The Cold Steel CS27BTH Recon 1 delivers tactical-grade cutting performance in a compact folding design built for demanding applications. This 4-inch folding knife combines premium American S35VN steel with a DLC coating for superior edge retention and corrosion resistance.
What Makes This Different
The Recon 1 features genuine American-made S35VN steel, a premium powdered metallurgy steel that outperforms standard stainless options by 20-30% in edge retention testing. The Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) coating adds an extra layer of protection against wear and corrosion while reducing friction during cutting tasks. Cold Steel's Tri-Ad lock mechanism provides lockup strength that exceeds industry standards for folding knives in this class.
Key Features
- American S35VN steel blade with 60-62 HRC hardness rating
- Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) coating for enhanced durability
- Partial serrated edge for versatile cutting applications
- Black textured G10 handle scales for secure grip
- Tri-Ad lock mechanism with ambidextrous thumb studs
- Reversible pocket clip for tip-up or tip-down carry
- 4-inch blade length with 5.38-inch handle dimensions
Field performance centers on the blade's ability to maintain sharpness through extended use while the serrated section handles fibrous materials effectively. The G10 handle material provides consistent grip in wet conditions, making this knife suitable for outdoor work, emergency response, and everyday carry applications. The Tri-Ad lock eliminates blade play and maintains secure lockup even after thousands of opening cycles.
Technical Specs
- Overall Length: 9.38 inches open, 5.38 inches closed
- Blade Length: 4 inches
- Blade Steel: American S35VN with DLC coating
- Handle Material: Black textured G10 scales
- Lock Type: Tri-Ad lock mechanism
- Weight: Approximately 5.2 ounces
- Blade Configuration: Partial serrated edge
- Pocket Clip: Reversible, stainless steel construction
- Country of Origin: Taiwan (Cold Steel manufacturing)
The CS27BTH represents Cold Steel's commitment to tactical knife design with materials and construction methods that exceed typical folding knife standards. Professional users and serious collectors recognize the value proposition of S35VN steel combined with proven lock geometry.