KnifeInformer: Demko FreeReign Review: Tanto vs. Drop Point

Demko FreeReign Review

Pros: High-quality construction from a respected knife maker. Available in two production versions and two blade styles to suit different preferences. Comfortable, grippy rubber handle suitable for tough tasks. Ambidextrous sheath with multiple mounting options. Thick spine and tough OS 10A steel can handle a variety of tasks. Reasonable price point compared to custom or mid-tech Demko knives.

Cons: Tanto blade style may not be as versatile as the drop point for some users. OS 10A steel, while tough, is not a premium steel like Magnacut. Handle is not removable, limiting customization options. Sheath requires disassembly to switch between left and right-hand carry. Some may find the aggressive diamond texture of the handle too rough for extended use. Magnacut version is often sold out due to high demand, making it harder to acquire.

Today, I’m doing a Demko FreeReign review. You know who likes Demkos? I like them, and you know I like them. Andrew Demko, the legendary custom knife maker and designer, has been instrumental in Cold Steel’s success with their impressive lineup, including the Espada XL, the AD15 with its innovative Scorpion Lock, and the 4Max which sounds a bit like a marital aid.

Along with his brother John, Andrew has been running Demko Knives for years, crafting customs, mid-techs, and small-batch productions. Recently, Demko has added Mike Wallace to their team, known for his work on the Cold Steel Bush Ranger and Colossus. To meet the growing demand, Demko has started outsourcing some productions, offering a lower price point for enthusiasts like us.

Key Takeaways

Demko Knives, run by Andrew and John Demko, has been crafting impressive fixed blades and collaborating with Mike Wallace to meet growing demand.
The Demko FreeReign is available in two production versions: Magnacut (USA-made) and OS 10A (Taiwan-made) with either Tanto or drop point blades.
The FreeReign features a comfortable, diamond-textured rubber handle similar to the SRK, but with a blade about an inch shorter.
American Tanto blades, with their angled Kissaki tip and straight fukara edge, are designed for chiseling, scraping, and “breaching,” while drop points offer more versatility.
OS 10A steel is a low to mid-grade stainless, tougher than 440C but slightly less corrosion-resistant than VG10.
The ambidextrous sheath, with its velcro snap and mounting options, allows you flexibility of carry options for your cute spring operator outfit.
When compared to the SRK, Cold Steel Trail Master, and Fallkniven, the FreeReign holds its own as a solid, well-crafted fixed blade.