CTS-BD1 on Manix 2 - What's the verdict?

dreadpirate · Apr 4, 2015

So I have heard that CTS-BD1 is supposed to be an alternative for VG-10. Or is it just a very good entry level steel? Any experience good, bad, or ugly?

Spectre · Apr 4, 2015

I like it. You can make it toothy sharp in 10 seconds on a diamond stick.

cchu518 · Apr 4, 2015

It works well in UK pen knife format.

GCG199 · Apr 5, 2015

I find it to be a good knife steel.

It is mainly because it hasn't rusted at all on me yet, and I have had several knife steels rust from front right pocket carry on hot days.

For those that don't mind constant touch-ups, it will work fine.

Those that take edge-holding over everything else will want to go with another steel with a better edge-holding track record.

Slipperyfish · Apr 5, 2015

GCG199 said:
I find it to be a good knife steel.

It is mainly because it hasn't rusted at all on me yet, and I have had several knife steels rust from front right pocket carry on hot days.

For those that don't mind constant touch-ups, it will work fine.

Those that take edge-holding over everything else will want to go with another steel with a better edge-holding track record.

My experience as well. Excellent corrosion resistance. I've had mine saltwater with just a rinse and no problems. For a little more I would get the S110v version or if weight isn't an issue a G10 S30v Manix2.

Surfingringo · Apr 5, 2015

Very easy to sharpen and takes an extremely fine edge, but edge retention is less than stellar. I like it ok, but its not my favorite as its a bit below my "threshold" of what i find acceptable for edge retention.

yoda4561 · Apr 5, 2015

BD-1 is a replacement for G2/Gin-1. It's not really in the same ballpark as VG10 for carbides, so the edgeholding isn't as good. It is pretty tough for a stainless and easy to sharpen to a high polish.

bazfum · Apr 9, 2015

It holds an edge well enough for all the package opening I do at work. Ten passes on the brown Sharpmaker stones over the weekend and it's good as new.