorporating a secondary safety feature, resulting in a lock that is exceptionally strong and resistant to shock. In rigorous testing, the XL Espada was able to support over 600 pounds of weight, showcasing the lock's impressive durability.

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Handle & Ergonomics: Polished G-10 & Aluminum

The handle of the Espada is a fusion of polished G-10 scales and mirror-polished 7075 aluminum bolsters and frame. This combination not only provides a sleek and refined appearance but also ensures a comfortable and secure grip. The ergonomically designed handle features multiple finger grooves and a sub-hilt, allowing for various grip styles and enhancing control during use.

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Carry & Deployment: Ambidextrous Clip & Thumb Plate

Equipped with an ambidextrous pocket/belt clip, the Espada offers versatile carry options, catering to both right- and left-handed users. The thumb plate aids in quick deployment, allowing for smooth one-handed opening. Despite its size, the knife fits comfortably in pockets, making it practical for everyday carry.

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Size & Weight: A Tactical Presence

The Espada is a substantial knife, with the Large model measuring 12.25 inches in overall length and a blade length of 5.5 inches. Weighing approximately 9.8 ounces, it is designed for those who appreciate a larger, more commanding blade. The XL version extends to 7.5 inches, further emphasizing its presence.

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Real-World Performance

Users have praised the Espada for its build quality and performance. One reviewer noted that the knife was centered perfectly, very sharp, easy to open and close, and both locked up very well. Another appreciated its suitability for both tactical and everyday tasks, stating that it is one of the best knives made by anyone.

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Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Premium S35VN blade steel for excellent edge retention and toughness.

• Tri-Ad Lock mechanism provides exceptional strength and safety.

• Ergonomic handle design with polished G-10 and aluminum for comfort and aesthetics.

• Ambidextrous pocket/belt clip and thumb plate for versatile carry and quick deployment.

• Large size and weight suitable for tactical and heavy-duty tasks.

Cons:

• Size may be cumbersome for everyday carry for some users.

• Polished surfaces may show wear over time.

• Higher price point compared to other folding knives.

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Final Thoughts

The Cold Steel Espada Series S35VN folding knives are a testament to Cold Steel's commitment to quality and innovation. With their robust construction, premium materials, and thoughtful design, they stand out in the realm of tactical folding knives. Whether you're a collector, an enthusiast, or someone in need of a reliable tool, the Espada offers a compelling option that combines form and function.

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Kizer Parakeet EDC Pocket Knife Review

When it comes to everyday carry knives, compact design, reliable performance, and ease of use are all essential features. The Kizer Parakeet EDC Pocket Knife, model V2706M1, brings those qualities together in a practical, stylish, and functional tool built for men and women who want a dependable blade for daily use, outdoor adventures, and light utility work. With its Nitro-V blade, micarta handle, and thoughtful ergonomic design, the Parakeet has quickly gained recognition as a go-to compact folding knife.

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Blade Quality and Material

The Parakeet features a 2.46-inch blade crafted from Nitro-V steel, a stainless steel known for its excellent balance between toughness, edge retention, and corrosion resistance. This material ensures that the knife performs well in different environments, whether slicing through rope, opening packages, or tackling outdoor tasks. The compact blade length makes it less intimidating while remaining practical for daily use. Its drop-point shape offers versatility, making it suitable for both precision tasks and general cutting needs.

One standout aspect of Nitro-V steel is how it sharpens easily compared to some other premium steels, which is important for users who prefer maintaining their knife at home without specialized equipment. The fine grain structure of the steel contributes to a razor-sharp edge and durability, ensuring the Parakeet remains a reliable tool with consistent performance.

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Handle Design and Ergonomics

The micarta handle gives the knife a blend of durability and comfort. Micarta, made from layers of fabric and resin, provides excellent grip even in wet or sweaty conditions. Unlike smooth metal handles, micarta develops a subtle texture over time, improving handling with extended use.

Despite the Parakeet’s small size, the handle is well-contoured to fit comfortably in the hand. Its thoughtful design makes it easy to hold for extended periods without discomfort. The knife also stays lightweight and slim, making it a perfect companion for pocket carry without adding bulk.

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Opening Mechanism and Usability

Equipped with a thumb stud opener, the Parakeet allows for smooth and quick deployment. The action is reliable and satisfying, with the blade gliding open thanks to its well-tuned pivot system. While it may not be as flashy as a flipper mechanism, the thumb stud gives precise control and ensures a low-profile design that works well for discreet everyday carry.

The knife’s sturdy locking mechanism keeps the blade securely in place during use, minimizing the risk of accidental closure. This is particularly important for users who want a balance of compact size and safety.

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Portability and Everyday Carry

At its core, the Parakeet is built for EDC practicality. The blade length, combined with the lightweight micarta handle, makes it an easy knife to slip into a pocket without notice. It strikes the perfect balance between being small enough for daily use while still having the strength and durability for more demanding tasks.

The included pocket clip adds further convenience, securing the knife in place while maintaining quick accessibility. Its discreet carry profile makes it suitable for both men and women who want a versatile knife for camping, hunting, or everyday tasks.

