In cutting contests what is the most popular knife steel used by the competitors?

GatorFlash1

GatorFlash1

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May 28, 2012
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I know that Gayle Bradley was a competitor in knife cutting competitions. His knife is made with M4 steel.

I'm asking if anyone knows what the popular ranking of knife steels is in such competitions, and why they are selected by the competitors.


 
I dont know a ton about it but I believe M4 is the most popular steel to use. Also Vandis 4 Extra, 3V/4V, 1095CV, 01, 52100, 5160 and other various hand forged tool steels are also used.
 
Most so called super steels currently used in pocket knives were developed as plastic mould steels. Not really designed as steels for acute edge geometry and high impact.

I remember Ed Schemmp once mentioned CPM-M4 tends to work harden in Bladesports for some makers and would crack after a few years where clad 5160 or 52100 (I cant remember exactly) had no issues after 10 years.

That might be why we see a change to other steels in the past few years away from CPM M4 as of late.

To answer your original question I would them say... whatever steel is currently working for each maker, but will most likely change as time passes.
 
Thanks for the input. It is interesting how the 5160 or 52100 blades stand up for so long with no work hardening.
 
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