Hollow 18 Stainless or Carbon

[shane]

Been saving up and am looking to get the 7.5” model 18. What are the advantages/disadvantages of each of stainless vs carbon? I’ve had one on the past but was always afraid to use it...not this time. I plan on using it. Any other suggestions or warnings? Any pre-made kits for the handles?

Thanks - shane

 

[eveled]

Carbon steel will hold a better edge but will rust if not taken care of. If taken care of it will develop a beautiful patina with use.

Stainless while having a slight disadvantage in edge retention will require less maintenance. But will cost more.

For a survival knife I think maybe stainless makes the most sense.

 

[Melvin-Purvis]

^ This...

 

[Ankerson]

If stainless is an option, always choose stainless first in a field or a survival knife.

That said I am sure some will disagree.

I doubt most would notice any difference in edge retention between O1 and 440B Stainless in real use in the field.

I would also say the stainless would take more abuse in the long run over the O1.