Cold Steel Has Resurrected Its Heritage-Inspired Hunting Knife for Modern EDC

Cold Steel has never really been a brand that adheres too much to the idea of tradition. Even with its more “traditional” offerings, there’s usually a modern, innovative twist or approach.

But that doesn’t mean the brand hasn’t dabbled in the realm of the classics. In fact, the brand just revived (and heavily revised) one of its most historic silhouettes, the Cold Steel Mackinac Hunter.

Cold Steel

Return of the Mack(inac)

The Mackinac Hunter actually marks the return of an archival silhouette from Cold Steel’s past. The original was launched in 2012, and it was a rare departure for the brand that embraced heritage knifemaking, at least stylistically.

The original knife featured a steel frame with hardwood-style overlays covering the center of the handle, mimicking the appearance of bolstered folding hunters, like Buck’s iconic 110. It also had a 3.6-inch clip point blade, creating a visual stylistic connection to other outdoor knives, like the legendary Bowie.

Cold Steel

This new edition remains true to some of that, while also meaningfully updating it for modern knife users. For instance, the blade remains 3.6 inches and has a similar clip-point shape. The handle also maintains a similar size and silhouette, and the brand’s legendary Tri-Ad lock returns.

It even still has a reversible pocket clip and thumb stud deployment. All in all, the overall spirit remains. But not everything has made the cut in this return.

Cold Steel

Hunter x hunter

The alterations and updates to this knife are largely material. For example, the handle scales on the original were Delrin, made to mimic the look of hardwood. But those have been completely deleted and the scale design has been restyled.

Now, the blade retains its stainless steel frame, but gets micarta handle scales. They’re grippier, more durable and much more contemporary. Furthermore, the false bolster is done away with in favor of a real one that seamlessly matches the height of the scales.

Cold Steel

Despite that swap, the reversible pocket clip style, lanyard hole and lock all remain in the same position as the original.

The other change is to the blade. The original steel was AUS-8A. This new version is still Japanese-sourced, but upgraded to AUS-10A. While in the same family, 10A is harder, more wear-resistant and retains a better edge, although it is harder to sharpen.

Finally, the overall style of the knife is just more refined. The lines are cleaner; the shape is more ergonomic; it’s just plain better. All in all, it’s a fitting successor to the original.

Cold Steel

Availability and pricing

The Cold Steel Mackinac Hunter is now available with your choice of a brown or black handle for $220 apiece.

Cold Steel

Cold Steel Mackinac Hunter

• $220 at Cold Steel (Brown)
• $220 at Cold Steel (Black)

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