Going to be getting an SRK, which one would you guys recommend?

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DesertDrifter

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Mar 25, 2015
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I will be buying a Cold Steel SRK knife. I just wanted to know your opinions on the three types of steel available at this time. I can go the cheaper route with AUS8, the new VG-1, or I can do the San Mai III. I can get the AUS8 for around $70 and the San Mai III which is the most expensive can be picked up for around $105 to $110. The VG-1 is around $90. If you guys can, give me your opinions and how you came to that conclusion. Thanks!
 
I bought the AUS8 due to the low cost and good steel reputation. I've been happy with mine. Good luck with your quest. tom.
 
Of those 3, I'd probably go with VG1. However, I would wait a while to see if they will start making the SRK in 3V. I would absolutely jump on that.
 
Decide wjich one you can afford. Then decide if you want a satin finish or black one.
The SRK is a proven knife. I still have mine from 1989/90 in carbon V. Also picked up
a Sanmai one. I think the Sanmai ones are the ones most likely to get scarce or discontinued
in the future.
 
Go for the SM3 version, it will perform well plus beautiful to look at. Hunt around on eBay, got my SM3 SRK for 80 buck.
 
kerberosWXIV said:
Go for the SM3 version, it will perform well plus beautiful to look at. Hunt around on eBay, got my SM3 SRK for 80 buck.
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If you get lucky enough to find SM3 version for 80 bucks, it's a no brainer. Otherwise, Carbon V, unless you simply must have stainless. Carbon V has served me very well for a couple decades. That said, I've experienced exceptional service from numerous Cold Steel AUS8 knives as well. I guess I mean, you're needlessly worrying. Any Cold Steel SRK will make you a happy camper. So, relax. ;')
 
I was lucky to catch the SM3 on sale for $80. But it was late last summer/early fall. Thought it was such a good knife for the money, that I also got my brother one for Xmas.

So look. Maybe you'll get lucky :)
 
sodak said:
Of those 3, I'd probably go with VG1. However, I would wait a while to see if they will start making the SRK in 3V. I would absolutely jump on that.
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I would go for the ak-47 field knife, if I wanted 3V. All things being equal, I would prefer the G10 Scales over Kraton. Blades are a little different-but pretty similar overall. Both fit into the same category of fixed blades IMHO.
 
I picked AUS-8.

It was very corrosion resistant. I wasn't going to be spending a lot of time cleaning and oiling this thing, as it's pretty much a sharpened pry-bar. It got rode hard and put away wet routinely. The AUS-8 didn't care, even with salt water.

It's also tough stuff. Like I said, it's a pry-bar with an edge, and AUS-8 doesn't seem to mind you twisting and bending the hell out of it.

The final kicker is that I can put a real good edge on it real quick and easy. AUS-8 will take a good edge with just a few swipes on the Spyderco Double-Stuff. It's surprisingly easy with a field stone too, and I'll bet I could sharpen it on a river rock if I had to. It won't hold an edge for long if you are cutting rope all day or something, but this wasn't the use I had intended for the SRK either.

I'd say refine your intended use for it if you have to in order to pinpoint a steel choice... but you'll most likely be just fine with the AUS-8.
 
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