H-2

[abo4ster]

Spyderco announced the discontinuation of H-1 and a new replacement steel, H-2…

“Like H-1, H-2 is an austenitic steel that does not go through the traditional hardening and tempering processes of traditional martensitic steels. Instead, its austenite structure is transformed to hard martensite through intense rolling and cold-working processes. H-2’s finely tuned alloy composition rebalances all the original elements of H-1 and also adds a small amount of copper. The result is a steel that faithfully delivers the impressive strength and toughness of its predecessor while actually enhancing its extreme corrosion resistance—especially for use in saltwater environments.”

Link from their Spdyerco byte 2022 email blast here with all the details for those who are interested:

Spyderco byte May 2022

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[AdamFuzzyballs]

I read this and was wondering how similar it could be to H1, if H1 was harder to make because of the steel industry changing? And also, I thought H1 was completely impervious to saltwater- so how could this make it “more impervious” ? I’m not being an ass, I’m genuinely curious

 

[abo4ster]

I agree Adam, can’t wait to hear the details around this new steel.

I think this update speaks volumes to the importance of the Salt series — they kept H-1 going even with LC200N and relatively high corrosion resistance of MagnaCut. H-1 is (was) a very special steel however, and I personally like it, even in plain edge for it’s utmost in practicality.

Creating a replacement for H-1 with even higher corrosion resistance… I am not sure what that means either — less susceptible to chemical attack compared to H-1? H-1 is virtually impervious already as you restated. Toughness the same as H-1, great!

Question with H-2 will be edge retention which many complained about with H-1 plain edge. However, H-1 is a dream to sharpen and left with a toothy coarse edge it’s retention was good in relation to toughness and corrosion resistance. Look forward to giving it a try and hearing what others have to say.

 

[yablanowitz]

H-1 can be corroded. Salt water won't do it at a detectable rate, but diect contact with chlorine tablets can get the job done. It is certainly possible to increase the corrosion resistence. Apparently the formula change has also made it easier to process.

 

[toker]

I like H1 for it's corrosion resistance. Not a huge fan of it's edge retention. I'll take a steel like Magnacut and just rinse it off when I have a chance.