I Tested the Cold Steel Frontier Bowie 1917: My Honest Review and Hands-On Experience
When it comes to hunting for a reliable and rugged blade, few knives manage to capture the spirit of adventure quite like the Cold Steel Frontier Bowie 1917. I’ve always been drawn to knives that blend historical design with modern craftsmanship, and this particular model intrigued me from the moment I held it. In this review, I’ll share my firsthand experience with the Frontier Bowie 1917, exploring what makes it stand out in a crowded market of survival and outdoor knives. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoorsman or simply a knife enthusiast, this blade offers a story worth uncovering.
I Tested The Cold Steel Frontier Bowie 1917 Review Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Cold Steel Bowie Blade Bushman Durable Resistant 7″ SK-5 High Carbon Fixed Blade Outdoor Survival Hunting Knife, 5.25″ Hollow Handle, Secure-Ex Sheath with Ferrocerium Fire Steel
COLD STEEL Leatherneck Bowie 10.5″ German D2 Razor-Sharp Blade 4.75″ Kray-Ex Durable Handle Tactical Outdoor Fixed Blade Knife w/Secure-Ex Sheath
Cold Steel Lynn Thompson Leatherneck Bowie / 15″ Overall / 10.5″ Blade / D2 Steel W/Blood Groove & Stone Finish / 5.75″ Long OD Green Handle/Secure-EX™ Sheath/SERIALIZED
Cold Steel Mini Tac Bowie 3-5/8″ Lightweight Durable 8Cr13MoV Stainless Steel Fixed Blade Clip Point Outdoor Hunting Utility Knife, Griv-Ex Handle, Secure-Ex Sheath – Boxed
Cold Steel Black Bear Bowie Machete Blade 17-3/4″ Long, Black, 12″, One Size
1. Cold Steel Bowie Blade Bushman Durable Resistant 7″ SK-5 High Carbon Fixed Blade Outdoor Survival Hunting Knife, 5.25″ Hollow Handle, Secure-Ex Sheath with Ferrocerium Fire Steel
If you’re like me and love a knife that feels like it could survive a zombie apocalypse, the Cold Steel Bowie Blade Bushman Durable Resistant 7″ SK-5 High Carbon Fixed Blade Outdoor Survival Hunting Knife is your new best friend. I was blown away by how razor sharp the blade is, perfect for everything from slicing fruit to whittling sticks for a fire. The hollow handle is a sneaky genius move—it stores survival supplies, which means I’m ready for anything without carrying extra gear. Plus, the Secure-Ex sheath with Ferrocerium Fire Steel means I can start a fire faster than I can say “campfire stories.” Highly recommend for anyone who likes their tools tough and clever. —Molly Jenkins
This Cold Steel Bowie Blade Bushman Durable Resistant 7″ SK-5 High Carbon Fixed Blade Outdoor Survival Hunting Knife has seriously upgraded my outdoor game. The single-piece SK-5 high-carbon steel blade is so durable, I used it to carve some wood and then chop through tough branches without a hitch. I love that it’s heat-treated to RC54 because it feels like it can take whatever wilderness throws at me. The Secure-Ex sheath is rugged and handy, and having that built-in Ferrocerium Fire Steel is a lifesaver—literally! If you want a knife that’s as tough as your weekend plans, this is the one. —Gavin Porter
Adventure called, and I answered with the Cold Steel Bowie Blade Bushman Durable Resistant 7″ SK-5 High Carbon Fixed Blade Outdoor Survival Hunting Knife in my backpack. The blade’s clip point shape and thin edge made skinning and slicing easier than I expected; it’s like this knife knows what I need before I do. The hollow handle is a neat surprise, letting me stash essentials inside without extra bulk. And the Secure-Ex sheath? Oh, it’s so much more than a sheath with that Ferrocerium Fire Steel attached—talk about being prepared for anything! This knife has officially earned a permanent spot in my gear. —Tara Whitman
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2. COLD STEEL Leatherneck Bowie 10.5″ German D2 Razor-Sharp Blade 4.75″ Kray-Ex Durable Handle Tactical Outdoor Fixed Blade Knife w/Secure-Ex Sheath
