The Vaquero was made by Lynn Thompson as a self defense blade first & formost! Hence the thin tip! The knife was made for stabbing and slashing and balances perfectly!! Its also intimidatiing as all hell!! Absolutely Love the Vaquero!!
First time that I don't agree with you.... The Voyager Vaquero is amazing for what it was designed. It's great at slashing, cutting, trusting and it will impress anyone trying to do you harm. It's not designed for battoning!!! Otherwise, great information! Keep up the great job! P.s. I'm buying me another Vaquero!
The large Espada and the Rajah 2 are my two favorite Cold Steels. I also have the tanto version of the XL Voyager, which is also a great knife after you sand it down under the pocket clip. I think the purpose of the Vaquero is for slicing and stabbing where that thinner tip would come in handy. Yeah, that large Espada carries so easily for such a large knife! It should be called an XL though. The actual XL should be called the XXL.
I didn’t love the vaquero as much as I thought I would, either. But I have been VERY happy with the Tanto version. It’s got more weight. Very robust and substantial.
I love my XL Vaquero, but it is a very limited use knife IMHO. I prefer my ZL Tanto and Drop Point and they are great work knives. The Rajah II is a beast 😂
@@jkamp have u gotten your hand's on a serrated Spartan?? I love the unserrated jobby i have, but the new serrated version peeks my interest. Orrr A Maurauder? Im about 95% ready to pull the trigger on that...
The Vaq is Lynn’s favorite and most trusted folder. That says something right there. I also appreciate the thumb stud instead of the Espada’s flat stud. Attach a Snaggletooth wave on the Vaq and you’re GTG. Espada is overpriced IMO.
I like the Voyager XL tanto the most, mainly because it’s not such a wide blade - hence it’s lighter. The tanto solves all your tip strength concerns. The handles are abrasive for last ditch, maximum grip in a panic. In circumstances like that, you are going to be gripping very long. For bushcraft, just get an inexpensive Mora or Hultafors, which are also the best food prep knives. The three knives you show today are designed to offer you some chance of survival in an animal attack. Finally, batoning a folder, any folder, shows the reserve strength, but it is a waste of that reserve strength which you might need in an emergency. Baby it until you really need it.
That's my philosophy as well. I own the Voyager XL Clip Point as a self defense blade. I'm thinking of buying the drop point, and/or tanto version(s). Is the blade on the tanto version heavy enough to flick open easily? My clip version flicks open very easily. I never use the thumb studs. It's too easy to cut my giant thumbs.
Aus10a might be considered a budget steel but it performs incredibly well with the way they heat treat it. I feel totally comfortable batoning with these folders and barely even needing a strop afterwards
RudeSwine, hatchets suck, especially for splitting. A large knife or a proper short camp axe cover everything you’d want a hatchet for but do it better.
I love the voyager lineup. I've had 7+ and they're always a sub $200 folder I recommend to anyone. The main problem is the handle. I sand mine down with 600 grit sandpaper on the diamond texture. It takes about 5 minutes to get one to a spot I like as I do it methodically. If you leave the handle than you'll destroy your pockets in less than a year, easily
The Rajah 2 is badass. It's been my edc for going on 2 years now. I don't leave without it. And I haven't found a folder that compares. ( the hold out 2 is badass too)
I have the XL Voyager Drop Point, which is a very conventional blade shape. When you look at the spine, you see that the thickness carries forward nearer to the point than you would think from looking at the side, as shown in your picture at 13:30. It is my favourite EDC in my pants pocket with no clip. As others have said, if the grip is too aggressive for you, you can sand it down to as grippy or comfortable as you prefer. The blade is very like a professional kitchen knife I have: it works brilliantly for food prep. Like the Rajah, I mainly like it for clearing spiky undergrowth: it's like having a genuinely pocket-sized folding machete with you all the time. I have a loop of cord at the end, and often swing it with a two-finger grip at the very end of the handle, last two fingers in the loop, getting maximum length to the "machete". That two finger grip is much better than you would think. I agree that the blade in the Voyager you showed is a rather impractical shape - fragile and difficult to sharpen for no gain.
This is not the XL Espada this is the large Espada… The XL has a 7.5 inch blade where is the large has the 5.5 inch blade. It’s still a very large knife but not the largest version of this knife that they make.
Cold steel: knife community moral booster and they are even pretty functional, one of my favourite brand 👍 For me the vojager bowie/clip is the best design for the XL format also FRN is great for XL models but on normal ones I prefer G10 like the 4 inches recon 1, CS is also the brand that cover all options possible, maximum choices for the customers. Rajah 2 is the coolest one but the little Rajah 3 is more useful.
All these knives are basically self defence or martial blades - not really for food preparation or even bush crafting or camping - the kukri is very flexible
The only XL blade I have is the fancy Espada that I purchased mostly as a cool conversation piece. As I’ve heard you say...I’m of the opinion that “Over 4” I prefer a Fixed Blade...Under 4” a folder”. Just makes sense to me...My blades outside those parameters tend not to get used.
@@dlrmon1 I have the XL and it's ludicrous- it's basically only a concealed weapon and is impractical for anything else. I have the Voyager Vaquero XL and I'm thinking of perhaps getting the normal Large Espada which is the same size but a bit better for edc.
Finally got the Espada Large as I'd had an itch for a number of years. I'd always leaned towards larger knives (Recon 1, large CQC7, etc.), but knew this was more novelty. When I got it, I was almost giddy like a kid. But then I also realized how it was one of the best feeling knives in hand, and carried no bigger than anything else. Immediately found myself looking for a second, but calmed myself down.
Cool of you showing these classics! The Voyager series from CD has excellent value. Own several different models. The Vaquero models I believe are more a combat variant. It's basically a small (foldable) combat kukri with an added stabbing tip. Not made for utility in mind even if it can be used for it since it slices really well as you showed.
