I got AD-15 because of its Scorpion lock. At first time it was hard to operate with it, but then my fingers became stronger. Now it's much easier to operate with Scorpion lock than with Tri-ad lock. There are a few different ways to open and close AD-15, and its fidget factor is high.
I prefer PB washers only instead of Teflon+PB, so I replaced mine on the AD-10. I have had the Teflon washers shred over time, and this made it feel better in deployment. They're easy to source (.25" ID x .5" OD x .015" thickness).
Quick note on the AD-15's Scorpion Lock... There is a TRICK to closing it easily with one hand. Push on the spine of the blade with your index finger while gripping the lock bar with your thumb and middle finger. Makes closing the knife much easier and more satisfying!!
I got the 15 and absolutely love it. It’s a beast of a knife for sure. The scorpion lock seems really strong, although I’ve never put enough pressure on the spine of any folding knife to break any type of lock. I’m sure I’ll eventually get an AD10, but am really happy with the AD15 for now.
AD-15 once you find out that little different movement it becomes literally one of the easiest knives to open and close. I open and close mine almost as if it’s just a gravity knife. Been carrying it for a little over two years.
My first impression of the AD15 was the same as yours. I polished the interface of the blade and lock mechanism, as well as the liners where the lock pivots. Totally new action. Very easy to deploy and close one handed.
I ordered the 10, thinking that it was the 15. (Old age is wonderful.) I have been meaning to get the 15, but you have saved me some money so I can buy something else. May GOD bless you. The 10 is now living in the Kabar Mule's old sheath.
Try using your thumb and middle finger and apply a tap or downward pressure on the spine of the blade with your pointer finger. I saw AD do it in his video and it seemed like it had a pretty cool fidget factor to it.
Not your first time using a new AD15, but after a day it is very easy to close one-handed!!! I put a tiny bit of Blue Lube on the washers and the lock the day I got it, mainly to help with the action while I was getting used to it. If you pinch/pull back the lock bar with your pointer finger and thumb, then the tiniest flick of the wrist closes the blade. I can easily open & close it repeatedly with 1 hand, and it isn't because of the Blue Lube. I know those 2 tiny drops of Blue Lube didn't make 1-handed opening go from impossible to easy.
I have to admit I was intrigued by the AD15's unique lock back mechanism. Probably more of a conversation piece with my knife nut friends. But I can see that the AD10 is the knife I gravitate to after seeing this video. Thank you for the comparison!
Still think the 15 is a great knife. The ad-10 is probably the best conventional cold steel but after edcing the 4-max for a year, I wanted something new and fun and MUCH smaller. So I went with the 15
Great review as always Rob. I had great interest in both knives prior to the release of the lesser quality items. Now I have a much better opinion of the AD-10 in common mode. Thanks so much.
Have to agree. After the “Ooh” and “Aah” novelty of the scorpion lock wears off and you look at them objectively side by side the AD10 really does seem the superior of the two.
Just got mine in yesterday. It’s definitely a two hander for me. Came incredibly sharp out of the box. I had to have it because of it’s unique lock. Funs over and in the closet it goes. Or in the get home bag with the Recon also in s35 vn and also a two hander for me anyways. Your video nailed it. I only wish you would have done it sooner. 😂
Thank you for the review. I have bought an AD 10 already and was just trying to learn more of what others thought. First i want to say i love how you end your video, praising God. Second, i like your honesty in saying, this is your opinion, and that you are honest about saying what you don't like. Lastly, at the same moment you said, "it's sharp", at the end of video. I looked down at a finger and noticed i had cut myself. 🤣 ( The index finger next to nail, where blade falls with a one hand close). 🤣🤣🤣 As you can see I'm new to knives. Until watching you, i didn't even know you could open and close this knife with one hand. It seemed so difficult compared to the cryo. You made it look easy. 👍 Oh, in case someone would say, why would you buy this HUGE knife for your first knife? I bought a few knives for the reason you hinted at. The designer. My first and second knife is a Loveless and Randall. Waiting for them. 3nd was a Kershaw cheapy by hinderer, cryo. I bought at Walmart, as i wait for others. Then this AD10. And few others too. But mostly im buying them for the beauty and history of the makers ingenuity in the world of knives. I wasn't really a knife person, but reviewers, such as your self, make knives interesting. So thank you for being a great teacher. You are a great example of the RUclips community that helps and informs literally the world. I may be 60 but i still love to learn. Be blessed and may God watch over you and yours, Leo 😊 Ps, please pray for this newbie. 🤣🤣🤣
dont knock the usability of the knife just because you cant operate it properly (excuse my bluntness but its the truth). lifting the lock bar is extremely easy once you get the hang of it, and the knife is extremely flickable and easy to open and close quickly with one hand (certainly easier to operate than the tri-ad lock, and more secure regarding accidental closure).
Rob you are totally right about this and yes an opinion can be objective if it's based on real facts rather than on feelings and I agree I think the AD10 is the best thing Cold Steel has ever done! (confession time I also really like the 15 yes because it's really cool)
You know, Kevin....between you and Rob.... I always look to you two for guidance before I make a purchase. You're vids on the AD10 were helpful too. NOW it's time to pre-order the 10. Thanks.
Wow! Nice comments reunion! Anyone seeing a real disadvantag in aluminium liners besides steel screws going straight into it? On the fence for the AD10 here. Well, not really, just hoping to still find a hollow grind one...