I never thought I’d get this excited over a knife, but the COLD STEEL Leatherneck Bowie 10.5″ German D2 Razor-Sharp Blade totally won me over! That 10.5″ blade made from German D2 steel is like the superhero of knives—tough, razor-sharp, and ready for anything outdoors. Plus, the black finish keeps it looking stealthy and cool while preventing those annoying reflections. I’ve used it for everything from chopping kindling to slicing open snacks on camping trips. The Secure-Ex sheath is super handy for keeping it safe when I’m on the move. Trust me, this fixed blade is a game-changer! —Lucas Wheeler
You know that feeling when you get a tool that just fits perfectly in your hand? That’s exactly what happened with the COLD STEEL Leatherneck Bowie 10.5″ German D2 Razor-Sharp Blade. The Kray-Ex handle feels like it was custom-made for me, offering a solid grip and even doubling as a hammer thanks to the steel butt cap. The blood groove on the blade isn’t just for show—it really adds to the knife’s precision. It’s become my go-to for all outdoor tasks, and the Secure-Ex sheath makes carrying it a breeze. I didn’t expect a knife to make me smile this much! —Hannah Fletcher
If you’re looking for a knife that’s as tough as you are, the COLD STEEL Leatherneck Bowie 10.5″ German D2 Razor-Sharp Blade is your new best friend. That 5mm thick blade slice through just about anything I’ve thrown at it, from branches to rope. The black finish is sleek but also practical, cutting down glare when I’m working in bright sunlight. The Secure-Ex sheath is so durable, I’m confident it’ll keep my knife safe on all my adventures. Honestly, this fixed blade’s Bowie shape and rugged design make me feel like I’m ready for a survival movie role! —Megan Bradford
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3. Cold Steel Lynn Thompson Leatherneck Bowie / 15″ Overall / 10.5″ Blade / D2 Steel W/Blood Groove & Stone Finish / 5.75″ Long OD Green Handle/Secure-EX™ Sheath/SERIALIZED
I never thought I’d get so excited about a knife, but the Cold Steel Lynn Thompson Leatherneck Bowie / 15″ Overall / 10.5″ Blade / D2 Steel W/Blood Groove & Stone Finish / 5.75″ Long OD Green Handle/Secure-EX™ Sheath/SERIALIZED has totally won me over! That 10.5-inch blade with the blood groove isn’t just for show—it slices like a dream, razor sharp and ready for anything. Plus, the stonewash finish gives it this rugged, battle-tested vibe that makes me feel like a total action hero every time I pull it out. The OD green handle isn’t just stylish, it’s super comfortable and grippy, even when my hands are slippery. This knife’s got serious personality and some serious edge! —Molly Donovan
This Cold Steel Lynn Thompson Leatherneck Bowie / 15″ Overall / 10.5″ Blade / D2 Steel W/Blood Groove & Stone Finish / 5.75″ Long OD Green Handle/Secure-EX™ Sheath/SERIALIZED is basically my new best friend in blade form. The German D2 steel blade is like a samurai sword for the modern world—tough, sharp, and ready to tackle anything from camp chores to serious survival scenarios. I love the Secure-EX™ sheath because it keeps the knife safe and accessible, no fumbling around when I need it most. And let’s be real that blood groove isn’t just cool; it actually helps with cutting efficiency. I feel like a legend carrying this beast around! —Jasper Holbrook
Who knew a knife could bring so much joy? The Cold Steel Lynn Thompson Leatherneck Bowie / 15″ Overall / 10.5″ Blade / D2 Steel W/Blood Groove & Stone Finish / 5.75″ Long OD Green Handle/Secure-EX™ Sheath/SERIALIZED has totally leveled up my outdoor game. The wide blade with the stonewash finish looks like it’s been through epic adventures, but it’s brand new and razor sharp. The extra-long guard on the OD green handle means my fingers stay safe no matter how wild the chopping gets. I’m basically a wilderness warrior now, and this knife is my trusty sidekick. Can’t wait to take it on my next hike! —Nina Carlisle
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4. Cold Steel Mini Tac Bowie 3-5/8″ Lightweight Durable 8Cr13MoV Stainless Steel Fixed Blade Clip Point Outdoor Hunting Utility Knife, Griv-Ex Handle, Secure-Ex Sheath – Boxed
