Makers using A2?

[V_Dirt_]

I'm looking to get a new bushcraft knife that will see lots of use, and after a lot of consideration I'd like to try one in A2 steel. I've mostly used cheap 420 steel in the past and I'm not very familiar with the various production companies and bladesmiths. I can only seem to find a short list of companies using A2, and they're all out of my price range. Are there any lower end companies that use A2, or any independant smiths you all would recommend? I love the L. T. Wright Rogue River model, but it's too rich for my blood. I'm in Canada, so what with shipping the way it is right now, some leads within Canada would be appreciated too.

 

[Skidoosh]

Try Gough Custom

 

[dirc]

why a2? just curious... since it's not stainless with only around 5% chrome

if you want that type of steel, and something on a budget, I strongly suggest a mora companion carbon

 

[Alberta Ed]

Bark River, though it may be out of your price range. (You generally get what you pay for though even with the loonie.) Give Brazilian cutliero Ivan Campos a try if you're looking for a custom maker.

 

[V_Dirt_]

why a2? just curious... since it's not stainless with only around 5% chrome

if you want that type of steel, and something on a budget, I strongly suggest a mora companion carbon

I don't really care about corrosion/staining, it will be well cared for, and I really like the look of a patina. I want more edge retention than O1 or 1095 while still being reasonably easy to sharpen, with at least as much toughness, since it will be expected to handle a wide variety of camp tasks. I see no point in going for any high end "super steels". I can't afford it, and I doubt I'd notice the difference.

I wasn't aware that Mora made any carbon knives in their budget range. I don't particularly like the pukko blade, but if the price is right...

 

[dirc]

yes, mora uses stainless sandvik (2 types 12c27 and 14c28n) ... which is really excellent budget stainless

but they use something like 1090 (called c90 I believe) for their carbon steel, which is really tough, excellent all around tough use steel (I like it much more than 1095)
you need to test it out, considering it's under $20 for a companion, you can't go wrong

 

[V_Dirt_]

Blade steel aside, what about convex grinds? Are there any budget makers doing convex grinds?

 

[CVamberbonehead]

There arent too many companies using A2, though its excellent. And convex grinds are hand applied, to look good and work well they need skilled labor. This is expensive.
It sounds to me like you need to save up and get a Bark River knife. They fit the bill 100%. Buy once, cry once. Sometimes you can find a deal on a used one.

A budget option might be a Buck? They use 420 hc like youre used to, but they have excellent heat treatment. Their steel performs very well.

 

[Planterz]

Severtech.

Granted, it's not for everyone, it's not legal everywhere, and they're rare and command a high price. But they have a solid slab of A2.

 

[woodysone]

Severtech.

Granted, it's not for everyone, it's not legal everywhere, and they're rare and command a high price. But they have a solid slab of A2.

Haven’t heard that name in a while, does he still make autos?

 

[Planterz]

Haven’t heard that name in a while, does he still make autos?

I honestly don't know. They appear to be for sale on his website, but I don't know if he has them in stock, or he only makes them when they're ordered, or what. It could be that he's not making any at all, but he just hasn't updated his website. He does have a facebook page, so maybe you could ask directly if you can get one. Aaron is a machinist by trade, and I remember (years back) that he was very busy with his regular work, and the Severtech knives were just a side project, although it's one that he's gone back to from time to time.

 

[Planterz]

Yeah, so I apparently glossed over the part in the OP where he said he wanted a bushcraft knife. The tanto Severtech probably wouldn't work well for that, but you can get a clip or spear point as well. I don't know if the OP is looking for a fixed blade (most likely) or a folder. The Severtech would certainly be a candidate for a folding bushcraft knife though, as it's a thick, heavy, solid brick of a knife.

 

[V_Dirt_]

Yeah, so I apparently glossed over the part in the OP where he said he wanted a bushcraft knife. The tanto Severtech probably wouldn't work well for that, but you can get a clip or spear point as well. I don't know if the OP is looking for a fixed blade (most likely) or a folder. The Severtech would certainly be a candidate for a folding bushcraft knife though, as it's a thick, heavy, solid brick of a knife.

Definitely looking for a fixed blade. I have a couple folders, and they have their use, but there are some things they just aren't good at. They can also be a bit of a pain to open if my hand are full or wet. (We can't carry autos or gravity open blades here). I need a solid fixed blade that will carve and handle batoning, but also be good for food prep and gutting fish. I also prefer to spend not much over $100 after tax and shipping. So I've pretty much come to the conclusion that A2 will have to wait. I guess I was grasping at straws. I will probably end up with something from Mora, or more likely Condor. I really like their rustic look.

 

[jideta]

Custom
Depending on size, there are a lot of makers who can work with you in the hunski range.
I just got a 3.5" EDC type for $80.
Hit up makers forum and ask.
Or go patrol that handmade site and do a search for A2; Heatherly Knives works in A2.
He has a nice yellow G10 bushcraft that I might buy!

 

[jfk1110]

Have a look at Bushcraftcanada.com! Paul is in British Columbia and has a good selection of knives in all spectrums! Keep us informed of your progress please! Curious to see what you choose!! Good luck

James