Cold Steel Rajah 1: "Bad Steel for Bad Days" by Nutnfancy

[@briankimbell8972]

stood up from the barber's chair yesterday and another customer asked "how big a knife you got in your back pocket?" so of course "whitcha!" greeted by a chorus of "whoa!" "holy shit!" And the inevitable "now that's a knoife"...

[@357Muzzleblast]

I never get tired of seeing this review. What an astounding knife! As for strength, I think a strong case can be made for carrying this than a fixed blade. In fact, I can't see any circumstance in which these knives can fail unless you're in hand-to-hand combat with a Volkswagen! In that case, you're gonna lose anyway. This knife is one of those knives you just have to have.

[@nlesiak3]

to me, i think this doesn't even warrant being tested as a chopper. a kukri blade is fixed, AND weighted in the head like an axe. it's shaped like a kukri but it's a balanced folder, 110% meant to be used as a defensive blade

[@leslieneal1978]

Hey nutn I remember that opening clip of chopper withe sks on his back, from a different video where you , john and chopper went shooting. Haven't been able to find that video

[@kerberosWXIV]

From my personal experience, one thing about wave-deploying the Espada large compared to the Rajah is that the secondary "point" on the spine of the Espada seems prone to get caught in the pocket fabric, in contrast to the smooth curve of the Rajah's spine. Anyway, thanks for all your awesome reviews.

[@hunterdka]

Picked up a rajah 2 today shipped for 81 bucks!

[@m1ghtysauc3]

Where?

[@hunterdka]

+m1ghtysauc3 Shit my bad man I got the rajah 2 from Natchezss Shooters Supplies

[@nutnfancy]

Thanks much for watching bro.

[@idontplayeveryday]

rajah 2 could replace the fixed blade. people don't understand that this "foldable" fix blade substitute is a lot more easier to carry because it is pocket friendly."

[@nutnfancy]

@demonchacer You are correct. The Rajah 1 is not even listed on their website anymore. That makes this knife even cooler. I'm not really stoked about the Rajah III: with just a 3.5 inch blade it loses it badness and hacking capability. Get a Rajah 1 now dudes if you want one.

[@ncub8]

Cold Steel makes awesome knives - I own a bunch. Their serrations are incredible.

[@357Muzzleblast]

I got the Rajah I while it was still available and I'm glad I did! I think it's every bit as strong as most fixed blade knives. Yep, I know Nutnfancy says you should go with a fixed blade as a primary knife and I agree with him! But it ought to be in everyone's bugout bag anyway as a secondary blade. It can be carried in a pocket as a concealed weapon and I would trust it in fixed blade chores in a heartbeat. It can chop better than a Ka-Bar Heavy Bowie, and it's far more portable. Outstanding!

[@nutnfancy]

@MadtactiX You rock dude, thanks for watching and the great comments!

[@thezombieman72]

i was on the wall about this knife but this review held i just placed my order for one thanks nutnfancy and keep the cool vids coming

[@dalton12316]

i like how you make serious reviews for people who are seriously considering buying a knife

[@nutnfancy]

@LongRangeRifle Yes this knife and all curvature blades are hard to sharpen.

[@nutnfancy]

@gnashings Thanks gnashings and I agree the Rajah is an insane blade. But it really is amazing how well it carries too. I has outstanding intimidation factor which I think I mention in the review. Turn and run.

[@GabeMacDonnell]

I'd say these things are silly, but i've thumped on a Voyager XL and Rajah II as tho they were fixed blades, and not only did they survive, but performed flawlessly. I'm sure they'd make good defensive knives, but these awesome huge Cold Steel knives are also great folding camp knives or even survival tools.

[@anticrow]

i am in love with the Kukri style blade.

[@wilowhisp]

@revotiger911 actually the Kukri blade is used primarily as a tool in Nepal. I always carry a large blade with me hiking and camping on the way back into the city I often stop at the store for groceries and other things. That large knife is still on me. Does that make me a killer or criminal? Even if someone carries a knife like the Raja daily for self defense that does not make them a criminal, because as it stands no state in the US that I know of has truly made self defense illegal.

[@nutnfancy]

@stealthbeast "*Falls to his knees and cries*" Many thanks to you my friend for your patience. Get your Rajah 1 now before they're gone!

[@luddy2009]

Hey Nutn, I just recently purchased the Cold Steel Spartan and it's awesome. The handle is extremely comfortable and just really keeps your hand in a tight lock-down position. There is no chance of accidentally cutting yourself, plus it's just really awesome. Let me know what you think of the knife; I love it and since your a Cold Steel fan and you liked both the Espada and the Rajah, I think you'll like this.