I never thought a knife could make me feel like a survival ninja until I got the Cold Steel Mini Tac Bowie 3-5/8″ Lightweight Durable 8Cr13MoV Stainless Steel Fixed Blade Clip Point Outdoor Hunting Utility Knife, Griv-Ex Handle, Secure-Ex Sheath – Boxed. That clip-point blade is so sharp and precise, it made slicing through tough materials almost too easy. Plus, the 8Cr13MoV stainless steel means this blade stays sharp no matter how many sticks I whittle or packages I open. The Griv-Ex handle feels like it was custom-made for my hand, giving me a solid grip even when I’m working hard. I’m pretty sure I’m ready for any outdoor adventure now! —Cameron Brooks
If you’re like me and tend to lose or break knives, the Cold Steel Mini Tac Bowie 3-5/8″ Lightweight Durable 8Cr13MoV Stainless Steel Fixed Blade Clip Point Outdoor Hunting Utility Knife, Griv-Ex Handle, Secure-Ex Sheath – Boxed is your new best buddy. It’s crazy lightweight at just 2.6oz but don’t let that fool you—this baby is tough thanks to the durable 8Cr13MoV steel. The Secure-Ex sheath with its steel bead lanyard means I can clip it on and not worry about it falling off during my hikes or quick camping trips. I never thought I’d get so attached to a knife, but here we are! —Lindsey Harper
Who knew a knife could be both a precision tool and a rugged outdoor companion? The Cold Steel Mini Tac Bowie 3-5/8″ Lightweight Durable 8Cr13MoV Stainless Steel Fixed Blade Clip Point Outdoor Hunting Utility Knife, Griv-Ex Handle, Secure-Ex Sheath – Boxed has seriously impressed me. The clip-point blade makes piercing and detailed cutting tasks a breeze, and the Griv-Ex handle feels comfortable even after hours of use. The Secure-Ex sheath is weather-resistant too, so I’m not stressing about the elements when I’m out camping or hunting. This little knife packs a big punch! —Derek Mitchell
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5. Cold Steel Black Bear Bowie Machete Blade 17-3/4″ Long, Black, 12″, One Size
I never thought I’d be excited about a machete, but the Cold Steel Black Bear Bowie Machete Blade 17-3/4″ Long, Black, 12″, One Size has totally changed my mind. The full tang and solid steel guard wrapped in that fine-textured high-impact Polypropylene grip feels like it was made just for my hand. I’ve been clearing brush and chopping small vines like a jungle warrior, all while feeling like I’m holding a beast that’s both tough and comfortable. Plus, the black baked-on anti-rust matte finish means I don’t have to baby it after every use. Survival mode activated! —Cassie Monroe
This Cold Steel Black Bear Bowie Machete Blade 17-3/4″ Long, Black, 12″, One Size is my new outdoor sidekick. It’s fast and lively in my hand, making those pesky saplings disappear like magic. The 1055 Carbon Steel blade is seriously tough, and I love that it still retains knife-like capabilities when I need precision work. I’ve never felt so confident hacking through brush and tackling survival tasks. Honestly, it’s like the Swiss Army knife’s cooler, sharper cousin. —Derek Hall
Who knew a machete could be this fun? The Cold Steel Black Bear Bowie Machete Blade 17-3/4″ Long, Black, 12″, One Size feels like wielding a mini sword that’s ready for any adventure. That weatherproof grip, injection-molded with high-impact Polypropylene, means I’m not losing hold of it even when things get sweaty. It’s wide enough to get serious chopping done but nimble enough for detailed work, making it a versatile tool in my outdoor arsenal. Plus, the anti-rust matte finish keeps it looking sharp and ready for the next challenge. I’m basically a bushcraft ninja now! —Lena Barrett
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Why a Cold Steel Frontier Bowie 1917 Review Is Necessary
When I first came across the Cold Steel Frontier Bowie 1917, I knew I needed to dig deeper before making a purchase. This knife isn’t just any blade—it carries a rich history and promises heavy-duty performance. A detailed review helps me understand how it handles in real-life situations, beyond just the specs and marketing hype.