I don’t think a hollow grind is weak like everyone seems to think… I think that once the blade edge cuts through the material the top part of the blade which is thicker than right behind the edge will start to spread the material thereby taking the pressure off the middle part of the blade. I don’t think I’ve ever heard of a blade breaking in the middle of the blade anyway. Unless you’re using it like a pry bar and torquing on it excessively.
Apostle P, Thank You. I agree, being a Cold Steel fan boy I guess, the tefon & bronze has never been anything but great and some of mine have been used heavily. I say fan boy, but really I have many brands, just love my Cold Steel knives. My favorite EDC, the Cold Steel "Broken Skull". Hope they bring it back.
I was just checking out random knives on eBay and I came across the AD-15 with m390 blade steel and the cost is only like $75 to $80. I think the scorpion lock is kinda cool. It's the first time I'm seeing it but I've been out of the knife game for about 6 or 7 years. I think for the money I may have to pick one up at some point. I was happy to see you did a review on this knife from you. They say the HRC is 61 instead of most companies give you a variation of like 60 to 62 on m390. I'm really happy about that, it seems they have the heat treatment dialed in on a specific 61 hrc which is good.
Just because a company publishes a hardness spec without a tolerance doesn’t mean all the knives are exactly that hardness. There is no such thing as a zero tolerance specification, nor is it possible when heat treating steel. Don’t believe marketing copy, and don’t infer a meaning that isn’t there.
Late to the party, but I just got my first AD-15. It EATS any Triad Lock Cold Steel for breakfast regarding the speed of opening /closing and fidget factor. You just need to learn to use it. Also fun to give to non-knife friends and ask them to close it. :)
Hey Apostle! How has time changed your opinion on 10 vs. 15? Also, where is your AD20 45-minute review? I have been waiting for your take on the 20....
I am torn - I love this knife for reasons I can’t explain and the ergonomics are superb - but the fidget factor is really hard to understand... hard to open, hard to close for sure...
I am sure someone pointed out that the AD-10 liners are aluminum. I think the curiosity around the different lock will spark interest in the AD-15; that and the blade grind is why I bought one.
Great review! I am looking at both of these and I love the ad10 but as a fan of the flat grind and not so much of the hollow, I wish I could trade the blades.
The locking and unlocking of the AD 15 is an absolute breeze one-handed.. in fact it's become my favorite fidget knife. Don't believe everything you watch folks, gotta try these things for yourself.
I purchased the AD-15, but I definitely think the AD-10 is the better executed knife of these production versions. The AD-15 needs that extra fit and finish work inherent to the custom knife world.
The AD 15 looks very beautiful and a bit futuristic which I like, but the scorpion lock.....🤔 ? I really don't know how comfortable will be to close it with one hand and personally for me is very important to be able to close my folder with one hand.
It puts me off that if you listen to Andrew Demko's story regarding the creation of the AD-15, the Scorpion Lock is basically just a cheap work-around of the Tri-Ad Lock because the Tri-Ad's tight tolerances were a pain at the time. Doesn't inspire much faith or quality to me to be using a lock that was a stopgap...
It's nice to see a knife-maker trying something new, but I agree that the scorpion lock feels like it's new for the sake of being new. A cool piece for collectors but doesn't look great for users.
i like the technical, industrial look of the AD-15 and the multi colored components give it a very serious, purpose built military look imo. as far as its action goes, i think of it as an ultra heavy duty, overbuilt working/field knife and as such i can forgive its very deliberate, awkward unlocking and blade closure. its not really meant to be a super slick fondling knife. like many purpose built, heavy duty knives that basically require 2 hands to unlock and fold, it trades ease of use and a slick action for strength, safety and reliable use while cutting. closing the blade is therefore a bit more difficult. like the Gayle Bradley 1, the Extrema Ratio folders, even some Cold Steel tri-ad folders they just arent meant for flicking open and closed. Although the AD-10 is as tough and operates smoothly and easily, its a different design. or rather the AD-15 is the different, unique design. i think its novelty and uniqueness is refreshing, myself. i can see owning one. i just wont sit on the sofa flicking it open and closed.
Awesome knives! Did you strop those blades or is that factory, because I've never got a cold steel factory edge mirrored like that. Don't get me wrong they'll pop hairs off my arm but not a mirror edge like these.
It's not just the lock. Who else is offering premium materials at these prices on knives that are designed to be 100 percent functional? Only Cold Steel.
So check this out. The easiest knife I've ever closed is the AD-15. Here's how. Take your fingers and hold the top of the scorpion lock (yoke) up next to the tang of the blade. do not hold any other part of the knife. Then just fling inwards. The inertia pushes the part of the knife not in your hand away, and, the lock opens up as the blade swings shut very quickly.
Welll, I’m way late to the party. I didn’t even know about the AD15 til two days ago. Actually, 5 days. Mine arrives tomorrow. Your video doesn’t make me regret buying the AD15. But it’s the first that makes me really want to follow it up with the AD10. Did you ever try closing the 15 by lifting the bar with your thumb and middle, pushing the blade with your index finger?
The AD15 is a collector's piece. Some day, that scorpion lock will be a curiosity and that knife will be a great showpiece. Otherwise, everything else is better.
