It may not be a Bill Bagwell (RIP) custom Hell's Belle, but I remember Bill saying it was his recommend buy for a fighting Bowie if all you could afford was a commercial made knife. I love mine, and maybe one of these years, I'll replace the grip with Desert Ironwood. BTW. at my work from home office, I have the Cold Steel plastic practice Laredo right at hand to practice with during the work day.
I’m glad you liked it (I hope your brother did as well)! One key detail that I unfortunately left out is how to “present” the Laredo for ocular tracking/distraction. This is a feature unique to the Laredo because of its profile. It “reflects” into the opponents eyes then disappears with lightning speed (I made a brief mention of it in the video). It is the opposite of the Natchez and 1917 - those two do not “disappear” 😊
I've wanted to get a CS Laredo for a long time. I have several of the now discontinued production Hells Belle bowies and really enjoy moving with them (as well as a Keating Crossada). Thanks for the review.
Great review! I especially enjoyed your insights on how it moves and the transition from reversa to snap cut. The emphasis you put on breaking down the body mechanics was also very interesting. Have you ever reviewed the Natchez Bowie ?
Master Estocada, I ordered the Cold Steel Laredo Bowie thanks to your review. I wish you had included an affiliate link for the weapons you review and recommend, so you could earn a well-deserved commission.
Really enjoyed the video I have both the cs Laredo and the Ontario bagwell gambler and I am happy with both unfortunately I’m not able to get a true bagwell but he was a major influence to me appreciating euro/ American martial arts . Thank you for the video .
Excellent video! Got the Natchez Bowie a while back and was VERY surprised at how big it is but, it was still love at first sight lol. For actual defensive purposes, I'm gonna need a more nimble knife hence, the Laredo's on it's way and, the more videos I see about it, the better I like it!!! Again, GREAT view here...
I collect a lot of Cold Steel products.. and I also have an exclusive Bowie knife collection. My comment is more about the fighting Bowies and fighting blades that I would actually choose to use in actual hand to hand combat. Whether I choose a Bowie... Karambit.. Ka-Bar.. trench knife.. Fairbairn Sykes British Commando fighting dagger.. or a Kukri.. or any number of weapons.. when it comes to "hand to hand knife fighting" any of the blades that I own can easily get the job done.. it comes down to what I prefer and feel most skilled, most comfortable and most confident with.. but what REALLY gives me that confidence are these cut/stab proof gloves and arm sleeves that I bought many years ago. I bought them really expecting them to be a gimmick or something.. but to my surprise they really do actually work.. after taking the risk and testing them out against the sharpest and most deadliest weapons that I own.. I was able to fight in a manner where I was no longer in fear of my opponents blade.. and able to reach out and grab it with my hands.. block and deflect it.. and not suffer any cuts or slashes whatsoever. Now.. direct stabs and blunt force impacts should still be avoided.. as blocking a sword may prevent your arm from being cut off.. but it will not prevent your bone from fracturing and breaking.. and for as great as these cut/stab proof armor is.. it is NOT really "stab proof" as advertised - very pointy weapons and Ice picks CAN go through it.. but as far as any cutting and slashing attacks.. they are most EXCELLENT and in knowing this.. it can be such an advantage in an actual combat situation. It performs more like a chain mail - although it is NOT and more like Kevlar - it is almost impossible to cut or slash through but the pointy tip of a weapon can stab through it.. so you fight in a manner as to avoid any thrusting and lunging attacks and direct stabs. If I had to go into any kind of knife fight.. you better believe.. I want to be wearing these cut/stab proof gloves and arm sleeves! Funny thing is.. I watch a lot of different channels.. and I dont EVER see anyone talking about these products - now, I know there must be some that totally do NOT work at all.. and Im wondering if that is just the general opinion of the public.. that these things are junk and just a "gimmick" just as I once thought..? Well.. maybe some dont work.. but the item that I ordered and was sent back in 2016 is an excellent product! It has no name branding on it.. and I cant even tell you what it is made of.. and I dont even remember where I actually ordered it from but I believe it was from a seller on Ebay as I know it is a product that came from China.. and it really does work. I wear them underneath my tactical gloves.. and just imagine.. having someone grab your sharp bladed weapon right by the blade in a fight.. and your blade does nothing to them! - As you pull your blade away.. expecting to see fingers fall to the floor.. but realize your opponent has your sharp blade trapped.. grabbing it with his fingers.. and no matter what you do you can NOT use it to cut him and get him to release it.. meanwhile.. the weapon in HIS other hand is free.. his weapon.. that you forgot all about.. his weapon that YOU can NOT grab like he has done to yours.. as you're still busy trying to figure out how tf is he grabbing your blade.. and why tf is your razor sharp blade is NOT cutting your opponent!? Am I the only one who use these what are commonly allegedly known as gimmick products..?
