Wenger S54, what kind of steel?

[Chifte]

I'm thinking about buying the classic SAK, the S54 is on the top of my list, however they don't indicate what kind of steel they use. I'm looking for a highly durable tool, spending $120+(amazon) on a weak tool isn't something I want to do!

Does anyone have any information? I know there's proven multi tools like the Charge TTI, Wave, but I'd like to rekindle my favorite tool I had as a kid.

Thank you

https://www.wengerna.com/evogrip-s54-16812

 

[Seilu]

It's 98$ on amazon atm, and judging by what Victorinox typically uses, it's probably 420J to 440A, somewhere along those lines.

 

[Chifte]

Hmm, you confirmed my suspicions as I found it odd $100+ knives without indicating type of steel, 420J is not what I am looking to invest in for $100, hate to give up on it but there's cheaper higher quality steel options. I'll have to give them a call after the holiday.

 

[Alberta Ed]

I believe Wenger/Victorinox sources their steel from Switzerland or France, depending on price, availability, etc. It's typically not heat-treated that hard, 55 RC or so, but is easy to sharpen, takes an excellent edge, is quite tough and very stain resistant. Works for a lot of people. My buddy figures his saved his life when he was marooned on the upper Skeena River after his Zodiac flipped,. a couple of decades ago.

 

[znapschatz]

It's 98$ on amazon atm, and judging by what Victorinox typically uses, it's probably 420J to 440A, somewhere along those lines.

Typically, multi-tool knives do not get frequent hard use as dedicated knives, so ease of re-sharpening and corrosion resistance are more desirable qualities in a SAK than long term edge holding. Vic blades look and perform more like 420HC to me, but fine for the purpose. Different story if you need to cut carpet all day, but then you would need a purpose built knife. Blade steel selection depends on intended use. Considering it's usual applications, I think SAK blade steel is just about right.