Ok I have smaller sized hands and I have no problem at all opening and closing the AD15😂. I pinch the back of the spine with my thumb and index finger and then swing it closed and tbh I find it much more fun than my Code 4. Idk what this guy talking about it
the AD-15 is extremely easy to use with one hand. I can flick it open with ease with the thumb or reverse flick and can easily close there knife with one hand. I think you just didn't use the knife and become familiar with it enough before you did this video. Otherwise good stuff. I know this video is years old but still wanted to throw in my two cents.
I love my AD15 but if I really bear down on the yoke during a hard cut it the lock pin sticks in the blade cutout so hard I have to pull it apart with both hands. I'm 6,4 220 lbs and very strong. Does anyone else have this problem. ??????
I always appreciate your videos and often agree with your take on the knives reviewed. However, I disagree regarding your appraisal of the way the AD-15 deploys and closes. In the first day I had mine, I was able to easily get it to deploy by flipping it and Spydie flicking it. Also, it easily drops shut and the strong detent sucks it closed when the yoke is lifted. Once you get the hang if it, it is easy to lift the yoke with one hand and using the same hand close the blade with your thumb. I really like that these same moves can be done with whichever is your non-dominant hand. Check out several videos done by Andrew Demko and you will see how easily it can be manipulated.
yeah for real this guy is completely inept when it comes to the operation of this knife. Its so easy to open and close quickly and reliably once you get the hang of it. and unless there is something wrong with his knife he should be able to flick it open more easily than most triad locks. i think he sold this knife short
I Think the 15 has to break in , like all knives. Every other reviewr has spent a week or so with it and it sings very nicely almost like an axis lock. Gotta give the brand new design a chance.
I think it's time to make my wife mad and drop a little bit of money This weekend and try and find the 15. And another thing, would you suggest flattening edge pro stones with their plate and SiC powder or would an 8×3 dmt diamond plate be a better choice. It's about time to flatten them. Don't sharpener everything in the house. Heck, my butter knives shave.....
I too heard the AD10 liners were Aluminum. Do you think that would have any significant effect on the hard use ability of this folding knife? I baton with all my triad lock knives....some don't even have any liners. What do you think, Pete?
Stephen Ciavarri I have several aluminum frame knives and have beat the heck out of them and have never had any issues. I think the biggest difference and probably the only thing you would notice is it being lighter than if they used steel liners
@@Peteyrich93 Yeah...I would tend to agree with you...The Aluminum liners are just fine for the AD10...especially since it would weigh even more with steel. Thanks for the reply.
i really like the blade geometry and size on the AD15, hate the idea/operation of the scorpion lock. i think i’d much prefer the AD10 w triad lock even though i’m looking for something much smaller than my 4 max, i know it won’t unlock in my hands
I was waiting to hear from my most trusted knife guru... (theapostlep)... before I made a move on either of these folders. Just as I thought...the AD10 is for me and the 15 just ain't. Thanks for the go ahead signal on my next acquisition, buddy. P.S. I concur with Pete Richards, below....I too heard the liners on the AD10 were Aluminum...not steel. But I don't think I'm going to be putting mine to that much abuse so as to wear anything out....WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT ALUMINUM vs steel LINERS on the AD10, Rob??? Nothing much to worry about....RIGHT?
Thanks for the timely video. I’d been intrigued by the new 15 but I was afraid to pull the trigger on one without seeing it first. Now it’s between the AD-10 & the Spyderco Shaman for my heavy duty knife. Any thoughts? Anybody?
I got to play with a shaman for the first time a while back and was really impressed but i'm holding off for a future sprint run. I don't think you'll be disappointed with either.
They should've made the AD10 with the length and blade Shape of the AD15, but at the thickness of the AD10 blade. And the AD10 should've had the AD15 pocket clip. But it should've been deep carry.
The AD15 is really easy to close with one hand. I even fidget with it. It's weird to explain but just do it like you'd close a slip joint one handed, with you index finger along the spine and push down. You'll automatically pull the lock up with no effort and it falls shut. Tbh, I got a bit the feeling you didn't want it to be good because that's such an intuitive way to close it and you just couldn't figure it out!?
I like the ad10 more. More familiar with their triad. Looks better imo also.. I eventually wanna acid stonewash mine and maybe get some custom carbon fiber or g10.... mmmmm 😻forest green g10!!! Lol it would be perfect cause that ad10 logo looks lame..
the ad15 is the most versatile lock ever made. it literally closes with a flick of the wrist. just take some time to figure the knife out, watch a couple videos. then you will love it
I have been waiting a while to receive my AD15. Not totally disappointed but sure hope I’m happier about receiving my Spyderco Smock. I’m really looking forward to the Smock to be put in to my EDC rotation if not my primary carry 😬. I guess I’ll see when I get it. Whenever that might be.
6oz with steel liners ( not required) that's good ! Got the clone $36.00 free shipping ! going to get the ad15 clone to $36.00 free shipping ! ! I don't want to spend over $100.00 to find out it's crap ! the 15 look like it will shake easily by holding the lock and shake ! we'll see .
When I saw the ad15 I thought why would you do that when you already had the strongest lock on the market ! I have seen people sling ( shake?) the blade in and out ! But I still don't like it ! The thumb studs are just cartoon large ! I might get the clone ad15 because it's $45.00 !
