How about ZDP-189 steel?

I've got two ZDP Enduras, serrated and plain.

enduras_black.jpg


Been using them on normal stuff, nothing heavy, but the serrated one has chipped a bit. It does not matter, as it still cuts like mad, but I kind of like the ZDP on the plain edge more. Scary sharp, holds it's edge long and sharpens fine with the Sharpmaker. I like'em.

northernlight
 
70939488 said:
I saw someone cut big ass cable with a sebenza and that knife looks fine after the did that. is was on a topic about sebenza if i recall it right. So i thught... nvm i just abused my knife.:confused: man live and learn :grumpy: will never cut wire with a knife again...
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Ah.... I see.

Thanks, Vassili.
 
Wow people are getting very defensive about this steel. Most are taking the comments here out of context... Keep in mind he stated his use would be military. So when people say hard to sharpen they more then likely mean in the field. Is VG10 the tougher steel of the two (given a proper HT in both) yes. Now does that mean there is a problem with ZDP, no. They have different strengths and weaknesses, and for his listed use VG10 would be the better choice.
 
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nozh2002 said:
What is your nagative experience with ZDP189 then with something else then wood, carton, rope?
Did you break ZDP knife or even heart about ZDP knife being broken because of brittleness?
What is the basis for you to start talking thet ZDP189 knife might break?

Thanks, Vassili.
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I’m not concerned with any ZDP-189 knife breaking and haven’t experienced any negative effects during normal use. I did however damage a ZDP-189 edge during hard use (accidentally cutting into steel), nothing I couldn’t touch up with a Sharp Maker, but for some uses I prefer other steels.

Less actual damage, easier to touch up.

The benefit of excellent edge retention is not that important for me anyway. As I stated before, on occasions I still use a folder with AUS-8 steel although in general I prefer VG-10.

No scientific explanations, or even repeated informal testing, just my experience when using folders with different steel.

Rafael
 
The wear resistance of ZDP 189 is very high and it is quite difficult to sharpen (Personal sharpening experience using a spyderco sharpmaker and ag russell field sharpener with Kershaw leek, Spyderco CalyIII both in ZDP). That being said though, the cutting ability of ZDP 189 is outstanding, and I never had an issue with either knife chipping. Throughout my military service though I carried a REKAT pioneer clip point in 154cm and never had the first issue with that knife. It was always a great performer and I never ran across an issue that called for the use of a knife that it couldn't handle. The reason I point this out is that a nice duty folder in another steel besides ZDP 189 can be had for less money. It's all personal choice though, and If you want a knife in ZDP then buy a knife in ZDP.
 
I used my caly jr to slash through bamboo stakes and it make it through alot before dulling a bit. It got 1 tiny microchip that sharpened right out, so Id say its not brittle. Maybe the laminated design helped? Also the fact that it wasnt hard to take a chip out on the sharpmaker kinda proves it isnt as hard a steel to sharpen as people say. The key to getting it really sharp is to go super light with your sharpening strokes.
 
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