Folder Knife Steel

Armoth

Armoth

Joined
May 19, 2002
Messages
13
I am looking for a folding knife. I am very interested in blade steel but I'm not sure which one is the toughest. I want a knife that is very strong and can hold an edge quite long. The knife I am really interested in is a large model Tanto Voyager by COLD STEEL. I have used AUS 8 blades in the past but now I'm not too sure about this steel. I've heard the V10, ATS-34 and others outperform COLD STEEL blades. I'm not sure if this is true or not. I've seen how tough COLD STEEL's blades are. However, I've read of problems with the serrations on their blades. Does anyone have any advice or info on tougher, more edge retaining knives? Also, any ideas about brands of knives that can withstand so much abuse like COLD STEEL? Thanks.
 
AUS8 is an excellent stainless steel, very tough IMHO, takes and holds an excellent edge and is relatively easy to sharpen compared with other stainless steels. It may not have the cachet of the latest super stainless steels but in the real world it's tough to beat. CS products are usually excellent value for the money, as well. You can pay a lot more for knives that won't cut any better. I've been using my CS Voyagers for six or seven years, no complaints.
 
Strong can be defined in many ways, but for holding an edge, I would try something in M2 tool steel like the Benchmade 710. If you like stainless steels instead, BG-42 holds an edge well.

Tough could mean flexible as in not breaking when bent or it could mean not chipping out (which has as much to do with grind and geometry as with steel selection) or abrasion resistance.
 
I agree with Nimrod. Cold steel edges are ground very thick, hence very tough but not very good for cutting compare to Spyderco. Benchamde also tends to make thick edge. That makes it "tough" but not best for cutting.
You want toughness, good edge hold, and good serrations, what do you want to cut, or need to cut?
Martin
 
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