The funny thing is these knives were designed has self-defense weapons. The vaquero is probably the best self-defense knife ever. It can stab as well as chop. The espada is designed after the navaro fighting knife of Spain. Anyway my point is these were not designed for woodwork yet they do it ok. I’ve had all 3 for years my espada is cts-xhp I love it. Really with these 3 and a few fixed blades I don’t really need another knife until prices come back to normal.
Love my Espada! I was not interested in the Raja because you might as well have a fixed blade on your belt for how clearly visible the Raja is in a pocket nor the Voyager because of its lack of wave-ability from the pocket. I actually carry a CS Spartan more then my Raja even (which is quite allot, 85-90% edc between the two) being a bit shorter it fits in more shalower pockets and it has less pommel sticking outside the pocket. I will preface that by saying I did a massive custom weight reduction job on it, mostly by trimming down the liners I was able to take off about 2oz. Being closer to 7.5 Oz instead of closer to 9.5 Oz makes a massive difference!
The only XL Voyagers made for outdoor use, are the drop point and Tanto. I use the clip point for self defense. I might buy the drop piint fir outdoor use.
I have the Rajah 2, and love it. The large Voyager clip point is a great everyday work knife ( I work outside) Cold steel make fantastic work knives ( in my opinion )
I have all of these and the rest of the XL Voyager line. They are great knives and the XL Voyager Tanto and Clip Point are awesome work knives as you said.
The Rajah 2 is badass, it's been my edc for almost 2years now. No other blade compares. ( I also love the Hold Out 1, but it's expensive. I just love full flat grinds)
I really feel that the Voyager series offers the best overall bang for the buck of all Cold Steel heavy duty folders. I have all of their plain blade choices in the XL & L sizes EXCEPT the Vaquero version you tested. The blade has no appeal to me at all. As far as the negatives you mentioned, you were spot on. I personally like the texture of the Voyager series, but that’s just me. You do have to slightly bend out the clip or epoxy the area under clip make living with it easier. Yes, the thumb plate is better for deploying. I wish Cold Steel would bring back the 3” blade versions of the Voyager as they would make a good hard use edc option.
I have the Voyager Clip point XL, and will soon have the Rajah ii XL. I am looking forward to using them both in the outside. But its winter will I live so I will have to wait at least two months.
I own Rajah III for 12 years and I've handled Rajah II quite a few times. You don't know how comfortable and natural that grip feels compared to other any knife. Rajah II feels like a pocket sword and is a true weapon.
Hard to fast any of them. The nogales or s-curve design pulls the target into the blade. The vaquero was one that Lynn carried everyday. Definitely, a learning curve with all three design. Great video.
Lynn Thompson's choice is the Voyager, my choice is the Rajah. I would like to see you beat on all three to determine weather the Voyager's blade would snap.
Great video! I own two Espada XL's ( s35vn and aus10) and one Voyager Tanto XL. The tip on the tanto almost seems indestructible, but I would never do that to my knives unless it's a life and death situation. The Rajah 2 has a cult following, most folks love it. Who knows, Someday I may own one.
I have 3 Cold Steel XL folders: the Voyager Tanto, Voyager Drop Point, and Counter Point. I like them because they all have certain traits that make them appealing. And all 3 were less than $90, which is excellent considering the size, strength, and value that you get. Cold Steel is, in my opinion, THE VERY BEST when it comes to extra large folding knives for your money.
I have two Cold Steel folders; a Mini AK-47 which I carry on a regular basis and a large Recon with a clip point blade. Very happy with both (for literally 10 yrs+) and if I were to purchase one of these very large folders, the Espada would be my choice.
Okay, now I also have the Luzon, large and medium. and the XL G10 Espada. Plus the Voyager XL Clip Point. the Rajah 2. And the beast that is the Espada XL G10, with the 7.5 inch blade. An d I think I'm done :) All great knives.
Great knives all and I'm with you on the Vaquero. The very thin point, "blade" for such a large knife does not catch my attention like the other XL Voyagers, Espada and Rajah. And taking the clips off of my Espada and Rajah have actually enabled me to comfortably carry those knives completely concealed with no problem whatsoever. Great video btw. I really enjoyed it!
I have the Espada XL , came scary sharp out of the box , works great clearing briars around camp . Haven't worked up the nerve to chop or baton but I think it would handle it . Bought the Vaquero fully serrated , this one is scary , if you screw up closing it you could lose a finger . Really enjoy the channel , great content 👍👍
@@dick_richards Yeah I think your right , thats when that crazy recurve starts to make sense . A cut from the serrated version is goin to the bone , it is a serious blade !
Great video thanks. The drop point voyager xl is the one I picked as I already have the Espada XL. Both are great and I may get more of the CS XL blades but recommend the Voyager XL for a all around great and useful blade. The Voyager XL Vacaro is more a fighting knife with the thin tip, grippy scales and recurve and is hard to beat for that purpose. Use the right tool for the job. All of the knives are designed well for different purposes and I think CS is quality and value.
I bought the Voyager XL in the clip point version. I didn't want the tanto because my Recon 1 (4") is a tanto, so I was going to get the spear point. The spear point was not in stock and it was also more expensive than the clip point. I use it when out on the bike to cut away overhanging branches, brambles, nettles, thistles etc. I'm very happy with it. It's best to use gloves with it as the handle is pretty abrasive. As mentioned in the video, it is probably best to smooth out under the pocket clip for the same reason.
I have a rajah 2 blackout and love it. I'd say it would be the best self defense ang bushcraft knife with its long stand with the Gurkha as well as having the longest reach from all three of them
After having knives that have that wave type opening feature I never want a regular thumb stud again. It's a huge selling point for me and almost a no-go if a knife doesn't have it. I love it
Great vid! I would think that the primary use case for the Voyager Vaquero is as a specialized combat blade, so I'm not surprised that it wouldn't resonate as being as useful for more domestic tasks. Regardless I admire all of them. Big blades = cool. :)
Okay, go the Rajah II XL, today and its HUGE! So it will be my new EDC Self Defense knife ;) I think if I had to pull it out, might scare the person who is accosting me. It's silly how big it is. And I thought the Voyager Clip Point XL was big. Well now I have both. And yes, it snowed where I live last night, and its cold again outside.
