Some Bowie Questions

[Vanguard.45]

I just saw the movie "Seraphim Falls", which features Pierce Brosnan carrying a large Bowie knife from Muela called the Magnum Alcarez Model 26. A beautiful knife, but it is made from Moly-Vanadium Stainless Steel. The blade is 10 3/4" in length with a 16 3/4" OAL.

Here are my questions:

1. How durable would a bowie knife made from such steel be? I have heard carbon steel is preferred by most large blade afficionados. Would this knife be durable enough to use for many years of outdoor use and abuse?

2. What is the reputation of Muela knives? This particular knife apparently runs about $340, so one would hope it would be made with some sort of quality!!!!

3. Are there any large bowies similar to this one on the market which would be made of a more durable carbon steel?

4. What would be the best steel for a large blade bowie knife (i.e. if I wanted to have one custom made, what type of steels seem to be the best for a hard use knife)?

Thanks in advance.

Vanguard.45

 

[orca8589]

I've been thinking about this, wondering myself. I'll post back here when/if I figure out what is meant by "Moly-Vanadium Stainless Steel".

To answer your question #3, "lots & lots". Sounds vague, I know, but you could probably get a nice custom for $300.-$400. out of good carbon steel. But, I'd look at a Himalayan Imports Cherokee Rose. Here's a link to a thread from the HI forum here; the Cherokee Rose has a very un-Kukri look to it. It's the first on the left in the top photo.

http://www.bladeforums.com/forums/showpost.php?p=5710496&postcount=1


thx - cpr