All 3 of mine are from that era. I had 4 at one point. I gifted one to one of my oldest friends. His father (RIP) trained with Tuhon Leo Gaje in the 70’s.
Great video! I picked up a Laredo recently just so I could feel what it was all about. The design is over 40 years old now and I knew Lynn had done a great deal of research before making it. I have found that for me it's just a little too short and too thick for my liking. I would love for you to try out one of my custom trailing point bowies.
I bought 2 of them back around 2003/2004, one to carry on hikes and one to mothball as a backup. Don't hike so much any longer so the main stays tucked between my mattress and box spring for easy middle of the night access. Great blade. The trailmaster in san mai 3 from that era is great as well, a little heavier and slower in hand but still great.
I have and the angle of the handle are too restrictive when it comes to doing edge-up practice. I like it overall, just not a tool I add for my Estocada practice. 🙏🏽🔥👊🏽
I’d like to know your thoughts on Cold Steels current steel choices for the Laredo, 4034 and 3V. Do you think the 4034 is serviceable or should one upgrade to the 3V? Thank you!
I picked up a 4034 version with the great Micarta handles. Pity the sheath is plastic. The 4034 is actually decent enough and well priced. Even the Ontario Hell's Belle was "only" 440A. I don't think you would be snapping 5/16" of 4034 steel anytime soon.
The sheath is actually really good, the leather is yes more traditional and quiet but the stud eventually comes off and or the leather wears out. I used my leather until the stud got loose from being knocked into around work. Got a custom kydex that i modded with a brass Sam Browne stud. If you can get an old SK-5 one or 01 version then it will bridge the gap between the extremely expensive 3V and the cheaper 4034. The 4033 is at least as good as the 440A Ontario Bagwell. If that’s all you’re able to afford or find you aren’t doing too bad, Puma made many 4034 blades that were great. It’s about the same as 440C. I’m currently looking for another Laredo in a Micarta handle as a backup because they’re not going to be made forever.
Minasbad and itak? I want the minasbad next. Please do a review of that! “I just like having a lot of Bowie knives” yeah, this. I need a 12 step program or something. ETA- cool channel.
Thanks!
Thank you! Very much appreciated!
Great presentation! The Laredo is surprisingly nimble and quick, and mine has been durable under some hard field use.
Thank you Michael! The Laredo is a very quick and durable Bowie - perhaps the best in production for the last 20 years.
It may not be a Bill Bagwell (RIP) custom Hell's Belle, but I remember Bill saying it was his recommend buy for a fighting Bowie if all you could afford was a commercial made knife. I love mine, and maybe one of these years, I'll replace the grip with Desert Ironwood. BTW. at my work from home office, I have the Cold Steel plastic practice Laredo right at hand to practice with during the work day.
I have one of those plastic ones too!
Wonderful video. Your personal knowledge and your relationship with Bill makes for some awesome insight.
I’m glad you liked it (I hope your brother did as well)! One key detail that I unfortunately left out is how to “present” the Laredo for ocular tracking/distraction. This is a feature unique to the Laredo because of its profile. It “reflects” into the opponents eyes then disappears with lightning speed (I made a brief mention of it in the video). It is the opposite of the Natchez and 1917 - those two do not “disappear” 😊
Lynn sure delivered with that bowie!
I really think he did. 😊
I've wanted to get a CS Laredo for a long time. I have several of the now discontinued production Hells Belle bowies and really enjoy moving with them (as well as a Keating Crossada). Thanks for the review.
Yes sir, the CS Laredo Bowie in CPM 3V is my favorite trainer!
Good to see you again my friend! RMJ videos will be coming soon. I haven’t forgotten you.