Okay, a question for you, and I hope you can answer it. The Voyager Clip Point XL, does not have the thing on the back, to deploy the knife from your pocket. But I have seen a attachment to fix this, but I cannot remember where. Can you help me?
Right, the Vaquero bladed Voyager is better at slashing , slicing & stab piercing. It is intentional. Vaquero bladed Voyager has cutting power usually better than other blade styles of twice it's length as a slasher. Not a great Bushcraft choice but is better than some. I believe it's one of the best fighting folders ever. EDC'd the XL Vaquero for 2+ years & it did everything asked of it. Switched to XL Sabre drop point over the past 3 years & is somewhat more noticeably handy at smaller more precise suburban or rural EDC tasking but still slashes & fights. Looking to switch now to the XL Espada for EDC evolution comparison. I know there are better knives than Cold Steel & I have many of them. However I've trusted my life to these for @ 10 years now for my suburban & rural EDC knives & here I am posting this useless knife banter here & now 😅 Outstanding content as usual & thanks for showcasing these great knives. 👍
Agree. I carry the voyager vaquero XL serrated when I'm not carrying a gun. Gives about 8" of reach. About the same as a fixed blade fighting knife but one that can be carried in your pocket.
@@brianl7449 Copy that 👍 Brian. Very aggressive cutter those full serrated blades. Keep a few in my pile as well. Keep an old Japan Voyager tanto full serrated L in the truck cup holder as a pocket drop for whatever may arise. Very coo! Thanks Brian 👍
Why not include the xl Espada at 7.5" into this mix? That is my favorite CS folder of all, and I own A LOT of CS knives...XL Voyagers, Special edition voyagers in premium steels, Recon-1s, kobuns, neck knives, leathernecks, Trailmaster, etc...
My personal favorite dino-hunters from Cold Steel are the plain edge Talwar at 5" with Triad, and the 6" Luzon for EDC. The Luzon is light for its size. Maybe not as tool-worthy as the Talwar, but super smooth and quick to open, either as a flipper, with thumb stud, or just a wrist flick. The Talwar feels just as robust as any other big Triad folder. But, what I really REALLY appreciate about it is its relatively featureless grip. The choils aren't obnoxious like on the Espada series, or even the Rajah. Maybe it could've used a choil at the blade ricasso for choke grips, but that's not a deal breaker with me.
Luzon 6" is amazing I carried mine everyday for 5+yrs. Not necessarily needed but would be amazing with tri-ad and aug10 blade would make it unstoppable in my opinion.
I prefer the Voyager XL blades (clip point, drop point, or tanto), to these other knives for a reason. I know many people don't have a problem with it, but I'm not a fan of blades that are designed to open automatically when I pull them from my pocket. The XL Voyagers dont do that, and they're lightning fast to flick open. The Rajah is definitely a great blade for outdoor use. However, I wouldn't use a folding knife for outdoor use in the first place. I certainly understand some people live in areas that have laws about carrying fixed blades, even in the woods. Those laws are ridiculous. But, if I had to abide by them, the Rajah would be the best option.
Thanks for helping me to put my mind at rest. I've been sitting on the fence about getting a Vaquero for years. I know it's one of Lynn Thomson's favorite EDCs, but I have just never pulled the trigger on buying one. This video has given me closure on my decision not to get one. Besides, I already have a ton (actually around 20) of Cold Steel knives. I enjoy your videos and appreciate the work you put into them. Thanks, again! 👍👍
Nice presentation. I have all these blades. The Cold Steel Voyager in the Vaquero configuration blade shape is a superb general utility and defense blade. In that capacity its tip formation is an awesome performer! But for sticking into wood and prying left and right, it won't do it. However, this was not created for this purpose!
I like all 3, though I view these as weapons rather than tools. For the other tasks in the video, a Bugout or Kizer Latt Vind Mini would do great at 2 ounces.
Great choices. But, for you, I would recommend the New, 2022, Drop Point XL Voyager. The Model you have, the Vaquero, is Lynn C. Thompson's favorite self-defense blade design. It's not a Wood Crafting or Survival Blade. :-) Peace, Stiletto :-)
interesting that he doesn't like the Voyager Vaquero and that's the knife Lynn Thompson (founder of Cold Steel) has as his #1 EDC he carries two on his person at all times.
I’d like to see the Vaquero at 6.5 inch blade length of Magnacut steel and a touch thicker. Don’t say it can’t be done. What’s life all about anyway? Cold Steel? Is Cold Steel owned by China now? If so, take my suggestion for free.
I love the Rajah II and carry it a lot on back country day trips. After seeing another clip of yours putting it through some hard use I used it to delimb a small tree I cut down that was dead and dried out. It was much harder to get through finger diameter or smaller limbs than your videos of even thicker green wood stuff. I guess that should be obvious but I didn’t expect that much difference. Ended up bailing and using one of those Japanese pull saws. Loving your videos though lately and finding them helpful, the reviews are good and seeing you do things I was scared to try with mine is awesome. Caught a couple good ones on Puukkos also.
The blade on the Voyager that you got is specifically for slashing... you catch the first part of the blade on a body part and then draw it through towards the tip to increase the depth, length of the slash. You should have gotten a clip or drop point for general use.
I have the RAJAH -3 which is the smallest at 3-1/2 in serrated it's blade is legal in many jurisdictions.. (SUB 4in ).. but the knife looks and cuts much larger than a three and a half inch blade! .. just an awesome knife...
