Cold Steel American Lawman - Anyone have one yet?

[sharkattacksw]

I've been reading a bit about the CS American Lawman knife and it seems that their new locking mechanism is supposed to take wear into account so it always locks up nice and tight. However, after seeing one of their locks perform not so well (the spring type one), I'm not so sure.

Is the new Tri-Ad lock just marketing or is it an actual advance on the tried and true lock back design?

I like the shape fo the blade and overall size, but for the $$ I'm wondering if my money is better spent on something that has a solid reputation such as the full size Griptilian.

If you have any thoughts or experience with the Cold Steel American Lawman, please chime in.

Thanks!

 

[JD Mandrell]

Most of the reviews over in the testing section have been positive. This ones kinda on my radar as well.

 

[Splat]

I handled one a few days ago. Very solid lockup with no play whatsoever. The handle's a little short for me. If it was 0.5" longer I'd pick one up. Very knice knife! IIRC, I've only read one negative on the Triad lock. I think it was something to do with the spring that keeps the lock bar against the knife.... the reviewer said it was rather thin.

 

[AF]

I read only positive reviews of the American Lawman before I decided to buy one. Since then I sold my Griptilian...
Seriously, the Lawman feels like a much more expensive knife. It's hefty with steel lined G-10 handles. The handle allows for two distinct grips. The shape of the handle and the very grippy (a little too rough?) G-10 slabs give a secure grip. The spring is strong! Stronger than any lockback I've handled. Opens with a thwack and when I say it locks up like a vault, well that's what I mean. There is absolutely no blade play. To release the blade you need to depress the button most of the way. The design imparts a lot of confidence.
I really like this knife! My Spyderco Caly 3 is also a favorite of mine although I think it excels in different ways.