Cold Steel SRK-C Compact SK5 - Another CS Home Run?

Short video of the new for 2020 Cold Steel SRK-C Compact featuring SK5 Carbon Steel (Japanese 1085) , Tuff Ex blade coating, Secure-Ex sheath, Kray-ex synthetic contoured Handle, And made in Taiwan. This Compact SRK gives all the great features of the full sized version, But is lighter and thinner for more detailed work. This is sure to be another winner from CS.
Knife Center www.knifecenter.com/item/CS49...
My video on full sized SRK SK5 • Cold Steel SRK SK5 Bes...
Knife Up SK5 Infoknifeup.com/sk-5-steel-guide/
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[@knifevideochannel4657]

Cold Steel SRK-C Compact SK5 Specifications: Overall Length:9.50" Blade Length:5.00" Cutting Edge:Plain Blade Width:1.125" Blade Thickness:0.16" Blade Material:SK-5 Blade Style:Clip Point Blade Grind:Flat Finish:Black Edge Type:Plain Handle Length:4.50" Handle Width:1.00" Handle Thickness:0.68 oz. Handle Material:Kray-Ex Color:Black Weight:5.1 oz. User:Right Hand, Left Hand Sheath:Secure-Ex Knife Type:Fixed Blade Brand:Cold Steel Model:SRK-C Model Number:49LCKD Country of Origin:Taiwan Best Use:Camp/Hike, Tactical Product Type:Knife

[@R.Stridstrom]

I just tried the Compact out. Great knife. Maybe one Compact + a larger blade, like the Camp 10 for chopping and such? I am personally leaning that way. The SRKs will probably end up in a drawer, as a "one size fits all" universal one-knife sollution.

[@knifevideochannel4657]

It's a great knife! I have a few (RV and Camp Backpack) now and really like them. My daughter uses the the Compact (or Tops Camp Creek) with a Camp 10. Thanks for watching Robert

[@wrjames38]

I'd love to see a stainless(S35VN or San Mai) version of the compact . Cool blade ..

[@knifevideochannel4657]

It definitely has its place, More to it then just one inch shorter blade.

[@chriswolf1277]

wrjames38 and even a more budget friendly stainless like aus-8 👍🏼

[@JCRF]

First video/review I've seen of this new knife, thanks for taking the time for a quality comparison!

[@JCRF]

I only wish they also released it in a stainless steel with satin finish

[@knifevideochannel4657]

Thank you for the positive comment, I really enjoy Cold Steel fixed blades, Especially the SRK. This new Compact has "more" to it then what's on paper, Legit blade for sure.

[@knifevideochannel4657]

I'm hoping they produce a San Mai, 3V, And AUS10 version of the Compact. Thanks for watching

[@roadsterj]

@@knifevideochannel4657 I was debating the full size vs the compact. Your review showing how versatile and flat grind is great for food prep has me sold on the Compact! Thx

[@brianf9619]

Seams like it's another win for Cold Steel. These SRK's in SK5 steel are a great deal , I'd say they are the best deal on the market at that $50.00 price point . I own 5 SRK's all with different steels , it's a great knife .

[@knifevideochannel4657]

I agree Brian! This Compact really surprised me when I pulled it out of the box. I figured it was just a shrunken SK5 SRK with a blade 1 inch smaller. The dramatically lower weight, Thinner stock, And smaller handle really make the knife shine in its own category! How do you like the 3V Version? Black DLC or Stonewashed Italian 3V? Thanks for watching

[@johnmutton799]

Yor srk grind looks like mine. It has a grind like the trail master, recon scout having a nice sweep to the blade. No straight edge. What a blade! They all have hollow grinds, except the 3v version.