I think the Voyager in that shape with a serrated blade would be great for a self defense aspect. I have some knives that I only pick up and carry when I can't carry a gun. I have a few and the Cold Steel Serrations are wicked!! I have the Voyager serrated Tanto that I carry in my truck and it is a great weight and a crazy cutter. Cold Steel value is hard to beat! My next one will be the serrated Spartan or Voyager like this with the serrations or both. Depends which I see on a good sale. I just missed the Signature model of the Spartan with s35 steel serrated blade for around $100 at a website. 😪😪What a steal!! Gotta pick up the Rajah though just because I can!!
Great vid. I guessed the voyager would be the one you axed… the Rajah2 I believe is one of their better folders. B I G and a very much attention getter. Thanks much enjoy your vids
I have the entire espada series. I carry the g10 xl everytime I go out along with a few other xl knives. I love the triad lock!! I love cold steel. The 4 max and sr1 are others I carry camping. Sometimes a recon 1 goes as backup. I use to carry my ad10 and few others CS but fell back to the espada xl and sr1 or 4 max. I carry a few other cold steel for self defense only. Vaquero xl serrated sometimes is added to what I carry.
I've had a lot of the XL Cold Steel knives and the Rajah II is my favorite. I EDC either the Rajah II or the Counter Point XL unless I'm going to town where I can't legally carry them thanks to our cowardly law makers. I think the Counter Point XL is the most versatile for what I do. Except for maintaining trails and shooting lanes for my bows and that's where the Rajah II shines. It will handle hardwood with no problem. I've been using mine for years and it still functions just fine.
No sir there all great knives. No bad choice here. I own and carry all CS’s XL models on a daily basis. Have been since before CS was in the spotlight. I have preferences, but i love things about each one.
The title of the video is misleading. The espada in the video is not the espada xl. That is the espada large. Did not expect this channel to feed false info and encourage click baiting.when you talk about cold steel you must make sure of your size terminology. Cold steel’s xl term is different to the general term of things being extra large.
First Cold Steel folder I purchased was a Voyager with a bowie-type blade. As a Spaniard, I hugely appreciate that classic design from Middle Ages, not only because of a matter of pride but utility in the first place. The shape of the edge does it all and it does it splendidly: moreover, it is easy to be uniformly resharpened without funny movements. Not much time after, I bought the Desperado. Yes, that egg-shaped handle and the edge geometry are almost limited to self defense, but I found it so interesting the Falcata-y design that it had to be mine. No remorse about my purchase, period. As far as I'm concerned, I'm not using it for what it was intended to in a regular basis, so the resharpening issue is no problem to be worried. And if needed, I'm sure it will KEEL.😉 And then came the Espada series. Mine - the XL with aluminum bolsters- is en route to my hands. Just seeing it is falling in love. It was what I've been looking for in a folding knife; the compromise between aesthetics, size, safety, cutting power and general quality. Let's see when it reaches my hands if I was wrong...
![Blox Fruits Dragon Rework Update [Full Stream]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/EqDAp8udhm0/mqdefault.jpg)
The Vaquero was made by Lynn Thompson as a self defense blade first & formost! Hence the thin tip! The knife was made for stabbing and slashing and balances perfectly!! Its also intimidatiing as all hell!! Absolutely Love the Vaquero!!
I keep buying them. I got 3 vaqueros now😂
Vaquero has specific purpose. Agreed its not a bushman tool.
Easy answer. I’m biased. Espada XL without a doubt. I have 27 different Cold Steel Espadas. I have been collecting them since 2009.
The knife world wouldn’t be the same without these. Happy Saturday everyone!
Agree 100%
Vaquero is designed as a defensive knife not a woods tool.
First time that I don't agree with you.... The Voyager Vaquero is amazing for what it was designed. It's great at slashing, cutting, trusting and it will impress anyone trying to do you harm. It's not designed for battoning!!! Otherwise, great information! Keep up the great job!
P.s. I'm buying me another Vaquero!
The large Espada and the Rajah 2 are my two favorite Cold Steels. I also have the tanto version of the XL Voyager, which is also a great knife after you sand it down under the pocket clip. I think the purpose of the Vaquero is for slicing and stabbing where that thinner tip would come in handy. Yeah, that large Espada carries so easily for such a large knife! It should be called an XL though. The actual XL should be called the XXL.
I didn’t love the vaquero as much as I thought I would, either. But I have been VERY happy with the Tanto version. It’s got more weight. Very robust and substantial.
I love my XL Vaquero, but it is a very limited use knife IMHO. I prefer my ZL Tanto and Drop Point and they are great work knives. The Rajah II is a beast 😂
It excels when used in the serrated version for self defense.
@@dick_richards agree but I prefer the serrated Talwar for that.
@@jkamp Ohhhh well then! Lol.... ;)
@@jkamp have u gotten your hand's on a serrated Spartan?? I love the unserrated jobby i have, but the new serrated version peeks my interest.
Orrr A Maurauder? Im about 95% ready to pull the trigger on that...
The Vaq is Lynn’s favorite and most trusted folder.
That says something right there. I also appreciate the thumb stud instead of the Espada’s flat stud. Attach a Snaggletooth wave on the Vaq and you’re GTG. Espada is overpriced IMO.
absolutely right about the Voyager. Bent the tip of the blade on mine within a month of buying it. Tanto version is much more durable.
I like the Voyager XL tanto the most, mainly because it’s not such a wide blade - hence it’s lighter. The tanto solves all your tip strength concerns. The handles are abrasive for last ditch, maximum grip in a panic. In circumstances like that, you are going to be gripping very long. For bushcraft, just get an inexpensive Mora or Hultafors, which are also the best food prep knives. The three knives you show today are designed to offer you some chance of survival in an animal attack. Finally, batoning a folder, any folder, shows the reserve strength, but it is a waste of that reserve strength which you might need in an emergency. Baby it until you really need it.
