Steel Properties that Knifemakers Care about and Users Don’t

[Larrin]

A new article about differences between knifemakers/companies and buyers in terms of what steel properties they want. These are things that users and enthusiasts typically don't have to be concerned with but can be enlightening for understanding why knifemakers make the choices they do for steel. https://knifesteelnerds.com/2020/12/21/steel-properties-that-knifemakers-care-about-and-users-dont/

 

[elde66]

Great educational piece! Thank you, Larrin.

 

[MarkN86]

Great article, thanks for posting it.

Usually "easy to manufacture" and "high performance" are mutually exclusive, but sometimes there is a good compromise. I kind of like steels like 14C28N and AEB-L, they are really decent and well balanced steels, which your previous research and testing indicate. There are good properties for both the knife manufacturer and for the end user. There are obviously better steels out there, but when it comes to mass production for the every day user I think they are great.

I had an old Skyline in 13C26 from late '08 I used/abused it until it was almost falling apart. I would say I definitely had a good experience with it. Easy sharpening on regular stones, good edge stability with decent edge holding, and good toughness if things are pushed a little too far.

 

[Larrin]

Thanks guys it seems people are enjoying this one.

 

[afishhunter]

All "Common Sense" ... which seems to be in short supply these days ...

Good article

 

[Alsharif]

Mainly factors related to cost and availability, not anything related to having certain properties that would make the steel superior in corrosion resistance, toughness, or edge retention. Main reason why CPM-154 is favored by custom knife makers.

 

[JAB]

Another great one Thanks!