{"id":12675,"date":"2023-09-10T10:57:13","date_gmt":"2023-09-10T17:57:13","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/?p=12675"},"modified":"2024-02-16T01:26:39","modified_gmt":"2024-02-16T09:26:39","slug":"cold-steel-american-lawman-review","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/cold-steel-american-lawman-review\/","title":{"rendered":"Cold Steel American Lawman Review"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"author-info\"><img src = \"https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/contributor1.jpg\" class=\"user-avatar\" \/> <span class=\"entry-author\" itemprop=\"author\" itemscope itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Person\"><a href=\"https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/author\/matt\/\" class=\"entry-author-link\" rel=\"author\" itemprop=\"url\"><span class=\"entry-author-name\" itemprop=\"name\">Matt Davidson<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div><p class=\"tdm-descr\">We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. Any products or services put forward appear in no particular order. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.<\/p><p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/05\/Cold-Steel-American-Lawman-700.jpg\" alt=\"Cold Steel American Lawman-700\" width=\"700\" height=\"153\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8704\" srcset=\"https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/05\/Cold-Steel-American-Lawman-700.jpg 700w, https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/05\/Cold-Steel-American-Lawman-700-150x33.jpg 150w, https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/05\/Cold-Steel-American-Lawman-700-300x66.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><div class=\"buycontainer\"><a class=\"buyboxamz\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Cold-Steel-American-Lawman-Black\/dp\/B07H49KDYC?crid=TBT28H84Z9LZ&#038;keywords=cold+steel+american+lawman&#038;qid=1694367425&#038;s=sporting-goods&#038;sprefix=cold+steel+american+lawman,sporting,145&#038;sr=1-2&#038;linkCode=sl1&#038;tag=ki-1001-20&#038;linkId=09890ad5eadd4dec2643ca75d983b019&#038;language=en_US&#038;ref_=as_li_ss_tl\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">See @ Amazon<\/a><span class=\"buyboxspacer\"><\/span><a class=\"buyboxbhq\" href=\"https:\/\/shrsl.com\/47y7b\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">See @ BladeHQ<\/a><\/div>\r\n\t\t<div class=\"review_wrap\">\r\n\t\t\t<div id=\"review-box\" class=\"review-box review-bottom review-percentage\"><h2 class=\"review-box-header\">Cold Steel American Lawman<\/h2>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"review-item\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span><h5>Quality\/Performance - 76%<\/h5><span style=\"width:76%\" data-width=\"76\"><\/span><\/span>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"review-item\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span><h5>Value for Money - 84%<\/h5><span style=\"width:84%\" data-width=\"84\"><\/span><\/span>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"review-summary\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"review-final-score\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3>80<span>%<\/span><\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h4><\/h4>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"review-short-summary\"><p><div class=\"goodlist\">\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li><strong>Pros: <\/strong>Smooth action, solid lockup, fair price point, ambidextrous, quality materials<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<div class=\"badlist\">\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li><strong>Cons: <\/strong>Lock bar pressure can be difficult, no color options, odd pocket clip for carry<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/div>\r\nThe American Lawman is a great pocket knife in its price range. It performs admirably, carries slim and gets the job done.<\/p>\r\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\r\n\t\t\t<\/div>\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\t\t<\/div>\r\n\t<\/div><script type=\"application\/ld+json\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@type\":\"product\",\"name\":\"Cold Steel American Lawman Review\",\"description\":\"Andrew Demko and Cold Steel are synonymous names in the folding knife world. Before venturing out on his own to make a new line of knives (the AD20 and AD20.5 line), he worked under Cold Steel\\u2019s brand\",\"sku\":\"\",\"mpn\":\"\",\"gtin\":\"\",\"brand\":{\"@type\":\"Brand\",\"name\":\"\"},\"offers\":{\"@type\":\"Offer\",\"url\":\"\",\"price\":\"\",\"priceCurrency\":\"\",\"availability\":\"InStock\",\"priceValidUntil\":\"\"},\"review\":{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@type\":\"review\",\"dateCreated\":\"2023-09-10T10:57:13-07:00\",\"datePublished\":\"2023-09-10T10:57:13-07:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2024-02-16T01:26:39-08:00\",\"headline\":\"Cold