Bark River Fox River A-2 vs 3V

C

cibhcolt

Joined
Jul 6, 2012
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I am looking at buying my first BRKT knife - I am really interested in the Fox River. Does anyone have experience with the 3V version? It looks like BRKT uses mostly A-2, and I've heard they do a great job with that steel. I'm wondering if their 3V is comparable to or an improvement over their A-2.

My main criteria are edge retention, ease of sharpening. I also want to avoid something that will chip. I'll mainly use this as a woodcrafting knife.

Any thougths are appreciated!
 
I have no experience with either but that knife has had my eye for quite a while now. I love the general shape of it. Virtuovice from youtube has some comparisons between 3V and A2 Bark River knives, including some wood tests. If you have not already, check out his videos. Watching them, it seems that 3V is better but not by much.
 
I have several BRKT fixed blades. They do make a cracking convexed knife. I also have a fair number of their 3V versions and I am now sure that for me A2 is my preference.

Here's why; A2 is tough, meaning if you over-thin an edge for a hard use then it tends to roll, not chip out. Add that to the fact that for me it is significamtly easier to bring to a shaving sharp edge and I'm decided. That is even before I factor in the cost saving of A2 vs 3V.

The only thing I can factor in favour of 3V is stain and rust resistance but I tend to take care of my knives and rust has not been an issue so far...

All just my humble opinion - I know lots of folks who rave about 3V, it just isn't my preferred choice...

Ben
 
zerimar said:
Virtuovice from youtube has some comparisons between 3V and A2 Bark River knives, including some wood tests. If you have not already, check out his videos. Watching them, it seems that 3V is better but not by much.
Click to expand...

Seems like Virtuovice (addictive channel!) has decided he prefers the A2 in his latest video ... 3 days after I order the 3V based on his previous video lol. But it will suit me better, living in the tropics I prefer the better rust resistance.
 
A2 will be tougher while 3V will have better edge holding.
 
Ankerson said:
A2 will be tougher while 3V will have better edge holding.
Click to expand...

In everything I have read, and experienced with Bark River Knives, the 3V is tougher than A2, as well as holding an edge better than A2.

I have (3)-3V Bark River Knives and countless A2 versions. The only negatives I've found with 3V vs A2, is the 3V is more expensive and takes longer to sharpen.

Even with a belt sander, the 3V takes noticeably more time to sharpen, however, the greater toughness, edge holding and corrosion resistance make it my choice between the two.

I've had very good luck with Bark River 3V steel (Bushcrafter, Liten Bror and Lil Canadian)
 
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