Cheaper(ish?) CPM 3V Fixed Blade

Z

zhangmaster12

Joined
Sep 14, 2007
Messages
504
Well, just heard about the deep doodoo that Crucible is in, and I guess the time to get CPM 3V is now. Is there anywhere I can get a CPM 3V 6" or more fixed blade for under 200? New or Used I don't care, so please post if you find any from the Exchange or Custom Knives for Sale forums.

Quick question, how does 3V compare the SR101? Infi? M4? From what I hear from almost all the big Bladeforums guys is that CPM 3V is the best steel in terms of toughness and edge holding, pretty much the best steel period. Any comparable steels not made by Crucible (Possibly Infi or M4)?

If I cant get one under 200, please list those over as well.

Thanks BF!

PS, I saw the earlier thread about replacements, so If you dont want to post again here, dont.
 
It's not the best steel, because it pits. Pitting effects the edge first.
 
Mine hasn't seen any pitting, and it's seen continual kitchen duty and little maintenance.

I'm not going to call it the best, (I prefer the edge I get on CPM 154), but it is very good at what it's good at (toughness and edge retention).
 
I've never had any pitting problems with 3V.

In my experience, 3V holds an edge much better than INFI. (The edge rolls)
INFI holds an edge better that SR101, so that should answer that question.
 
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cotdt said:
What do you think about using CPM 3V for razors? I want a thin edge that can flex well.
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It would be an interesting experiment. I wouldn't be my first choice (CPM 154 was), but it may perform very well. I have found that the edge doesn't seem quite as nice as that on my CPM 154 knives. I'm sure that with improved sharpening technique and equipment, it could get a very good edge. I'm not the greatest knife-sharpener in the world.

I might just make one in the future to find out.
 
I really like the edge on the 3V stuff my girls have, it's at 60 Rc and takes and holds a very nice edge. Four blades with no pitting.
 
Did you try a Google search: 3v knife OR knives ??

Dan Koster has made some smaller knives in 3V that go for well under $200. Not sure about 6" blades.
 
highanddry said:
http://www.bladeforums.com/forums/showthread.php?t=671676

I guess it might fit the bill. steel and size.

I have read good things about the maker on that very same subforum.
The price is a little more than what you are willing to spend, but the knife is very pretty, and according to the knifemaker its twin is a real badass.:thumbup:
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Thanks! I actually saw that, then forgot about it.... D'Oh!


BTW, whats the Pharmacy?
 
Just make sure you want a recurve blade before you buy a ZT.

They are harder to resharpen, that's why many of us don't buy them.

(OK, I have one, but I hate sharpening the thing)

The Fehrmans are just hard to beat.
 
bearcut said:
Just make sure you want a recurve blade before you buy a ZT.

They are harder to resharpen, that's why many of us don't buy them.

(OK, I have one, but I hate sharpening the thing)

The Fehrmans are just hard to beat.
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yea i would of bought a zt 100 in a second if it wasn't a recurve for that reason. i still can't decide between a zt 100, rat or a busse. u can however find the zt 100 for around 186 if u look close enough.
 
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