How about Boker?

[Starfish]

...specifically, the "Tree Brand" knives in carbon steel. I see some pretty low prices on these knives (around $20ish for a copperhead pattern with carbon steel), and I wonder if they are a good value for the money paid?

Thanks for your help,

Matthew

 

[lambertiana]

For $20, the copperhead would be a good deal. I asked Boker what they used a couple years ago, they said it is 1095. Not the best edgeholder among my carbon steel slipjoints, but very good fit and finish, smooth blade action, and good snap.

 

[Starfish]

lambertiana,

Thanks for your response - you've been quite helpful in answering many of my questions of late!

Question: 1095 is the same steel used in the other German brands with non-stainless blades, correct?

Also, how is the fit and finish of Boker's Tree Brand relative to the other German knives?

Thanks again,

Matthew

 

[rev_jch]

Boker makes a good carbon blade. Ive owned and used Bokers for many years. The "fit and finish" is not as good as it use to be, but it is still on "par" with the others.

 

[lambertiana]

1095, if properly heat treated, is a great carbon steel for a user. Holds a good edge and has good toughness. I would imagine that most of the German slipjoint manufacturers use 1095 or a similar alloy. That is what Schrade used for the Old Timer line, too.

I have four Bokers, an older (I think 60s), a mid-80s, and two newer production, from the last few years. All have good fit and finish, smooth action, well-ground blades, and good backsprings. If you can get your hands on a carbon steel copperhead for around $20, I would jump on that.