Code 4 and GoldenEye thoughts

jlauffer

jlauffer

Tempt not the Blade
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Apr 11, 2016
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Have been carrying these 2 on and off for a while, and just wanted to share some opinions. I like both of them, but I seem to prefer the GoldenEye just a bit more.

The fit and finish on both is excellent. Was really impressed with the aluminum scales on the Code 4, but I do think they missed an opportunity to include a cool pattern that would have also added some grip.

Speaking of grip, one thing I like about the GE over the C4 is that the area where the left-hand clip would go provides something for your thumb to grab onto when pulling it out of a pocket. I don't mind the grip of the C4 once it's out, but it is harder to pull out of a pocket due to its smoothness.

However, one thing I don't like on the GE is the "horn" at the other end of the handle...it is a bit pointy and can jab your leg depending how you sit/lay, etc. It's like that because of how it follows the curve of the thumb ramp, but they could have rounded it off more.

code 4 goldeneye3x.JPG

Another thing I like better about the GE is the thumb ramp...it works great for me. I also have the Grik, which also uses the thumb ramp, but it works much better on the GE, at least for me. If I can get a 1mm (I think) allen wrench I may try removing it and see how it works with just the hole.

code 4 goldeneye2x.JPG

One thing I like better about the C4 is the clip. Being shorter it has less flex and is therefore tighter. Not sure why they didn't use the same type on the GE. I actually bent the GE clip to make it tighter...don't hear that very often about a CS knife! This may not be an issue on the regular GE since it has textured scales.

This particular C4 is a bit hard to disengage...have to depress the lockbar a bit further than my other Tri-ads. Actually have another one on the way so will be interesting to see how it compares. If it is better then that may close the gap between the two.

Curious to hear other's thoughts!
 
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I dont like aluminium scales so never picked up a C4 but I like the look of it! The GE looks better (to me) but I hate gold (unless it's in bars!)

If the C4 was in g10...but then it would be a recon 1! ;)

I did see a pic of a GE with the eye and clip bead blasted and that looked cool...
 
I had a Goldeneye for a while but traded it away, may get one again though. I really like the Code 4's. You can get them in Spear Point, Tanto(my favorite) and even serrated(yes I have all three). It also works quite well at busting in a window, I like substantial knives for the most part. The knife feels the same in the hand but different blade choices. I have never had a problem with gripping, larger hands maybe, plus I have close to a hundred knives to choose from by CS/Spyderco/Gerber/etc.
All good points on the GE, now you got me thinking about one again.
 
I had a Code 4 for some time before I started carrying it. The scales were a bit too slippery fo me. And that was about the time I started disliking metal scales in general. But I put a strip of grip tape on each handle which improved the grip considerably. And I really began to appreciate the sliciness of the hollow ground blade. And the blade lock broke in and became easier to release. Now its in my edc rotation.
 
Love 'em both and think they're excellent designs! I carry both models regularly.

IMG-9721.jpg



I understand Lynn's preference for the clip point, and I typically share that view for the Recon I and larger. But in this 3.5-inch blade range and smaller, I find the drop/modified-spear point more aesthetically and functionally pleasing.

By the way, the G-10 version is slightly more de-horned than your carbon fiber model.

IMG-9727.jpg



-Steve
 
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*Got a Recon 1 in pocket today for context*

The Golden Eye is one of those knives that flys under the radar. It’s actually a nice looking knife and has a blade shape that I can appreciate.

I have no idea why I don’t have one. I need to remedy that.

The Code 4 is a folder that I regularly use. I have not had any issue with grip that was noticeable, despite the smooth slabs.

I agree with the sentiment about a missed opportunity with engraving or etching on the smooth sides.
 
jlauffer said:
Just received the other Code 4 and wow...it is smoother, sharper, and easier to unlock! Win win win!
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While I’m happy with all of my CS folders, I noticed some inconsistency in the efforts to depress their Tri-Ad locks. My Rajah 2 and Recon 1 are the easiest to disengage while the AK-47 and Spartan are the most stubborn. 0% bladeplay from all models though.

Congrats on the score man. The Code 4’s a great knife.
 
I added grip tape to the Code 4 which helped some.
I am going to keep the Golden Eyes, but I could part with the Code 4 pretty easily.
4QVnmWk.jpg
 
strideruser said:
Really? I love the fact they dont. strength isnt an issue and it adds unnecessary weight/bulk.

How come you would want them, interested to know?
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Personal preference pretty much, I don't own any plastic guns either. I don't know why a little more weight is a problem unless you are handicapped, I prefer a more substantial piece.The top of the line pieces are usually linered by most manufacturers. I suppose it would drive the cost up too, but again I don't mind. All of my favorite folders have at least skeletonized liners. I know I am in the minority here but I am used to it.
 
Tbh it’s a misconception that CS is always heavy and bulky. Cold Steel folders generally have great strength to weight ratio BECAUSE of the Triad lock, because they do not need hefty liners. Because of this, CS knives can be made generally thinner than the competition, even tho IMO some models are made too thin.

If you look at Broken Skull, code 4 or Air Lite for example, there’s no way you can make a liner or frame lock knife this thin or light and still be strong.

The best part about triad lock design is the lack of dependency to liners or handle materials to make it function. It works well with any handle and stronger materials only make the lock stronger. It’s also a very scalable design, you can make a 4” or a 13” folder out of this lock, and you can make the whole knife 0.3” thick and still have a strong knife. If you have a thin plastic handle and want it to be stronger, you make it thicker. Or you can switch to g10 if you don’t want to make it thicker. If you want it to be stronger, you can add liner, from aluminum, or titanium or steel, for whatever level of strength you need. But you don’t need any of that to make it functional and strong, unlike linerlock, framelock, axis lock or deadbolt lock.

There are very few lock designs that can operate in this range of design parameters. The strength to weight ratio of triad is what enables this.
 
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Your hand size definitely comes into play (for me when anyway)when it comes to picking a knife. My hand span is is slightly over 9", end of pinkie to end of thumb. I see many manufacturers touting there latest light weight design, I find I can control a heavier knife than a light one for most tasks. I have never had a problem with my pants falling down either. Might like the heavier ones because I have been into fixed blades for most of my life. I do own some lightweights for summer carry when needed however. Triad Lock is pure genius, now if they could get the release consistent.
 
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