Hopefully since the two years since you’ve made this video you’ve realized that the Scorpion Lock’s attraction and strength is based upon the fact that its strength increases as you grip the knife, not preventing overtravel. Your review totally missed the boat on this one
Hmmm... let’s see... “preventing overtravel,” which happens when you strike the front of the handle on the object of a chop, is the purpose of the Scorpion lock because its strength increases with the strength of your grip. That’s hilarious, actually, but P.T. Barnum was right - there really is one born every minute. Now, I can see designing a lock for the sole purpose of performing well in a Cold Steel cut test video, but let’s be real for a minute. Even if one decided to “chop” with his sub 4” folder, which is funny all by itself, in order to generate any power, you’d have to employ a loose grip, not a strong one, at the back of the handle for velocity, pivoting on the pinky, thus eliminating the advantage gained by a strong grip at the front of the knife. While a death grip at the front of the handle would be fun to watch if employed in chopping with such a short knife, it would be useless for the task. I love Cold Steel. I love Andrew Demko. I even love that above all, they love to SELL knives. They certainly sold you, Ferd 😉 I didn’t “miss the boat.” I simply chose not to call BS on the marketing copy, because I have affection for such creativity, and the Scorpion Lock is still a very solid piece of engineering.
how is it that so many knife people who claim to know a lot about knives can be so ignorant, the ad15 is by far faster and easier to open and close ( if you know how to do it ) i use the same method on my marksman , simple put your pointing finger in the back of the blade , then push down with your thumb and forefinger and that blade will slam shut fast, hence the reason they made sure to put the overtravel stop on the knife , beautiful knife and i like them both , but ( i like your channel btw ) watching try to close it with one hand was just cringe worthy , i always see these knife guys with cuts , and with over 1000 knives ( not an over statement) and years of knife use , i have never cut myself once , and if you are doing something that could bite you ,like not knowing how to close a knife , wear knife gloves ! i never see anyone wearing protection , but it is a very simple lock and very easy to use , both have merits and i own both , but please inform yourself on the correct way to close the ad15 before you start hating on it due to ignorance , thats not you , and yeah i love new types of knives and locks i try as many as i can find ( axis is still the best lol) but i love big hard use knives and also well engineered knives like the atom and creative design , like the bugout and para 3 , not the lightweight para 3 ( junk ) but anyway keep up the great work , i just had to jump in when seeing such a train wreck happening . if you need more info on what i am talking about , feel free to contact me , i am very much disabled and have a lot of time on my hands .
I got AD-15 because of its Scorpion lock. At first time it was hard to operate with it, but then my fingers became stronger. Now it's much easier to operate with Scorpion lock than with Tri-ad lock. There are a few different ways to open and close AD-15, and its fidget factor is high.
I prefer PB washers only instead of Teflon+PB, so I replaced mine on the AD-10. I have had the Teflon washers shred over time, and this made it feel better in deployment. They're easy to source (.25" ID x .5" OD x .015" thickness).
Got the AD-15 "Lite", for the collection. Got the premium AD-10, to actually use and count on! Great video...
Quick note on the AD-15's Scorpion Lock... There is a TRICK to closing it easily with one hand. Push on the spine of the blade with your index finger while gripping the lock bar with your thumb and middle finger. Makes closing the knife much easier and more satisfying!!
I am surprised he couldn't figure it out...and I don't even have a 15 yet.
I got the 15 and absolutely love it. It’s a beast of a knife for sure. The scorpion lock seems really strong, although I’ve never put enough pressure on the spine of any folding knife to break any type of lock. I’m sure I’ll eventually get an AD10, but am really happy with the AD15 for now.
AD-15 once you find out that little different movement it becomes literally one of the easiest knives to open and close. I open and close mine almost as if it’s just a gravity knife. Been carrying it for a little over two years.
My first impression of the AD15 was the same as yours. I polished the interface of the blade and lock mechanism, as well as the liners where the lock pivots. Totally new action. Very easy to deploy and close one handed.
As far as the ad15 goes it’ll flick shut as smooth as a pm2 for me. Very fidget friendly in my eyes.
A good ol fashion from the sharpening bench video! And Cold Steel no less!
It’s been a while since I’ve tuned in. Glad to be back. Love your vids!
I ordered the 10, thinking that it was the 15. (Old age is wonderful.) I have been meaning to get the 15, but you have saved me some money so I can buy something else. May GOD bless you. The 10 is now living in the Kabar Mule's old sheath.
Also, completely agreed on the 10 being a better knife. The only way in which the 15 be better would be the pocket clip, I think.
Try using your thumb and middle finger and apply a tap or downward pressure on the spine of the blade with your pointer finger. I saw AD do it in his video and it seemed like it had a pretty cool fidget factor to it.
Fuzzy Dunlop it is extremely easy to open close one handed
I own the Cold Steel Ultimate Hunter, AD-10 and AD-15 and I agree with you -- the AD-10 is the best.
Not your first time using a new AD15, but after a day it is very easy to close one-handed!!! I put a tiny bit of Blue Lube on the washers and the lock the day I got it, mainly to help with the action while I was getting used to it. If you pinch/pull back the lock bar with your pointer finger and thumb, then the tiniest flick of the wrist closes the blade. I can easily open & close it repeatedly with 1 hand, and it isn't because of the Blue Lube. I know those 2 tiny drops of Blue Lube didn't make 1-handed opening go from impossible to easy.
