AWESOME! CPM-3V Cold Steel Master Hunter

[@brianf9619]

I just watched this video Again , for the first time in 7 yrs , and it Still Cracks Me Up how Excited You get over this Blade and the CPM-3V Steel ...🤭🤣😂 I bought this Blade 7yrs ago and it's Still Going Strong , it's a Fantastic Knife , I also have the VG-1 San Mai version which is over 8 yrs old , but doesn't get used much , it's also a Fantastic Blade , it's just shaped a little differently, it has a "Tear Drop" Shape , according to Lynn Thompson , which He designed after an Old Japanese Style Blade that he knows of ...You can't go wrong with either one of them ....👍🖖

[@kptnkaoz2203]

I have to say that i actually like this test a lot for the simple reason that you cut the apple with the knife. I know basically all knifes can do this but what i mean is: i wish that people would show more test that are more connected to simple tasks in they daily routine. I'm a guy that wears also bigger knifes as EDC but why not show how easy it is to spread some peanut butter on a bread with the knife or loosen a screw etc etc? It's not always about building a shelter to survive in the wilderness.

[@jonNH123]

2 years later, after seeing this video and pulling the trigger, I still own my Master Hunter and loving it. Thanks again for the recommendation. Really, a great review!

[@crosshair64]

I'm happy to see knife manufacturers are starting to see the importance of a 90% spine on a blade. I know not everyone uses ferro rods to start their fires with, but there are many other uses for having it.. As always thank you for sharing your thoughts and experiences with me throughout the year, I appreciate it Mr Aaron.

[@NothingCoherent]

blows my mind that it is somehow cheaper to send the blades half way across the planet for assembly, and then back again, than it is to just build it in USA....

[@robertlove8429]

@Norse Woodman exactly! I have kids that start working for me, they have zero experience and I offer an opportunity to train them from the ground up, put them on equipment and teach them how to operate and every time I turn around they're leaning on something, stopped and chatting and cutting up, asking to get off work early or miss days, and wondering why they don't make more. Or I get lifetime job hoppers that have a new job every 3-6 months that have good experience and every time I turn around they're leaning on something, stopped and chatting, asking to get off work early or miss days, teaching the younger workers bad habits and attitude, and thinking they deserve higher pay. Anyone that talks about Made in America should just take a good look at our 20-40 year olds and realize this is your workforce, this generation doesn't take pride in putting out good work, they only want to know what's in it for them, how to get away with doing the least amount for that.

[@xinli6502]

@@robertlove8429 The wages you earned back in the days are nowhere as low as the wages earned by factory workers today, accounting for inflation. If people could make a decent living working in factories, buy a house, nice car, and have social security in the US, they would do it. It's just not a good option anymore.

[@fsdesignify]

@@robertlove8429 U want good workers, pay good money. Problem solved. You want people to take pride in your company... you need to take pride in your people

[@robertlove8429]

@@fsdesignifyas I read your comment I wonder how old you are and what experience you have, I won't make assumptions here even though I have my suspicions. I find it strange that you make it sound as if they are underpaid and not appreciated and yet you have no idea what their salary is or even what job they perform. You then word it as if you're confident that they would have a different outlook if they were paid better, but this is not the truth. These are opinions of someone that obviously has no clue about how to run a business. You can't pay someone that has zero experience and zero skills top dollar as soon as they come through the door. You think someone that doesn't have a clue about what to do or how to do it and has to be trained on the simplest tasks and can't be left alone or they start playing should be paid $20/hr ? Or you think someone that is 40 years old and has never kept the same job for more than a year, that jumps from job to job and still hasn't matured to the point that you can leave them by theirself and trust them to get the job done should make $20/hr ? You get paid based on your experience and skill level, if you prove you can do good then you make more money, when the people come in they have to test first and then that gives me an idea of their actual skill level, then I put them on some simple tasks and leave them to see how they do, are they going to play around and waste time or are they going to be trusted to do the work without someone standing over them. I bring in a lot of young guys and give them an opportunity to learn everything, and they get paid very well. The ones that have the same views as you, are never the good workers.

[@robertlove8429]

@@xinli6502 your point is valid somewhat, there are many factory workers that get paid good money and make a nice living, but there are many low paying factory jobs I for sure, but either way. To prove my point I will go with your view, with inflation the salary of most factory workers is too little to support a family and make it in today's economy. Ok, doesn't change my point. When people say that they want 'Made in America' or 'American Made quality' take a good look inside any american factory and mostly what you will see is not quality and definitely is not people that care about their jobs. If the reason for that phenomenon is too low of pay, doesn't change the fact that American Made doesn't mean quality anymore.

[@StelmansLT]

I'm a happy owner of a master hunter in 3V. Tested it in the woods splitting tons of spruce wood full of nasty knots. Came home, cleaned it...it is still razor sharp. I was amazed of edge retention. Deffinately recommend the master hunter in 3V.

[@gunner4373]

Great review as always, got all giddy when I saw it get posted. Can't wait to get ahold of one. Side note: I've been using CS Kraton since 1992, still have a tanto from the late 80's. Never have I seen it wear down smooth, or even close. I hear and read about it, but I've never even seen a picture of one actually worn out.