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Performance in Use

In real-world scenarios, the Parakeet performs admirably across a variety of cutting tasks. Whether slicing cardboard, trimming cordage, or preparing food outdoors, the blade cuts cleanly with minimal resistance. Its compact design makes it excellent for precision tasks like carving or detail work, while still handling light-duty outdoor applications effectively.

The knife also excels as a companion for camping or hunting trips, where a smaller blade can be useful for finer tasks that larger knives may struggle with. Its durable materials and sharp blade edge provide confidence in challenging situations without being overbuilt or cumbersome.

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Aesthetics and Style

Kizer is known for combining practicality with appealing designs, and the Parakeet is no exception. The combination of a clean drop-point blade and natural micarta handle gives the knife a minimalist yet rugged appearance. It feels refined enough for urban carry while also looking right at home in the outdoors.

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Final Thoughts

The Kizer Parakeet EDC Pocket Knife strikes an excellent balance between compact design, premium materials, and reliable performance. Its Nitro-V blade provides durability and sharpness, the micarta handle ensures comfort and grip, and the thumb stud opener makes deployment simple and smooth.

Ideal for men and women who want a versatile knife for everyday use, camping, or hunting, the Parakeet delivers on all fronts without unnecessary complexity. Lightweight, functional, and stylish, it represents a smart choice for anyone who values a dependable pocket knife that blends practicality with quality craftsmanship.

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LEATHERMAN Super Tool 300 Multitool Review

The LEATHERMAN Super Tool 300 is one of the most rugged and versatile multitools available, designed with heavy-duty users in mind. Built from stainless steel and paired with a durable nylon sheath, this tool is engineered to handle tough tasks while remaining compact enough to carry on a belt or in a work bag. It is a flagship tool for professionals, outdoorsmen, and anyone who needs a reliable multitool that goes beyond basic functionality.

Build Quality and Design

Crafted from high-grade stainless steel, the Super Tool 300 has a sturdy, industrial feel. The polished steel finish gives it a professional appearance while also providing resistance to corrosion. At 9.6 ounces, it has a solid weight that inspires confidence in its durability, yet it is balanced well enough to avoid feeling cumbersome. Its closed length of about 4.5 inches makes it portable while still allowing full-sized tools to be integrated.

The design prioritizes comfort, even during tough use. Large cutouts along the sides of the handles make it easier to operate the tool while wearing gloves, which is especially useful for mechanics, construction workers, and outdoor enthusiasts. The ergonomics are designed so that the pliers and cutters fit naturally in the hand, providing strong grip and control.

Tools and Functionality

The Super Tool 300 comes with a wide array of tools—nineteen in total—that make it a true workhorse. The primary highlight is its pliers, which are robust enough for heavy-duty gripping, twisting, and pulling. Integrated into the plier head are premium replaceable wire cutters and hard-wire cutters, ensuring that even if the cutting edges wear down, they can be swapped out easily for long-term usability.

The saw is another standout component, crafted with sharp teeth that cut cleanly through wood and other materials. For those who spend time in the outdoors, this feature proves invaluable for building shelters, clearing brush, or preparing firewood. The knives included—both straight edge and serrated—are made of strong stainless steel and hold their sharpness well under repeated use.

Other tools include screwdrivers in various sizes, an awl for puncturing or leather work, a file for smoothing edges, and can and bottle openers for everyday convenience. Each tool locks firmly into place when deployed, ensuring safety and stability during use.

Performance in Real-World Use

What sets the Super Tool 300 apart is its ability to handle demanding jobs that would normally require full-sized tools. The pliers have excellent torque and strength, capable of handling tough wires, bolts, or small pipes. The replaceable cutters maintain efficiency even after repeated use on hardened materials.

In outdoor scenarios, the saw and knives excel in versatility, making them ideal for campers, hunters, and survivalists. For tradesmen, the combination of pliers, cutters, screwdrivers, and file makes this multitool a dependable partner on the job site. The lock-back design on each tool provides peace of mind by preventing accidental closures, even when applying pressure.

Sheath and Portability

The Super Tool 300 comes with a nylon sheath designed for secure belt carry. The sheath is durable, resistant to wear, and provides quick access to the multitool when needed. While the tool itself is slightly heavier than some compact models, its sheath makes it easy to carry without bulkiness.

Strengths

• Rugged stainless steel construction built for heavy-duty use

• Premium replaceable wire cutters that extend tool longevity

• Full-sized pliers with strong grip and control

• Wide selection of nineteen integrated tools covering a variety of tasks

• Comfortable design that works well even with gloves

• Secure nylon sheath for convenient carry

Considerations

The Super Tool 300 is slightly heavier than pocket-sized multitools, so it may not be the best option for those seeking a lightweight everyday carry. Instead, it is designed for those who need maximum strength and versatility in a single package.

Final Verdict

The LEATHERMAN Super Tool 300 is a professional-grade multitool built for durability, functionality, and long-term reliability. It strikes an excellent balance between portability and heavy-duty performance. Whether used by a mechanic in the shop, a camper in the woods, or a homeowner tackling repairs, this multitool delivers consistent results. With its robust stainless steel build, replaceable wire cutters, and thoughtful ergonomic design, it remains one of the top choices for anyone who wants a dependable multitool that can withstand serious use.

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