Steel American Lawman Review\",\"name\":\"Cold Steel American Lawman Review\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/knifeinformer.com\\\/cold-steel-american-lawman-review\\\/\",\"description\":\"Andrew Demko and Cold Steel are synonymous names in the folding knife world. Before venturing out on his own to make a new line of knives (the AD20 and AD20.5 line), he worked under Cold Steel\\u2019s brand\",\"copyrightYear\":\"2023\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"Knife Informer\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Matt Davidson\",\"sameAs\":\"https:\\\/\\\/knifeinformer.com\\\/author\\\/matt\\\/\"},\"reviewBody\":\"Andrew Demko and Cold Steel are synonymous names in the folding knife world. Before venturing out on his own to make a new line of knives (the AD20 and AD20.5 line), he worked under Cold Steel\\u2019s brand\",\"reviewRating\":{\"@type\":\"Rating\",\"worstRating\":1,\"bestRating\":5,\"ratingValue\":4,\"description\":\"&lt;div class=&quot;goodlist&quot;&gt;\\r\\n&lt;ul&gt;\\r\\n \\t&lt;li&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Pros: &lt;\\\/strong&gt;Smooth action, solid lockup, fair price point, ambidextrous, quality materials&lt;\\\/li&gt;\\r\\n&lt;\\\/ul&gt;\\r\\n&lt;\\\/div&gt;\\r\\n&lt;div class=&quot;badlist&quot;&gt;\\r\\n&lt;ul&gt;\\r\\n \\t&lt;li&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Cons: &lt;\\\/strong&gt;Lock bar pressure can be difficult, no color options, odd pocket clip for carry&lt;\\\/li&gt;\\r\\n&lt;\\\/ul&gt;\\r\\n&lt;\\\/div&gt;\\r\\nThe American Lawman is a great pocket knife in its price range. It performs admirably, carries slim and gets the job done.\"},\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/knifeinformer.com\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2023\\\/09\\\/cold-steel-american-lawman.jpg\",\"width\":696,\"height\":170}},\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/knifeinformer.com\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2023\\\/09\\\/cold-steel-american-lawman.jpg\",\"width\":696,\"height\":170}}<\/script><\/p>\n<p><strong>Andrew Demko<\/strong> and <a href=\"https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/cold-steel-knives\/\"><strong>Cold Steel<\/strong><\/a> are synonymous names in the folding knife world. Before venturing out on his own to make a new line of knives (the <strong>AD20<\/strong> and <strong>AD20.5<\/strong> line), he worked under Cold Steel\u2019s brand as a designer for many of their knives, with an emphasis on the spokesman and testing side of the brand. There have been many that take a place in the hall of fame folders in Cold Steel\u2019s lineup, but the <strong>American Lawman<\/strong> is one that seems to remain evergreen through the years. The knife has changed a bit over time, but has remained largely the same, with some very usable features and reliability that rivals knives at a much higher price point, all while keeping the budget on the lower end. Maybe it\u2019s not a knife that every folder connoisseur needs to have in their collection, but maybe we can push to make it a <em>law<\/em>&#8230;. ok, enough with the puns. For now.<\/p>\n<div class=\"knife-specs-module\"><div class=\"bg-hash group\"><div class=\"knife-specs-text\"><h3>Key Specs: Cold Steel American Lawman<\/h3><div class=\"specs-wrap\"><div class=\"spec-item\"><div class=\"small-caps demi c-gold2\">Blade Length<\/div>3.5 in<\/div><div class=\"spec-item\"><div class=\"small-caps demi c-gold2\">Overall Length<\/div>8.1 in<\/div><div class=\"spec-item\"><div class=\"small-caps demi c-gold2\">Weight<\/div>3.95 oz<\/div><div class=\"spec-item\"><div class=\"small-caps demi c-gold2\">Blade Material<\/div>CPM-S35VN<\/div><div class=\"spec-item\"><div class=\"small-caps demi c-gold2\">Handle Material<\/div>G-10<\/div><div class=\"spec-item\"><div class=\"small-caps demi c-gold2\">Locking Mechanism<\/div>Lock Back<\/div><div class=\"spec-item\"><div class=\"small-caps demi c-gold2\">Deployment Mechanism<\/div>Thumb Stud<\/div><div class=\"spec-item\"><div class=\"small-caps demi c-gold2\">Country of Origin<\/div>Taiwan<\/div><div class=\"spec-item\"><div class=\"small-caps demi c-gold2\">Price Range<\/div>About $125<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<h2>Blade<\/h2>\n<p>We have arrived to a point in time where folding knives often have more descriptive words to project their looks in words, but the American Lawman keeps it simple. It\u2019s a 3.5\u201d <a href=\"https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/knife-blade-types\/\">drop point blade<\/a>, flat ground, with a huge forward choil. Using the mid range <a href=\"https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/discovering-the-best-knife-steel\/\"><strong>S35VN blade steel<\/strong><\/a>, and a DLC coating to keep the knife from looking too friendly, the Lawman looks about as plain as a knife blade could look. Of course, Cold Steel has to keep their large text boasting their brand name on the blade, as well as the model name, S35VN, and Taiwan verbiage, but it\u2019s all confined to a small area on either side of the blade near the heel.