CTS-204P or D2

robotech

robotech

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I don't really want to start a steel war, juts at a cross road here.
I have the chance at two Microtech WhaleSharks, NIB, for the same price.
Both have all black, but one is D2 and the other is CTS-204P.
I am going to purchase one of them in the next couple of days, but not sure what steel to get.
I have a Whaleshark in S35-VN user, so the new one will be a safe queen for "collection".
I have the Spyderco Southard in CTS-204P, but have not used it enough to have any real opinion on the steel.
I have a Lionsteel SR1-AL in D2, but again, have not used it enough to rate the steel, in my own opinion.
So, any input would be appreciated.
 
It all depends on what steel properties you value. What characteristics are you looking for?
 
Well since it's going to be a safe queen, I'd go with the cts-204p seeing that it will probably be worth more down the road than the one with D2.
 
marcinek said:
It all depends on what steel properties you value. What characteristics are you looking for?
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I may never use this one, so 1st consideration would be appreciation. I am not finding many D2 Whalesharks.
But, if I did use this, it would be an EDC. Everyday cutting tasks.
I strop or glass rod every knife I carry, every night before I put it away.
I have about 40 EDC's in my rotation, from AUS-6 to AUS-10, S30V, S35, CTS-204P, D2, N90 and N80, 8cr to 14CR, Ats-34, Cpm-154, lots of VG-10, and a couple of Buck 420HC. And maybe a couple more.
And I have 30-40 fixed blades I hardly ever use, in various steels.
Some customs, some production.
I have no problems with any with my processes in keeping them sharp. I have diamond stones, and some other sharpening tools if I really need to take off some metal.
So I guess, again, it comes down to appreciation and rarity.
 
seelow123 said:
Well since it's going to be a safe queen, I'd go with the cts-204p seeing that it will probably be worth more down the road than the one with D2.
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two + for CTS-204P
Can still get the 204P but I have only found two D2's in 2-3 weeks of researching.
I will have to think about it some more. Was leaning toward D2, but may change my mind.
Also researching Lionsteel TiSpine (love the "gray" finish). It only comes in Elmax. So don't have a choice "problem", just a justification to spend another 400 problem, LOL
 
If it won't actually be used get the D2 blade if you like less writing on your knife, and the CTS-204P if you like more. If you plan on using it: 204P will hold an edge noticeably longer, is much more stain resistant, and is as easy to sharpen as D2, possible easier (larger carbides in the D2).
 
michaelm466 said:
If it won't actually be used get the D2 blade if you like less writing on your knife, and the CTS-204P if you like more. If you plan on using it: 204P will hold an edge noticeably longer, is much more stain resistant, and is as easy to sharpen as D2, possible easier (larger carbides in the D2).
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Hmmm, other than the d2, 204 thing, both of these look identical.
Maybe the 204P would be the choice. From what I have read, (but not experienced), D2 chips a little easier, too.
But, user or not, odds are i won't be using it as a prybar, anyway.
Will do a little more research.
I can get the nib 204 P tonight for 300 shipped.
Or the D2 for 295 shipped.
 
Go with the CTS pretty sure d2 is the current production steel for the whale shark.
 
I like the 204P steel over D2. I don't have that particular model knife, but the 204P does seem to be more sought after in folders than D2. I've seen the Whaleshark offered in ELMAX recently too, another steel that is excellent. Tough choice you have, but it's an enviable position. ;)
 
Shift said:
Go with the CTS pretty sure d2 is the current production steel for the whale shark.
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Current production steel for Microtech is S35-VN.
But, there is still some 204P, D2, around, and as RevDevil said, you can get Elmax, but I think you have to ask for it, and it's more expensive.
There are also CPM-154, ATS-34 and some other older versions out there, but not in production.
 
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