Cold Steel AD-10 3.5" S35VN Steel Ultra-Sharp Blade 5.25" G-10 Handle Tactical Folding Knife with Tri-Ad Locking Mechanism

I find everything about the AD-10 to be absolutely outstanding. I am definitely impressed, and it takes a lot to impress me. As folding knives go, it's larger than some, which for me is just fine because I carry it in a belt pouch. The lines, angles, grinds, and cutting edge are as close to perfect as one could hope for, and it came razor sharp right out of the box. The tip of the blade is quite sharp and defined, and it's backed up by a massive amount of steel, so the odds of breaking it, I'd say, are extremely remote. The blade has enough metal to realistically handle whatever task is required, keeping in mind, of course, that there is no such thing as any one knife that can do all things equally well. The ambi thumb studs are significant in size, and opening the knife is as smooth as greased glass, and it locks into place with a solid snap. The Tri-Ad lock may very well be the strongest locking action available anywhere at any price, and that is a critical factor when considering the purchase of a folder. The fit, finish and attention to detail is amazing as well. The aluminum liners match the G10 scales perfectly, and the scales themselves have just enough texture to feel good and provide a solid gripping surface. The shape of the handle feels great in my fairly large hands, and the notches atop the spine and handle make it feel even better. S35VN steel is a high-end metal that sharpens well and holds a good edge while being resistant to the elements. The pocket clip is massive and strong, but I can't speak about its holding ability since I don't carry it in my pocket. The butt of the handle protrudes slightly outward from the scales in case you need to pound something, and it has a recessed lanyard hole if needed. We all have our own unique preferences, so I can't say that the AD10 would be a perfect fit for you, but I can say that its quality, design and characteristics are absolutely amazing. It's built like a Patton tank, rock-solid, yet possesses an unmatched artistry that is sure to please. In fact, this knife is so solid that it feels like a fixed blade knife during use. I am beyond pleased with this model. I have owned and seen other folding knives costing a LOT more than this that were no where near as nice. I feel the AD10 is an incredible value, and I am 100% pleased in every respect. God Bless America and our troops!

The media could not be loaded. I bought this after getting the 4 Max Scout, as I wanted something more compact but still sturdy. Love the feel of it in my XL hands. The blade is sharp out of the box, and a breeze to maintain. The locking mechanism is sturdy like other Cold Steel knives with the Triad lock. Smooth but ergonomic handle feels comfortable in your hand. Yes it's bigger than most want for an EDC, but if you have larger hands or don't mind losing the pocket space it's unbeatable for a 3 1/2" blade.

This is my current EDC replacement instead of carrying a fixed blade at work. I've been carrying and using this knife for over a year now. No complaints at all. It is a quality knife at a good price. The fit up is superb. The opening operation is smooth and tight. The lock up is one of the best I've seen in any lock blades. The materials are outstanding (I'm not a fan of the aluminum liners but no problems so far). The blade holds it's edge well and I've never had to really sharpen it, just stand it back up with a ceramic rod and it's good to go.For those of you looking for a good leather sheath for this knife, American Bench Made(here on Amazon) makes a rugged leather sheath that will work. You'll just need to treat the sheath and stretch it a little (not much). This sheath will stand up to everyday use in industrial maintenance.

This is a great knife. I have a big hand and a lot of very expensive knives. I use everything like it’s a CRKT M16 though. This knife is very ergonomic both in hand and in pocket. I’ll get my one real complaint out right now. The pocket clip is great but the ramp is too shallow. I struggled to get it into any pocket. I bent the ramp out ever so slightly and problem solved. It has ridiculous action for a big lock back. Smooth and precise. The grinds are done very well. All sharp edges are knocked down. Fit and finish is great. It did come sharp out of the box but I think the new guy doing the sharpening was in a rush to leave that day. One side is at 19 and the other is 28 degrees. Like, come on man! Did you even try?! Lol. But it was sharp. This is common in Cold Steel knives though. I wish they would use a better steel than S35Vn though. I miss the CTS XHP. I feel that it had slightly better edge retention. It’s a minimal difference. But it polished so much better! But with Cold Steel selling out, I doubt we’re going to see any upgrades to any product now. Lynn claims that they are in a far better financial position with this new owner and it will allow growth with the company but if you look at the brands this company owns... I bet we see a fall in QC and materials. Just my 2 cents. This S35Vn took a beautiful polish, sharpened easily. Deburred fine. The edge retention seems on par with all other S35Vn I have used through the years. I’ll be up front, I’ve never cared for S35Vn. But it will be easy to sharpen for novice sharpeners which is who I expect to buy this knife. It responds to stropping very well! All in all, great knife. Cheap, typical packaging. (I WOULD PAY ANY AMOUNT OF MONEY FOR THIS IN 3V AND MICARTA!!!)

That's not a knife, this is a knife! This thing is a monster, but not too big that you can't carry it. The blade is S35VN and a chunk of steel at that. This is a heavy duty knife, probably as close to a fixed blade in a folder you'll get. Action is super smooth, lockup is rock solid, and blade grind and edge are perfect. I was so impressed with the AD10 I went ahead and bought the AD15 as well. I have to say, after playing with them for about a week now, I prefer the AD10. The back lock is just easier to use and more intuitive than the scorpion lock on the 15. If you need a heavy duty knife look no further, the AD10 has you covered.