That's my philosophy as well. I own the Voyager XL Clip Point as a self defense blade. I'm thinking of buying the drop point, and/or tanto version(s). Is the blade on the tanto version heavy enough to flick open easily? My clip version flicks open very easily. I never use the thumb studs. It's too easy to cut my giant thumbs.
@@DDDYLN no significant difference in blade weights.
@@mdubb4855 thanks 👍
Aus10a might be considered a budget steel but it performs incredibly well with the way they heat treat it. I feel totally comfortable batoning with these folders and barely even needing a strop afterwards
Why baton any knife? They make hatchets for that type of thing. Use the proper tool for the job at hand. I get the sentiment though, their tough!
Budget steel or not, it will cut skin no problem.
😬
💥😎Thanks 4 the Comp!👍🇺🇸..But this wasn't the XL Versions of All the Knives. I was expecting the Espada XL Man..The Pocket Sword🗡
RudeSwine, hatchets suck, especially for splitting. A large knife or a proper short camp axe cover everything you’d want a hatchet for but do it better.
I love the voyager lineup. I've had 7+ and they're always a sub $200 folder I recommend to anyone. The main problem is the handle. I sand mine down with 600 grit sandpaper on the diamond texture. It takes about 5 minutes to get one to a spot I like as I do it methodically. If you leave the handle than you'll destroy your pockets in less than a year, easily
The Rajah 2 is badass. It's been my edc for going on 2 years now. I don't leave without it. And I haven't found a folder that compares.
( the hold out 2 is badass too)
Does it ever open on you accidentally when you pull it from your pocket? That's the "feature" that stops me from buying these types of knives.
no never and it can't do that anyways @@DDDYLN
rajah 3 is good daily too
The XL Voyager is the cool knife in my collection. Great blade 🗡️🙌🏻
I have the XL Voyager Drop Point, which is a very conventional blade shape. When you look at the spine, you see that the thickness carries forward nearer to the point than you would think from looking at the side, as shown in your picture at 13:30. It is my favourite EDC in my pants pocket with no clip. As others have said, if the grip is too aggressive for you, you can sand it down to as grippy or comfortable as you prefer. The blade is very like a professional kitchen knife I have: it works brilliantly for food prep. Like the Rajah, I mainly like it for clearing spiky undergrowth: it's like having a genuinely pocket-sized folding machete with you all the time. I have a loop of cord at the end, and often swing it with a two-finger grip at the very end of the handle, last two fingers in the loop, getting maximum length to the "machete". That two finger grip is much better than you would think. I agree that the blade in the Voyager you showed is a rather impractical shape - fragile and difficult to sharpen for no gain.
This is not the XL Espada this is the large Espada… The XL has a 7.5 inch blade where is the large has the 5.5 inch blade. It’s still a very large knife but not the largest version of this knife that they make.
Cold steel: knife community moral booster and they are even pretty functional, one of my favourite brand 👍
For me the vojager bowie/clip is the best design for the XL format also FRN is great for XL models but on normal ones I prefer G10 like the 4 inches recon 1, CS is also the brand that cover all options possible, maximum choices for the customers.
Rajah 2 is the coolest one but the little Rajah 3 is more useful.
I didn't know the Espada didnt have liners. I know G10 is strong, but I appreciate steel liners.
All these knives are basically self defence or martial blades - not really for food preparation or even bush crafting or camping - the kukri is very flexible
Get the snaggle tooth Al Wave action opener on all of the Voyager. You won't be disappointed
The only XL blade I have is the fancy Espada that I purchased mostly as a cool conversation piece. As I’ve heard you say...I’m of the opinion that “Over 4” I prefer a Fixed Blade...Under 4” a folder”. Just makes sense to me...My blades outside those parameters tend not to get used.
I lied...I have the Large Espada 5.5” fancy model not the XL...
@@dlrmon1 I have the XL and it's ludicrous- it's basically only a concealed weapon and is impractical for anything else. I have the Voyager Vaquero XL and I'm thinking of perhaps getting the normal Large Espada which is the same size but a bit better for edc.
Finally got the Espada Large as I'd had an itch for a number of years. I'd always leaned towards larger knives (Recon 1, large CQC7, etc.), but knew this was more novelty. When I got it, I was almost giddy like a kid. But then I also realized how it was one of the best feeling knives in hand, and carried no bigger than anything else. Immediately found myself looking for a second, but calmed myself down.
Cool of you showing these classics! The Voyager series from CD has excellent value. Own several different models. The Vaquero models I believe are more a combat variant. It's basically a small (foldable) combat kukri with an added stabbing tip. Not made for utility in mind even if it can be used for it since it slices really well as you showed.
The funny thing is these knives were designed has self-defense weapons. The vaquero is probably the best self-defense knife ever. It can stab as well as chop. The espada is designed after the navaro fighting knife of Spain. Anyway my point is these were not designed for woodwork yet they do it ok.
I’ve had all 3 for years my espada is cts-xhp I love it. Really with these 3 and a few fixed blades I don’t really need another knife until prices come back to normal.
Exactly-Self-Defense knives
voyager is much lighter than the others and is therefore more carry-able
Love my Espada!
I was not interested in the Raja because you might as well have a fixed blade on your belt for how clearly visible the Raja is in a pocket nor the Voyager because of its lack of wave-ability from the pocket.
I actually carry a CS Spartan more then my Raja even (which is quite allot, 85-90% edc between the two) being a bit shorter it fits in more shalower pockets and it has less pommel sticking outside the pocket. I will preface that by saying I did a massive custom weight reduction job on it, mostly by trimming down the liners I was able to take off about 2oz. Being closer to 7.5 Oz instead of closer to 9.5 Oz makes a massive difference!
