Difference between Mercator K55K and Brass Otter?

K

KHarper

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Jan 4, 2019
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They appear to be identical except that the Brass Otter has a brass handle instead of stamped steel. But it costs almost twice as much. I know brass doesn't cost $40 more than steel, so is it like the higonokami where the brass-handled ones are also superior steel blades? http://www.baryonyxknife.com/mercator.html
This page doesn't say anything about different steel blades, but he also doesn't mention that the brass-handled higos are actually the "White Paper steel", and are definitely superior. I've tried both. I'd love to buy a Brass Otter, but only if I'm not paying $40 for a set of brass handles. I'm just fine with the plain steel K55K I have if it's just a matter of looks.
 
I'd assume it's because they make and sell so many more of the standard ones.
I'm willing to bet they're probably available in every hardware and big box stores in Germany like the Buck 110 is here In the US.
it's why the 110 is under $40 and the little 55 is over $50.
 
KHarper said:
They appear to be identical except that the Brass Otter has a brass handle instead of stamped steel. But it costs almost twice as much. I know brass doesn't cost $40 more than steel, so is it like the higonokami where the brass-handled ones are also superior steel blades? http://www.baryonyxknife.com/mercator.html
This page doesn't say anything about different steel blades, but he also doesn't mention that the brass-handled higos are actually the "White Paper steel", and are definitely superior. I've tried both. I'd love to buy a Brass Otter, but only if I'm not paying $40 for a set of brass handles. I'm just fine with the plain steel K55K I have if it's just a matter of looks.
Click to expand...
On the very link you share, the brass is only $27 more than the stamped steel
 
It has a brass handle. That’s the difference. They’re made in smaller numbers.

They’re not rare, but are slightly more expensive. Carbon steel version costs more than the stainless, and is likely far better steel.

Think that’s ridiculous? Let me show you a few copper handled knives next to their g10 counterparts...
 
I'm not an expert, but my guess is the only difference is the handle; presuming they both have carbon steel or stainless steel blades.
Maybe the brass takes more steps to make?
I know brass work-hardens and cracks/breaks faster than steel. (so does copper)
Maybe they have to heat/anneal the brass before and/or after forming to relive stresses? That would add to the cost of manufacture.
 
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