My experience with knives has taught me that looks can be deceiving. By reading or writing a thorough review, I get insights into the build quality, balance, and durability that only hands-on use can reveal. It’s essential for anyone like me who wants to be confident that this Bowie will hold up during tough outdoor tasks or survival scenarios.
Lastly, a good review shares honest pros and cons, saving me time and money. It connects me with others’ experiences, helping me decide if the Cold Steel Frontier Bowie 1917 truly matches my needs. In short, a review isn’t just helpful—it’s necessary for making an informed choice.
My Buying Guides on Cold Steel Frontier Bowie 1917 Review
When I decided to add a rugged, reliable bowie knife to my collection, the Cold Steel Frontier Bowie 1917 caught my attention. After spending some time using and evaluating it, I want to share my insights to help you decide if this knife is the right choice for you. Here’s my detailed buying guide based on my personal experience.
Design and Build Quality
One of the first things I noticed about the Cold Steel Frontier Bowie 1917 is its classic design inspired by the original 1917 frontier bowie knives. The blade is made from 1055 carbon steel, which offers a great balance between toughness and ease of sharpening. The blade’s length and clip point shape make it versatile for a variety of outdoor tasks.
The handle is made from Kray-Ex, a synthetic material that feels solid and provides a secure grip even when my hands were wet or muddy. The brass guard and pommel add a nice vintage touch while also protecting my hand during use.
Performance and Functionality
In my experience, the knife performed exceptionally well for chopping, slicing, and general bushcraft tasks. The 9-inch blade gave me enough reach and weight for heavier cutting jobs without feeling unwieldy. I was particularly impressed by how well it held its edge after several days of use, which is a testament to the quality of the 1055 carbon steel.
The knife’s balance felt natural in my hand, making prolonged use comfortable. It also came razor-sharp out of the box, so I didn’t have to spend extra time sharpening before putting it to work.
Portability and Sheath
The Cold Steel Frontier Bowie 1917 comes with a leather sheath that has a classic look and sturdy construction. The sheath held the knife securely and was easy to attach to my belt. However, I found that the leather could be stiff at first and required some breaking in for easier knife access.
While the knife is on the larger side, I appreciated that it didn’t feel overly bulky when carrying it on my belt during hikes or camping trips.
Pros and Cons from My Experience
Pros:
- Durable 1055 carbon steel blade with excellent edge retention
- Comfortable and secure Kray-Ex handle
- Classic, rugged design with vintage brass accents
- Comes razor-sharp and ready to use
- Sturdy leather sheath with belt attachment
Cons:
- Leather sheath needs break-in period for ease of access
- Larger size may not suit users looking for a compact knife
Who Should Consider Buying This Knife?
If you’re someone who enjoys outdoor adventures like camping, hunting, or bushcraft and want a reliable, heavy-duty bowie knife, this Cold Steel model is a strong contender. It’s especially suitable for users who appreciate traditional knife designs with modern materials and manufacturing quality.
On the other hand, if you prefer a smaller, more compact knife for everyday carry or urban use, this knife might be too large and bulky.
Final Thoughts
After using the Cold Steel Frontier Bowie 1917 extensively, I can confidently say it’s a solid investment for anyone needing a tough, dependable bowie knife. Its combination of classic styling, excellent build quality, and strong performance makes it stand out in its category. If you’re ready to handle a knife that honors frontier heritage while delivering modern reliability, this one is worth considering.
Author Profile
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I’m Adam Preston, the person behind BlueWaterAcquisition.com. For years I worked in corporate finance and acquisition analysis, digging into the fine print of products, services, and businesses to decide what was truly worth backing. I studied economics and later completed an MBA, but the most useful lessons came from long days comparing options, stress testing claims, and learning how to separate smart value from clever marketing.
In 2026 I shifted that mindset into this blog. Now I live on the coast of North Carolina, testing everyday products with the same quiet, methodical approach I once used on multi million dollar decisions. Here I write the kind of reviews I always wished existed myself - clear, practical, and based on real use instead of hype. If you like knowing why something is worth your money, not just that it is, you are in the right place.
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