[@gideonstactical]

Thanks for the feed back!

[@rickymartinis8530]

this knife was not intended for chopping or batoning woods,it is intended for carving meat of the dead animal

[@Theoutdoorproject80]

Ive used that same split design and filled it with pine resin, pine pitch, mixed with fibrous woodsy debris and made a good torch that put out a good light and burned for about an hour or so.

[@gideonstactical]

That's a great idea.

[@Theoutdoorproject80]

And a chunk of fatwood

[@mikerobbins5049]

I love my Master Hunter. It’s my go to most of the time for hunting and around camp. I wear an x-large glove ant the handle still has a little room. Very comfy and very sharp...

[@samthai818]

I have had my CS Bush Ranger from 1990 in AUS8 and I have used it extensively from camping and gutting and butchering 50+ deer getting it completely soaked in blood and the kraton rubber never slipped or wear out. Don't underestimate your Kraton handle. The only time it will need replacement is if you abused it.

[@tigerpisces5506]

I have krayton handles on 1980's Cold Steel folders and they look better than my new micarta knives.

[@samthai818]

I just received my CPM-3V Master Hunter this week. Took over a year on backorder. It is now made in Taiwan, no more Italy. The spine is also alot thicker all the way to the tip than the previous 3V iterations. The Italian model with the black diamond coating was very thin after a quarter of the way tapering to a very thin tip. Compared to my VG1, this 3V model is even thicker out to the tip. And like the VG1, the 3V came out of the box extremely sharp. What a wonderful surprise to see the positive changes to the Master Hunter after waiting so long for it to arrive.

[@pericodelospalotes5738]

I'd love to see a C.S. folder with that steel. For fixed blades I prefer carbon steels (1095 specially) because they are not prone to chipping when you're battoning a hard piece of wood. If that stainless steel resists well to chipping then I'll definetly buy the Master Hunter one day. Better edge retention ans less need to take care against the rust are the two main reasons.

[@gideonstactical]

Perico De Lospalotes The CPM-3V is a high carbon tool steel, so chipping is very minimal because it is so tough.

[@paulie4x1]

Say Heah Aaron, Yeah, I have the M H in the S M 3, and it's alittle bit thicker. So I teamed it with my C. S. Kukuri Plus in O1 a real lovely piece of kit. When I go with that combo, I don't have to take a hatchet. But I don't take that set in freezibg weather, Because you can't beat a Axe to process alot of wood. Sure you can chip, chop with the kukuri, But man, It will wear you out. So I use it from Spring-Fall, That's a good amount of use. So yeah, The C. S. Kukuri Plus teamed with the 3V Master Hunter and a Saw. Yeah, I can carry all my Cutting Tool's on my Survival Belt, Plus my Canteen and Necessities Pouch, Plus my makeshift Haversack for my other C's. Great Channel Aaron, You helped again, Yeah I got the 3V, M H.,,.

[@db-kf7zn]

It held up quite well considering its a meat processing/skinning knife. The SRK is designed for these types of purposes.

[@hamiltonborden2400]

I got a Cold Steel Master Hunter CPM3V today because of this review. Super happy with it. Excited to go out and test it in the outdoors! Thanks for the great review!

[@wolfman011000]

I have bought several of the San Mai III Master Hunters one for each family member, i considered it a no brainer gift for bushcrafting and our BOB's. The handle of the Master Hunter is identical to the Cold Steel SRK in AUS8/CV i have so if you like the SRK grip you will the Master Hunters as well. Between the F1 and the Master Hunter i would chose the Master Hunter dispite years of proir use of the F1 just on the grip alone much most comfortable and easy to use with my large golve size hands, where as my wife and daughter preffer the F1 for there smaller hands and my son uses the ESEE 4 RC4 because that feels best to him. Get what feels right to you and if you can not handle the Master Hunter remember the handle of the SRK is the same and will give you a fair idea of the MS's feel in the hand. Thank you for all your videos take care and God Bless

[@erectussurvival830]

Nice review, thank you, just one detail: if a full tang is a tang that extends the length AND width of a knife, CS Master Hunter is not a full tang. Looks more as a hidden tang that extends just the lenght of the knife, you can easily see it from pictures available on the web. Nice blade anyway!

[@tigerpisces5506]

When they mold the handle who knows where the tang ends! I saw a video of the super strong BK2. It broke behind the hilt. The scales hide a skeleton tang vs solid tang of an Esee.

[@jonNH123]

Awesome review. Thank you! Just purchased one today. Your vid pushed me over the edge and after fence-posting for a couple of weeks, I finally broke down and pulled the trigger. I know I won't regret it; thanks Gideon!

[@beerhunter272]

I like this knife for hunting. Pretty sharp and the non-slip handle allows a firm grip even when my hands are soaked in blood. I don't like the sheath, however. When you have it fastened to the waist belt of your backpack it tilts inward. So when you try and do up the strap with one hand it flips out on you. I had a stiffener sewn in which keeps it straight. Also, the handle strap was a little short so I couldn't do up the snap with one hand. I had to remove the snap and had a longer and wider velcro strap sewn on. The knife fits snug inside the sheath, but it leaves rub marks on the blade.