Gideon my brother the Vaquero is made for offense and defense only not food prep with a plain edge and a fully serrated
Definitely not for bushcraft
Luzon XL 6inch lower profile, has a guard, double lock, and is only $40 bucks on amazon vs others more $$$
The only XL Voyagers made for outdoor use, are the drop point and Tanto. I use the clip point for self defense. I might buy the drop piint fir outdoor use.
I have the Rajah 2, and love it. The large Voyager clip point is a great everyday work knife ( I work outside)
Cold steel make fantastic work knives ( in my opinion )
Great knives, period.
I have all of these and the rest of the XL Voyager line. They are great knives and the XL Voyager Tanto and Clip Point are awesome work knives as you said.
The Rajah 2 is badass, it's been my edc for almost 2years now.
No other blade compares.
( I also love the Hold Out 1, but it's expensive. I just love full flat grinds)
One of my favorite brands. A bit worried as to where they are heading after the change
💥😎Thanks 4 the Comp!👍🇺🇸..But this wasn't the XL Versions of All the Knives. I was expecting the Espada XL Man..The Pocket Sword🗡
Just bought the XL voyager drop point. Would have preferred Espada large but almost double the price.
I really feel that the Voyager series offers the best overall bang for the buck of all Cold Steel heavy duty folders. I have all of their plain blade choices in the XL & L sizes EXCEPT the Vaquero version you tested. The blade has no appeal to me at all. As far as the negatives you mentioned, you were spot on. I personally like the texture of the Voyager series, but that’s just me. You do have to slightly bend out the clip or epoxy the area under clip make living with it easier. Yes, the thumb plate is better for deploying. I wish Cold Steel would bring back the 3” blade versions of the Voyager as they would make a good hard use edc option.
I have the Voyager Clip point XL, and will soon have the Rajah ii XL. I am looking forward to using them both in the outside. But its winter will I live so I will have to wait at least two months.
I own Rajah III for 12 years and I've handled Rajah II quite a few times. You don't know how comfortable and natural that grip feels compared to other any knife. Rajah II feels like a pocket sword and is a true weapon.
For sure!!
I'm down with either the Rajah 2 or XL Espada.
Hard to fast any of them. The nogales or s-curve design pulls the target into the blade. The vaquero was one that Lynn carried everyday. Definitely, a learning curve with all three design. Great video.
This is the review I’ve been waiting for, thank you.
Lynn Thompson's choice is the Voyager, my choice is the Rajah. I would like to see you beat on all three to determine weather the Voyager's blade would snap.
Great video! I own two Espada XL's ( s35vn and aus10) and one Voyager Tanto XL. The tip on the tanto almost seems indestructible, but I would never do that to my knives unless it's a life and death situation. The Rajah 2 has a cult following, most folks love it. Who knows, Someday I may own one.
I was late to the Rajah 2 party but now I own two and it along with the Espada large are my edc. The Rajah 2 and it’s concept was an acquired taste.
Very cool video. I edc my rajah in my left pocket. I use a deep pocket clip to help keep it from sticking out so much like with the factory clip.
Carried an OG voyager XL VG1 clip point for years. I loved the reactions when I pulled out a folding machete for daily cutting tasks.
I have 3 Cold Steel XL folders: the Voyager Tanto, Voyager Drop Point, and Counter Point. I like them because they all have certain traits that make them appealing. And all 3 were less than $90, which is excellent considering the size, strength, and value that you get. Cold Steel is, in my opinion, THE VERY BEST when it comes to extra large folding knives for your money.
My dog was depressed until I bought a Popov leather collar and leash. Thanks so much! Now he feels way more dignified.😂😂😂😂
LOVE my rajah-3. I want a rajah-2 if I can find a deal.
My rajah-3 is remarkably capable in the woods. A larger version would be even more so.
I have two Cold Steel folders; a Mini AK-47 which I carry on a regular basis and a large Recon with a clip point blade. Very happy with both (for literally 10 yrs+) and if I were to purchase one of these very large folders, the Espada would be my choice.
Okay, now I also have the Luzon, large and medium. and the XL G10 Espada. Plus the Voyager XL Clip Point. the Rajah 2. And the beast that is the Espada XL G10, with the 7.5 inch blade. An d I think I'm done :) All great knives.
Great knives all and I'm with you on the Vaquero. The very thin point, "blade" for such a large knife does not catch my attention like the other XL Voyagers, Espada and Rajah. And taking the clips off of my Espada and Rajah have actually enabled me to comfortably carry those knives completely concealed with no problem whatsoever. Great video btw. I really enjoyed it!
I have the Espada XL , came scary sharp out of the box , works great clearing briars around camp . Haven't worked up the nerve to chop or baton but I think it would handle it . Bought the Vaquero fully serrated , this one is scary , if you screw up closing it you could lose a finger . Really enjoy the channel , great content 👍👍
The fully serrated version is the best self defense folder out there.
@@dick_richards Yeah I think your right , thats when that crazy recurve starts to make sense . A cut from the serrated version is goin to the bone , it is a serious blade !
@@davidnapper8097 Yes, Sir
I have the verqero serrated I only use it for self defense and the 6 inch hold out serrated
Popov leather....? I remember the rot gut vodka they used to sell in plastic bottles called Popov, it brings me back to my teens haha
Great video thanks. The drop point voyager xl is the one I picked as I already have the Espada XL. Both are great and I may get more of the CS XL blades but recommend the Voyager XL for a all around great and useful blade. The Voyager XL Vacaro is more a fighting knife with the thin tip, grippy scales and recurve and is hard to beat for that purpose. Use the right tool for the job. All of the knives are designed well for different purposes and I think CS is quality and value.
I bought the Voyager XL in
the clip point version.
I didn't want the tanto because my
Recon 1 (4") is a tanto, so I was going to get the spear point.
The spear point was not in stock and it was also more expensive
than the clip point.
I use it when out on the bike
to cut away overhanging branches,
brambles, nettles, thistles etc.
I'm very happy with it.
It's best to use gloves with it as the handle is pretty abrasive.
