China 420HC same as USA?

[livind]

What is the biggest difference between Buck 371 and Buck 301 other than handle and origin?

 

[JD Mandrell]

There are some subtle differences in the blade shapes, I used to have a comparison with photos up, but changed ISP's and the photos are gone. Let me try to get them back up.

As far as edge holding and such, I haven't found the difference to be that noticeable.

EDIT:Here is my original post, with updated photos.

http://www.bladeforums.com/forums/showthread.php?p=3716090#post3716090

 

[A.P.F.]

That was a great review, my friend, I enjoyed reading it. Thanks for the link. :thumbup:

 

[livind]

That was a great review! That was much more than I expected. Thanks for answering my question once again.

 

[knarfeng]

WOW! Nice review. Very detailed.

Now that it has been a year, do you have any further feel for the relative edge holding of the Chinese 440C steel vs. the US 420HC?

And have you any comparison of the current Chinese 420HC vs. the US 420HC?

Thanks

 

[straitshot]

One feature I really like is the integral bolsters with full width stainless pivot pins. The stainless liners are more rigid than brass. I'll pay the little extra for those, not to mention the USA stamp. Regards, ss.

 

[JD Mandrell]

WOW! Nice review. Very detailed.

Now that it has been a year, do you have any further feel for the relative edge holding of the Chinese 440C steel vs. the US 420HC?

And have you any comparison of the current Chinese 420HC vs. the US 420HC?

Thanks

I've got every model of slipjoint in the import line and current domestic ones, and to be honest, I just have not found any really significant difference in edge holding under normal use. They all seem to sharpen very easily and hold their edges about the same.