Question: Blackjack / Becker Campanion Steel

[stanley_white]

Becker Fans,

In 1996 I bought myself a Blackjack / Becker Campanion.

Having recently pulled this lovely blade out of storage I was wondering what type of steel it is made of.

I have seen catalogs of the time listing the knife being made of 4140 and others listing 0170-6 and further postings by Bladeforums Members saying 1095.

Does anyone have a definitive answer for me?

My question is more idle curiosity then anything else as the knife cuts like a laser and is indestructible for my planned use.

Here is a graphical representation of the various catalogs circa the timeframe in which I purchased my knife.

Any information anyone could provide would be appreciated.

Thank you.

 

[Any Cal.]

I believe the very first were 4140, before they were made by Blackjack. If Blackjack continued to use that steel, I don't know. It wouldn't surprise me if the 4140 went away when Blackjack started production, but that is only a guess.

 

[Ethan Becker]

Hey Stanley....

I turned over a bunch of 4140 blanks to Blackjack and I suspect the later BJ knives were 1095 masquerading as 0170-6, but as those alloys are quite similar there is no practical difference....The 4140 has amazing mechanical strength. but suffers a bit in edge holding.....Not as much as many think, but some....

All Best....

ethan

 

[stanley_white]

Hey Stanley....

I turned over a bunch of 4140 blanks to Blackjack and I suspect the later BJ knives were 1095 masquerading as 0170-6, but as those alloys are quite similar there is no practical difference....The 4140 has amazing mechanical strength. but suffers a bit in edge holding.....Not as much as many think, but some....

All Best....

ethan

Thank you Sir!

As I said it is more for curiosity then anything else. My Blackjack Becker Campanion cuts like a laser and sharpens up easily -- I love it!