[@kevinAuman1]

So I finally just ordered myself one of the new ones with no coating and made in Italy instead of Taiwan not entirely sure which would be better or if they're equal but I sure wish I'd only paid $90 lol mine was $160+ tax and everything it was $174 😕

[@charlesmurphy7712]

Ok , this video is the reason I purchased a Cold Steel Master Hunter in CPM - 3V. I bought my knife less than two weeks after the release of your review. I have EDCed this knife ever since . I'm finding this knife to be very serviceable . Still looks almost like new . You were correct about the handle but it hasn't worn down much . I don't abuse my knife but I have batoned with it and it still has a great edge along with the top is still pointy and Sharp. I use a ceramic rod to keep an edge on it ( I've never had to take it to a stone yet) and I use a leather strop with green compound to finish the edge . It has been sharp enough to cut hair since I've gotten it and it still is today. What I want to know is will you do a follow-up video on this blade? Or let me know how you've come along with yours. I have other belt knives a Corona razor Saw ,and a couple hatchets. All at your recommendations along with others on KZbin who test like you do. I have followed you for a long time and am still enjoying your recommendations along with you presentations. You do a great job thanks .

[@FredArd1954]

As always, a great review by gideonstactical. I've been considering next purchase of Esee 6 or Ontario Blackbird SK5, but you have definitely thrown Cold Steel Master Hunter into that mix now.

[@nathanbailey9944]

MINT review! I'm getting one! My 20 month old twin daughters watched most of your review and they liked it to! keep up the excellent work

[@gideonstactical]

Nathan Bailey Awesome to have the family watching too.

[@frankserra6709]

Very thorough review...Just recently bought a Ventura Master Hunter Carbon V for a $100., < $119 with shipping. The 3V version I believe has become harder to find lately...Ebay just sold this same video version one for $187 plus shipping. So their prices high climbed due to supply & demand. But, I believe the Carbon V will be just as tough and durable with proper care. I won't be batoning with this knife...

[@tigerpisces5506]

No they are a higher due to Bidenflation.

[@tigerpisces5506]

Where did you get the Ventura version on Ebay? I bet its a knock off beware what your buying Ebay. I just sent back a CS Kobun that was pure knock of even awful grind mistakes!

[@frankserra6709]

@@tigerpisces5506 Sorry Tiger Pisces, I studied all the different locations were Cold Steel had these manufactured. I know mine from the grain structure is authentic.

[@jeddfarley]

The handles small because it's made to be Used with gloves. Another reason the sheath has rattle and is so slim and profiled for snow. In that aspect it's great. I can't wait to get the Master hunter. I never got the first model because I love a coated black blade so much. Looks dark and beastly

[@charlesbenoitthomad]

Just received mine. Love it. First thing I did was removed locking tabs. They started to chew up handle. knife stays locked in fine with out it.

[@gideonstactical]

+Charles Benoit Glad you like it.

[@davidm.7149]

Another great review Aaron. The size and the steel are just right for South Florida camping.

[@gideonstactical]

David Mazo Awesome, you will not be sorry with this one.

[@TheFrogInYourClosetWatchingYou]

Definitely plan on getting a master hunter I love the design

[@samthai818]

I just received my CPM-3V Master Hunter this week. Took over a year on backorder. It is now made in Taiwan, no more Italy. The spine is also alot thicker all the way to the tip than the previous 3V iterations. The Italian model with the black diamond coating was very thin after a quarter of the way tapering to a very thin tip. Compared to my VG1, this 3V model is even thicker out to the tip. And like the VG1, the 3V came out of the box extremely sharp. What a wonderful surprise to see the positive changes to the Master Hunter after waiting so long for it to arrive.

[@gideonstactical]

Good to know, I may have to revisit it.

[@youareanatural]

The hunter name implies the the intended use is hunting animals. That of course could mean that the knife might be used for any application that being in the field might require including processing game. That brings me to my point. On the master hunter the finger stop is large and would interfere with some cutting operations. The falkniven has a much smaller stop like a real skinning knife should. Great videos, thank you.

[@larrylee5564]

I like the balance also its center is where my 1st finger normaly is and there is like no forward weight! that is a good thing when your doing alot of skinning and you have to keep picking the knife backup to make another cut hundreds of times

[@pinkbrisingr78]

Great review yet again man. Always a pleasure. Glad ya'll are okay after the accident by the way. And good for you for speaking the truth & sharing the message of God, our Father, for all to see your faith. That took some guts! Bravo brother! God Bless.

[@gideonstactical]

joey owen Thank you my friend.