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Cold-Steel-American-Lawman-1.jpg\" alt=\"Cold-Steel-American-Lawman-1\" width=\"800\" height=\"215\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-12684\" srcset=\"https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Cold-Steel-American-Lawman-1.jpg 800w, https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Cold-Steel-American-Lawman-1-300x81.jpg 300w, https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Cold-Steel-American-Lawman-1-150x40.jpg 150w, https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Cold-Steel-American-Lawman-1-768x206.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>With a blade thickness of .13\u201d, it\u2019s somewhat hefty in it\u2019s ability to endure abuse, but not thick enough to cause binding in cuts, or have a blade-to-weight ratio that\u2019s out of proportion. Also, in my experience, Cold Steel seems to put a great, albeit toothy edge on the knife from the factory. I find it quite usable, and much more aggressive in cutting than many other folders with this particular steel out of the box.<\/p>\n<h2>Deployment &amp; Lockup<\/h2>\n<p>Ah, who else enjoys a traditional <a href=\"https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/pocket-knife-lock-types\/\">back lock<\/a>? Yeah, I know, not many of us. The good news is, Demko, in his seemingly never-ending idea book for lock designs, hit a home run with the <strong>Tri-Ad lock<\/strong>. Yes, it\u2019s a back lock, but has a stop pin that sits between the blade and lock bar, giving the lock a level of reliability and rigidity that rivals any lock on the market. Another point in the Tri-Ad lock\u2019s favor \u2013 incredible smoothness. Part of the smooth nature of the Lawman\u2019s deployment is due to good quality phosphor bronze washers in the pivot, but also a polished blade tang that rides along the back lock during the deployment action. It\u2019s the fine details like this, that make me appreciate a folder that\u2019s only ~$125. Yes, there are cheaper knives out there, many with great locks and features, too. But the Lawman is easily justified at this price point (and\u00a0 easily found under $100 on the secondary market).<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Cold-Steel-American-Lawman-2.jpg\" alt=\"Cold-Steel-American-Lawman-2\" width=\"800\" height=\"308\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-12685\" srcset=\"https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Cold-Steel-American-Lawman-2.jpg 800w, https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Cold-Steel-American-Lawman-2-300x116.jpg 300w, https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Cold-Steel-American-Lawman-2-150x58.jpg 150w, https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Cold-Steel-American-Lawman-2-768x296.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>While there are many positives to the Tri-Ad lock, there are still some arguably less desirable aspects. Yes it\u2019s smooth, but there is no traditional detent to keep the blade closed. This isn\u2019t an inherent problem with back locks in general; it\u2019s more of a preference. But I have to admit, having a nice, crisp detent that keeps the blade closed, and allows the blade to \u201cpop\u201d and slam to the open position, is entirely more enjoyable to a knife nut. I did drop the knife on carpet accidentally one time, and the blade came open more than half way.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Cold-Steel-American-Lawman-closedspine.jpg\" alt=\"Cold-Steel-American-Lawman-closedspine\" width=\"700\" height=\"122\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-12691\" srcset=\"https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Cold-Steel-American-Lawman-closedspine.jpg 700w, https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Cold-Steel-American-Lawman-closedspine-300x52.jpg 300w, https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Cold-Steel-American-Lawman-closedspine-150x26.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Again, this could happen with a standard detent ball folder, but it does seem to happen much more easily on this knife. The second down side to the deployment on a back lock, is being able to flick the knife open in one fell swoop.