Thank you! I agree with you. I like to use the right tool for the job, but many knives of a style one is familiar with, can do the job equally well. For me, the 420HC of both the Buck Vanguard and Marbles sport was fine. Ergonomics were more important. I wanted comfort, as I spent a long time on the deer. If Buck put out a slimmer gripped Vanguard, in M390, I'd buy it but just as much for the grip as for the steel. Edge holding is great, but I can only use a knife for so long before it starts to get tiring. At least for skinning deer, Buck's 420HC seems to hold up through that point. That's all I need. Others might well prefer a steel that handles the job without needing a touch-up, but many will want to touch up their knives anyway.
Joe
Joe