[@paulie4x1]

WoW Aaron I must of missed the up-date on the S.R.K. in 3V, here I thought I was F.Y.I. you on the 3V Master Hunter, also C.S. came out with a knife in one of my Fav's Steel the 52100, they made a integral knife, handle and blade out of one piece of steel it's called Drop Forge something very nice. you just reminded me of my frog experience, I took my next door neighbor kids fishing before they went back to school, we were a few together in total, and we ran out of bait very fast those little bluegills robbed us fast. Anyhow I remembered how good frog was to catch bass, so I started to look for a frog. I found one but it was in a Cotton Mouths mouth, so I took a heavy stick and pressed down on the snake and picked it up just behind the head. We looked at each other like make my day if you take my meal, a little concerned how to do this, I took my flask out of my back pocket and poured some Jack Daniels down the snakes mouth, it's eyes rolled and it became limp so I got the frog and put the snake down without a problem. So I continued to fish for bass with the frog, to show off for the kids, all of a sudden I feel this tugging on my pant leg, I look down and there was that stupid frog with two frogs in its mouth. heh heh heh

[@nooneknows5390]

Every time i watch a review from G.T. i cant help but get excited and expand my inventory. Im getting one after this vid. Thanks for the great reviews. Victory The knife knut, knifer 4 lifer.

[@kejack1988]

Another excellent review! Love the passion you have for knives and wanting others to prosper because of it. Keep it up brother!!

[@gideonstactical]

kejack1988 Thanks my friend!

[@ctford27]

Just found out cold steel is now making the SRK and the mini Pendleton Hunter in this 3V steel!

[@stevenparsons4464]

5 out of 5? Truly! 1. Deet will weaken krayton used in the handle. 2. Secure-Ex will dull any portion of the edge it comes in contact with. 3.CPM-3V is difficult to "field sharpen". It requires sand paper or a stone when dull to reform the micro bevel. It must be stropped to remove the bur. Though folks are now getting information on proper stropping it is hardly field sharpening. 4. VG-10 at its sharpest is like dull CPM-3V. The user needs to know when to sharpen 3V before it becomes dull. 5. The F-1's convex grind is less likely to micro chip and may be easier to maintain. Nothing in this review convinced me that the CPM-3V up steel in the Cold Steel is good for the average user. A well made "budget" [about $50.00] five inch in knife in 1095 would present none of the special problems associated Cold Steel Master Hunter in CPM-3V. The VG-10 model works just fine if the blade is maintained. In my opinion there is no need to present an item without stating its support needs also in the video. You might have suggested alternate reviewed products which could also serve.

[@mhattaway1980]

Wow....another know it all...I'm sooo surprised, lmao

[@stevenparsons4464]

When I relate my experience you label me a troll. When you relate your experience you are a know everything. My experience is as valid as yours. This forum invites comment. Why are you afraid of my comments? I relish yours. What are you afraid of? Why not let others figure out what they can use to fit their needs? Any way read my comment fully. My intent is to inspire conversation not stop it by name calling and vulgar insult, which does not work. You are a person experienced with CPM-3V. Your view is valid. Most folks do not know what they are getting into with this steel. It is not like 1075, 1095, 0-1, A2, V-1, VG-10 or 44C for that matter. Thank you for your suggestions. I would like to hear your views on convexing, Krayton, Secure-Ex and other issues I raised.

[@WilliamKister]

Steven Parsons VG10 will chip whereas CPM-3V won't chip or roll. I have the Master Hunter in San Mai III and the F1. I will say I favor the Master Hunter more due to the larger handle. I find the full flat grind easier to sharpen than the convex and it is more user friendly. I will say that the convex is better for chopping but the slightly longer blade on the Master Hunter makes up for it. Never had an issue with the Secure-Ex sheath and dulling.

[@GrinderMagee]

I love this knife too! It has more belly than the previous version and a more pronounced taper down to the point. The new 3V is SCARY sharp out of the box.Of course DLC looks awesome just like Mora Black.

[@gideonstactical]

+GrinderMagee Man oh man I love this blade.

[@larrylee5564]

Glad you liked it I ordered mine last friday and posted on pm 101 wondering why I hadnt heared anything about this knife and knowone answered at al lol idk why but I'm pretty sure it was cause chris is anti cpm lol! I got my master hunter In the mail tonight and if its half the knife I think it will be it will be a great knife for me

[@gideonstactical]

That is strange

[@pinkbrisingr78]

Definitely worth $15 more. I have the last model in laminated VG1, but now I've gotta get this one after seeing ur review!

[@markclaudel]

Batoned a 2 inch piece of wood that was middle of the road in terms of hardness and it chipped a big chunk off of the knife. It's no longer usable. Take a look at the pics I uploaded in my Amazon review

[@thatguythatdoesstuff7448]

+Coconut Bushcraft Wow, went and took a look. That is an awful failure for any knife, let alone something supposedly made out of CPM 3v. I'm guessing Cold Steel has done nothing about it. They are a company well known for their IDGAF brand of customer service.

[@markclaudel]

Cold Steel has not. And I noticed something strange about this knife. It doesn't say CPM-3V like other knives made out of the same material. It says CPM3-V and another way that I forgot. It's even on the blade that way. Hmmm...I think they are fooling people that this is CPM-3V when it is really just a cheap marketing trick they're doing. What a shame :(

[@patriotbill1156]

+Coconut Bushcraft Did you get a Chinese knockoff from Amazon or Ebay ? Never mind, I see your comment about Amazon. Good chance you got a faux Cold Steel.

