Knife for EDC

Okay, I'm thinking about getting a Kershaw Leek. Most of the places online that sell this knife seem to offer it only in 440a steel. How does this steel rank in terms of how easy it is to sharpen, its strength, toughness, wear resistance, etc.?
 
My personal opinion is that it (440A vs others) most likely won't matter to you. It won't hold an edge as long as many popular steels, but let me emphasize that it holds an edge long enough for the majority of knife users out there. Most of the ruckus that you read about steels is mainly steel snobery (which is fine- I'm certainly one of them). If we're talking about pure utility and practicality, 440A from Kershaw is a fine steel.
 
I would recommend the Rat Model 1. I just bought one brand new, first production run mind you, for $36. i have never handles a knife that more comfortable that the model 1. Its served me well in every task i have ever used it for. the lockup is rock solid, the deployment is lightning fast, and you have the option of moving the clip into 4 different positions.
 
Aelius said:
Actually, it seems some of the Leeks have Sandvik 13C26 steel. Is this any better?
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The sandvik steel ones are newer models. From what people say about it, it certainly is an upgrade from 440a.
 
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13C26 is an excellent all around steel, and is an upgrade from 440A. Starting with knives made January 1 2009, all Leeks other than the CPM D2 Composite Blade will be 14C28N, a Kershaw proprietary steel they have cooked up with Sandvik.
 
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