Vanguard Blade Steel Question

[Spectrum]

I have a Buck Vanguard Mod. 192BR that I bought in 1992 and was wondering what the blade was made of. I have always thought the Vanguard was among the best looking knives made but I never could bring myself to actually use it.

 

[johnwaynesandw]

It should be 425 steel. The 425 may have an M behind it (425M) which I think means modified. If I am wrong, someone will corredct me.

From the begining, Buck used 440C until some time in the 80's. In 1994, they switched the steel to 420HC. All of these steels are great, but I like the old 440C best. It really comes into its own when the edge has been thinned out like the edge2000 knives. I have a 2 dot 112 (w/ 440C steel) that has been thinned down to about 12 degress per side. That 112 slices all day and holds a great edge.

Go ahead use it. These knives are too good to just sit in their sheaths.


John

 

[David Martin]

John, Your correct but no M after. 425 was used until 1993 / (the symbol) . Ive found this steel compares very close to ATS34 in cutting test. I have a 124 w/ the same steel and I really enjoy using it. It cuts great! So, go ahead and enjoy it. I too like the 402. DM