[@Buzzby4020]

+Discover Outdoors It sounds like you got a Chinese knock-off made out of God-knows-what. I'd hesitate to buy a knife from anyone who is not an authorized dealer. There are plenty of them online with excellent pricing.

[@markclaudel]

Yeah...that's what I'm suspecting. Thanks for the advice. I just kept the knife and I have it on display where I store all my camping and bushcraft gear. It reminds me not to be frivolous with money and spend wisely...especially with gear that I might have to rely on to sustain my life in the wilderness :) The reason why I chose that knife in the 1st place was so I could use as a backup to my main knife...a beater knife when I'm out doing bushcraft. I'd use it for all the tasks that I wouldn't do with my main knife like baton wood or as an alternative to my axe or hawk when I just needed to do some relatively light chopping of firewood and didn't want to bring both out to save weight. But the Cold Steel knife I realize is too light for my intended use anyway. Even if what I got was likely a knock off...the dimensions are the same and the weight of the real thing is likely pretty close. I've since bought a Schrade SCHF52M and couldn't be any happier with it. It's big but not too big...definitely beefy enough to chop with. Exactly what I'm looking when you want to use for the things you would do with an axe. It sharpens shaving sharp and batons extremely well. I've split some pretty knotty hard woods (in fact..some from the same batch that chipped the "Cold Steel") that were pretty think and not a chip, nick, or curl whatsoever. Anyway, for anyone looking for a knife with those properties...have a look at the SCHF52. Let me know what you think :)

[@paulie4x1]

Say Heah Aaron , I always wanted the Fox Parang Bushcraft Jungle Knife. But my weakness fir larger Blade's I got the Fox Hitam Golok, I recently teamed it with a Fox Utility Camp and Snipper Knife and WoW Wee, Aces. But now I'll use the Fox Parang as my One Tool Option, But I'm used to a multi carry. So the Cold Steel Master Hunter takes honor's. Yeah, I'm teaming the 3V Master Hunter with my Fox Parang. I have to Thanx You, I watch your channel and you share alot of knives I like. Yeah, I have the SM3 Master Hunter which I teamed up with my C. S. Kukuri Plus in O1 another awesome combo. But I think for what I do come rain or come shine, My new combo will work just fine.,,.

[@xXsch3ricXx]

Its all about simplicity

[@gideonstactical]

Simple wins every time.

[@Wiicubemaster]

gideonstactical how would you say it compares to a gso?

[@cloudsrain8753]

It looks really good. Wish I had the dough for it for sure. Nice review.

[@gideonstactical]

Clouds Rain Thanks alot my friend.

[@rebelyell2741]

I thought you would properly test that hunting knife. But there was no animal being skinned and processed . That’s what I want to see from hunting knives. And If they can turn 1.5 inch diameter branches into sleds to carry the meat out. Maybe making fiber cordage to tie sled together. And a throat slice demo on the dead animal. Or how fast can it cut the crotch out. Batoning through cartilage. Stuff like that.

[@paulie4x1]

I once heard Ethan Becker say the Master Hunter was one of the best designs C.S. made, did he have anything to do with tge design ?, Yeah I have it in the San Mai 3, but I defenetly want it in 3V. Thanx for this review.

[@LukeMorry]

So you've got medium sized hands ;) lol 3V is a steal I've wanted to play with for a long time because I've heard such good things about it

[@Cr0cket20]

That looks nice. I'm really interested in that knife.

[@gideonstactical]

I love it. It will now be in my sort list of blades I will regularly use.

[@tigerpisces5506]

What's the issues with the San Mai version? I hear sharpening issues with the San Mai and edge retention?

[@paulie4x1]

Say Heah Aaron and Cold Steel also Zero Quench which is similar to S. O. G.'s Cryo Temp. The blades, That's why they did that to the now 1095 CroVan and came out calling it CarbonV. So yeah, a 3V Zero Quench Blade is Awesome, Aces. Yeah, I got the 3V Master Hunter to team up with my Fox Parang Bushcraft Jungle Knife. The Fox Bushcraft Parang can be used prolly as a One Tool Option. But as we know, That's a tall order. So just incase, for a few more oz's, I can cover more bases. Kewl BeanZ, Eah.,,.

[@paulie4x1]

Say Heah Aaron, I really like your videos, I got the 3V Master Hunter and I teamed mine with my black version of the Fox Jungle Parang. A lovely piece of kit. Now the $64,000.00 question, The S.O.G. Pillar or the 3V Master Hunter. I do like the Camel Jumps on the S.O.G. Pillar and the CPM S35Vn Stainless.,,.p

[@MahBones]

Choosing between the F1 and the Master Hunter, Bang on. Thanks for the video, I had just ordered one of these and videos like yours tide me over through the wait :)

[@WilliamKister]

Have the San Mai III version of this and love it. Would love to have this version! I actually prefer carrying the Master Hunter over the SRK for most of the time. Greatest thing is they have the same grip size.

[@cosmikvratch]

William Kister Hi, that's a question I was about to ask: is the handle exactly the same as the srk's? I love the srk handle, and this one seems a bit thinner...