[@knifevideochannel4657]

Thanks for the info John! I just received the San Mai version to do a video of, And like you said has a hollow grind. These are great knives for sure! Thanks for watching

[@johnmutton799]

@@knifevideochannel4657 would love another san mai version. I gave mine to nephew who just joined the Royal marines. Will save up for one. This is why i just got srk and recon tanto in sk5. But really want san mai. 3v looks good too. Flat grind and looks like the same grind on the tip as sk5

[@franciscoarana6626]

Agree w/u re. the bevels. big difference from past years. Good on you CS!

[@knifevideochannel4657]

Thanks for watching Francisco

[@MikeUman]

Definitely holding out for a 3V model. Make it happen, Cold Steel!

[@knifevideochannel4657]

That would be the knife of the year! Thanks for watching Mike!

[@carlosanibalcampalans8129]

I hope they get to make it in a decent stainless steel, such as AUS-10 or CTS-BD1; no need for an expensive/fancy option like CTS-XHP or CPM S35VN. I'm a happy SRK 6" AUS-8 user though.

[@knifevideochannel4657]

I'm with you Carlos! As much as I'd love to see a Stonewashed 3V (overkill in the Compact ) a AUS 8 or 10 would be a fantastic stainless option. Thanks for watching

[@Abby_Normal_1969]

Got the SRK in 3V about 2 weeks ago. She has the same handle as the Recon fixed. Really comfortable ergos. Very happy with her so far.

[@knifevideochannel4657]

Congratulations on the new blade, I really like the stonewashed finish on the Italian 3V. Thanks for watching

[@ashleygovender4104]

Awesome knife. I bought 2. Durban, South Africa and

[@knifevideochannel4657]

Thanks for watching Ashley! Greetings from Carlsbad California

[@lifeofjoyandcreation]

... and???

[@toadstkr]

For the price these are amazing in any size

[@knifevideochannel4657]

Amazing for sure! I'm hoping they make a San Mai and 3V version if these SK5 sell well enough. Thanks for watching

[@brokeboytactical]

Seriously cold steel is the only knife I'd trust for self defense at that price range. I own the full size one and have had it for 4 years it's beat the s*** LOL but it's still going strong and razor sharp. I chopped down a small tree in my backyard with it, it's been on several camping trips, helps me with small tasks around the house the list goes on. My first srk was the carbon v version and I love that knife but I broke it LOL

[@knifevideochannel4657]

Thanks for watching Chris

[@chriswolf1277]

After watching this review mine is now ordered and on it’s way I’ve been tabbing in my hog 4.5 for a few years now and I’ve wanted to shave a bit more wieght out of my Bergen for some time at 43 With a blown out knee every little bit helps.

[@knifevideochannel4657]

I'm curious to hear your feedback on how the Compact compares with the TOPS HOG! Thanks for watching Chris.

[@caseysimpson1806]

Take care of the knee. I can relate to damaged/old knees. The grip on my SRK also helps injured/aging hands in cold weather. Keep on tabbing. Former USMC infantry/reconnaissance.

[@GadzooksEugene]

Very useful review! I've been looking for a good knife for my kit, I just wish you'd have taken a look at the C-Clip with it, but I'm already convinced on that.

[@knifevideochannel4657]

It's a great knife, I'm very impressed with the Compact! Didn't even think about the C Clip for review . Thanks for watching

[@Dingdongwitchisdead]

I just bought the VG 10 in San Mai. I absolutely love it. It would really be nice to have a matching compact.

[@knifevideochannel4657]

Definitely would be a good option for the Compact SRK! Thanks for watching

[@peterzebot9863]

Just bought the full sized one. Need something to cut my sister in law's steak. I hope it works.

[@knifevideochannel4657]

Pretty thick stock on the full sized, Should cut the steak though. Stay safe and thanks for watching Peter.