As mentioned in the video,
it is probably best to smooth out
under the pocket clip for
the same reason.
i love my espadaXLs but i get to edc at least 1 voyagerXL tanto daily with either LuzonXL or 6inch ti-lite... always
The Rajah can be used, rocking style, like an ulu. Food prep is an underrated use for pocket knives.
I have a rajah 2 blackout and love it. I'd say it would be the best self defense ang bushcraft knife with its long stand with the Gurkha as well as having the longest reach from all three of them
The tanto and vaquero are the most deadly EDC knife ever made, i think you will buy one just for self defense, they will definitely make a blood mess
Just recently carried the espada and swapped for a voyager xl , the handle is much more comfortable for me.
After having knives that have that wave type opening feature I never want a regular thumb stud again. It's a huge selling point for me and almost a no-go if a knife doesn't have it. I love it
Great vid! I would think that the primary use case for the Voyager Vaquero is as a specialized combat blade, so I'm not surprised that it wouldn't resonate as being as useful for more domestic tasks.
Regardless I admire all of them. Big blades = cool. :)
Okay, go the Rajah II XL, today and its HUGE! So it will be my new EDC Self Defense knife ;) I think if I had to pull it out, might scare the person who is accosting me. It's silly how big it is. And I thought the Voyager Clip Point XL was big. Well now I have both. And yes, it snowed where I live last night, and its cold again outside.
Okay, a question for you, and I hope you can answer it. The Voyager Clip Point XL, does not have the thing on the back, to deploy the knife from your pocket. But I have seen a attachment to fix this, but I cannot remember where. Can you help me?
Vaquero is a great slasher. Some of us carry a knife for occasional daily tasks not Bushcraft. Also defense if necessary
Right, the Vaquero bladed Voyager is better at slashing , slicing & stab piercing. It is intentional. Vaquero bladed Voyager has cutting power usually better than other blade styles of twice it's length as a slasher. Not a great Bushcraft choice but is better than some. I believe it's one of the best fighting folders ever. EDC'd the XL Vaquero for 2+ years & it did everything asked of it. Switched to XL Sabre drop point over the past 3 years & is somewhat more noticeably handy at smaller more precise suburban or rural EDC tasking but still slashes & fights. Looking to switch now to the XL Espada for EDC evolution comparison. I know there are better knives than Cold Steel & I have many of them. However I've trusted my life to these for @ 10 years now for my suburban & rural EDC knives & here I am posting this useless knife banter here & now 😅
Outstanding content as usual & thanks for showcasing these great knives. 👍
Agree. I carry the voyager vaquero XL serrated when I'm not carrying a gun. Gives about 8" of reach. About the same as a fixed blade fighting knife but one that can be carried in your pocket.
@@brianl7449 Copy that 👍 Brian. Very aggressive cutter those full serrated blades. Keep a few in my pile as well. Keep an old Japan Voyager tanto full serrated L in the truck cup holder as a pocket drop for whatever may arise. Very coo! Thanks Brian 👍
Why not include the xl Espada at 7.5" into this mix? That is my favorite CS folder of all, and I own A LOT of CS knives...XL Voyagers, Special edition voyagers in premium steels, Recon-1s, kobuns, neck knives, leathernecks, Trailmaster, etc...
My personal favorite dino-hunters from Cold Steel are the plain edge Talwar at 5" with Triad, and the 6" Luzon for EDC. The Luzon is light for its size. Maybe not as tool-worthy as the Talwar, but super smooth and quick to open, either as a flipper, with thumb stud, or just a wrist flick. The Talwar feels just as robust as any other big Triad folder. But, what I really REALLY appreciate about it is its relatively featureless grip. The choils aren't obnoxious like on the Espada series, or even the Rajah. Maybe it could've used a choil at the blade ricasso for choke grips, but that's not a deal breaker with me.
The Luzon is rubbish, the worst of the lot in many ways.
Luzon 6" is amazing I carried mine everyday for 5+yrs. Not necessarily needed but would be amazing with tri-ad and aug10 blade would make it unstoppable in my opinion.
The Voyager Vaquero has a NOGALES CLIP POINT. The recurve blade is ideal for cutting rope.
Espada large 1 , Vaquero large 2 ,Rajah II 3 for me and I MHO 🤠⚖️🤠⚖️🤠
The Mayhem wasnt available for sale at the time this was made. Thats a brutal unforgiving knife.
Yessir. The serrated vaquero is my EDC. Gotta carry a machete at all times for…coconuts.
I prefer the Voyager XL blades (clip point, drop point, or tanto), to these other knives for a reason. I know many people don't have a problem with it, but I'm not a fan of blades that are designed to open automatically when I pull them from my pocket. The XL Voyagers dont do that, and they're lightning fast to flick open. The Rajah is definitely a great blade for outdoor use. However, I wouldn't use a folding knife for outdoor use in the first place. I certainly understand some people live in areas that have laws about carrying fixed blades, even in the woods. Those laws are ridiculous. But, if I had to abide by them, the Rajah would be the best option.
Thanks for helping me to put my mind at rest. I've been sitting on the fence about getting a Vaquero for years. I know it's one of Lynn Thomson's favorite EDCs, but I have just never pulled the trigger on buying one. This video has given me closure on my decision not to get one. Besides, I already have a ton (actually around 20) of Cold Steel knives. I enjoy your videos and appreciate the work you put into them. Thanks, again! 👍👍
I wasn’t gonna get one. And I thought it was kind of ugly looking. But I got it and ended up carrying almost every day. (Self defense in mind)
Nice presentation. I have all these blades. The Cold Steel Voyager in the Vaquero configuration blade shape is a superb general utility and defense blade. In that capacity its tip formation is an awesome performer! But for sticking into wood and prying left and right, it won't do it. However, this was not created for this purpose!
