Coldsteel Leatherneck

Known the world over, ‘Semper – Fi’ or ‘Semper Fidelis’ has been the unerring motto of the United States Marine Corp. Translated it means ‘Always Faithful’ or ‘Always Loyal’, from the USMC’s standpoint it means they never leave one of their own behind no matter what. So when Cold Steel introduced the Leatherneck, their own take on the USMC’s infamous KA–BAR all-round utility knife, the SF version is Cold Steel’s homage to both the USMC and this famous knife.

Specialists in putting their own spin on historically significant knives and other edged weaponry, Cold Steel’s Leatherneck SF takes its name from the high leather stock or collar worn by the Marines back in 1776. Serving two purposes in one go, the thick Leatherneck provided protection from sword or other forms of attack whilst ensuring each Marine kept his head held high and straight. A seriously uncomfortable piece of kit but one that worked just like the Cold Steel knife that bears the same name.

Well Constructed

The Leatherneck SF blade is manufactured from German 4116 stainless steel and finished with Tuff-Ex, a non-reflective protective coating. The SF comes with a full tang 7” clip point blade with a hollow ground edge honed by hand to ensure each knife is razor sharp; note that the fuller of the original is omitted. To keep your fingers safe, a cross guard extends where the hilt and grip join into the cutting edge of the blade, the quillons being turned slightly downwards on Cold Steel’s interpretation. The Leatherneck balances and hefts perfectly whilst remaining the exact same weight (10.4oz) as the original. There is an optional Tanto style blade for those looking for something a little different but for authenticity to my mind it has to be the original blade pattern of the SF.

Replacing the original design’s leather washer grips, Cold Steel has encapsulated the extra wide, oval handle in deeply checkered Kraton. Emulating the looks and to a degree the feel of the original even down to the correct six sections, deep Cold Steel embossed finger troughs run along either side, the finish and design meaning a good positive grip can be maintained at all times. Even when the handle and hands are wet, cleaning is a far simpler task, a wipe with a soft cloth being all you need. Finishing off the knife, a thick, solid steel butt cap – ideal for hammering - completes the look.

The knife comes complete with a perfectly moulded rigid Secure-Ex sheath/scabbard complete with a detachable, ambidextrous belt loop. Four small lugs - just below the main aperture - click into place over the cross-guard as soon as the Leatherneck is pushed firmly back into the sheath, so even if you don’t deploy the press stud retaining strap, the knife remains firmly and securely in position, ready and waiting for the next time you need to call your Leatherneck SF into action.

Cold Steel –Making The Best Designs Better

Whether you buy a Leatherneck to add to your collection or hang it from your belt as one of the most versatile and reliable hunting and outdoors knives you’re likely to own, once again Cold Steel have proved that they’re one of the best when it comes to adding 21st Century technology to a classic edged tool. Moreover, the Leatherneck SF is one of those knives that just feel right the moment it settles into the palm of your hand, testament to the fact Cold Steel got their new military spec tool exactly right, a piece of kit that’s guaranteed to be ‘always faithful’.

Retailing at £72, the Leatherneck SF or the Tanto version are available from BearArms Limited on 0800 862 0411 or visit www.coldsteel-uk.com.