What is blade steel LAMINATION?

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I often hear that blade steel "xyz" is LAMINATED compared to blade steel "abc" which is not laminated.
I know what laminating a picture etc. is but what is blade lamination?

What is blade steel LAMINATION?
Thanks. :)
 
Laminated blades consist of three pieces of steel joined together or "laminated".

Typically, for a blade, the center piece has a composition that is optimal for edge retention while the outer steels are softer and more flexible, as well as more corrosion resistant.

The intent is to provide excellent edge retention plus improved flexibility and toughness. Additionally, many alloys that have excellent edge retention are somewhat more prone to corrosion. So the improved corrosion resistance of the outer layers helps in that regard as well.
 
Usually it is a stiffer, more brittle steel sandwiched between layers of a softer, more flexible steel. The resulting laminated blade then has some of the performance properties of both. Many Fallknivens are laminated. VG10 sandwiched by 420J. The VG10 core holds an edge extremely well while the 420J external layers give the overall blade more flexibility than just VG10 alone. Just look at the spine of any laminated Fallkniven and you can see the layering.
 
OK, that was two very clear answers. Thanks!

Will the manufacturer tell you what the other steels are?
For example; VG10 laminated with 420J?
 
Fallkniven does on most of their laminated models' pages. As for other manufacturers, not sure.
 
For another example, the Kershaw Nakamura also has a VG-10 core and 420J2 outer layers.
 
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