Differences of Randall steels?

H

Hateman

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Oct 28, 2000
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I was wondering what exactly are the dfferences between the steels offered by Randall.

Are there any appreciable differences between Stainless and Tool steel besides one rusting quicker?

Is one easier to sharpen than the other?

Is one tougher than the other?

I ask as I want a Trailblazer and it will be used outdoors for everything.

Any info is appreciated. Thank you.
 
My own personal opinion (and it's just that - an opinion) is that O-1 is superior in the areas you've menioned. But don't brush off "one rusting quicker." I think you'll find rust to be a pretty serious problem with O-1. Unless you live in some place extremely dry (such as the southwestern U.S.), the advantage of rust resistance may well outweigh the advantages of the O-1.
 
Part of your decision should revolve around the knife itself. People never talk enough about that. Benefit of O1 on the Trailblazer is negligible at best. I, personally, think that there is no benefit and stainless might be better overall than the O1. The trailblazer has a very wide blade, ground down to a thin and efficient edge. It is a fantastic using knife and a great cutter, mainly due to the profile and is really easy to keep razor sharp. Randall's stainless ranges from a good 440B to a 440C and it's forged. According to what I've learned, Gary Randall says his 440 stainless "likes the fire". Edge holding is affected by chipping, deformation and deterioration. Then there's the hardness / toughness tradeoff and all that. The two steels are just different, but one does not trump the other in every respect. Also newer is not always better (the whole 440C vs S30V vs whatever else). Newer is always marketed hard as "better".

On a Trailblazer, I would not care if it's stainless or O1. I might even lean more towards the stainless.

Pete
 
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As Samael mentioned, rust can be a problem. Keep in mind, the edge will rust and get compromised too, which is what I was describing above as "deterioration". Environmental effects on the edge will weaken it.

Two years ago, I had a request from an individual that I know who spends 4 months of every year (in a row) outside, living off the land. He wanted a special knife that could do it all and that he could have a sense of pride of ownership in. I sent him a Trailblazer. He loves it.

The 27 is my favorite Randall. Has a "Scagelesque" look to it, which is where Randall's roots are. Totally capable outdoors knife and feels good. Here's one of mine, which I had for sale and pulled after thinking "what the hell am I selling this thing for?"

Pete
 
Stainless it is.

Thanks for all the info. I plan to use the blade for hunting, fishing, shelter building and all outdoors things as AV8R's friend does.

And, since I am a knife knut, I'll probably get one in both steels (my wallet is already crying at that fact).
 
Question, ordering a Model 5 with Border Patrol Handle. nickel single hilt, thumb notches, wrist thong, spacers, & probably 5" blade. I need advice on Stainless vs. tool steel specifically for this model. I know ss vs o1 is well discussed on these boards but my question is model specific.
Which one is likely to have better resale value?
What percent of Randall knives produced (approx.) are Stainless these days?
I really plan on keeping it on my desk and opening letters with it etc. I doubt it will ever see use in the field unless all hell breaks loose.
Is a good wax coating to the O1 sufficient to protect it? can I shine the wax coating and will it still be protective?
Does RMK have other micarta on hand besides the black and dark green?
I am due to get this knife in 5 months and it has taken me a long time but the model 5 seems to be a good candidate for a one RMK owner.

LOTS of replies needed and appreciated.
Thanks in advance,
MW, Dallas
I
 
1) I think stainless knives have a little higher resale value, but that's just my opinion.

2) The last I heard, it was pretty close to a 50/50 split.

3) Ren Wax will work just fine, but if you handle or use the knife a lot, you'll need to re-do it from time to time. Yes, it can (and should) be polished.

4) They occasionally have different Micartas available. Call the shop and see what they have right now.
 
A couple more things you should be aware of. There's a fee for changing your order after it's been placed (I want to say $40, but I'm not 100% sure about that), and you can only change the order once. You also can't change the order once the final paperwork has been processed (usually a few months before the "ship date"), so if you're going to change your order, don't wait too much longer. Note that all changes will need to be in writing.
 
Thank you for your input. The stainless sure is tempting. I am going to get my fax in ASAP.
 
Call first. I know for a fact that they have a couple different kinds of Micarta available right now too.
 
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