Great review! I especially enjoyed your insights on how it moves and the transition from reversa to snap cut. The emphasis you put on breaking down the body mechanics was also very interesting. Have you ever reviewed the Natchez Bowie ?
Not yet - I do own one. Most likely will be up next. Stay tuned! 🙏🏽🔥👊🏽
Master Estocada, I ordered the Cold Steel Laredo Bowie thanks to your review. I wish you had included an affiliate link for the weapons you review and recommend, so you could earn a well-deserved commission.
I think I’ll have to definitely look into that! 😊
I'm going to pick up the 3V version some time.
Really enjoyed the video I have both the cs Laredo and the Ontario bagwell gambler and I am happy with both unfortunately I’m not able to get a true bagwell but he was a major influence to me appreciating euro/ American martial arts . Thank you for the video .
My pleasure and I’m glad you enjoyed! I have enjoyed your channel over the years - keep up the great work! 🙏🏽🔥👊🏽
@@RolandoEstocada thank you I will try to keep content up
Excellent video! Got the Natchez Bowie a while back and was VERY surprised at how big it is but, it was still love at first sight lol. For actual defensive purposes, I'm gonna need a more nimble knife hence, the Laredo's on it's way and, the more videos I see about it, the better I like it!!! Again, GREAT view here...
Thank you! I realized the Laredo will require a series on my channel, so stay tuned! 🙏🏽🔥👊🏽
@@RolandoEstocada that would be GREAT!!!
I collect a lot of Cold Steel products.. and I also have an exclusive Bowie knife collection.
My comment is more about the fighting Bowies and fighting blades that I would actually choose to use in actual hand to hand combat.
Whether I choose a Bowie... Karambit.. Ka-Bar.. trench knife.. Fairbairn Sykes British Commando fighting dagger.. or a Kukri.. or any number of weapons.. when it comes to "hand to hand knife fighting" any of the blades that I own can easily get the job done.. it comes down to what I prefer and feel most skilled, most comfortable and most confident with.. but what REALLY gives me that confidence are these cut/stab proof gloves and arm sleeves that I bought many years ago.
I bought them really expecting them to be a gimmick or something.. but to my surprise they really do actually work.. after taking the risk and testing them out against the sharpest and most deadliest weapons that I own.. I was able to fight in a manner where I was no longer in fear of my opponents blade.. and able to reach out and grab it with my hands.. block and deflect it.. and not suffer any cuts or slashes whatsoever.
Now.. direct stabs and blunt force impacts should still be avoided.. as blocking a sword may prevent your arm from being cut off.. but it will not prevent your bone from fracturing and breaking.. and for as great as these cut/stab proof armor is.. it is NOT really "stab proof" as advertised - very pointy weapons and Ice picks CAN go through it.. but as far as any cutting and slashing attacks.. they are most EXCELLENT and in knowing this.. it can be such an advantage in an actual combat situation.
It performs more like a chain mail - although it is NOT and more like Kevlar - it is almost impossible to cut or slash through but the pointy tip of a weapon can stab through it.. so you fight in a manner as to avoid any thrusting and lunging attacks and direct stabs.
If I had to go into any kind of knife fight.. you better believe.. I want to be wearing these cut/stab proof gloves and arm sleeves!
Funny thing is.. I watch a lot of different channels.. and I dont EVER see anyone talking about these products - now, I know there must be some that totally do NOT work at all.. and Im wondering if that is just the general opinion of the public.. that these things are junk and just a "gimmick" just as I once thought..?
Well.. maybe some dont work.. but the item that I ordered and was sent back in 2016 is an excellent product!
It has no name branding on it.. and I cant even tell you what it is made of.. and I dont even remember where I actually ordered it from but I believe it was from a seller on Ebay as I know it is a product that came from China.. and it really does work.
I wear them underneath my tactical gloves.. and just imagine.. having someone grab your sharp bladed weapon right by the blade in a fight.. and your blade does nothing to them! - As you pull your blade away.. expecting to see fingers fall to the floor.. but realize your opponent has your sharp blade trapped.. grabbing it with his fingers.. and no matter what you do you can NOT use it to cut him and get him to release it.. meanwhile.. the weapon in HIS other hand is free.. his weapon.. that you forgot all about.. his weapon that YOU can NOT grab like he has done to yours.. as you're still busy trying to figure out how tf is he grabbing your blade.. and why tf is your razor sharp blade is NOT cutting your opponent!?