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Cold-Steel-American-Lawman-3.jpg\" alt=\"Cold-Steel-American-Lawman-3\" width=\"800\" height=\"291\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-12686\" srcset=\"https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Cold-Steel-American-Lawman-3.jpg 800w, https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Cold-Steel-American-Lawman-3-300x109.jpg 300w, https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Cold-Steel-American-Lawman-3-150x55.jpg 150w, https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Cold-Steel-American-Lawman-3-768x279.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Again, preference plays a part in this aspect. The knife slow rolls open with great smoothness and is quite easy on the thumb with a well-designed dual thumb lug. The\u00a0 lock bar is quite stiff, resulting in a firm, long press to allow the blade to disengage from the locked position, but for most users, it\u2019s not overly difficult. And, when that blade is locked in place, it\u2019s extremely tight. No movement in any direction, unless you\u2019re flexing the G10 scales and pivot by means of heavy testing.<\/p>\n<h2>Features, Fit &amp; Finish<\/h2>\n<p>Speaking of G10 handle scales, the American Lawman uses the <strong>G10 scales<\/strong> and does not have liners. The <a href=\"https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/benchmade-bugout-review\/\">Benchmade Bugout<\/a> still to this day receives critique for having <strong>FRN<\/strong> handle scales with a partial liner, because the scales flex very easily and are not at all comfortable in a tight grip. But <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">G10 is stronger than FRN<\/span>, and even though Cold Steel went with an ultra thin handle (.39\u201d), the Lawman is still very rigid in the handle. The handle is quite wide, so the thinness doesn\u2019t seem to be a negative in using the knife, but allows it to be carried easily. And with a weight of only 3.9 ounces, it may not \u201cdisappear in the pocket\u201d, but it sure does tuck away nicely until you\u2019re ready to use it. And with a handle length of 4.6\u201d, there\u2019s plenty of real estate to keep the knife securely in hand.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Cold-Steel-American-Lawman-4.jpg\" alt=\"Cold-Steel-American-Lawman-4\" width=\"800\" height=\"218\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-12687\" srcset=\"https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Cold-Steel-American-Lawman-4.jpg 800w, https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Cold-Steel-American-Lawman-4-300x82.jpg 300w, https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Cold-Steel-American-Lawman-4-150x41.jpg 150w, https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Cold-Steel-American-Lawman-4-768x209.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>But, on a $125 knife, there\u2019s a level of fit and finish that may not quite be satisfactory to some users. The insides of the scale edges are sharp, the body screws are tiny T6 heads, the backspacer doesn\u2019t sit flush with the scales, and the pocket clip isn\u2019t quite perfect. Oddly enough, Cold Steel has manufactured this knife, as they do with many of their folders, to have a curved pocket clip. Which means you need to swap the clip out for a left handed variant if you\u2019re going to carry and use this knife left handed. They do include this second clip in the box, but it\u2019s an odd choice to say the least.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Cold-Steel-American-Lawman-closed.jpg\" alt=\"Cold-Steel-American-Lawman-closed\" width=\"700\" height=\"260\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-12688\" srcset=\"https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Cold-Steel-American-Lawman-closed.jpg 700w, https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Cold-Steel-American-Lawman-closed-300x111.jpg 300w, https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Cold-Steel-American-Lawman-closed-150x56.jpg 150w, https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Cold-Steel-American-Lawman-closed-270x100.jpg 270w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>The pocket clip also is very small, and although it has good retention in the pocket, it can be pesky to get it to slide over the lip of a pocket, sometimes requiring a second hand. But all in all, a truly ambidextrous pocket knife with less than perfect quality, this is a well done folder for this price point.