Cold Steel Knives Surprises Collectors With XL and Retooled Classics for 2025

Cold Steel is going big for 2025. And if you know anything about Cold Steel, their “big” is XXL by any other standard! We got a sneak peek at the new products in store for 2025: some highly requested classics are returning and the some innovative new designs are introduced. They aren’t afraid to make knives that make you smile—just check out the Cold Steel fixed blade collection to see what we mean—and this year is no exception. Read on to see what’s coming soon from Cold Steel:

The Return of the Classics

The call from Cold Steel collectors came through loud and clear—many of Cold Steel’s classic models are making a comeback, and the pre-launch reviews have been overwhelmingly positive. These old-school designs remind us of what makes Cold Steel so popular in the first place: their commitment to strength, durability, and innovation that stands the test of time.

Cold Steel Colossus

Let’s examine one of the returning favorites. Designed by Mike Wallace, the Colossus features Cold Steel’s steadfast Tri-Ad lock, a pocket deployment plate, and a curvaceous ergonomic grip. The dimples carved in the handle ensure a secure hold, preventing the knife from slipping even in demanding conditions. The knife has an extra broad leaf-shaped blade, offering both length and versatility. Whether you’re tackling fine slicing or heavy-duty cutting tasks, this blade can handle it all. You can choke up on the handle for precision or choke back for a more standard grip, giving you complete control.

The Tri-Ad Lock provides exceptional strength and reliability. The blade steel is CTS-XHP, a customer favorite. One of the Cold Steel team members, Keith (Stickman), has been using this knife for skinning deer and found it to be a perfect skinning tool thanks to the curved edge, great edge retention, and full flat grind for efficient cutting. We’re expecting these knives very soon.

Recon XL

The largest version of the Cold Steel Recon series is the Recon 1 XL, but it’s been discontinued for years. Now it’s coming back for 2025 and guaranteed to bring a smile to your face! This knife embodies Cold Steel’s reputation for producing large, impressive folders and fixed blades.

The Recon XL features CTS-XHP steel. The design allows for several grips: you can choke back on the handle for reach or lock you hand in the finger scallops for general use. Despite its size, the Recon XL carries relatively narrow in the pocket. If you find it too large, smaller versions are available, though even Cold Steel’s “small” knives offer substantial capability.

The Tri-Ad lock system ensures long-term reliability. It’s self-adjusting, so it will continue to perform even with wear. This lock is so strong and dependable that it’s meant to be passed down through generations.

Vintage Cold Steel Classics Reborn:

In addition to the more recent rereleases listed above, Cold Steel is diving deep into their back catalog with retooled version of truly vintage designs.

Black Sable: A Touch of Tradition

The Black Sable joins the premium 60 Series with a highly polished CTS-XHP steel blade with a striking black finish. This knife features a conventional lock back mechanism for a classic feel that is true to the vintage version. Modern touches include a titanium liner to reduce weight, and shredded carbon fiber scales that look amazing. The girthy handle that is comfortably oversized, with well-considered contouring that creates a secure and ergonomic grip, making the pistol grip feel like a worn glove.

Hatamoto: Innovation and Steel

The Hatamoto features Cold Steel’s famous tanto blade profile, 20CV steel, and a liner lock design. To allow access to the liner lock without modifying the handle profile on one side, the liner features a folded-over piece that makes it easier to actuate. In a commitment to safety, the the liner lock system is designed to fold inward under load, not outward, so it stays in place to protect your hand.

Mini Frenzy: Not Huge, Still Big

The original Frenzy was too large for legal carry in some states with it’s 5.5″ blade, so Cold Steel created this new Mini Frenzy to fit more pockets. It features the Tri-Ad lock and tough 3V steel. While still a good size, it’s definitely more manageable for everyday carry. The wicked Wharncliffe/hawkbill blade is aggressively pointy and thin which helps keep the overall package relatively unobtrusive in the pocket. Despite being smaller, the new Mini Frenzy maintains the great grip and contour of the original Frenzy.

New Fixed Blades

Cold Steel is expanding their family of drop forged fixed blades, and adding an adventerous Andrew Demko collaboration to the lineup.

Mini Wasp: Small but Wicked

The Drop Forged Mini Wasp is a more manageable version of the original Wasp, which should make it better for comfortable concealed carry or as a traditional boot knife. Rest assured the Mini wasp is still wicked, with a double-edged recurved dagger profile made 52100 steel. The single-piece, drop-forged construction provides exceptional strength, and the Micarta handle scales add girth and grip. With a solid steel backbone, there are fewer potential failure points. It comes with a reliable Secure-Ex sheath.

Andrew Demko Collaboration: Java Push Dagger

Cold Steel has collaborated with Andrew Demko to create the Java push dagger. This aggressive and substantial push dagger features a Micarta handle and SK-5 steel blade. The design connects to Java, the birthplace of the Kris blade. The blade shape is even reminiscent of steam rising from a coffee mug. The Java push dagger has a meaty grip and includes a Secure-Ex sheath.

Availability

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