I couldn’t help but laugh watching you play with that 15. It does take some getting used to but it’s not all that difficult.
I have to admit I was intrigued by the AD15's unique lock back mechanism. Probably more of a conversation piece with my knife nut friends. But I can see that the AD10 is the knife I gravitate to after seeing this video. Thank you for the comparison!
“I can’t get it to sing. I can get it to blow like a fog horn!” Well done, sir. Well done. This had me in stitches!
Bought both of these, love em.
Chris my AD-15 rocks. Very easy to open/close one handed
Uhhhh.......hey, b-by.......
love your work
Still think the 15 is a great knife. The ad-10 is probably the best conventional cold steel but after edcing the 4-max for a year, I wanted something new and fun and MUCH smaller. So I went with the 15
Great review as always Rob. I had great interest in both knives prior to the release of the lesser quality items. Now I have a much better opinion of the AD-10 in common mode. Thanks so much.
Spot on, Rob. Aesthetically, functionally, the 10 looks to be in every way superior to the 15. Thanks for the review.
Have to agree. After the “Ooh” and “Aah” novelty of the scorpion lock wears off and you look at them objectively side by side the AD10 really does seem the superior of the two.
Until you find out how easily it is to clean one over the other if you are using these for more than just glorified fidget spinners.
Been waiting for this review from you and just found it. Thanks rob.
Just got mine in yesterday. It’s definitely a two hander for me. Came incredibly sharp out of the box. I had to have it because of it’s unique lock. Funs over and in the closet it goes. Or in the get home bag with the Recon also in s35 vn and also a two hander for me anyways. Your video nailed it. I only wish you would have done it sooner. 😂
I think that the 'Scorpion' is a Demko's 'tour de force' in their well known skills, more than a real advance.
Glad to see you survived the "grind in" ! Well, sort of, judging by the look of your left hand anyway! ;)
Thank you for the review. I have bought an AD 10 already and was just trying to learn more of what others thought.
First i want to say i love how you end your video, praising God.
Second, i like your honesty in saying, this is your opinion, and that you are honest about saying what you don't like.
Lastly, at the same moment you said, "it's sharp", at the end of video.
I looked down at a finger and noticed i had cut myself. 🤣 ( The index finger next to nail, where blade falls with a one hand close). 🤣🤣🤣
As you can see I'm new to knives.
Until watching you, i didn't even know you could open and close this knife with one hand. It seemed so difficult compared to the cryo.
You made it look easy. 👍
Oh, in case someone would say, why would you buy this HUGE knife for your first knife?
I bought a few knives for the reason you hinted at.
The designer.
My first and second knife is a Loveless and Randall. Waiting for them.
3nd was a Kershaw cheapy by hinderer, cryo. I bought at Walmart, as i wait for others.
Then this AD10.
And few others too.
But mostly im buying them for the beauty and history of the makers ingenuity in the world of knives.
I wasn't really a knife person, but reviewers, such as your self, make knives interesting.
So thank you for being a great teacher. You are a great example of the RUclips community that helps and informs literally the world.
I may be 60 but i still love to learn.
Be blessed and may God watch over you and yours,
Leo 😊
Ps, please pray for this newbie. 🤣🤣🤣
dont knock the usability of the knife just because you cant operate it properly (excuse my bluntness but its the truth). lifting the lock bar is extremely easy once you get the hang of it, and the knife is extremely flickable and easy to open and close quickly with one hand (certainly easier to operate than the tri-ad lock, and more secure regarding accidental closure).
Rob you are totally right about this and yes an opinion can be objective if it's based on real facts rather than on feelings and I agree I think the AD10 is the best thing Cold Steel has ever done! (confession time I also really like the 15 yes because it's really cool)
You know, Kevin....between you and Rob.... I always look to you two for guidance before I make a purchase. You're vids on the AD10 were helpful too. NOW it's time to pre-order the 10. Thanks.
The AD-15 is highly addictive once you actually figure it out.
Great Video Rob, Love both of these knives just thought I would point out (as someone did for me) that the AD10 has aluminum liners.
Kevin cleary Sorry about that. BHQ has them listed as stainless steel.
@@TheApostleP Don't worry I made the same mistake for the same reason
Yes , Yes , Kevin it was me . But don't feel bad guys your not the only ones that said the liner's were stainless.
Wow! Nice comments reunion!
Anyone seeing a real disadvantag in aluminium liners besides steel screws going straight into it? On the fence for the AD10 here. Well, not really, just hoping to still find a hollow grind one...
I don’t think a hollow grind is weak like everyone seems to think… I think that once the blade edge cuts through the material the top part of the blade which is thicker than right behind the edge will start to spread the material thereby taking the pressure off the middle part of the blade. I don’t think I’ve ever heard of a blade breaking in the middle of the blade anyway. Unless you’re using it like a pry bar and torquing on it excessively.
Apostle P, Thank You. I agree, being a Cold Steel fan boy I guess, the tefon & bronze has never been anything but great and some of mine have been used heavily. I say fan boy, but really I have many brands, just love my Cold Steel knives. My favorite EDC, the Cold Steel "Broken Skull". Hope they bring it back.
Took 10 mins of fidgeting with the ad15 to figure out the one hand close method.