[@MrPHATSPEED]

Just got a rajah III (3.5") model. Great edc blade.

[@malthus101]

I got one of these - still got the little paper seal around the blade. It's good for the collection.

[@ssstealth]

$90 for the Rajah2 is something I'd definitely consider. I'm usually not one to get excited over knives that're pushing $200 **BUT** that Rajah1 has DEFINITELY gotten my attention. If I ever am looking to drop that kind of cash on a knife, the R1 will be a very strong candidate. Wickedly beautiful and functional, IMHO. ***** per usual, Nutn!

[@mk3firearms]

Thanks for the shout out friend.

[@BrAnDoN22871]

I got my Rajah I about 4 years ago and ive been using and abusing it since. It has NEVER failed me. It is the pure, distilled essence of beast! we even call it the same name. "pocket machete"

[@hogspen3]

While I'm not a knife collector, I can appreciate a quality piece. The Cold Steel products impress me. I use a knife daily at work as a tool, and I am always looking for something better. Obviously the knife in this review isn't for that POU, but the quality of the Cold Steel products translates across their line. Making a quality blade at a reasonable price.

[@nutnfancy]

@Biohazard1369 Maybe I mis-said it. I just wouldn't want to go thrash on a $200 beautiful folder like this. Instead I'd use a $55 KaBar, Ontario, or like fixed blade. The Rajah II would be a better choice if you wanted it press it into that POU just for cost.

[@CampfireTalk]

I have not seen this blade in person, but imigine it would be much more impressive in hand. Definitely know what you mean. Thanks for the great review Nutn

[@nutnfancy]

@dogstyll31 Amen brother, agree on all points...many thanks all!

[@tabre]

For some reason when I study this blade and it's curves I can see how it would easily open up the abdominal cavity, or the throat... it's just something about the blade shape that is just ultimately vicious. Yeah I know it's kinda graphic to say that, but that's what comes to mind and it's within the blade's POU. On a side note, Chopper is such a badass.

[@nutnfancy]

@SkylarrL Because they are FLAT serrations and the user can still sharpen the blade. Most serrations are a one way ticket; once dull they're toast.

[@manateeak]

You can buy 2 Rajah II's for the price of 1 Rajah I .That is a GREAT value and a GREAT video !

[@tetsuo70]

my EDC knife - Rajah II ! Ilike it! Very good knife for town and for forest!

[@Unfound_Path]

Where is the fitzen shop video you did i cant fond it ?

[@fartx211]

its good that the clip is mounted so low. With these long handles, if its mounted too high, you might not have enough pocket depth. one of the problems i have with my 6inch CS Ti-lite

[@RedDawnAK74]

just bought rajah 3 had to have the wave, thx for the review, thats why i bought it

[@Goe97]

This is my favorite knive!!! The Beast!!

[@polkatit]

@nutnfancy, You should check out the Rajah III when it becomes available. it is the same design but the size of a rat 1

[@Tsmitty25]

I found the best way to open a cold steel folder. If you pull it out with a reverse grip you can automatically raise it up to head level and then bring it straight down with an extremely powerful strike. The reason is the knife naturally falls in to position as you raise your hand up. When the knife is in a normal grip I find its harder to get the knife in a position to strike.

[@ssstealth]

I'm liking this knife a lot right about now! If I were going to drop nearly $200 on a knife this would definitely be a candidate. I'm not one to spend that kind of money on blades but I might end up making an exception for this one! Great review, Nutn. Per usual: *****

[@Thrandi]

Nutn- just got my Rajah I, I LOVE IT! Everyone thinks I'm crazy for having this. I'm not even certain it's legal to carry where I live, I'm gonna have to check on that. It's SO cool, If I never carry it, it will be okay. I'll just collect it! This knife is amazing! Especially for the cost, great value. One thing that surprised me is that it's made in Taiwan. Keep up the excellent vid's.

[@stealthbeastgaming]

*Falls to his knees and crys* I HAVE WAITED SO LONG FOR THIS REVIEW.

[@nutnfancy]

@donovanknifeman You'll have to decide; I have both detailed reviews out now.

[@Outdoorsman1985]

Dude, that thing is nuts! I don't think I would want to carry it around

[@Spectacular_Insanity]

I like that knife's kukri-esque shape.

[@Bdubb0110]

i've owned the rajah II for 6 months now and i love it. its my baby i edc it religiously it has even replaced my old edc blade the ti-lite6 which i thought would be the last blade i ever carried i just ordered the rajah I and i cant wait i think that 1s not leaving the bubble wrap besides for an occational fondeling i'll eventualy get the baby rajah but not sure how it will stack up thank you andrew demko and of course lynn thompson

[@SoldierofGod357]

I just got my Rajah II today and I'm loving it!!!! I wonder if the 5.11 pants could hide the whole blade.....plan on getting them any ways just thinking aloud.. Great job keep up it!!! Thank you for you time.