[@SteveKluver]

Thanks for the new CS show. Seasoned Avocado doesn't stand a chance, with all of the gear you have available! : - )

[@knifevideochannel4657]

What's funny , With all my high tech knives ( 4V , 3V, and Cruwear )52100 and SK5 seem to be tough as nails. I know the edge retention is better on the more advanced CPM offerings, But I can't bring myself to abuse any of these knives MORE then I have. There's other specific tools for THOSE task! Thinking of putting up a short video of the Blade HQ and Knife Joker Shamans, Along with the Ripps Garage Tech PM2 micarta scales. Thanks for watching

[@SteveKluver]

Speaking of RGT, @@knifevideochannel4657. I sure wish he would jump on the Shaman bandwagon, and also do some Micarta for the Manix 2. Remind me again, where those RGT scales ship from?

[@knifevideochannel4657]

@@SteveKluver Micarta for the Shaman and especially the Manix 2 would be fantastic. I'll email and ask if anything is on the horizon!

[@gammonsandwich1756]

I have one of these piggybacking on my Marauder Bowie. Cool combo, at least I think they are!

[@knifevideochannel4657]

I like the Compact alot! How is the Marauder Bowie, Haven't seen/held one of those yet? Thanks for watching

[@gammonsandwich1756]

@@knifevideochannel4657 For a knife with a blade of nine inches, it's surprisingly light and very mobile. AUS8A steel isn't everyone's favourite (yes that spelling means I'm English), but I have always had good results with it. I like big blades, and the Marauder is an affordable option in that category. Nice video, btw.

[@knifevideochannel4657]

As much as I like the using the Particle Metallurgy process steels from Crucible, Bohler, And Carpenter the older stainless and tool steels work great. I have a few older Cold Steel knives in AUS8A, With the Mini Recon 1 as an everyday garage knife. I use it for everything with good success. Thanks for the info on the Marauder, Something to get in the future.

[@angelheart7643]

The Marauder is indeed one of the sharpest CS blades available. It's an absolutely amazing fighting blade !

[@knifevideochannel4657]

@@angelheart7643 on my short list!

[@mycoolbeernuts6870]

I lost my SRK in the woods after the snow covered the ground - so I'm going for a cheaper more compact version to keep on me - fingers crossed - Thanks for the review - I feel confident that's it's the same but smaller.

[@knifevideochannel4657]

Has a totally different "feel" because of the weight, But very capable knife in use! Thanks for watching and hope the knife works for your needs.

[@turtletruth]

Cold steel blades aren't as sharp as they used to be. We miss you Lynn Thompson!

[@knifevideochannel4657]

Thanks for watching

[@fog360]

Can you change the sheath belt clip over for left handed side carry ?

[@knifevideochannel4657]

Shouldn't be a problem, Undo the 2 screws and swap to the other side. Thanks for watching

[@grovesy333]

Does the sheath on this dull the knife after drawning it ? Also what degrees would you sharpen this at ?

[@knifevideochannel4657]

On my example it hasn't dulled the edge! I just recently bought a Mini Tac Bowie that has that problem from the secure-ex sheath though! Thanks for watching

[@grovesy333]

@@knifevideochannel4657 Ok thanks for that I shouldn’t have to worry with this then

[@jeffcon123]

I just got one myself, the od green handle. I love it… honestly I love the og srk which I already have.. I pray they do the recon tanto… but even a 3v compact would be sick… I think I paid 37 bucks on eBay.. fuckin awesome..

[@knifevideochannel4657]

A 3V SRK Compact would be a fantastic combo, Heck I'd even take one in 52100! Thanks for watching

[@jeffcon123]

@@knifevideochannel4657 dude hell ya, lol I work for a metal heat treat facility, I see a lot of spyderco come through, and occasionally I see 52100 samples… they have a lot of weird ass steel.. I’ve got so many blade blanks for para 2 and 3 and the native and shaman as well.. all the usa made shit. I’ve loved cold steel forever.. seems like their quality has dropped off slightly but the prices are high for the older stuff… if they make even a San mai version of this it would be a hit!

