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Microtech Socom Delta CPM S35VN Black Coated blade vs CPM D2 Stonewash blade

MaxFactor

MaxFactor

Gold Member
Joined
Dec 26, 2012
Messages
1,388
I've been lusting after the Socom Delta for quite a while now and have decided to make the commitment.

I just really can't decide between the CPM S35VN Black Coated blade or the CPM D2 Stonewash blade.
Additionally, the CPM D2 blade features an aluminum handle opposed to G10 which I'm not thrilled about but I don't really plan on flailing it around.

At any rate, from what I've read the stonewash finish seems to be better as far as resisting visible wear. On the other hand, the stealth tactical look of the black blade is pretty sweet.

Aesthetics aside, I don't have extensive experience with either of the two blade steels, and reviews seem somewhat divided. Has anyone used both of them?
 
I am also looking at the Socom Delta in CPM D2 and was wondering what you decided and your feelings on it. If you got the CPM D2 did you like the aluminum handle?
 
did either of you make the jump ? If so how do you like your blades so far and how are they holding up ?
thanks
Paul
 
I got a s35 version recently and am enjoying it. It's an interesting design and pretty dang gorgeous. It came with a great edge, but I'm struggling a bit with my sharpmaker. Came with zero detent and adjusting it could be better.
 
Either steel is good. I have several production knives with CPM-D2 blades (kershaw JYD2, Rake, CB Leek) and they've been great at holding a keen edge for a long time. They're not hard to sharpen and despite being classified as a non-stainless, doesn't develop a patina easily. I have a custom (Horton TAC4) with that steel that is one of the sharpest knives that I have, but then the hollow convex chisel grind on it is ridiculous and will slice paper under its own weight.

I only have one production knife in S35VN (zt550) and I can tell you that it's also wonderful for staying sharp. It's almost convexed on my 550, and the thick blade stock makes it just an ok slicer but stays pretty sharp when push cutting tough material like webbing and soft wood. I also have a custom that uses it and seems to harder than the ZT, and that one is a crazy slicer. I haven't used that hard though, as it is one of my most prized knives (Rassenti Druid). I find the S35VN in the Druid harder to sharpen than the 550.

I don't think you'll find either steel lacking in performance, but the aluminum handle will require more presence of mind to keep ding-free.
 
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