Cold Steel Recon 1 Tanto Folding Knife, 4" S35VN Blade, Black G10 Handle, DLC Coated, Pocket Clip Included

The Cold Steel Recon 1 Tanto is a 4-inch folding knife built for serious work. Whether you're a hunter, first responder, or someone who demands a reliable blade for backcountry camp tasks, this tanto-style folder has earned a reputation for no-nonsense durability. The 4-inch S35VN blade with DLC coating brings both edge retention and corrosion resistance to a tool that needs to perform when conditions get rough.

What makes the Recon 1 stand out in its class is the engineering underneath: a 3.5mm-thick blade that won't flex under load, Cold Steel's proven Tri-Ad locking mechanism (designed to handle real-world impact and stress), and a thin profile that doesn't bulk up your pocket. At just 5.2 oz, it carries easy without feeling like a toy. The black G10 handle delivers solid grip in wet conditions, and the ambidextrous pocket clip means it's equally ready for left or right-hand carry.

This knife has found its way into packs and belts across military units, fire and rescue teams, and backcountry adventurers who value a tool over a trinket. The tanto blade geometry cuts and pierces with authority, while the DLC coating resists rust in damp field conditions. Cold Steel's design philosophy here is straightforward: over-engineer every joint and edge so the knife becomes something you actually trust under load.

If you're looking for a compact folding knife that won't let you down on a hunt, in camp, or in your everyday carry rotation, the Recon 1 Tanto delivers the kind of build quality that justifies its place in a lot of experienced hands' kits.

Key Features

• 4-inch S35VN blade with DLC coating for edge retention and corrosion resistance
• Cold Steel Tri-Ad lock system for superior strength and safety under stress
• Tanto blade geometry for cutting and piercing capability
• Black G10 handle for secure grip in wet conditions
• Ambidextrous pocket clip for left or right-hand carry
• Lightweight at 5.2 oz without sacrificing durability
• 3.5mm blade thickness engineered for strength without excessive weight

Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Recon 1 Tanto good for hunting and field use?

Yes. The 4-inch S35VN blade and robust Tri-Ad lock make it suitable for camp tasks, processing game, and general backcountry work. The tanto geometry excels at piercing and cutting, and the DLC coating resists rust in damp field conditions. At 5.2 oz, it's light enough to carry all day without fatigue.

Can I carry this knife right-handed and left-handed?

Yes. The Recon 1 Tanto includes an ambidextrous pocket/belt clip, so it works equally well for both left and right-hand carry.

What is S35VN steel and why does it matter?

S35VN is an American stainless steel known for excellent edge retention, corrosion resistance, and toughness. On this knife, it's finished with a DLC (diamond-like carbon) coating, which further enhances corrosion resistance and helps the blade glide through materials more cleanly.

What makes the Tri-Ad lock different?

Cold Steel's Tri-Ad lock is engineered to handle shock loads and stress without failure. It's designed to keep your hand safe and prevent blade rollback even under demanding field conditions, which is why it's favored by military and first-responder communities.