The Cold Steel Recon 1 XL is not a folder for the faint of heart. It’s too big, too intimidating, too tough. If you’re one to shy away from a challenge, this probably isn’t the knife for you.

Cold Steel’s Recon 1 has been a staple of the everyday carry knife and tactical industries for decades, literally. Over its lifespan, it has seen numerous iterations — varying in materials, blade ...