<\/p>\n<h2>Field Test<\/h2>\n<p>Some Cold Steel folders I review, I&#8217;ll put through the gauntlet. Like the <a href=\"https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/cold-steel-4max-scout-review\/\"><strong>4Max Scout<\/strong><\/a>, chopping through a 2&#215;4. But the Lawman feels more like a rugged <a href=\"https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/the-best-edc-folding-knife\/\">EDC knife<\/a>, so that\u2019s how I tested it. I really expected the blade to split apple slices upon cutting them, but it didn\u2019t. The edge geometry is just thick enough to be robust and take some torquing action in cutting, but thin enough to slice fruit without splitting it into pieces. The over sized forward choil is nice to use when making heavy push cuts in cardboard or wood, but they left enough handle on the end to be able to hold the knife without using the choil when needed. Either grip works great, and it\u2019s impressive that it was designed to be able to use either one and keep the comfort factor there.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Cold-Steel-American-Lawman-6.jpg\" alt=\"Cold-Steel-American-Lawman-6\" width=\"800\" height=\"363\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-12689\" srcset=\"https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Cold-Steel-American-Lawman-6.jpg 800w, https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Cold-Steel-American-Lawman-6-300x136.jpg 300w, https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Cold-Steel-American-Lawman-6-150x68.jpg 150w, https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Cold-Steel-American-Lawman-6-768x348.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Cutting up sisal rope on the work bench, the S35VN factory edge cut agressively. Something like a <a href=\"https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/spyderco-paramilitary-2-review\/\">Spyderco Paramilitary 2<\/a> has some of the best ergos and blade shape for this test in my use, but the Lawman did just fine. I did find myself having a little issue with the handle in one regard though. The point of the G10 on the handle, just before the forward choil, is much more pronounced than necessary. I\u2019m not quite sure why they made it so large, and it has a very close feeling to the <a href=\"https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/spyderco-manix-2-review\/\">Spyderco Manix 2<\/a> at this point of the handle.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Cold-Steel-American-Lawman-5.jpg\" alt=\"Cold-Steel-American-Lawman-5\" width=\"800\" height=\"240\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-12690\" srcset=\"https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Cold-Steel-American-Lawman-5.jpg 800w, https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Cold-Steel-American-Lawman-5-300x90.jpg 300w, https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Cold-Steel-American-Lawman-5-150x45.jpg 150w, https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Cold-Steel-American-Lawman-5-768x230.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>But to bring another positive to the handle, the finish of the G10 is less aggressive than many other knives, like Emerson\u2019s, for example. This aids in getting the knife in and out of the pocket without too much friction. But then the small pocket clip does hang up sometimes. It\u2019s a game of love and hate, with this odd pairing of features when using this knife. But overall, the Lawman cuts well, slices when needed, opens and closes without too much effort, and locks open like a fixed blade.<\/p>\n<h2>Alternatives<\/h2>\n<p><p><em>All these knives available at <a href=\"https:\/\/shrsl.com\/1ruz2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"><strong>BladeHQ<\/strong><\/a>.<\/em><\/p><br \/>\nThe <strong>Spyderco Manix 2 lighweight<\/strong> is a folder that closely rivals the American Lawman. With a 3.3\u201d blade, it is a touch shorter in that dimension, but the blade thickness is the same as the Lawman, and it\u2019s got a flat grind with a forward choil, and is about the same price as the Lawman at ~$125. The Manix 2 Lightweight comes in at <strong>3 ounces<\/strong>, so it\u2019s essentially one ounce lighter than the Lawman, but is so close in so many ways, we feel it necessary to list it as an alternative to the Lawman. Using Spyderco\u2019s wire clip allows the Manix to be carried deep in the pocket, and although Spyderco\u2019s <strong>FRN<\/strong> texturing is a bit aggressive, the pocket clip rides on a smoothed spot of the handle, allowing it to go easily in and out of the pocket.<\/p>\n<p><strong>BD1N<\/strong> steel is no slouch either, and may have a \u201cbudget steel\u201d reputation, but in my experience, it can hold it\u2019s own. The <strong>ball lock<\/strong> on the Manix 2 series is quite different in many ways to the Tri-Ad lock, but in use, it feels quite similar. The blade doesn\u2019t lock in place when closed with a traditional detent, but is very smooth with phosphor bronze washers and a polished blade tang riding on the ball lock until it\u2019s open. And, it\u2019s completely ambidextrous as well. All in all, the Manix 2 Lightweight is a very comparable knife to the American Lawman.