Should I Get a CS Leatherneck B4 It's Too Late?

[Confederate]

Cold Steel is going to stop production of its Leatherneck in SK-5 steel, opting instead for its 4116 and AUS8 stainless. It makes me wonder if I should get an SK-5 version while I can? I was never under the impression that SK-5 was all that great and, after all, there are many Ka-Bars that have carbon steel blades that are still available.

What are your views?? Should I get an SK-5 steel version now whilst I can or get a Ka-Bar some other time?

How does SK-5 compare to 1095 or 5160 steel? And how durable is CS's "Kray-Ex" handles?

.

 

[retzius]

The SK5 version is also full flat grind. The 4116 version is Sabre grind.

 

[pretty-toney]

i was on the fence when this knife was released and then reviews came out about issues with the heat treat and fitment of the guard.
spent a few bucks more got an Ontario SP42, about same length and thickness, full flat ground, advanced heat treat, tang enclosed in kraton, USA made, sheath sucks but doable

 

[Goosey]

I have one, it's solid, not the best QC but if you want a fixed blade of that type for $55 I think it's a good deal. It seems pretty bombproof to me.

 

[Confederate]

Nah, I want a great deal and exceptional quality. If Ontario can put out their Marine Raider for $60, I want a decent knife that will keep on going like the Energizer bunny. The Recon Tanto with Carbon V was a pretty decent knife. And I think the AUS8 version also is a pretty good knife, though, for the money I think one can do better.

Cold Steel's heat treat has been exceptional on the knives I've bought and I hope they continue to make heat treat a high priority. I just picked up some more 2011 Voyagers and I'm very happy with the weight and strength, but they lack the snap and polish of the older Voyagers! As combat knives they can't be beat, but as EDCs, well, I think the Voyagers have moved on. And other CS knives may be moving on as well. As long as CS keeps their heat treat up to date, they'll be successful. As they move more of their operations to China, I'm afraid it will be more difficult to maintain their great reputation.