Cold Steel GI Tanto handle scales
Cold Steel GI Tanto handle scales
In early 2000s (appearing in catalogs around 2006–2008), Cold Steel—founded by Lynn C. Thompson—introduced the G.I. Tanto (model 80PGTK) as a stripped-down, budget-friendly tactical fixed blade inspired by military utility needs. Building on Cold Steel's legendary Tanto legacy (popularized since 1981), it offered no-nonsense performance at an accessible price (~$40–$50 MSRP), targeting soldiers, survivalists, and everyday users
The Cold Steel G.I. Tanto features a broad 7-inch Tanto point blade in spring-tempered 1055 carbon steel (black rust-resistant finish) for exceptional toughness, piercing power, and impact resistance—ground razor-sharp with an integral quillon guard for hand protection. Weighing ~12 oz with 12-inch overall length, it uses durable polypropylene handle scales (textured for secure grip), Secure-Ex sheath, and balanced design popular for sport throwing (blade or handle)
Debuting as a lean, rugged "military-issue" style tool, it earned praise for unbreakable reliability, versatility in survival, tactical, and heavy-duty tasks, and unbeatable value in fixed blade knives. It remains a bestseller in Cold Steel's lineup—symbolizing practical strength, affordability, and the brand's "overbuilt" ethos in tactical knives and survival knives