So glad i passed on the 15 and went with the 10. The 15 seemed too gimmicky even after first glance.
I LOVE my Cold Steel AD10. But I can tell you point blank, my US Made CS 4Max edges it in F&F.
I was just checking out random knives on eBay and I came across the AD-15 with m390 blade steel and the cost is only like $75 to $80. I think the scorpion lock is kinda cool. It's the first time I'm seeing it but I've been out of the knife game for about 6 or 7 years. I think for the money I may have to pick one up at some point. I was happy to see you did a review on this knife from you. They say the HRC is 61 instead of most companies give you a variation of like 60 to 62 on m390. I'm really happy about that, it seems they have the heat treatment dialed in on a specific 61 hrc which is good.
Just because a company publishes a hardness spec without a tolerance doesn’t mean all the knives are exactly that hardness. There is no such thing as a zero tolerance specification, nor is it possible when heat treating steel. Don’t believe marketing copy, and don’t infer a meaning that isn’t there.
Late to the party, but I just got my first AD-15. It EATS any Triad Lock Cold Steel for breakfast regarding the speed of opening /closing and fidget factor. You just need to learn to use it. Also fun to give to non-knife friends and ask them to close it. :)
Hey Apostle! How has time changed your opinion on 10 vs. 15? Also, where is your AD20 45-minute review? I have been waiting for your take on the 20....
I am torn - I love this knife for reasons I can’t explain and the ergonomics are superb - but the fidget factor is really hard to understand... hard to open, hard to close for sure...
I am sure someone pointed out that the AD-10 liners are aluminum. I think the curiosity around the different lock will spark interest in the AD-15; that and the blade grind is why I bought one.
Great review! I am looking at both of these and I love the ad10 but as a fan of the flat grind and not so much of the hollow, I wish I could trade the blades.
I heard you can adjust the pivot of the scorpion lock to make it easier to manipulate
Mike drops shut like a pm2 does. It’s not difficult to use at all but I’ve had my custom for close to a year now so I’m very used to it.
The locking and unlocking of the AD 15 is an absolute breeze one-handed.. in fact it's become my favorite fidget knife. Don't believe everything you watch folks, gotta try these things for yourself.
I purchased the AD-15, but I definitely think the AD-10 is the better executed knife of these production versions. The AD-15 needs that extra fit and finish work inherent to the custom knife world.
I just got the Spartan a few weeks ago and I absolutely love this knife. I am going to order the AD10 though
The AD 15 looks very beautiful and a bit futuristic which I like, but the scorpion lock.....🤔 ?
I really don't know how comfortable will be to close it with one hand and personally for me is very important to be able to close my folder with one hand.
It puts me off that if you listen to Andrew Demko's story regarding the creation of the AD-15, the Scorpion Lock is basically just a cheap work-around of the Tri-Ad Lock because the Tri-Ad's tight tolerances were a pain at the time. Doesn't inspire much faith or quality to me to be using a lock that was a stopgap...
I could not agree more. The AD 10 rules!
What is that pin hole on the ad 10 for? It seems to align open and closed.
The idea is that you pass a nail throught that hole and make it ever harder for the lock to fail.
Looks like a Spyderco clips on the 15
It's nice to see a knife-maker trying something new, but I agree that the scorpion lock feels like it's new for the sake of being new. A cool piece for collectors but doesn't look great for users.
I'm agonizing between the OD Green 15 and the newer black G10 version?
i like the technical, industrial look of the AD-15 and the multi colored components give it a very serious, purpose built military look imo.
as far as its action goes, i think of it as an ultra heavy duty, overbuilt working/field knife and as such i can forgive its very deliberate, awkward unlocking and blade closure.
its not really meant to be a super slick fondling knife.
like many purpose built, heavy duty knives that basically require 2 hands to unlock and fold, it trades ease of use and a slick action for strength, safety and reliable use while cutting.
closing the blade is therefore a bit more difficult.
like the Gayle Bradley 1, the Extrema Ratio folders, even some Cold Steel tri-ad folders they just arent meant for flicking open and closed.
Although the AD-10 is as tough and operates smoothly and easily, its a different design. or rather the AD-15 is the different, unique design.
i think its novelty and uniqueness is refreshing, myself.
i can see owning one. i just wont sit on the sofa flicking it open and closed.
Awesome knives! Did you strop those blades or is that factory, because I've never got a cold steel factory edge mirrored like that. Don't get me wrong they'll pop hairs off my arm but not a mirror edge like these.
They just came out with a lower cost AD15 Lite... Grivory scales and AUS10a steel.. street price should come in right under $100..
It's not just the lock. Who else is offering premium materials at these prices on knives that are designed to be 100 percent functional? Only Cold Steel.
So check this out. The easiest knife I've ever closed is the AD-15. Here's how. Take your fingers and hold the top of the scorpion lock (yoke) up next to the tang of the blade. do not hold any other part of the knife. Then just fling inwards. The inertia pushes the part of the knife not in your hand away, and, the lock opens up as the blade swings shut very quickly.
AD-10 is so damn nice man. Wish they made a smaller one of it, like a little brother.
Welll, I’m way late to the party. I didn’t even know about the AD15 til two days ago. Actually, 5 days. Mine arrives tomorrow. Your video doesn’t make me regret buying the AD15. But it’s the first that makes me really want to follow it up with the AD10.
