First Stainless Questions

[The Gopher]

I've made a couple dozen knives now mostly from files and 1084, and although i'll still be using those materials I'd like to make a knife for my uncle who is a sailor, so I would like it to be stainless. What are some good options for steels for a saltwater application? I'll be shaping it via stock removal with files and a gough jig and I'll be sending it out for heat treatment. I don't want this to be a "best steel" thread, I just don't know where to start with stainless, thanks, Dan.

 

[KnuckleDownKnives]

There is a very similar thread currently covering almost the same topic. You may find some valuable info there.

http://www.bladeforums.com/forums/showthread.php/1440824-440-Stainless-For-a-Dive-Knife

 

[tim37a]

S30V and S35VN are two excellent SS for a marine knife. They are very corrosion resistant and they will cut virtually anything on a boat including hi-tech lines. The vanadium will form carbides which will keep the knife sharp for a long time. As an ex sailor, I know sailors are lazy and will not spend much time sharpening a knife so the knife should hold an edge. Please, you sailors who love to sharpening knives, don't jump all over me.

Tim

 

[Alpha Knife Supply]

What are some good options for steels for a saltwater application?

The nitrogen stainless steels have extreme corrosion resistance compared to stainless steels. We have Z-FiNit nitrogen stainless available.

Chuck