A-2 or 1095

[kthornbr]

Good evening guys. I was looking into purchasing a new fixed-blade hunting knife. I have always preferred 1095 but have lately been eyeing a few knives in A-2 steel. My question is this: Will the A-2 take on that classic patina I'm accustomed to with 1095? How does it compare to good ol', basic 1095. Any thoughts on this and any other info would be greatly appreciated.

 

[Jason B.]

Same patina, better edge retention and still very easy to sharpen. I would go with the A-2.:thumbup:

 

[Rat Finkenstein]

Assuming proper heat treatment, I would prefer A2 every time.

 

[kthornbr]

Thanks guys for the info. I'm new to the forum and just stumbled onto this site. After reading for awhile I'm convinced I'm where I need to be for quality information.

Regarding the A-2/1095 question, who are some quality makers of either? I'm looking for a fixed blade, preferable 3-4 inches, drop point.

Thanks again for your help.

 

[Thalestin]

check out bark river, they make some great knives

 

[SOLEIL]

Welcome to the forums.

Bark River Knife and Tool has a great A2 selection. I think they have some 1095 too, but I am not sure. They do have 52-100 which is also great steel.
http://www.dlttradingcompany.com/

 

[kthornbr]

Soleil, I see you are from the "Redneck Riviera. You're not talking the Alabama gulf coast are you?

 

[SOLEIL]

Not Al., but Fl. Close enough to AL. to be classified as LA. (Lower Alabama)

 

[Gossman Knives]

A2 kicks ass.

Scott

 

[Outdoors Fanatic]

Thanks guys for the info. I'm new to the forum and just stumbled onto this site. After reading for awhile I'm convinced I'm where I need to be for quality information.

Regarding the A-2/1095 question, who are some quality makers of either? I'm looking for a fixed blade, preferable 3-4 inches, drop point.

Thanks again for your help.

Check this out: http://www.knivesshipfree.com/Bark-River-Knife-and-Tool/c465/index.html

Cheers

 

[Josh K]

John Landi does periodic runs in A2 tool steel. http://landiknives.com/

 

[jlfletcher83]

I tend to prefer A2 I have a George custom on me right now and I think its great; it has developed somewhat of a patina. It is also easy to sharpen takes a great edge and holds it for awhile.