I have a Kershaw Outcast that I thinned down when I got it. I haven't really used it other than to test out the capabilities of an inexpensive knife.
From what I understand D2 is very good on smaller "slicing" type of knives, but does not do so well for larger knives that are used to Chop.
It has something to do with D2's ability to take a edge, but inability to handle shock.
I forget the exact terminologies for it. Or the chemical composition behind it
But due to the inability to deform ("plastic deformation"??) the steel builds up stresses and cracks.
The Kershaw Outcast that I thinned down I've been careful with and treated it as a knife that I would not abuse.
It holds a great edge that lasts a long time, but is a bear to sharpen.
I could see it being a good chopper in softer woods. But there are plenty of videos and pictures of people breaking them.
However, My Outcast is something that is probably nearing 10 years old.
Who knows what Kershaw has done to their Heat Treat in that time?
Or if the "D2" that is in Kershaw's knives are what is the same "D2" that is in the hawk heads of the Hawks that you are speaking of?
That all being said I am always wary of tools, especially hawks, that are made "Overseas" (Read China, Pakistan, etc). Although they are getting better, there are reasons that they are less expensive.
You have any pics? It does sound interesting.
