a good steel overall for edc

[link2derek]

Don't over think it. Too many recommendations for exotic, premium-priced steel.

VG-10, AUS8A and 440C are excellent choices for everyday knives and they meet all the OP's criteria.

Tru dat!

 

[DeadboxHero]

VG 10 is my favorite. For Kershaw I'd stick with the 14c28n

It sharpens so easy!

The edge retention is low however.

Kershaw also makes Elmax for more retention.

 

[sonofjesse]

Most steels do fine for EDC. I like kershaw and have had good luck with the 14C28N or the S30V(the blur is pretty cool)

 

[fsatsil]

The Aus8 blades I've used were more likely to roll then chip but either way its a perfectly capable steel for most edc tasks. In fact pretty much any steel that is used by reputable knife companies will work just fine for most edc tasks and IMO it doesn't make sense to chose a knife based solely on the blade steel unless you just happen to want to try out a particular steel.

 

[rick melear]

One of the few that hates VG10, S30V is my personal favorite for a all around edc.

 

[stabman]

If you don't want chipping then I would steer clear of S30V.

Strangely, I've had far more chipping issues with AUS-8 than with S30V.

Although, that was generally when doing things that fall outside of most people EDC definition...

As long as it ain't "mystery steel", it'll probably be fine for most people's EDC tasks.

 

[supergnat]

The steel used in Victorinox and Wenger swiss army knives does fine. It's easy to sharpen and doesn't require touching up during the day after light use. I have no idea how it stands up to heavier use.

 

[LukeTheSpook]

Buy the knife you want. You'll go crazy trying to rate steels against each other.

 

[ThePeacent]

Yup. Most teels from respectable makers are more than onough nowadays. My opinion:
If you go cheap, but proven performance: 8Cr13Mov, AUS8, Krupp 4116, CTS-BD1, good 420 or other Sanvik Steels

If you go tough and corrosion resistant: H1, 440C

If you desire a bit more edge retention and still stainless: 154 CM, VG10, CTS-XHP
If you like good old carbon steels, these are decent and well-known: 1095, 1055, D2

Those for me are the best values out there, if you are starting to learn and try steel types and trying to discover what you like and what you don't...And yes, it was all already said but this post was an excuse to see some pictures.
Kepp 'em coming!

 

[vilePossum]

you have to remember where you are. you are in a forum for knife enthusiasts mostly. if you feel like it you can go and discuss down to the molecular level of the steel.
if not, pick another factor which decides which knife you are going to buy. for plain edc (letter opening, cutting up and apple, etc) any of the steels mentioned by a decent manufacturer will do just fine. only advice: for the ease of use i'd stick to a stainless steel. yes, depending on what kind of carbon steel you pick maintenance is easy. but it is just something to make your life easier without a huge downside for your requirements.