I like all 3, though I view these as weapons rather than tools. For the other tasks in the video, a Bugout or Kizer Latt Vind Mini would do great at 2 ounces.
Great choices. But, for you, I would recommend the New, 2022, Drop Point XL Voyager. The Model you have, the Vaquero, is Lynn C. Thompson's favorite self-defense blade design. It's not a Wood Crafting or Survival Blade. :-) Peace, Stiletto :-)
interesting that he doesn't like the Voyager Vaquero and that's the knife Lynn Thompson (founder of Cold Steel) has as his #1 EDC he carries two on his person at all times.
I’d like to see the Vaquero at 6.5 inch blade length of Magnacut steel and a touch thicker. Don’t say it can’t be done. What’s life all about anyway? Cold Steel?
Is Cold Steel owned by China now? If so, take my suggestion for free.
I love the Rajah II and carry it a lot on back country day trips. After seeing another clip of yours putting it through some hard use I used it to delimb a small tree I cut down that was dead and dried out. It was much harder to get through finger diameter or smaller limbs than your videos of even thicker green wood stuff. I guess that should be obvious but I didn’t expect that much difference. Ended up bailing and using one of those Japanese pull saws. Loving your videos though lately and finding them helpful, the reviews are good and seeing you do things I was scared to try with mine is awesome. Caught a couple good ones on Puukkos also.
The Espada is the folder that Mickey Rourke keeps in his boot in The Expendables
I like the Kris blade shape, but I already have the drop point and tanto
The Espada Large is the best
💥😎Thanks 4 the Comp!👍🇺🇸..But this wasn't the XL Versions of All the Knives. I was expecting the Espada XL Man..The Pocket Sword🗡
Love my 4” Voyager clip point and the Voyager XL tanto.
The blade on the Voyager that you got is specifically for slashing... you catch the first part of the blade on a body part and then draw it through towards the tip to increase the depth, length of the slash. You should have gotten a clip or drop point for general use.
I have the RAJAH -3 which is the smallest at 3-1/2 in serrated it's blade is legal in many jurisdictions.. (SUB 4in ).. but the knife looks and cuts much larger than a three and a half inch blade! .. just an awesome knife...
What do you think about the Mayhem?
I think the Voyager in that shape with a serrated blade would be great for a self defense aspect. I have some knives that I only pick up and carry when I can't carry a gun. I have a few and the Cold Steel Serrations are wicked!! I have the Voyager serrated Tanto that I carry in my truck and it is a great weight and a crazy cutter. Cold Steel value is hard to beat! My next one will be the serrated Spartan or Voyager like this with the serrations or both. Depends which I see on a good sale. I just missed the Signature model of the Spartan with s35 steel serrated blade for around $100 at a website. 😪😪What a steal!! Gotta pick up the Rajah though just because I can!!
Great vid. I guessed the voyager would be the one you axed… the Rajah2 I believe is one of their better folders. B I G and a very much attention getter.
Thanks much enjoy your vids
I have the entire espada series. I carry the g10 xl everytime I go out along with a few other xl knives. I love the triad lock!! I love cold steel. The 4 max and sr1 are others I carry camping. Sometimes a recon 1 goes as backup. I use to carry my ad10 and few others CS but fell back to the espada xl and sr1 or 4 max. I carry a few other cold steel for self defense only. Vaquero xl serrated sometimes is added to what I carry.
I've had a lot of the XL Cold Steel knives and the Rajah II is my favorite. I EDC either the Rajah II or the Counter Point XL unless I'm going to town where I can't legally carry them thanks to our cowardly law makers. I think the Counter Point XL is the most versatile for what I do. Except for maintaining trails and shooting lanes for my bows and that's where the Rajah II shines. It will handle hardwood with no problem. I've been using mine for years and it still functions just fine.
Great video. Could you say what the width of the Rajah is at its widest point?
I’ve only seen one flat ground voyager break. My buddy shattered his blade batoning with a piece of steel
No sir there all great knives. No bad choice here. I own and carry all CS’s XL models on a daily basis. Have been since before CS was in the spotlight. I have preferences, but i love things about each one.
The title of the video is misleading. The espada in the video is not the espada xl. That is the espada large. Did not expect this channel to feed false info and encourage click baiting.when you talk about cold steel you must make sure of your size terminology. Cold steel’s xl term is different to the general term of things being extra large.
First Cold Steel folder I purchased was a Voyager with a bowie-type blade. As a Spaniard, I hugely appreciate that classic design from Middle Ages, not only because of a matter of pride but utility in the first place. The shape of the edge does it all and it does it splendidly: moreover, it is easy to be uniformly resharpened without funny movements.
Not much time after, I bought the Desperado. Yes, that egg-shaped handle and the edge geometry are almost limited to self defense, but I found it so interesting the Falcata-y design that it had to be mine. No remorse about my purchase, period. As far as I'm concerned, I'm not using it for what it was intended to in a regular basis, so the resharpening issue is no problem to be worried. And if needed, I'm sure it will KEEL.😉
And then came the Espada series. Mine - the XL with aluminum bolsters- is en route to my hands. Just seeing it is falling in love. It was what I've been looking for in a folding knife; the compromise between aesthetics, size, safety, cutting power and general quality.
Let's see when it reaches my hands if I was wrong...
I am surprised you did not buy the Espada, since it is based on the Spanish Navaja knife. I have one and its over kill. But I love it.
Would enjoy seeing your review of the Bark River Knives from Escanaba, Michigan!
Like the U.P. Bravo, Aurora, or Bushcrafter knives.
I've had my large Espada g10 in aus8a since 2012
Awesome!!
Coldsteel needs to upgrade the tight pocket clips. They should be wider or designed to be easier, to slide over pocket material.
Espada is great. I don't like sharpening a recurve.
very good review, I have Rajah 2 - a beast of a tank knife :)
Thank you for the awesome reviews! GOD BLESS!
Glad you like them! Thanks for watching