Cold Steel's AUS-8? In regards to SRK - questions

8

8mmMauser

Joined
Aug 25, 2005
Messages
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Okay, to begin, yes, I know CS is not especially loved here. I am not trying to create a CS politics thread. Thanks.

Now, I really like the SRK design, and I am looking at getting another, however, they are all now AUS-8A rather than Carbon V.

My question is, will it be able to perform at similar levels despite the different steel? I will say I am certainly glad it will be a bit more rust resistant. Another question, how is Cold Steel's AUS-8A in general? Is it decent, or crap?

Additionally, does anyone know where to get one for an even half-sane price?

Please add anything else you feel is relevant.

Thank you!
 
I've used their Master Hunter in AUS-8 for years and found it to be very decent.Of the AUS series the AUS-4 and AUS-6 I would not recommend but the AUS-8 is fine, easy to sharpen , holds an edge very well and is not brittle.The MH is a very practical knife in every way. They've replaced that on the MH with a laminate but I haven't tried that.
 
I have a SRK in Carbon V. It's a great knife.

I have a voyager in AUS8A, and in my OPINION it's cheap junk!

I will never again own ANY blade in any AUS stainless. Just my personal experience. yours might be different.
 
I rather like my Cold Steel X2 Voyager, it's a good knife and seems to perform well for the money I spent on it; the medium one is a cheap little knife that I can't say I like so much.

Regardless, it seems that the steel performs decently for the money spent.

The AUS8A performs acceptably, but is not quite to the level of the Carbon V. It will require less care in regards to rust if the coating wears off; on another note, the newer Kraton handles that come with the Japanese-made AUS8A knives instead of the old American-made carbon steel models feel sticker and more comfortable in the hand, but they do have the same design. It just depends on your personal preference; I would imagine the AUS8A version would be the knife to go with near a maritime environment. I'm surprised Mr. Thompson didn't try to claim that he switched the knives from carbon steel to stainless because "the elite water operators of the United States Navy SEAL teams requested a more corrosion-resistant variant of our deadly, scary sharp knives". That was not meant to be political, but it was a thought that struck me as I thought of the pros/cons of stainless compared to carbons.

The knife may be more prone to chipping and not as tough. It will probably hold a comparable edge but be slightly harder to sharpen. It's mostly, again, a matter of personal preference.

God bless you, America, and our men and women overseas.

KATN,

Wade
 
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