[@WilliamKister]

It is the same.

[@cosmikvratch]

William Kister thanks for the answer! now I need to get one...

[@random_eskimo_in_the_rockies]

+cosmik vratch (cosmikvratch) Even worse - Now that both the Master Hunter and the SRK are being made of CPM-3V, I need to get one of each!

[@bradleybirmingham6006]

Great review of an awesome blade. Keep up the good work, we all love your channel and the content.

[@ColtCommander45]

On 9/30/16 I ordered this knife on Amazon for $8.61 with free shipping. Extremely happy with that!

[@Eurotrash4367]

You are missing a zero somewhere.

[@PerceptionVsReality333]

Did you mean $80.61? 🤭🤭

[@frankwoods135]

When the handle wears out make a micarta handle that fits into the sheath still that would be badass

[@bigmofo1122]

But how the Master Hunter 3-V would compare to the Master Hunter VG-1?

[@nicholasricardo8443]

Levels higher. The scale of high end knife steels goes VG-1, VG-10, propably o1 or o2, then cpm3v. Anything higher is going to sacrifice ease of sharpening and brittleness for a harder blade.

[@shonuffisthemaster]

good review. a number of years ago when they switched everything to aus-8 and their overpriced san-mai i stopped paying attention to them, but since they are coming out with some better steels i have started paying attention again. btw i wouldn't call a sheath with a floppy webbing belt loop a 5/5, more like a 3/5. put a decent belt loop on it and its got my vote.

[@ruleroftheundersky570]

The very first time I used my SRK (AUS8 version) which was brand new at the time, and never used, the Kraton handle came noticeably loose. I was chopping carefully on a live soon to be dead small tree that couldn't have been 4-5 inches round roughly. Since than, it has only gotten worse, so I no longer us it; at least until I can figure out how to get a custom handle put on. I really dislike Cold Steels Kraton handles as I've seen many complaints about them coming lose after chopping/botoning, but I really want this Master Hunter due to the CPM-3V high carbon steel. It could be that my handle was a flop along with the other unlucky peoples with the same issue. I will try to get this knife in the future, and if I the handle comes lose... I'm never buying Cold Steel again.

[@johnmutton799]

Whatever you do, do not put a convex secondary grind on your Cold Steel knives. You will void your warranty.

[@bst2664]

Just picked up the Carbon V model. Very nice blade.

[@mikedifeo8344]

Good Rev. I like it. Only problem is the Kraton handle. When you baton you can't hit the handle or you'll screw up the handle. Micarta handles would be better. I wonder if one can take off the rubber handle and replace then with micarta handles.

[@gideonstactical]

mikedifeo Very true, but this knife is too small for any serious batoning.

[@frankwoods135]

maybe strip the coating off if the coating is really worn to while your at it omg that would look badass

[@Erzfeind777]

It's a shame I had to pay 279€ for the knife in Germany, but it was worth it.

[@arielluna3760]

like always, another awesome review. I totally agree with you, this new master hunter is just great. I love what cold steel has done with this kniIfe. I'm also loving the ak47 field knife. I would love to hear your thoughts on that knife.

[@gideonstactical]

It is on the short list, but honestly you won't see the review in the AK-47 field knife till Jan or Feb.

[@charlescollier7217]

I've been looking forward to this review and you confirmed my expectations. Definitely a winner. Thanks Aaron.

[@gideonstactical]

Charles Collier Glad you enjoyed it!

[@mrdarren1045]

Yeah yeah... but, I wanna know what size hands you have ; )

[@Lars1540]

Aaron, maybe it's just me, but I kind of feel as though knife companies are really starting to get too carried away with their use of these high end "super steels". I guess I just don't buy into the hype for 2 big reasons: 1. These "super steels" always seem to cost ridiculous amounts of money and drive the cost of even simple knives WAY up! 2. The simple fact of the matter is that these "Super steels" are notoriously harder to sharpen than simple high carbon steels such as 1095, etc. This does nothing more than make it much harder to sharpen in the field, and often times even requires specific sharpeners (such as diamond) at that! So if you got caught in the wild with just the knife and had to sharpen it, good luck because a simple river rock will no longer work! I just find this to be extremely counter intuitive. Bottom line is, why would I wont to drop a ton of money on a knife thats going to be inherently very fussy about how it's sharpened and ultimately just be a nuisance? I'd rather a good knife with a reasonable price tag, that's easily sharpened in the field.

[@gideonstactical]

***** I do not disagree with you. On some level is is just to keep people coming back for more. Though there are a few newer steel that I really like. CPM-3V is one of them. I have seen its toughness, but also resharpening capability and edge retention. Most of the other stuff is just hype.

[@stalememe6407]

1.the esee 4(1095 blade) is 10$ more expensive than the master hunter 2.3v is actually pretty easy to sharpen and 3v is WAAAAAAY more tougher than 1095 bottom line is that they are both the same price but your choosing the inferior option for some reason

[@Lars1540]

At the time I'm responding to this the ESEE4 is $87.95 and the CS master hunter 3v is $94.51. So the ESEE is still cheaper. Also, by the time you made your comment I've had a very poor experience with cold steel customer service when a rep was extremely rude. I've since spoken with upper management and that rep was dealt with. I will no longer shop with Cold Steel. Their president is an asshole and nothing more than a bully to the knife industry. I'm all set with cold steel.

