Lowest cost/best steel?

Terry M.

Terry M.

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Feb 5, 2006
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I want a knife that has better steel than the 440A blades I've always had. I want it to hold an edge and be "tougher" than my others. It will be an everyday carrier (is that what "edc" means?). But I don't really want to get much higher than the $100 area. Half serrated, straight edge is preferred but not a must.
Can you all please set me up with some links or pics to any knives that meet these requirements?
I'm still kicking around the Kershaw Spec Bump, but it's a tad more expensive than I'd like.... still..... might be the way to go.

Opinions? Suggestions?

Thanks everyone!

*edit* oh, forgot to mention, an assisted opening is a definite plus.
 
looks like Spyderco Native might be what you're looking for. 40 bucks at Walmart, and CPMS30V steel (worlds better than 440a and is one of the best steels right now). Can also be bought at new grahams for around 46.00 + shipping.

http://www.newgraham.com/native.htm

You can also get a Spyderco Manix or Paramilitary from that site, also CPM S30V steel and are toughter beefier knives than the Native, but will cost a bit more than 100.00
 
Wicked cool. That Spyderco Native looks like the perfect ticket. I knew I came to the right place to ask the question! Thanks tons. All other opinions still welcome!
 
440C is actually a very good steel for the price, especially when heat-treated well, benchmade for example does a great 440C.

I read (here?) that 440C was the original "super steel."

That native is a huge deal though. :thumbup:

Also, you can check out our For Sale section for great deals on second hand knives.
 
There are a lot of great knives available in your price range, all using quality steels like VG-10, S30V, 154CM and 440C. The real deciding factors should be lock type, handle materials, sizes, blade type, and convenience of carry.

What are you looking to use the knife for, in what environment? How will you be dressed when carrying it and are you worried about the reactions of the company you keep?
 
I'll be using it for general purpose cutting. Wire seath, cardboard, paper, etc. I will be wearing jeans 99% of the time and I don't care at all what people think of my knife.
I prefer around a 3-4" blade. In Iowa, I can legally carry up to 5" but don't need to. I really like the idea of getting a s30v for around $40-50 and since the original reply, I've been reading about the Native. Looks really good, but other suggestions are very much appreciated.
 
I recommend the Endura 4. Blade steel is VG10, which takes a better edge and is easier to sharpen than S30V, however loses a bit of edge retention. VG10 doesn't have any edge chipping issues like S30V does, and is all around a better steel IMO. The knife has full steel nested liners, and has a better grip and feel than the Native with a blade just under four inches. The price is in between $40 and $50. It will do anything thing you need it to, and will be working longer than you are if proper care is taken of it.

C10BK_L.jpg
 
I second the Endura 4 recommendation. I believe, in all probability, it's the best knife for the money that can be had right now. Of course I say this in my opinion - with my uses in mind, and with my own preferences and biases in mind. Its seems to be a well thought out knife at a fair price.
 
The Endura 4 or Delica 4 would be perfect I think. They are the best bang for the buck IMO. VG-10 is a top of the line steel, and the new improvements in the Delica/Enduras are tough to beat. Just need to decide if you want a 3" or a 4" blade.
 
The S30V Native is by far the best deal if all you are considering is blade steel, ignoring handle material, lock type, and blade shape.
 
Such a steel doesn't exist. Each should be evaluated on the needs of the customer and what he will pay for the product.
 
The previously mentioned Spydies are great, also the D'alara drop point in vg10 by Spyderco is getting rave reviews. BM has there griptilians avail now in 154cm or from Cabello's in d2, two sizes like the delica and endura plus some different blade shapes to choose from. I would encourage you to get a longer blade if you want the knife to be combo edged, 4 inchs instead of 3, just gives you greater useable edges for both serrations and plain sections.

have fun
 
VG10 from Spyderco or D2 on certain Benchmades are the best steels for the price, with the obvious exception of the S30V Native.

The best knife deal out there is clearly the D`Allara drop point. 55 Dollars, VG10, full steel liners (beefy), the best of FRN scales (for what it's worth) and the ball bearing lock. It may be a little big for you though (it is for me).
 
If you think that you'll ever run into staples or wire while you're cutting I would look for a steel that is less likely to chip than S30V. An Endura 4 with VG-10 blade is a pretty good choice. If you are willing to go with a non-stainless blade you might try a Cold Steel Trail Guide. This may be tougher than any stainless for a reasonable price. They fill your hand (and fill your pocket). They are not as classy as an Endura, but they are tough.

http://www.1sks.com/store/cold-steel-large-trail-guides.html
 
Leaning toward the Delica 4 SS. Went to a Scheels today and was able to play with a FRN version and it felt so right. But I really do like the SS handles just for the heft and feel.

Speaking of the playing... I was able to play a little with the new leathermans and that's some smooth opening knives.
 
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