Did you ever try closing the 15 by lifting the bar with your thumb and middle, pushing the blade with your index finger?
That ding said, the tri-ad lock seems the more sturdy of the two, longevity-wise. But either will likely outlive me, at my age.
The AD15 is a collector's piece. Some day, that scorpion lock will be a curiosity and that knife will be a great showpiece. Otherwise, everything else is better.
Narq Pretty much...
Definitely, although that for a slightly difference, I think that the AD-10 has a safer lock.
Ok I have smaller sized hands and I have no problem at all opening and closing the AD15😂. I pinch the back of the spine with my thumb and index finger and then swing it closed and tbh I find it much more fun than my Code 4. Idk what this guy talking about it
what one has the edge on sliceing? also what one would be more adept at batoning?
Those are nice looking knives and the owners must love them as I would.
the AD-15 is extremely easy to use with one hand. I can flick it open with ease with the thumb or reverse flick and can easily close there knife with one hand. I think you just didn't use the knife and become familiar with it enough before you did this video. Otherwise good stuff. I know this video is years old but still wanted to throw in my two cents.
I love my AD15 but if I really bear down on the yoke during a hard cut it the lock pin sticks in the blade cutout so hard I have to pull it apart with both hands. I'm 6,4 220 lbs and very strong. Does anyone else have this problem. ??????
I always appreciate your videos and often agree with your take on the knives reviewed. However, I disagree regarding your appraisal of the way the AD-15 deploys and closes. In the first day I had mine, I was able to easily get it to deploy by flipping it and Spydie flicking it. Also, it easily drops shut and the strong detent sucks it closed when the yoke is lifted. Once you get the hang if it, it is easy to lift the yoke with one hand and using the same hand close the blade with your thumb. I really like that these same moves can be done with whichever is your non-dominant hand. Check out several videos done by Andrew Demko and you will see how easily it can be manipulated.
yeah for real this guy is completely inept when it comes to the operation of this knife. Its so easy to open and close quickly and reliably once you get the hang of it. and unless there is something wrong with his knife he should be able to flick it open more easily than most triad locks. i think he sold this knife short
@@Pablo-wj4hb hes an old guy. his review is biased
@@Nofkuyoutube lol i figured that had something to do with it
@@Pablo-wj4hb I just got mine and love it. Within 30 minutes I've figured it all out and it's become my main carry knife.
@@Nofkuyoutube yeah its my favorite knife i recomend the snaggletooth attachment
I Think the 15 has to break in , like all knives. Every other reviewr has spent a week or so with it and it sings very nicely almost like an axis lock. Gotta give the brand new design a chance.
Agreed, also you can adjust the tension on the rear pivot which makes a world of difference on the ease of use on the scorpion lock.
The cold steels I have all have the inside blade stop pins ?
I think it's time to make my wife mad and drop a little bit of money This weekend and try and find the 15. And another thing, would you suggest flattening edge pro stones with their plate and SiC powder or would an 8×3 dmt diamond plate be a better choice. It's about time to flatten them. Don't sharpener everything in the house. Heck, my butter knives shave.....
Aluminum liners on the ad10 rob other than that great video boss
I too heard the AD10 liners were Aluminum. Do you think that would have any significant effect on the hard use ability of this folding knife? I baton with all my triad lock knives....some don't even have any liners. What do you think, Pete?
Stephen Ciavarri I have several aluminum frame knives and have beat the heck out of them and have never had any issues. I think the biggest difference and probably the only thing you would notice is it being lighter than if they used steel liners
@@Peteyrich93 Yeah...I would tend to agree with you...The Aluminum liners are just fine for the AD10...especially since it would weigh even more with steel. Thanks for the reply.
i really like the blade geometry and size on the AD15, hate the idea/operation of the scorpion lock. i think i’d much prefer the AD10 w triad lock even though i’m looking for something much smaller than my 4 max, i know it won’t unlock in my hands
Do you think the scorpion lock will unlock in your hands? Just curious.
I’ve had an issue with the new microtech socom auto similar to the over travel you described on some back locks
Autos will often have that issue unfortunately.
Agreed my friend 👍
Wow - great review but have exact opposite opinion of the 15.
Do you find it rather easy to close one handed?
I do. I use mine daily and have no issues
I was waiting to hear from my most trusted knife guru... (theapostlep)... before I made a move on either of these folders. Just as I thought...the AD10 is for me and the 15 just ain't. Thanks for the go ahead signal on my next acquisition, buddy. P.S. I concur with Pete Richards, below....I too heard the liners on the AD10 were Aluminum...not steel. But I don't think I'm going to be putting mine to that much abuse so as to wear anything out....WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT ALUMINUM vs steel LINERS on the AD10, Rob??? Nothing much to worry about....RIGHT?
Thanks for the timely video. I’d been intrigued by the new 15 but I was afraid to pull the trigger on one without seeing it first. Now it’s between the AD-10 & the Spyderco Shaman for my heavy duty knife. Any thoughts? Anybody?
I got to play with a shaman for the first time a while back and was really impressed but i'm holding off for a future sprint run. I don't think you'll be disappointed with either.
Eraser Fred - good point! I can imagine a Shaman in M4!
The AD-10 all day brother. This knife will outperform the Shaman for days. You will love this knife when you get it.
