More Rust Resistant? Better heat treat? Becker's 1095 cro-van or ESEE's 1095?

[LEBRON JAMES]

I am looking at buy the Becker BK16, for around $70, but saw a good deal on an esee 4 with the Kydex sheath for little over $100. Questions about the rust resistance between these two knives, which has to be taken better care of, in terms of cleaning and oiling them often, and how soon after the blades get wet do they need to be dried and oiled? Is the BK16 just as good as the ESEE 4 when subjected to the types of tasks and abuses, or would it be worth spending the extra $30 or so to get the ESEE? Also, how does the heat treat of these two brands compare? Noob question, i know, i am new to this forum and to high quality knives, but i have always been intrigued by knives ever since i was a little kid. Any input from you guys would be much appreciated. Thanks.

 

[idaho]

I suggest to treat esse and becker as same knife in terms of technology, just different in ergos.
Other then that - same knife. Although 1095 cro-van should be better when just looking on chart, not on knife..

 

[PatrickKnight]

I own an esee 3 and a bk 16. Imo the heat treat is better on the esee but I think my Becker is more rust resistant. Care must be taken with either since 1095 will rust if not cared for. As far as abuse goes either one will take anythink you can throw at them. The reason the esee cost more is the kydex sheath and the micarta handle scales.

 

[Danbo]

Neither are going to be even remotely stainless, and will both need to be wiped down, oiled, etc...

As far as steel, the addition of a bit of Chrome and Vanadium would definitely be an improvement over plain 1095, so...

 

[gine]

Toss a coin...ESEE will give you better factory grinds in my experience.
And better F@F and sheath options...IMO.

 

[LEBRON JAMES]

The orange g-10 is awesome looking!