ATS-34 Klotzli v. VG-10 Mcusta

There's a lot to say; good question IMO.

One thing, right off the bat, is that the Klotzlis I've seen
are right handed opening only (only one thumb stud). The
Mcustas are ambidextrous opening.

ATS-34 and VG-10 are premium stainless steels and
very comparable to each other. I'd be satisfied with either.
But, of course, both have their fans and their detractors.
 
Don't know what Klotzlis are, but love the Mcustas. Both steels are fine with me. I seriously don't care too much about steels per se. The models and how all of the features come together, are what attracts me, not so much the materials.
 
:thumbup:
Heard very good things about both. I own a Mcusta. Very smooth.
The Klotzlis may run you more coin but may be a little heavier duty.
 
Klotzli has been around for something like 150 years, and have that that whole "Swiss precision" reputation thing going. Most recently, they've been pushing "collaboration" knives designed by high profile makers like Michael Walker, Christian Wimpff, and Brian Tighe -- although Tighe collaborations aren't exactly rare. I don't have a Klotzli, but I've been tempted. My guess is you won't be disappointed.

That said, Mcusta is one of my favorite knifemakers -- right now I own 7 of their folders. No guessing needed -- you won't be disappointed because there probably isn't a better knife available for the money. The frames and scales are all made from high-grade materials, and their manufacturing tolerances are truly exceptional.

As far as the blade, I've only seen 3 steel options: VG-10, San Mai (a 3-layer, clad VG-10 core), and a 33-layer Damascus. I have all 3 and they're all excellent. And performance-wise, I don't notice any difference in cutting or staying sharp.

IMO, VG-10 may -- may -- dull a little more quickly than ATS-34. BUT, VG-10 gets scary-sharp and takes a new edge like a dream. All else being equal, I prefer VG-10 over both ATS-34 and 154-CM.

But remember, the steel doesn't matter if it isn't properly treated. And if the blade isn't properly ground and sharpened, it might as well be cement. The blades on all my Mcusta folders were pristine right out of the box, and sharper than both of my Microtechs. Trust me: start a "what's the sharpest knife out of the box" thread and half the people who reply will say "my Microtech..."

Try the Mcusta. If you don't like it, and I don't have it, I'll buy it from you. ;-)
 
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