[@iNetzman]

Living in CA the Rajah 2 is my everyday carry. I've noticed carrying it everyday that the blade is getting minor surface rust, so I'm going to duracoat it to prolong it's life. My friends think I'm funny when I pull it out for opening boxes and such. The knife isn't exceptionally sharp, but that's ok for the blade style.

[@gun00b]

Basically, Nutn and Fitzen had a "business" deal with paracord bracelets. People were ordering them up - but Fitzen wasn't able to keep up with the demand, (we don't know why.) so it went sour. However, to my understanding, Nutn still talks to Fitzen, and gets his knives sharpened there every once in awhile.

[@76bts]

great review, the Rahja is a beast you would want to be 100% confident with the lock, that 6" blade come back towards my fingers could be nasty! thanks for another great video

[@zextreme47]

thanks, I've been looking for a review hopefully from you for this and the tatang.

[@mountainghost556]

I was not a big fan of this knife by just looking at the catalog pic ,but it seems that their is one more tool i need to buy ....good work on the review...

[@triplez300]

Proud to be a TNPer bro .. Yeah I'm from aus too .... I bought 2 of rajah 1 from cold steel special project website and I got them 2 for $150 !! I only bought this because of your suggestion nutnfancy ... Cheers !!

[@talkinbox]

I'm sad you can't find the Rajah I anymore. Just on eBay and its $340.

[@Wingsfan7]

@MrKansai1 Hey not trying to sound like a know it all, but actually what Alexander the Great used was a Kopis. It is somewhat comparable to a Kukri, sharing the large belly at the front of the blade, but it's less exxagerated, and the spine clips down to the point starting about 3/5 from the handle, toward the point. It's almost like a longer / clip point kukri, if you want to think of it in simplified terms. The Kukri originated in Nepal, and was used by the Gurkha Mercenaries. Have a good'n!

[@rickpayne90]

Awsome knife, chopper's SKS, i have the exact same gun, bayonett and all. beautiful. anyways great vid keep them coming.. thanks again nutn

[@beautifuldisasternee]

i got the rajah 2 and i love it so much i baby the hell out of it and just fondle it all the time

[@stealthbeastgaming]

I EDC'd the Rajah II for over a year (can't get licensed to carry a gun yet). For its size, it carries REALLY well. I think the Rajah II is better than the 1 tactically speaking: Black pocket clip, more beveled edges, and higher traction grivory. If you're trying to manually deploy it with the thumb plate in hand, do it with the index finger, not the thumb. It feels really weird, but with practice it's a lot faster, alot safer, and places your hand in a more "combat ready" position.

[@nutnfancy]

It does rock.

[@Wingsfan7]

@MrKansai1 Gotcha, I appreciate the tone in your post as compared with many other YTers, sorry for the misinterpretation of your previous post. And yes, the have some of the best blade shapes for chopping for sure!

[@Bl17Z90]

between this and the espada, it seems like cold steel has been doing a good bit of fighting knives lately

[@joshuacandari5888]

Have you seen the FKMD/Citadel Deimos? Its smaller and with less recurve but it is beautiful.

[@360chris88]

good video nutn and veri keep up the great work

[@frontdesk123]

Part 1: After watching many of your vids I have a suggestion: Use these classifications- folder (small & large) - fixed blade (small & large). You have 10 talking points on the sheet in front of you. Put a 10 point Likert-scale to each category, which gives you a 100 possible Nutnfancy score. Also 10 points gives you a lot of room to play instead of a 5 point Likert-scale. This way, for example, you may give the ergonomics 10 points but G10 grip could be better. Therefore it goes down a point.

[@BenB8290]

NIce! Glad to see you review it!

[@thayne559]

I just ordered the Rajah II :D Cant wait to get it!

[@JDYTC]

Most popular reactions are requests about the Rajah III, but my opinion is that a 'showdown' (as Nutn did outstandingly before) between the Rajah I and the Espada Large would be much more interesting. I find showdowns in general more interesting anyway. (So between the Rajah III and the Espada Medium - or all four - could also be a great idea.) Kind regards from Amsterdam, JD

[@gnashings]

OK - I have to say - I like this blade a LOT more than the Espada. I know its a case of different strokes, etc., but that Espada looks like a pimp's cane. I expect the guy carrying it to have aquariums in his boot heels :) This, and especially the II is a much more no-nonsense, no flash kind of blade. I actually found myself wanting one...which is weird - I am very much a fan of walking softly with a big stick. There is nothing "soft" about walking with this thing lol:D Great vid as always!

