History of Cold Steel

Established in 1980 by Lynn C. Thompson in Ventura, California, Cold Steel has emerged as a leading force in the world of knives and edged weapons. The company has been driven by a philosophy focused on strength, sharpness, and reliability, with a mission to create some of the sharpest and toughest knives on the market.

One of Cold Steel's key contributions to the knife industry was popularizing the “Americanized” Tanto-style blade in the Western world. Inspired by traditional Japanese swords, this design emphasizes a strong point for better piercing ability.

Additionally, Cold Steel introduced the innovative San Mai III blades, featuring a hard, high-carbon steel core sandwiched between two layers of softer stainless steel, to ensure edge retention, flexibility, and rust resistance.

A notable innovation in Cold Steel’s folding knives is the Tri-Ad locking mechanism, designed in collaboration with legendary knife maker Andrew Demko. renowned for its strength and safety. Since its release in the early 1990s, the Tri-Ad lock has been renowned for its strength and safety, setting new standards in the industry, and addressing concerns about the reliability of folding knives.

Cold Steel has utilized the Tri-Ad locking mechanism in a variety of knives, with a notable one being the Cold Steel Espada. The Espada crafted after the Navaja Spanish folding knife, was released in 2008 as both a tool and weapon, capable of handling even the most demanding tasks.

But beyond knives, Cold Steel has expanded its product range to include swords, machetes, and other bladed weapons, also venturing into gear such as walking sticks and training equipment.

- Founded in 1980 by Lynn C. Thompson (pictured above)

- Founded in Ventura, California

-Cold Steel popularized the "Americanized" Tanto (pictured above)

-Cold Steel introduced San Mai III blades

-Cold Steel introduces the Tri-Ad lock (pictured above) in collaboration with Andrew Demko

-Cold Steel releases the Espada in 2008

The company's commitment to diversification extended to media and training, producing instructional videos on various forms of combat and weapon use, and contributing to the martial arts community.

Facing challenges in a competitive market, Cold Steel responded with continuous innovation in materials and design. In 2020, the company entered a new chapter with its acquisition by GSM Outdoors. This strategic move expanded GSM's portfolio and provided Cold Steel with additional resources for growth and development.

Cold Steel's impact on the knife industry goes beyond its products. The company has been a trendsetter, influencing designs, materials, and standards of toughness and durability. Actively engaging with its community, Cold Steel listens to user feedback to improve and innovate its product line, reinforcing its position as a leader in the world of edged tools.

- Cold Steel released training videos (pictured above) on various forms of combat

- Cold Steel was acquired by GSM Outdoors of Irving, Texas