3v

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dcycleman

Joined
Feb 16, 2009
Messages
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Hi, I just stumbled across this sub forum the other day. I like the looks of the deer creek model in particular. I would be using it mostly for backpacking multi day, and bushcraft (really just making fires). Do you work with 3v? I'd love a deer creek with 3G and micarta. I don't have a lot of experience with a2 or o1
 
Welcome dcycleman. I don't work with 3V. The problem for me is in order to temper it, I would need to purchase a second HTing kiln. 3V needs 3 two hour tempers at 1000 degrees. I can't justify the cost of a second kiln for one particular steel. I don't outsource any of my work especially heat treating. I don't trust anyone else HTing my blades. I keep my work inhouse. A2 and O1 are excellent steels.
Scott
 
I have a Deer Creek in A2, a great knife, and it holds an edge very well, not quite as long as 3v but plenty long. Easier to resharpen too! Scott's heat treat is excellent, you won't be disappointed if you get this knife.
 
What are the differences in a2 and 01? I know niether is stainless, is one tougher than the other ? Does one hold an edge longer while being more brittle?
 
Well I'm no expert but my impression is that A2 is more stain resistant, based on my experience. I can't tell a difference in performance other than that, but others might disagree...
 
dcycleman said:
What are the differences in a2 and 01? I know niether is stainless, is one tougher than the other ? Does one hold an edge longer while being more brittle?
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Both are carbon tool steels. A2 is alittle bit tougher then O1 but not enough that will make a difference in using. Neither are brittle, both are fine grain steels that hold an edge and are easy to sharpen. 3V is not a stainless steel.
Scott
 
I have a custom large bladed chopper from Scott in A2, and I love it. It holds a good edge and is very easy to sharpen...usually just a little stropping on some green compound. The other day I had to give it about 4-5 passes a side on a fine diamond stone and then stropped to bring it back to hair popping. And it is tough! If you search his subforum for the "Scimitar" you'll see my initial testing of it and then some more batonning he and I did with it at his place.

I chopped through a really seasoned old fence post with it...sounded like rock the way the chips were plinking off, but no issues for the edge, and I've batonned it through some big knots without any issue. Also cross batonned it a few times just for the hell of it. Held up just fine.

The best part is that even for a 8 inch, 5/16s inch thick chopper, it will still cut like a dream. Scott knows how to put a good edge on this blades that will work well!
 
Cool, thanks for the replies. I will probably go with a2. I know 3v isn't stainless, but 3v and 1095 are the two carbon steels I've had the most experience using. And I have noticed that 3 v will rust, but not as easily as 1095. I definitely respect not wanting to outsource any part of your operation
 
If you want to set up an order, email or call and I can fix you up with a Deer Creek. My wait time is 3 to 4 weeks.
Thanks
Scott
 
Here's mine with my water bottle holder.
Scott

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The scales are turquoise/black canvas micarta. That knife has been used alot and the color has darkened over time. This is what the scales look like new, before it gets used.
Scott

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