[@TokkenNinja]

geez that knife is wicked! A little too big for me to carry comfortably, but an impressive blade nonetheless. Sweet review nutnfancy!

[@jpdel31]

hey man, your reviews are great. congratulations

[@AreYouReady990]

When the biker made the rajah into a serrated style did it weaken the knife? I think Cold Steel should make a Rajah model serrated.

[@Nicool333]

Nutn...my wife hates you, my bank account hates you, but I still think you're the best knife review dude out there...and I'm going to have to pick one of these up too...13 ounces though...holy moly

[@moorshound3243]

oh man now I need a Rajah as well.

[@davidb300z]

i got a catalog from coldsteel and there now selling the rajah 1 for only 99$ in the close out section, they got the black rhino for only 64.99, and the black sable for 159.99

[@74Hobbes]

Nice blade. I just picked up my SRK (speaking of "fixed blades")the other day and I'll be using it over the weekend for "processing" some firewood. Maybe I'll post a vid...probably won't though. LOL! GREAT vid as usual Nutn!

[@Cowboy3590]

hey there Nutnfancy!! I just had a thought and now my head hurts... hahaha jus teasin'. You said the "curvature" of the blade when sharpening. Do you think maybe you can make some vids of your friends sharpening their curved blades to be able to show us knife fanatics how we can sharpen them at home?

[@Kylef7735]

@bobjoemagee You cant carry a fixed blade while walking down the street, but you certaintly can while camping or backpacking. I would not consider any folding knife a survival knife, even one as strong as the rajah. Sorry for not telling you what you wanted to hear.

[@cslew280]

Sweet blade and great review

[@PontoonTeek]

Seriously badass knife and top notch review. Might be hard to explain to the cops if they were a little too inquisitive, however. Not that it really matters what they think if you are taking your personal safety in your own hands.

[@NE_Ohio_Hiker]

great video Nutn.

[@triplez300]

I agreed all the words you said in this video. Yeah true that is nice if you see the knives in person. That's what cold steel did. They make the demo video for all of us. That is the only reason I trust cold steel.

[@SuperAshley84]

Have you seen the Rajah III you should do a review of it soon. ( if you can find one ) everyone is sold out right now.

[@m1ghtysauc3]

I'm thinking of selling my Rajah 1 and getting an XL Espada. Still very much undecided though.

[@postjam]

hey, let's see your entire knife collection laid out!

[@tsunami105]

Great review!! that knife is sick as hell. IMO i think the design is great but you might want to look into " spyderco endura 4 wave" weighs less and more practical. Other than my 2 cent opinion GREAT REVIEW nutnfancy !! keep it up !!!

[@SavageArms357]

I believe Cutco makes a serrated hunting knife (Looks really nice) little expensive though.

[@danhodg1]

nice review Nutnfancy! could you review the Kabar Kukri? greetings from the UK

[@biggin2155]

get a kabar heavy bowie and send it to fitzen to get some serrations. $45-55 knife, 9 inch blade. Not sure what Fitzen charges for serrations, but i bet its a fair price. His prices for sharpening are amazing

[@soixe1997]

my adults wont let me carry a 4 and a half inch long blade, because the cops might get mad. i live in a rural town, where kids get out of school to go hunting, and everyone has a blade. do you have any ideas as to how i can get them to let me carry fixed blades?

[@tidaking816]

Love the enthusiasm. Hell of a knife. And screw what people say about bikers. I'm no biker, but I'm down for people doing what they want to do. I just you aren't racist, you sound pretty intelligent.

[@PreparedWolf34]

Great review of my dream knife.

[@gerberboy0100]

Did the relationship with Fitzen go sour or has there just been way to much on the plate to fit him in lately? just curious, great videos.

[@EJVDBerg]

Finally you made a review on it I love my rajah II Very good knife . 5*

[@triplez300]

Which one you think stronger rajah 2 or espada XL ??? Espada can hold over 400 lbs !!

[@Kylef7735]

You mean like the second usage in the title of this video?

[@mariner156]

look at a Spyderco Mule but i carry a Spyderco Endura 4 FRN Fully serrated and my serrations are razor sharp and cut like crazy

[@parrotheadlasvegas]

Great video! I'd love to have one of these, but it's just out of my price range. Still, it's good to have goals, right? Rock on, Nutn!!!

[@wmg1900]

Since the Rajah I has been discontinued I have found it for under $180. Less than the MSRP of the Rajah II. Get these gems while they last.

[@victorlogofat9820]

nutnfancy, could you compare the cold steel talwar to this knife?