Are ALL Black blades doomed to scratches?

[Laceration]

I agree that the TiNi coating is very durable. The CRKT M16 I've had for years shows almost no wear and I've used it hard. Easily the most durable 'coating' I've seen.

 

[sodak]

Black blades are targeted for, (searching for a nice term) ah, civilians.

Or people who like (almost) maintenance free high carbon blades - don't want to worry about rust...

 

[tirod3]

Yes, carbon is a different steel. Maintenance free high carbon is best accomplished with a lot of nickel and chromium . . . but then it isn't really carbon at that point . . .

Trying to get a high carbon edge to stay sharp without corrosion is the trick to me. I like the patina on old carbon knives.

 

[E__WOK]

My boron carbide bladed microtech UT6 from 2001 still looks like new.