CRKT M21 steel

[Machete Man]

I'm ordering another one and I noticed that it comes in Aus 8 & 8cr14mov for about the same price. Which is the better choice?

 

[Cereal_killer]

They're both going to be very similar, tbh its doubtful you'll be able to tell any difference at all. Having said that personally I'd go with the AUS-8, I actually like AUS-8, I don't really care much for any of the alphabet steels.

 

[Comeuppance]

They are very similar steels, in my experience, as far as edge retention goes. However, AUS8 will lose it's razor's edge quickly but holds a working edge for a long time and seems to be more impact resistant but rolls the edge, and 8Cr13MoV will hold a razor edge a little longer and will hold a working edge for a while as well, but is more prone to chipping and corrosion. They both seem to go flat dull after about the same amount of time.

Completely unscientifically and without data, I would estimate that you get about a 25%/75% Shaving/Working edge lifetime on AUS8 and a 50%/50% Shaving/Working Edge lifetime on 8Cr13MoV.

SO, given that, I would say pick the 8Cr version if you need a keen edge longer or AUS8 if you want more of a beater knife.

This is all based on personal experience, BTW. Obviously, varying grinds and heat treatments will change how a steel performs.

 

[softrockrenegade]

aus-8 is a Japanese steel and 8cr is Chinese if that sort of thing matters to you. I actually like AUS-8 as it gets really sharp easily but 8cr isn't that bad either.

 

[Firestrike]

Aus-8 is how I would roll given the choice.