Cold Steel 4-MAX

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BlackCat13

Joined
Jan 18, 2014
Messages
26
Okay,
So I've heard that there are different "generations" of the Cold Steel 4-MAX. I think there was three USA made "gens" and now "gen 5" is the Italy one, right?
I'm looking to purchase the CS 4-MAX, and I have a choice between a brand new USA made one, and a brand new Italy one.
Which one should I go for?

Thanks
 
I personally wouldn't be concerned about either source, that includes if they began making it from their factory in Taiwan. I lust after that beast. I love USA made stuff, but people have had great experiences with Maserin and LionSteel. So, I assume Italy isn't doing a shabby job.
 
I chose the Italian based on the gray handle preference and the grind. The edges are generally rougher on the Italian, but overall the fit and finish is impressive. It's a beast of a knife, but carries surprisingly well despite being 10oz and 6" in the handle alone. Love, love, love my 4 max, but you need to make sure you know what you're getting into with the size. If that's a non-issue, I think it's a matter or preference in G10 color. Check out Jimislash on youtube. I ended up buying mine from him here on BF. He may still have a couple USA models available.
 
I'm pretty sure I have the generation that no one wants. It has the dogleg lock bar but the bar is proud and there's a fair gap.

IMG_20170907_012324.jpg
 
From research and personally handling 5 USA made 4-Max's, here's a list of problems: Lockbar sits above frame/liners in locked position, lockbar sticks in the unlocked position, lock is extremely hard to disengage, Ti liners bowed, uneven edge grind, ugly looking blade finish, ugly looking G10 finish...
It appears the 1st and last runs are the best. Unless you're buying your USA 4-Max from a knowledgeable seller who will inspect the knife, you're rolling the dice.
From what I've heard, the Italian 4-Max's are free of mechanical problems and have good F&F.
That said, my USA 4-Max keeper (last run) is PERFECT and will be buried with me.
 
SpySmasher said:
I'm pretty sure I have the generation that no one wants. It has the dogleg lock bar but the bar is proud and there's a fair gap.
Click to expand...

That's actually the more desired 1st run. Every subsequent run did not have the dog leg. The proud lockbar is on more recent builds and
is on the end where you press to disengage. I've heard the 1st run has the nicest finish and smoothest action (haven't seen one in person)
 
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