Microtech using ATS-34 in 2013?

00ChevyScott

00ChevyScott

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I just purchased a 2013 model Microtech Ultratech, which is apparently using ATS-34 for the blade steel. I've never had a knife in this steel, but I've read it's basically the equivalent to 154CM which I actually like (Benchmade and Spyderco anyways). Does anyone have an experience with Microtechs ATS-34? I know this is kind of an "outdated" steel by today's standards, and am somewhat baffled why they're even using it instead of S35VN or CTS 204p.
 
Microtech has a reputation of using whatever they can get ahold of. They probably got some for cheap or found some old stock lying around.
 
ATS-34 isn't too different from 154-CM and VG-10. Nothing wrong with tht steel at all.
 
They are also using ELMAX in some blades. They typically do a small run in higher end steel, and the rest in standard stuff like 35VN or S30V.
 
They're starting a new trend: retro steels! :D

As long as they heat treat it properly, its cool with me. From what I understand they have that down pretty well.
 
Here I've been stalking the mail man all day waiting for my first OTF. The LAST thing I expected was to find ATS-34 on the damned blade. Its enough to piss off any blade snob.
 
I had my hopes up for Elmax or S35VN. I was never impressed with ATS-34 / 154CM corrosion resistance.
 
Has Microtech ever done anything in M390? I don't recall ever seeing one but I'd kill for a CFO II in M390.
 
Unless you go on a cutting marathon, blade steel doesn't really matter as long as they get their heat treat right. I would take a Mini Grip in 154CM any day over a CRK Sebenza in S35VN at 58-59 because of the heat treat.
 
I'm sure Microtech will do it justice. Their typical heat treat is excellent. Plus, its tough steel and it takes a very keen edge.
 
Agreed. Of all the things I've criticized MT for over the years, their heat treat regimen has never been one of them.
 
Jackal said:
Here I've been stalking the mail man all day waiting for my first OTF. The LAST thing I expected was to find ATS-34 on the damned blade. Its enough to piss off any blade snob.
Click to expand...

How is it that you found out the blade steel AFTER receiving the knife? A blade snob would check that little detail before ordering the knife.
 
I tried but the dealer didn't know and only had a handful that had just come in so I jumped. Like I said I had only seen S35VN and Elmax UT8s from the last year or so. ATS-34 never crossed my mind. They must have a time machine.

BTW, this is the ONLY time I have ever done that. Only makes sense that it would be my least fav. ;)

At least it will be easy to resharpen...it has the worst edge I've ever seen on an MT and it's prob. 50+ deg.
 
I've had many knives in ATS-34 over the years, starting with BM 800 & 900 series from the 90's. Never found anything to
complain about. I would not to hesitate to buy a Microtech (or any other brand) using this steel. It's much easier to
sharpen then the so-called super steels.
 
I wouldn't hesitate to buy a knife with ATS-34 steel if I liked the design. I've been very pleased with it.
 
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