Esee Stainless Models: just as tough?

[B.F.U]

I am looking to get an esee 3, 4, or 6. If I get the 4, I was wondering how the stainless compared to the 1095? I have no experience with either steel and this is my first esee. I will keep it in my truck, use it for outdoors (messing around aka "bushcraft", hunting), for work, and would want it to be tough in a bad situation (I get lost or something). Generally, I want a good over all knife. Should I go with the 1094 or 440c? I probably wouldn't want to oil it that regularly, but I do want a good edge. thanks for any information and suggestions.

ALLHSS

 

[chiral.grolim]

"just as tough"?

Charpy impact value for 1095 @ 55-57 Rc is ~50J.

Charpy impact value for 440C @ 57 Rc is ~25J (a brittle steel), full half the toughness value of 1095 (a spring steel). The high chromium content which provides corrosion resistance also produces large carbides that increase wear resistance at the cost of toughness. 440C @ 57 Rc should hold an edge longer in use than 1095 @ 57 Rc.

Will you notice the toughness-difference in use? You might not. You might notice strength however, and the ESEE-4 & -6 are thicker than the ESEE-3 without being as thick as many other knives out there.

Will you notice the difference in corrosion resistance? The coated ESEE's leave only the edge unprotected - a good polish and thin layer of oil there will prevent corrosion, as will cleaning the edge after use and storing in a dry place.


Honestly, I'd be more concerned with the HANDLE on that knife - have you ever held one? There are so many options out there for a knife of this size/purpose, including custom knives, you may want to stop in at a B&M store and handle some models before making a decision... or not