[@knifevideochannel4657]

I've got all those weird ass Steels... Spyderco definitely gives the consumer a variety of options to sample. I have a lot of the older Cold Steel products in AUS8, XHP, 3V, VG1, And VG1 San Mai. GSM has cut the brand and hollowed out the offerings, But there's still deals to be had.

[@birdman6499]

Good review

[@knifevideochannel4657]

Thanks for positive comments and for watching

[@caseysimpson1806]

I am a fan of the SRK.

[@knifevideochannel4657]

Awesome knife Casey, Thanks for watching

[@caseysimpson1806]

@@knifevideochannel4657 I have a Carbon V and the sk-5.

[@knifevideochannel4657]

Great knives! I've beat the crap out of a SK5 (literally) on a camping trip to desert a year ago. I'm very impressed with the budget version!

[@caseysimpson1806]

@@knifevideochannel4657 Is there any advantage to the AUS8 or San Mai? I suppose moisture resistance for the San Mai.

[@knifevideochannel4657]

I have the San Mai and VG1 versions in stainless! Haven't beat them through metal, Brick, And other heavy media like the SK5. We only did that to see how strong the budget version was, Not my normal routine with nice blades. I'm assuming stainless are great for overall edge retention and corrosion resistant! I'm assuming the stainless SRKs would chip out more cutting hard materials, But not based on actually experience. If I was going to pick the ultimate SRK version to use, The 3V would probably be first.

[@cherrybomb3713]

I think that the they have different coating and the compact doesn't have a clean 90 spine

[@knifevideochannel4657]

I added the clean spine with a dremel on the full sized SK5 SRK. Thanks for watching

[@cherrybomb3713]

@@knifevideochannel4657 that's weird my full size one came with a very sharp spine aha

[@dizzy897]

I’ve had mine for a few days and something I noticed is that the edge touches the sheath when I pull it out and it dulls it have you noticed this at all.

[@knifevideochannel4657]

I've heard about this issue over the years about Cold Steel Secure-Ex sheaths, Though never encountered it myself on many different examples. That being said, The Compact sheath on my blade has MORE room for the edge to clear then the older snug models. Thanks for watching.

[@ocomegashadowstacking5886]

Hit Like button!!! :D

[@knifevideochannel4657]

Thanks for watching

[@ocomegashadowstacking5886]

@@knifevideochannel4657 you're very welcome!! :D

[@greekveteran2715]

SK5 doesn't hold an edge at all. M Victorinox little saks hold better. Also that tip is easy to break, wish they would put it out, with a better carbon steel. I don't see this knife be better than a simple Mora, in other than combat-fighting applications.

[@knifevideochannel4657]

Thanks for sharing your opinion on SK5! I found the opposite so far after using the full size SRK SK5 during this desert offroad /camping season. I've cut multiple large plastic ties, Beat into a lot of seasoned Avocado , And used the knife on large diameter rubber gas intake hose. I wasn't expecting much edge holding and have been pleasantly surprised at how well it's doing so far. Thank you for watching

[@greekveteran2715]

@@knifevideochannel4657 SRK Saber grind plays a role on edge holding larger edge angle), nice if it holds that much for that steel. After using a forged 52100 steel knife, almost all other carbon steels seemed like they poor edge holding to me. That being said, there are much better inexpensive carbon steels, 80CRV2 for example is cheap and performs better than any low range carbon steels. Thanks for the response.Nice to hear it works better than I thought it would!

[@knifevideochannel4657]

@@greekveteran2715 I've been impressed so far with my 52100 Para 3 and especially the Cold Steel Drop Forged Survivalist! Thanks again for the informative comments.

[@zhenbiaoli297]

Jesus why they put a hollow grind on a longer one then put a sabre grind on a shorter one???Cs never satisfies me...And take my money.

[@knifevideochannel4657]

The Blade Thickness on the full sized SRK probably dictates the hollow grind! The Compact is definitely a cool knife and a lot different "in hand" then the full size version. Thank you for watching