ELMAX vs. ZDP-189?

H

Hadji Flip Me Over

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Mar 1, 2010
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I'm currently looking into getting a limited-production 0350CB, but I have a dilemma. The ELMAX version is unavailable anywhere except for Ebay, while the ZDP version is still up for sale from actual retailers. The price (with shipping) for the ELMAX on Ebay has crept up near the price of the ZDP version, so that means steel choice is really the only deciding factor for me now.

Can someone provide a quick comparison of the steels (ease of sharpening, edge-holding, etc.)? :thumbup:
 
I haven't tested them side-by-side, but the 0350CB I have seems to have stayed sharper longer than my 0350ZDPCKT, and I've had the 0350CB longer. I wouldn't say that they are shaving sharp anymore, but both still have very good working edges and the 0350CB slices 8/9oz leather easier. I haven't sharpened either one yet ever since I got them. I think the ZDP can benefit from a shallower secondary bevel than what came with it.
 
ELMAX holds an edge very well for me on my 0551, and was surprisingly easy to sharpen. The toughness and corrosion resistance is certainly much better than ZDP-189, and I believe the edgeholding is as well.
 
zknives.com has all the info, but I really don't know which is better for what exactly. Thanks!
 
why? what do you use your knife for that Elmax would benefit you more?
 
For me, Elmax holds a sharper edge longer, between the 2 variations of the ZT0350 at least, and while I've seen ZDP-189 at very high HRC (67) do some pretty amazing things, it was in a $1K+ knife. To be fair between the ZT350's though, I think part of the reason that the CB Elmax variant slices better than the full ZDP version is that the ZDP has a coated blade that seems to impede smooth slicing a bit.
 
Danbo said:
Elmax, would be my choice.
Click to expand...

I'm with Dan on this one. ZDP is some great stuff, but it requires special care, meaning you have to know when it's time to sharpen it. If you wait too long you've got a pain in the ass on your hands! It's exotic, it's hard, it wears like diamonds, but I prefer the smooth ease of using Elmax for every day. Great edge, great retention, no rust......just plain good stuff.

Gooeytek.......as I recall you're an Elmax fan too;)
 
jonnymac44 said:
I'm with Dan on this one. ZDP is some great stuff, but it requires special care, meaning you have to know when it's time to sharpen it. If you wait too long you've got a pain in the ass on your hands! It's exotic, it's hard, it wears like diamonds, but I prefer the smooth ease of using Elmax for every day. Great edge, great retention, no rust......just plain good stuff.

Gooeytek.......as I recall you're an Elmax fan too;)
Click to expand...

Hell yea, the Speedforms are to blame, and its working its way into my customs :)

The wharnie will be sweet!
 
Elmax has became my favorite steel thanks to my SpeedForm II. Now if we could just talk
Thomas into doing a last blast LE RAM with an Elmax blade.....I'd be in Heaven. :thumbup:
 
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