Case CV Steel

[Gryffin]

I sometimes wonder why slipjoints don't seem to use some of these wonder steels (e.g. VG-10, CPM SV30) which are rust-resistant, AND, hold an edge well. Is it a cost issue?

Probably. People will pay good money for a "tactical" folder, but only collectors like to pay big bucks for a slipjoint. And compared to a folder, slippies have a bunch of parts, mucho fitting, everything needs to be finished smooth...

I'm not a manufacturer, but it seem to me that slipjoints are MUCH more labor-intensive to make than simple folders. With that much handwork to do, there's not much room in the wholesale price to pay for high-end steel.

I also think that compared to the "tactical" high-tech crowd, the folks who buy slippies tend to be traditionalists who don't buy high-tech for it's own sake. Hence, they probably wouldn't pony up extra $$$ for the latest super-steel, when 1095 or 400-class stainless does everything they need.

 

[joeshredd]

Yes, you're totally wrong.

Ain't the first time and won't be the last... I guess I'll check the packaging on my two when I get home - they're both marked "SS" on the blades and I thought I'd seen "CV" somewhere....

Obviously somewhere NOT in conjunction with "SS"!!!!

 

[brownshoe]

I'd prefer to think that slipjoint buyers know how to take care of a knife and thus realize that wonder steels are not really needed for a cutting tool. The key issue is blade geometry, heat treat and proper care of the tool. That being said, Queen has jumped on the D2 bandwagon and AGR sells a variety of knives in ATS34 or its US equivalent 154CM. You can also get german blades in 440C.

 

[edb]

The responses to my "wonder steels" question all certainly make sense...

 

[Boink]

I like my tacticals and have experienced a lot of modern and not so modern steels, but just got into slipjoints, sought after and am enjoying the tradition and care aspect of carbon steels. And the edge holding and ease of sharpening is a plus. First was a Case in CV, next was a Moore in 1095; others to follow. It's fun stuff and my little knife box now has some color in there, what with the different scale materials and stag.