First Look: Cold Steel Crawford Model 1 Folding Knife

Cold Steel makes knives and blade tools that are designed for everyday carry, tactical, and hunting applications. Now they are introducing the new Crawford Model 1 folding knife, created in collaboration with custom knife maker Wes Crawford. The Cold Steel Crawford 1 delivers the key features discerning knife enthusiasts demand in a reliable, all-purpose flip-open knife. 

The Crawford Model 1 draws inspiration from Wes Crawford’s custom knife style, which is seen in its hybrid straight/clip point profile, subtle false edge, sharp point, and pronounced belly to help facilitate slicing and slashing. The blade is constructed of Japanese 4034 steel for corrosion resistance and is 3.5 inches long and 0.13 inches thick. The hollow-ground edge on the blade is easy to maintain and offers razor-thin sharpness right from the factory. On top of all this, a flipper integrated into the tang provides fast and smooth one-hand blade deployment.

The handle construction on the Crawford 1 also makes it conducive to dependable, hard work. The handle is made of Zy-Ex, a glass-reinforced nylon handle material and features high-traction rubber inlays with texture for maximum grip with wet or slippery hands. the handle’s ergonomic profile and prominent finger grooving further promotes a solid grip, as does the jimping along the front finger groove. All these features combine to give the Crawford 1 a positive grip and maximum retention for safe and efficient handling and cutting control.

The patent-pending leaf spring lock is another nod to safety on the Crawford 1. This lock keeps the blade securely folded and is backed by a secondary, sliding locking mechanism that is incorporated into the handle. Moving the sliding lock forward to unlock the blade for quick flip-up deployment. There is also a stainless pocket/belt clip for tip-up carry and a through-hole in the handle to accept a lanyard. The folded carry length of the Crawford 1 is 4 7/8 inches with an overall length of 8 3/8 inches. 

Cold Steel Crawford 1 Specifications

• Weight: 4.1 ounces
• Blade thickness: 0.13 inches
• Blade length: 3 1/2 inches
• Blade steel: 4034SS
• Handle length/material: 4-7/8 inches, Zy-Ex
• Locking mechanism: Leaf spring lock
• Overall length: 8 3/8 inches
• Additional features: stainless pocket, belt clip

MSRP for the Crawford Model 1 knife is $49.99, and more information on this item and other Cold Steel products is available at coldsteel.com.