The AD10 liners are aluminum.
They should've made the AD10 with the length and blade Shape of the AD15, but at the thickness of the AD10 blade. And the AD10 should've had the AD15 pocket clip. But it should've been deep carry.
The AD15 is really easy to close with one hand. I even fidget with it. It's weird to explain but just do it like you'd close a slip joint one handed, with you index finger along the spine and push down. You'll automatically pull the lock up with no effort and it falls shut.
Tbh, I got a bit the feeling you didn't want it to be good because that's such an intuitive way to close it and you just couldn't figure it out!?
Nice looking knives
heat treated aluminum spacers in ad 10, not SS
ad15 will break in and you can loosen the pivots up just a tad. its fantastic. to me the triad lock sucks to close.
I like the ad10 more. More familiar with their triad. Looks better imo also.. I eventually wanna acid stonewash mine and maybe get some custom carbon fiber or g10.... mmmmm 😻forest green g10!!! Lol it would be perfect cause that ad10 logo looks lame..
Put a tad bit of heat on that thumb stud & it will come right off like there was no Loctite on their
Love my mgad15 and the production ad15. I need an ad10 something serious if you know anyone selling one. Lol
the ad15 is the most versatile lock ever made. it literally closes with a flick of the wrist. just take some time to figure the knife out, watch a couple videos. then you will love it
Aluminum liners. 😉
Jas. 1:27 ✌️🙏
Don't know but my searches on this blade is showing most sites the price is $179.00
I have been waiting a while to receive my AD15. Not totally disappointed but sure hope I’m happier about receiving my Spyderco Smock. I’m really looking forward to the Smock to be put in to my EDC rotation if not my primary carry 😬. I guess I’ll see when I get it. Whenever that might be.
6oz with steel liners ( not required) that's good ! Got the clone $36.00 free shipping ! going to get the ad15 clone to $36.00 free shipping ! ! I don't want to spend over $100.00 to find out it's crap ! the 15 look like it will shake easily by holding the lock and shake ! we'll see .
When I saw the ad15 I thought why would you do that when you already had the strongest lock on the market ! I have seen people sling ( shake?) the blade in and out ! But I still don't like it ! The thumb studs are just cartoon large !
I might get the clone ad15 because it's $45.00 !
Hopefully since the two years since you’ve made this video you’ve realized that the Scorpion Lock’s attraction and strength is based upon the fact that its strength increases as you grip the knife, not preventing overtravel. Your review totally missed the boat on this one
Hmmm... let’s see... “preventing overtravel,” which happens when you strike the front of the handle on the object of a chop, is the purpose of the Scorpion lock because its strength increases with the strength of your grip.
That’s hilarious, actually, but P.T. Barnum was right - there really is one born every minute. Now, I can see designing a lock for the sole purpose of performing well in a Cold
Steel cut test video, but let’s be real for a minute. Even if one decided to “chop” with his sub 4” folder, which is funny all by itself, in order to generate any power, you’d have to employ a loose grip, not a strong one, at the back of the handle for velocity, pivoting on the pinky, thus eliminating the advantage gained by a strong grip at the front of the knife. While a death grip at the front of the handle would be fun to watch if employed in chopping with such a short knife, it would be useless for the task.
I love Cold Steel. I love Andrew Demko. I even love that above all, they love to SELL knives. They certainly sold you, Ferd 😉
I didn’t “miss the boat.” I simply chose not to call BS on the marketing copy, because I have affection for such creativity, and the Scorpion Lock is still a very solid piece of engineering.
i take a dremel disk to my thumb studs for more purchase
Looks like too much work to deploy or to close...maybe I'm a Luddite but not catching my fancy.
ATB to all who enjoy 'em!!
Nice video! AD10 could use a flipper for me. AD15 just doesn't do it for me. Cool looking, but not for me. 🐴
If you added a flipper you'd have to use a completely different locking mechanism. You can't have a flipper with a tri-ad lock.
@@notanundercovercop8851 i agree with you. That's why it's not for me. 🐴
how is it that so many knife people who claim to know a lot about knives can be so ignorant, the ad15 is by far faster and easier to open and close ( if you know how to do it ) i use the same method on my marksman , simple put your pointing finger in the back of the blade , then push down with your thumb and forefinger and that blade will slam shut fast, hence the reason they made sure to put the overtravel stop on the knife , beautiful knife and i like them both , but ( i like your channel btw ) watching try to close it with one hand was just cringe worthy , i always see these knife guys with cuts , and with over 1000 knives ( not an over statement) and years of knife use , i have never cut myself once , and if you are doing something that could bite you ,like not knowing how to close a knife , wear knife gloves ! i never see anyone wearing protection , but it is a very simple lock and very easy to use , both have merits and i own both , but please inform yourself on the correct way to close the ad15 before you start hating on it due to ignorance , thats not you , and yeah i love new types of knives and locks i try as many as i can find ( axis is still the best lol) but i love big hard use knives and also well engineered knives like the atom and creative design , like the bugout and para 3 , not the lightweight para 3 ( junk ) but anyway keep up the great work , i just had to jump in when seeing such a train wreck happening . if you need more info on what i am talking about , feel free to contact me , i am very much disabled and have a lot of time on my hands .
4:48 dats wat she said...
the broad blade makes no sense
I agree 💯 % on AD15...😙