[@stalememe6407]

k then

[@richardallan455]

Hi Dan I totally agree too much choice with meaningless attributes that are pushed by many reviewers who suddenly become expert metallurgists overnight.Your point on sharpening a blade with a river rock is great .My question is which steel can be sharpened this way?, because I will purchase one based on that ability.

[@Eldofarmboy]

Color me impressed! I would like to see an SK5 version of this knife too though

[@kenmarapese9085]

Looks like a great knife, I was surprised with your sheath rating. Like that it's in 3V.

[@scottsyoutubeworld1824]

Great review! And thanks for posting! It's been a few years since this review. How is the knife holding up?

[@gideonstactical]

Just recently sold it since I got the newest version that has a thicker tip

[@scottsyoutubeworld1824]

@@gideonstactical I ordered the new one, and it's going to be delivered tomorrow. But I think I like the lighter and thinner version. Damn I was just a little late! I would have been happy to order it and have it sent to you and have you send me the old version. Oh well. I guess it's in the cards for both of us to have the new version!

[@jacobyoung4657]

I plan when my handle wears out on my vg1 san maii iii model to make a leather stack handle

[@projekctx8646]

Hi. Nice review. I Recently bought CS Master Hunter in VG-1 San Mai III and what I discovered that after one few days hike in a forest, there has a significant play between the handle and the tang appeared. It can be felt while normal working with the knife, or when you just grab the handle and move the blade sideways. Then you even hear the clicking as the tang wobbles inside the handle. Has anyone experienced such?

[@fred782]

Thanks for sharing, great knife

[@dave3gs]

The knife is cool and all, just wished the blade was at least 1 inch longer.

[@random_eskimo_in_the_rockies]

+PerceptionVsReality The SRK will be available soon in CPM-3V. It's really close in design to the Master Hunter, but it's a straight clip rather than a drop point. However, both work fine for gutting and skinning. I've used both on elk and deer (I've had both in Carbon V) and you can't go wrong with either.

[@StelmansLT]

Love that blade. It's razor sharp and stays that way for a long time. But the sheath have 1 big problem though. It duls the knife. Every time the cutting edge runs through the sheath I have to strop it to restore inicial sharpness. I'm thinking of resheathing my knife. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

[@BOOSTEDLASER]

50 000+ marines and other military would LOVE to know if you will review Cold Steel AK 473 3v soon. Any chance?

[@gideonstactical]

+BOOSTEDLASER I hope to buy one in the next few month.

[@ryanc5681]

true. thank you. good whetstone? the ones u get are pricy aren't they

[@jetwrnch]

Is the blade made in the US or just the steel? Where is the heat treat done? I see USA steel quoted but nothing indicating that the grind and HT are US. I've been using the earlier Carbon V version for years without an issue. This grind is similar to some of the Carbon V versions with the thin tip. Much thinner than the VG-1, SK5 etc. Great review.

[@gideonstactical]

jetwrnch Thanks of the complement. I do not know where the heat treat is done. I was very good from my use and I would take it over a lot of other knives.

[@jetwrnch]

gideonstactical Thanks for responding. I have several CS Master Hunters and a SRK in the Carbon V. They each have a lot of use with no significant handle wear. I've used them in Alaska and the Middle East in tough conditions without failure. I just struggle with the blades now being stamped with Taiwan instead of Made in the USA. Also interesting is that the new MH is marked CPM 3-V instead of CPM-3V. Typo? Might be a collectors item someday.

[@vanlurton6068]

Thanks for the review!! Dumb question but were you using the spine of the knife to strike your sparks? Also I am surprised you think the F1 won't throw sparks as well. It too has a 90 degree spine that is pretty sharp and I've no problem throwing big sparks up and down the spine with my F1. I'd love you to do a comparison of the two at least for throwing sparks. Anyway, it was a great review and Cold Steel seems to have a winner for this knife at under $100. I'd be curious to know if they could make a knife with a spine that tapers closer to the tip at the same price or a slightly higher price point. I would pay a little more for a knife that has a similar taper like the one on the mora heavy duty , the blind horse woodsman pro or even the GSO 4.1 which tapers slightly more than the mora or blind horse. It would make the tip a whole lot stronger.

[@nicholasricardo8443]

I think I'm still gonna get the F1 , with the leather sheath of course, I can't stand the zytel rattling. But still, I hate black "tactical" sheaths, I don't care if they're better than leather. Also, I'm worried that if the CS gets damaged, CS probably won't do anything. They're not renowned for customer service.

[@KVsFinest]

Another great review! I've been been wanting to test out a cold steel fixed blade for some time since I've come to love their folders and after watching your review the Master Hunter will be my first. In the possible future do you plan on reviewing the the AK-47 field knife at all????

[@jordanbanks7955]

You should do a review of the cold steel bushman

[@gargamel.308]

Great vid👍🇮🇪

[@highdesertexplorer123]

Can you do a comparison between this cold steel master hunter cpm 3v and the benchmade bushcrafter.

