help me decide which steel

[ryosuke]

I am thinking of buying a strider HT. Looks like I can choose from ATS34 or S30V. Is S30V a better steel?

 

[Gabe Newell]

The simple answer - yes.

The realistic answer - the difference between these two is dwarfed by the heat treat which is dwarfed by your sharpening skills.

 

[sog]

ATS34 dont chip and S30V does.

 

[T.K.C.]

I vote for S30V. I have NEVER had any of my S30V blades chip.

 

[donny b]

the ats-34 might be less expensive?

 

[Hair]

ATS34 dont chip and S30V does.

ATS-34 does chip. All of the high-wear resistance stainless steels (S30V, VG-10, ATS-34, 154CM etc...) are fairly hard and brittle and will chip more than a tougher steel (like A2 or L6) will. S30V chipping gets brought up a lot because S30V is considered one of the super steels and there was a lot of hype surrounding it- this causes a backlash when there are any problems. But ATS-34 is not immune to chipping.

S30V is generally thought of as a better steel than ATS-34 because it will hold an edge longer. Which steel is better for you is a matter of your own preferences and uses.

 

[ryosuke]

Thank you everyone for the info.

 

[a223cat]

I really like ats-34. I also really like BG-42. why? sharpening is easy for me. My Sebenza with S30V is tough to sharpen well. Takes me a long time too.

but then I like 154cm and D2 and O1 and others too! I just like steel. Knife steel is always the best kind!

 

[ryosuke]

I was thinking of getting the strider HT,but decided to get this one first because HTs probably are produced more than this so I have more chance of getting HTs later. What I liked about this knive is that it is very easy to carry in my pocket, very thick, and hard to find. It's made from ATS34 steel and comes with a kydex sheath. It's my first strider and I'm very happy.:thumbup: