What is current consensus on currently available US V-42 knives?

[RIBob]

Discussions on knives themselves as well as included scabbards encouraged.

From my limited examination, Steels used in Boker (SV-5), Paul Chen/Hanwei (1566), and Marble's (440C) seem to (inexpert) me to be fairly similar, but they do have their individual differences. BudK version seems to "possibly" use 1065 steel for a plastic-handled version.

Your comments on both blades and included scabbards are welcomed.

 

[tltt]

The Case and old HG Long versions are the cleanest finished.

The Hanwei, and very old Coppi versions are considered the most historically accurate.

The Boker is nicely finished, but the handle size is horribly off, and puts the skull crusher in a position to stab your hand.

The Marble's is cheap, but the blade is surprisingly nicely done.

If I wanted one just for study, I'd buy the Hanwei.

 

[Legendary_Jarl]

The Case and old HG Long versions are the cleanest finished.

The Hanwei, and very old Coppi versions are considered the most historically accurate.

The Boker is nicely finished, but the handle size is horribly off, and puts the skull crusher in a position to stab your hand.

The Marble's is cheap, but the blade is surprisingly nicely done.

If I wanted one just for study, I'd buy the Hanwei.

He might as well do it quick because I've heard Hanwei is done for.

 

[Triton]

He might as well do it quick because I've heard Hanwei is done for.

Really? Any insight into why?

 

[tltt]

He might as well do it quick because I've heard Hanwei is done for.

Really? Any insight into why?

Wow, it really is done. I heard it was slow but coming back, but it's officially done -

https://sbg-sword-store.sword-buyers-guide.com/wordpress/hanwei-factory-in-china-has-closed/ .

It's a little "meet the new boss, same as the old boss" from the story, but I'd definitely buy the V-42 now if I wanted it. Knives, and old patterns tend to be the first thing on the chopping block during these types of changes. Maybe send them an email asking if they're planning to keep it in the line up.