There are definitely preferences in our office on whether one of the KNR 2019 Favorites should be the Cold Steel AD10 or the Cold Steel AD15, both of which were designed by Andrew Demko. Since the day these knives dropped they’ve been hard to come by, as they sell out almost as fast as vendors can get them. They are both incredible, durable knives that are built to be used. That said, which is our favorite for 2019?
One writer said, “Definitely the AD15 because the Scorpion lock is the most user-friendly lock in Cold Steel history!” Another writer argued, “It might be the most user-friendly lock, but the AD10 is by far the superior knife.” The Editor briefly chimed in on the debate. “I like the Demko. Now repeat with me children, ‘Two independent clauses joined by a conjunction must have a freaking comma!’”
To settle the debate – and to more effectively hide from the Editor, who was especially annoyed with our punctuation that day – we turned to our favorite YouTuber, Cold Steel collector, and Grand Master of All Knives Demko. “Jimislash, why is the AD10 your favorite knife over the AD15? And just so you know, we’re quoting you on this…” Of course he had quite literally the perfect answer.
Jimislash:
“Both knives are amazing. Both are excellent representations of the customs they are modeled after. In fact, the AD15 might be closer to its custom counterpart than the AD10. However, the AD10 wins this contest with its ultimately stronger lock and overall feel in hand. The Scorpion lock is great, but a lot of its top end strength depends on the strength of the hand that holds it. The Triad lock is unbeatable in that respect, as it has unmatched standalone strength. Now, realistically, most users will never test either knife to the point of the locks failing. So, that takes the contest to feel in hand. The contoured handles of the AD10 win over the faceted and textured grip of the AD15. Both knives are fantastic. Neither will disappoint. However, if I am grabbing one, it’s not a hard choice. It’s the AD10.”
The AD15 proponent grumbled but agreed. This AD10 proponent simply smirked. The Editor pointed at all Jimislash’s correct punctuation which required zero editing.
Cold Steel AD10 Details
- S35VN, Satin Finished
- 4” Drop Point
- Flipper and Ambidextrous Thumb Studs
- Tri-Ad Lock
- G-10 Handles
- Aluminum Liners
- Contoured G-10 Handles
- Dual Ambidextrous Pocket Clip
- 6.9 Ounces
- 4.375” Closed
- 8.375” Overall
If you’re looking for a user-friendly Cold Steel with a fantastic new lock from Andrew Demko you definitely want to check out the Cold Steel AD15. However, our favorite Cold Steel for 2019 is the AD10. It has a solid lock up, a comfortable grip, and is a beastly knife that performs perfectly under almost any circumstances. To find out more about either of these knives, click any link in the article or simply click the button below.
All images courtesy of Smoky Mountain Knife Works – smkw.com.
