BK-14 vs BK-24 for outdoor use, is paying extra for D2 worth it?

[theyoungone]

I was settled in on getting a Ka-bar/Becker BK-14 as a hiking and camping knife. I just wanted a small strong knife with a skeletonized handle, for basic bushcraft, food prep, and for last ditch self defense. Then I noticed the BK24 D'Eskabar, which is basically the BK-14 in D2 steel. Its $20 more than the 1095 Cro-van BK-14.

So my question is this, is the D2 steel significantly more rust resistant than the coated 1095 to warrant paying the extra $20?

 

[BePrepared]

imho, the Becker 1095 cro-van is one of the best steels you can get for a hard use knife. I have several, and another several in D2. The edge holding is a LITTLE better on the D2, but not enough to be worth worrying about. On the other hand, the 1095 is much easier to sharpen

 

[dalefuller]

I agree with BePrepared. 1095 from Becker is fine for harder use, probably one of the best steels available. For an outdoor knife that will get a lot of carry and use outside, I value toughness and ease of maintenance over edge holding. D2 is one of my favorite steels for a pocket folder that does more slicing than anything else, but hiking and camping for me means I go with my Izula or a Bark River in A2. I want something that will work for whatever, wherever... and will come back pretty quickly with the travel kit I carry for sharpening.

 

[Holag]

If rust resistance is a major concern, then the BK24 is absolutely worth the extra $20. My question is how much of a problem is rust where you hike, and if you want the extra edge-holding of the D2 and are willing to take the time/are skilled enough to sharpen D2. I own a BK24 and a BK11, and both are terrific knives. I switch them out regularly, and the D2 is significantly more rust resistant and does hold an edge noticeably longer. It also is more difficult to sharpen when it does actually get dull. I have never had a problem with 1095 rusting in the Sierra Nevada, however, so the corrosion resistance only plays a factor for me when I hike near the coast. Do keep in mind that the coating will eventually wear off the BK14 with use. If you hike inland where it is dry, and don't care about the extra edge holding or are not confident at sharpening, then I would say save the $20 and get the BK14.