Am I the only one who use these what are commonly allegedly known as gimmick products..?
😊
I’ve carried one of the old ones since the early 2000’s. Every day.
All 3 of mine are from that era. I had 4 at one point. I gifted one to one of my oldest friends. His father (RIP) trained with Tuhon Leo Gaje in the 70’s.
Nice Video.
What do you think about the CS Natchez Bowie in comparison?
The Natchez is the classical and more intimidating one. A bit clumsier. I’m editing the video of the Natchez video so it should be out sometime soon.
Great video! I picked up a Laredo recently just so I could feel what it was all about. The design is over 40 years old now and I knew Lynn had done a great deal of research before making it. I have found that for me it's just a little too short and too thick for my liking. I would love for you to try out one of my custom trailing point bowies.
I would love to try it out! Could you email me at rolandoestocada@gmail.com?
Send your Laredo to Behring to have it rehandled in order to unlock its full potential
Hey I’d like that!
I bought 2 of them back around 2003/2004, one to carry on hikes and one to mothball as a backup. Don't hike so much any longer so the main stays tucked between my mattress and box spring for easy middle of the night access. Great blade. The trailmaster in san mai 3 from that era is great as well, a little heavier and slower in hand but still great.
Glad you bought two! Can’t have enough Laredos in the house!
Have you tryed the Cold Steel dropforged Bowie? it dont have a sharp clip,but it is fast.
I have and the angle of the handle are too restrictive when it comes to doing edge-up practice. I like it overall, just not a tool I add for my Estocada practice. 🙏🏽🔥👊🏽
Great knife and great video. 👍
Thank you brother! 🙏🏽
I’d like to know your thoughts on Cold Steels current steel choices for the Laredo, 4034 and 3V. Do you think the 4034 is serviceable or should one upgrade to the 3V?
Thank you!
Upgrade to 3V. 🙏🏽🔥👊🏽
I picked up a 4034 version with the great Micarta handles. Pity the sheath is plastic. The 4034 is actually decent enough and well priced. Even the Ontario Hell's Belle was "only" 440A. I don't think you would be snapping 5/16" of 4034 steel anytime soon.
The sheath is actually really good, the leather is yes more traditional and quiet but the stud eventually comes off and or the leather wears out. I used my leather until the stud got loose from being knocked into around work. Got a custom kydex that i modded with a brass Sam Browne stud. If you can get an old SK-5 one or 01 version then it will bridge the gap between the extremely expensive 3V and the cheaper 4034. The 4033 is at least as good as the 440A Ontario Bagwell. If that’s all you’re able to afford or find you aren’t doing too bad, Puma made many 4034 blades that were great. It’s about the same as 440C. I’m currently looking for another Laredo in a Micarta handle as a backup because they’re not going to be made forever.
I bought them when they were being made as SK-5. 🙏🏽🔥👊🏽
Minasbad and itak? I want the minasbad next. Please do a review of that! “I just like having a lot of Bowie knives” yeah, this. I need a 12 step program or something. ETA- cool channel.
Thank you and yes those are in the pipeline. 🙏🏽🔥👊🏽
I've been eyeing this knife. After watching this, I think I'll pull the trigger. Thanks for posting guro.
My pleasure! Hope you like it! 🙏🏽🔥👊🏽
Awesome!🔥🔥🔥
Thank you! 👊🏽👊🏽👊🏽👊🏽
Thank you sir!
You are welcome! More to come…🙏🏽🔥👊🏽
I have one. I love it.
🙏🏽🔥👊🏽
Its good in every way but here, its meant for use which means probable abuse and remain concerned in how solid the tang is under the guard.
As a fighting Bowie it is superb. For hard use I rely on full tang construction.
Trail Master?
I’ll probably need someone to send one to me to review…
You do know we don't need knives to fight !! Its thinking like this what makes the would the way it is
Hey my channel is about lifestyle optimization through martial learning and lifestyle. 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽
Studying weaponry and martial arts is not the reason the world is "the way it is". The dark side of human nature is why the world is the way it is.