[@waldgeist9007]

I really like the blade and handle design of the Master Hunter and would rate it above the more expensive Fällkniven F1. Unfortunately the handle material is too soft. While this is a good thing in terms of handling, Cold Steel went a little too far with it. You can actually pull the handle away from the blade where they are molded together. which allows moisture, blood or dirt to get between the handle and the blade. If not taken care of, this will lead to corrosion over time. The transition from the blade to the handle is essential for knives with molded handle. Cold Steel should fix this problem and launch a Master Hunter Mk II. Till then I would rather recommend the Fällkniven F1, Linder Super Edge 1 & 2, Jaktkit KNV 2 & 3 or Mora Garberg over the Cold Steel Master Hunter.

[@dustin7562]

So do you recommend the kraton handle one or does that one wear too?

[@tigerpisces5506]

I got 40 yr old cold steel knives with kraton handles!

[@holdernewtshesrearin5471]

I would buy it today if it had an exposed pommel/butt. I LOVE the design, the ergonomics, the blade grind and of course the 3V steel, but i NEED to be able to hammer with the handle butt. Why why WHY? Will CS not understand that ? It would be THE perfect knife if theyd hive it a nice, serrated exposed pommel. Well, give it 1/2" longer and .032" thicker blade and add about 1" of jimping on the blade spine under the thumb area and the exposed pommel. Id pay $160 for it easily!

[@rickymartinis8530]

the only bad thing is that CPM 3V is not stainless

[@chrisxx012]

Why aren't more knife companies looking at flat ground with convex edging? Question to all and you gideon

[@gideonstactical]

Chris Mccarthy It does take more time and it is harder for people to sharpen, or there is a longer learning curve on them.

[@axlvixn3174]

awesome vid...I will check one...thanks Aaron

[@gideonstactical]

+Axl Vixn Sweet!

[@axlvixn3174]

I can tell the way you like that blade...I already ordered one, within two months, worth to wait....perfect blade it is...Thanks Aaron...

[@scottsherman5947]

Another fine review, thank you sir. I want to like Cold Steel, esp. when they throw a sexy 3V FFG blade like this at me @ a great price point...but one thing and one thing alone keeps me from buying much CS stuff...it's the handles!! They are horrible. OK, I'm being dramatic, this one actually looks like a comfortable shape, but the Kraton just makes it look sooooo cheap, it brings an otherwise great knife down to a throw-away looking K-Mart special, even though I know it's not and it's a great performer. I just cannot and will not ever be able to get over the look/feel of those handles. I can't understand why they don't throw some Micarta or G-10 on there....you can't tell me they wouldn't get a great bulk deal on that stuff and keep their knives quite close to their current price points AND they would go from super cheapo looking to high-end badass must have blades at relatively great prices. Why Aaron, why do they insist on these poopy handles??

[@scottsherman5947]

scott sherman I hate replying to my own post, but I always forget to make a point that I don't want to leave unsaid. The other big manufacturer that uses Kraton on too much of their stuff is the mighty Fallkniven. They're mostly in a different, higher-end category of fixed blades compared with CS, and so it's even more of a mystery to me. Am I alone with this??...is everyone else pretty much cool with these plastic-ish handles on otherwise great knives?

[@Buzzby4020]

+scott sherman In a working knife, I'm much more concerned with function than appearance. Reviewers who have used the Master Hunter for its intended purpose say that when you're up to your elbows in guts, the KrayEx handles are absolutely non-slip. I've had an SRK for 20 years with the Kraton handles and it's as grippy as the day I got it.

[@stalememe6407]

its more rubbery than plasticy imo

[@Johnny-ke3qu]

Aaron, I have been considering this, or the SRK in vg1, but I need a bit of help. I am looking for an all around workhorse capable in wilderness and urban work, so which one. Thanks for the awesome review

[@michaelshook2937]

Good job man, I like how your doing the videos now.... Keep up the good work and I will probably be buying this guy....lol

[@gideonstactical]

Thank you my friend, I am always trying to improve.

[@shcmoly]

CS upgraded their steel, and greatly upgraded the price. Is it worth it?

[@gideonstactical]

shcmoly The price went up by $15. I think it is worth that.

[@protoyz7405]

i think i´d prefer this blade over the F1 now... good review :) good that i wear large sized gloves too :D

[@no_handle_required]

I officially consider you an enemy now. You have cost me so much money in knives. You should PAY me royalties.

[@richardalexander5758]

Yeah, me too, Arron has cost me a bundle reviewing four knives I had to have so far...

[@OLMmedic]

Great vid as usual. You sold me on the master hunter if i can find one.

[@dr.rodsmith7156]

Stellar review Aaron ... A+

[@ryanc5681]

what do you think of the lt wright Genesis DWX edition? it'd close to $300 and I was gonna buy this weekend but need to be certain- I just pre-orders the bark river dark timber grizzley production model and that' with my customizations gonna run me around 4 and change so I wanna be sure about the lt wright and get your opinion I trust you the most bud