Cold Steel XL Espada: That's bleedin' HUGE!

DemkoKnives said:
...we tested the Rajah II yesterday (production sample). It was used for chopping, heavy spine wacks, over-striking and hanging weight. We went to 350lbs. The knife was removed from the rack, and except for a scuffed blade, the kukri was 100% perfect no blade play at all. It could have been cleaned and re-boxed and sold as new.
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Well, now we know what happens to the test knives!

Actually, I don't see the Espadas as practical at all. The Vaquero Grande and Voyager X2s are great large knives. The Espadas are okay for getting out of the safe and showing people, but using one would be almost as ridiculous as carrying one. Still, I may just have to get one once they hit a reasonable price.

ColdSteelEspada_1.jpg


"Who says it's not practical? I just killed a bull moose with one," says a
beaming Lynn Thompson. They should have added some gold to make it
two-toned. Andrew Demko on left.
 
I just ran across a really big one.


The biggest Navaja knife we have ever seen: More than 73 inches long (185 cm) fully opened. Taller than an average person. 37 ½ inches in closed position. It is shown below next to a “normal” size 13 inches Navaja knife. Probably a late 18 C. piece. The blade is engraved and inscribed in Spanish (?) and painted red. The handle is brass decorated with round holes and pierced bone panels. Very good condition. Old age patina on the blade. Minor edge nick. The catch holding the blade in open position is a bit loose due to a minor bending of the main spring. A rare and outstanding item.
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It think the Large and XL are going into my collection. I've trained Navaja methodology, and those knives pretty much fit the bill.

As for practicality, I don't see how a really big folder is any more practical than a really small folder. Carry what suits you, use what you need.
 
I'll be getting the medium and large in 2 weeks. I'll probably cut a wave/snag into the medium. Right into the meat of the logo area.
 
I've owned the Large Espada and though it was just awesome for a folder. I decided to sell it ultimately because I think the XL is even sexier, though not exactly the most practical sort carry. I'm sorely tempted to pick it up... So many knives, so little money...
 
Mike Sastre said:
The Espada's thumbstud will "wave". No need to modify.
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What about the smallest model?

They really should name them small, medium and large. Starting at "medium" when it really is the "small model" could confuse people.
 
when I am home I carry a 6 inch cold steel voyger as a EDC and yes I use it a lot kind wish it was a little bigger and thicker. Great Blade I can chop small stuff . Large enougth to bleed out a hog . and also a great SDW. if the need be there. I carry it on my left side in the wiest band . works fine. And yes I do carry a larger blade or two . But this works fine espicaly if I go to town or getting on the train ect.:D
 
These just came today.... I might just have to buy the XL.

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Beautiful pic Charlie!

Dangit, the more I see those, the more I think I should get them. They're modern day navajas.
 
I will eventually be making some subtle changes to both of them. I need a belt grinder.
 
4 Ranges said:
Beautiful pic Charlie!

Dangit, the more I see those, the more I think I should get them. They're modern day navajas.
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That's what I told you, Rolando. I've handled the prototype of the XL - you'll love it! I'll have some when they become available. Still scheduled some time in March.
 
Mike, these and the Natchez...ugh...ONCE I thought I was out, they pull me back INNNNNN!!!!!!
 
Some circles don't let you out! Bill's about to really amp up his knifemaking - better get on the list before the word gets out. :)
 
Mike, thanks for the heads up. I'm looking to get on that list late this year for a damascus.
 
I know this is an old thread. But, I am interested to know if these are shipping yet? Does anyone have one?

I have been carrying the Voyager X2 every day. It is easier to carry than a gun. The XL Espada might be more of a challenge. However, it still weighs less than my Glock.
 
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I don't care what anyone says... I wanted one. So, I did an internet search for discounts and I ended up finding an XL 7.5" for just about 1/2 the MSRP... so I got it.

I LIKE IT... it actually fits in my front jeans pocket and looks like any other clipped tactical... until it's drawn, that is. The quick opening device works very well, along the same lines as Emerson's "wave".

O.K... $465.00 IS w-a-y too much... but, if you look hard enough, you can find a good deal with the myriad of available retailers out there.

I have to admit that this massive "pocketknife" handles quite well, due to its lightweight construction. As far as construction, it made up of high quality components and has good fitment across the board. Lockup is very solid with no play... not too shabby for a production knife. To improve this series, a bead blasted version would be nice.

It's probably not legal anywhere, except in Monrovia, Liberia... where everyone carries machetes anyway. It will not replace my other EDC's as my mainstay, but I will definitely carry it... 'cause I think it's a really cool offering from Cold Steel, and yes... the next time I go to Monrovia... I'll take this Espada with me!! :D
 
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