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Spyderco-Manix-2-lightweight-700.jpg\" alt=\"Spyderco Manix 2 lightweight-700\" width=\"600\" height=\"137\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-12676\" srcset=\"https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Spyderco-Manix-2-lightweight-700.jpg 700w, https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Spyderco-Manix-2-lightweight-700-300x69.jpg 300w, https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Spyderco-Manix-2-lightweight-700-150x34.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>And for something from the Benchmade lineup, the <strong>Bugout<\/strong> is a knife that\u2019s hard to pass up on an alternatives list. It\u2019s gained so much popularity over the last few years since it was released, it makes itself a good candidate for a runner up to many folders. Benchmade is well known for adding a small premium to their price tags, but justifiably so, with their Lifesharp service and warranty. Just send the knife in at any point in it\u2019s life, get a free edge and standard maintenance for free. Replacement blades are also available at a heavily discounted rate, bringing another point to the Bugout in it\u2019s value when comparing to something like the American Lawman. At $~160 for the standard variant, the Bugout is also USA produced, so if that\u2019s an aspect that appeals to you, buy in confidence in the Benchmade brand. The Bugout is, of course, ridiculously light. <strong>1.85 ounces<\/strong> is as heavy as a pocket clip from some brands. And with a very capable 3.25\u201d drop point, flat ground blade, comprised of <strong>S30V<\/strong> steel, and an Axis lock that carries some similar traits to the Tri-Ad lock and Spyderco Ball lock, it\u2019s easy to see why it\u2019s kept itself relevant in recent years. Arguably a less hard-use knife than the Lawman, the Bugout is a lightweight, EDC friendly knife. And many YouTube videos showing daunting abuse to the Bugout proves it to be tougher than one might image.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Benchmade-Bugout-700.jpg\" alt=\"Benchmade Bugout\" width=\"600\" height=\"93\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-6945\" srcset=\"https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Benchmade-Bugout-700.jpg 700w, https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Benchmade-Bugout-700-150x23.jpg 150w, https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/Benchmade-Bugout-700-300x47.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2>Conclusion<\/h2>\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.coldsteel.com\/american-lawman-s35vn\/\"><strong>Cold Steel American Lawman<\/strong><\/a> is a great pocket knife. It\u2019s easy to carry, a pleasure to use, carries a very solid, reliable lock, and performs admirably. It\u2019s not without its faults, and imperfections, but at a relatively low price point, the cost has to be saved somewhere in manufacturing. The DLC coating used on the blade holds up very well, the deployment is smooth, there\u2019s plenty of handle room for various grips, and the heat treat appears to be on point. It may not be the ultimate pry-tool pocket knife, with liner-less G10 scales and a fairly small diameter pivot, but it carries slim and gets the job done.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Matt DavidsonWe independently evaluate all recommended products and services. Any products or services put forward appear in no particular order. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Andrew Demko and Cold Steel are synonymous names in the folding knife world. Before venturing out on his own to make a new line [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":12680,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_genesis_hide_title":false,"_genesis_hide_breadcrumbs":false,"_genesis_hide_singular_image":false,"_genesis_hide_footer_widgets":false,"_genesis_custom_body_class":"","_genesis_custom_post_class":"","_genesis_layout":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[48,6],"tags":[17],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12675"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=12675"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12675\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":12692,"href":"https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12675\/revisions\/12692"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/12680"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=12675"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=12675"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/knifeinformer.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=12675"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}