A Beloved Tactical Brand Fixes the Biggest Problem with a Unique Folding Knife

Though typically known for aggressive designs, Cold Steel’s latest is surprisingly refined and carry-friendly.

Cold Steel Frenzy II knife in hand closeup

Published February 13, 2025

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Seven years ago, Cold Steel launched a surprisingly slender knife called the Frenzy II. However, a closer inspection of its specs told a different story.

The Kabutowari-inspired folder was massive, measuring 12.25 inches in length. Its handle alone was 6.75 inches, about the length of a slightly below-average EDC knife. It was, sadly, not something you could reasonably carry.

Fast-forward to today, and the brand has quietly dropped another version of that knife. However, this take on the Cold Steel Frenzy II is decidedly more approachable and EDC-friendly.

Cold Steel Frenzy II knife in car center console — This version of the Frenzy II is over four inches shorter than its oversized predecessor.

Big ups for a downsize

While the original Frenzy II (itself a follow-up to the Frenzy I) was over a foot long, this new drop is much more practical at 8.0 inches. While that’s still on the larger side for an EDC knife, its overall slenderness helps it.

For the most part, the design hasn’t changed much. It even still retains a deep-carry pocket clip. (Yes, the original had a pocket clip for some reason — perhaps pack carry?)

Honestly, I’m glad Cold Steel kept the changes to a minimum. I love the unique look and materials of the Frenzy series, and I worry that it might lose some of its charm if it were altered too much.

There is one other noteworthy change to mention. While the larger version had S35VN steel, this new one utilizes 3V. While 3V isn’t a stainless steel (and may require more maintenance, as a result), it is tougher than S35VN.

Cold Steel Frenzy II knife with wallet in car cupholder — This Frenzy II’s slender handle and deep-carry pocket clip help make its 8.0-inch length more manageable.

Traditional style, contemporary features

As the first Frenzy II had such an unapproachable total length, most folks likely aren’t too familiar with its materials and mechanisms. Let’s clear that up.

Like the old version, this knife has a sheepsfoot blade with a long cutting edge and an excellent piercing tip, making it great for detail-oriented cutting tasks. It also has a fuller and thumb studs for manual deployment. It’s the most old-school feature on the knife.

That traditional blade is mated to a more contemporary contoured G10 handle that sports the brand’s legendary, ultra-tough Demko-designed Tri-Ad lock. It’s one of the strongest, most revered locking mechanisms — even years after its launch.

All that melds together to create a truly unconventional knife. Yet it’s not so esoteric that it prohibits EDC usage. In a sea of wide-bellied drop-point folders, this one stands apart — and that’s a very good thing.

Cold Steel Frenzy II knives on wood table — Along with the red-and-black version, the Frenzy II also comes in a completely blacked-out configuration.

Pricing and availability

This smaller take on Cold Steel’s Frenzy II is already available on the brand’s site for $160. It comes in two colorways: a red-and-black version with a silver blade and a fully blacked-out version.

Despite their differing appearance, their specs — like their prices — are otherwise identical. Now’s your chance to pick up this unique folder before the secret’s out.

You can also still snag the oversized original for $140 at Blade HQ (down from $240).