Cold Steel CS35AB San Mai Master 6" Fixed Tanto Knife with VG-10 Blade & Kray-Ex Handle + Sheath

The Cold Steel CS35AB San Mai Master is a 6-inch fixed tanto knife built for hunters, outdoorsmen, and working professionals who need a blade that won't quit. The tanto point—a flat-edged Japanese design—excels at piercing, slicing, and utility tasks in camp, field, or workshop. The blade is forged from VG-10 stainless steel, a Japanese steel known for holding an edge while remaining practical to maintain in the field. A satin finish resists glare and shows a working patina over time.

The handle is molded from Kray-Ex, a durable synthetic that provides a secure grip in wet conditions and resists temperature extremes. The oval profile fits the hand naturally and balances the forward-heavy blade without fatigue during extended use. The knife comes with a sheath, so you're ready to deploy it the moment you open the box.

This is a fixed blade—no pivot points, no lock mechanisms to wear out—making it reliable when your life or dinner depends on a sharp edge. Whether you're processing game, preparing meals at base camp, or maintaining gear on a backcountry expedition, the San Mai Master delivers the simplicity and toughness that serious outdoorsmen expect from Cold Steel.

Key Features

• 6-inch tanto fixed blade in VG-10 stainless steel with satin finish
• Kray-Ex handle designed for secure grip in wet and extreme conditions
• Tanto point geometry optimized for piercing and utility tasks
• No moving parts—full-tang construction for maximum durability
• Includes protective sheath for safe carry and storage

Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a tanto blade, and what is it best used for?

A tanto is a Japanese blade design with a flat edge and a distinctive angular point. The flat spine and sharp point make it excellent for piercing, controlled slicing, and utility work like processing game or preparing food. The flat edge (rather than a curved belly) gives you more consistent contact when cutting and more control during fine work.

Is VG-10 stainless steel a good choice for field use?

VG-10 is a Japanese stainless steel that balances edge retention with ease of maintenance. It holds a sharp edge well and resists rust better than carbon steel, making it practical for wet environments and extended trips where you may not have access to maintenance tools. It does require occasional stropping or sharpening, but it's far more forgiving than high-carbon blades in damp conditions.

What is Kray-Ex, and why use it for a knife handle?

Kray-Ex is a synthetic material engineered for durability and grip security. It maintains its shape across temperature extremes, grips reliably even when wet or sweaty, and resists breaking or warping. For field knives, it's a practical alternative to wood or leather—no maintenance needed, and consistent performance in harsh conditions.

Does the sheath come with the knife?

Yes. The Cold Steel CS35AB includes a sheath, so you have safe carry and storage from the moment of purchase.