Cold Steel Master Tanto Question

R

Redstripe_808

Joined
Mar 25, 2002
Messages
254
I'm currently looking to buy a COLD STEEL MASTER TANTO and this guy has offered to sell me one. Only the hilt and pommel are brass instead of stainless steel. He says it's 5 years old.

DID COLD STEEL EVER MAKE THEM WITH BRASS FITTINGS?
 
If I'm not mistaken, the ones with the brass fittings are the originals. I used to own a regular Cold Steel tanto with brass fittings--bought it in '92 and sold it a year or two ago. It was a good knife, but not something I could carry around--switched to folders after that. It did seem like I was constantly polishing it, though...brass tarnishes easily/quickly.
 
Personally I liked the brass ones better. I just think they looked nicer. As mentioned above, they do tarnish, but a little flitz or similar polish will shine the brass up nicely.
 
I bought a cold steel original tanto in 1988 with the san mai steel and brass fittings. I still have it and wouldn't want to part with it. I kinda like the way the brass darkens and takes on a patina. It's like a non reflective coating. You have probably found yourself one of the San Mai steel versions. If it has a line running about a 1/8" from the edge along the length of the blade, It's a San Mai laminated blade. It's a more expensive knife than the standard version.
 
The original CS tantos with brass fittings were of 'Series 400' mystery steel, are extremely tough and hold a very good edge. They also had a series of holes drilled in the tang to put the balance right at the hilt. These were later dropped because of the potential for failure under extreme abuse, although I've never heard of one breaking (take note, Cliff Stamp). While most tantos, at least in folders, have a straight edge, the CS tanto's blade has a distinct curve (23 degrees), the better for slicing or slashing. The Kraton grip is superb, and the pommel is a skull crusher. Great knife! I've used mine for all kinds of chores including butchering game. A modern classic!
 
Teehee.....i picked up my 1989 cold steel master tanto in mint condition for a measly $130 canadian!

Thanks for the info everyone. :D
 
I wouldn't part with my original Master Tanto as I've had a few adventures with it. Probably the best master tanto ever made. Great urban knife though limiting out in the bush. There is a little movement in the kraton handle of mine now after so much use, but nothing to worry about.

I do know of one that lost its tip but for what it was being used for any knife would have done the same. The knife is still in use though.

If at a good price buy it, you will have a classic. Try and get the kydex sheath.
 
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