ZT0770CF Advice - Updated with Pics!

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webbman81

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Jan 14, 2015
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So I've decided on the ZT 0770CF as my first "expensive" knife purchase, however I have a some questions on blade steel that I thought someone with knowledge here on the site could help me answer. As you know the ZT0770CF is available in Elmax, M390, and M4 as an exclusive through KnifesShipFree.com. Does anyone have at least one of these knives that could weigh in and help me make an informed decision on which blade steel to choose? Right now, I EDC a Skyline, and it's fantastic. I've never been exposed to the more exotic steels and don't have any real world experience. My use would by typical cardboard / paper cutting at work, nothing major. I know they would all work for what I intend to use it for, but I would like to get the best steel option up front. Any help would be appreciated!

:::UPDATE::: My new 0770CF in Elmax arrived in the mail today. This knife is perfect! I couldn't be happier with my purchase! Here are some pics:






My collection is coming along nicely! Here are some with my Skyline as well. I did graduate from the University of Florida, so I'm quite partial to Orange and Blue as you can tell.



 
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I don't have the particular model but I have elmax in several ZTs and an M390 in a Benchmade.

If it were me making the choice, I would pick the M390. I can't put into words why, just my general impression.
 
I have some experience with elmax and m390 and IMHO they are both very good steels
You can't go wrong with either

I am not an expert but m4 seems to be very attractive
Maybe you can decide based on there corrosion resistance and blade colours since it seems that there is where the main differences will be
 
I have experience with the Elmax version, and I recently got one of the KSF dealer exclusive M4 ones. I haven't really put the M4 one to much use yet.

For the stuff you described, you're not likely to notice much difference. If you don't do regular or occasional touch-ups, the M390 and M4 should hold an edge a bit longer than Elmax. Elmax is still going to have better edge retention than your Skyline (assuming you got one of the standard models with 14C28N, which is already a pretty good blade steel).

Personally, I would go for either the M4 or M390 version, just because... But I have never found my Elmax 0770CF lacking.

One other note... The CF used on the M4 is different than the earlier 0770CF's (although it's possible that they've standardized on the newer CF now). Here's a shot of my early'ish 0770CF and my 0770CFM4 that shows the different CF. The one on the M4 version definitely has a more uniform pattern.

ZT0770CFM4_0770CF_sn_800x537.jpg


ZT0770CF_CFM4_cf_pattern_compare_800x500.jpg
 
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Both are superb steels. M4 is not a stainless steel, hence the coating on the blade to help protect it from any rust or corrosion issues you may encounter. It all boils down to if you prefer a coated blade or the stonewash blade.
 
If price is a consideration, get the original Elmax version. If it's not, get all three. ;) :D
 
bld522 said:
If price is a consideration, get the original Elmax version. If it's not, get all three. ;) :D
Click to expand...

Problem solved! Lol. I wish I could get all three at once, though the wife might get a little upset if I show up on Valentine's Day with three ZT's and some ramen noodles!
 
Ajack60 said:
Both are superb steels. M4 is not a stainless steel, hence the coating on the blade to help protect it from any rust or corrosion issues you may encounter. It all boils down to if you prefer a coated blade or the stonewash blade.
Click to expand...

Good info. I didn't know that about the M4. That has me leaning towards the M390. I knew this place was useful!
 
flarp said:
I have experience with the Elmax version, and I recently got one of the KSF dealer exclusive M4 ones. I haven't really put the M4 one to much use yet.

For the stuff you described, you're not likely to notice much difference. If you don't do regular or occasional touch-ups, the M390 and M4 should hold an edge a bit longer than Elmax. Elmax is still going to have better edge retention than your Skyline (assuming you got one of the standard models with 14C28N, which is already a pretty good blade steel).

Personally, I would go for either the M4 or M390 version, just because... But I have never found my Elmax 0770CF lacking.

One other note... The CF used on the M4 is different than the earlier 0770CF's (although it's possible that they've standardized on the newer CF now). Here's a shot of my early'ish 0770CF and my 0770CFM4 that shows the different CF. The one on the M4 version definitely has a more uniform pattern.

ZT0770CFM4_0770CF_sn_800x537.jpg


ZT0770CF_CFM4_cf_pattern_compare_800x500.jpg
Click to expand...

Interesting how the CF is different. I think I'm going to go with the M390. I'll take some pictures after I get it and post them to see if it's different too.
 
I have all three ... all are good steels IMO ... the M4 KSF exclusive it a gorgeous knife but the coating will show wear over time if that matters to you and the M390 or Elmax have better stainless properties and are stonewashed wont show tiny scuffs and scratches as easily as a black coated blade. So all I can offer is to think about how you'll use it and what may fit your needs best and if there aren't any factors to pick one that way ... buy the one that is most appealing to you. You can't go wrong I love all of them the 770 has become one of my favorite EDCs lately. Hope you love whichever you decide to get.
 
The elmax version of this knife was my first "expensive" knife as well. I love it! Best looking ZT blade IMO. I've been very happy with the elmax steel and have no complaints. I use it for similar things as you. I'd get whatever one you can find the best deal on.
 
The best steel is the one can easily resharpen. Doesn't matter which you choose, if you use the knife, eventually it will get dull. I'd rather have sharp 440 than dull s110v in my pocket.

So if you go for m390 I'd also suggest picking up some diamond stones. :thumbup:
 
Moxy said:
The best steel is the one can easily resharpen. Doesn't matter which you choose, if you use the knife, eventually it will get dull. I'd rather have sharp 440 than dull s110v in my pocket.

So if you go for m390 I'd also suggest picking up some diamond stones. :thumbup:
Click to expand...

Took the words right out of my mouth! You might even consider getting an edge pro or for faster results, a work sharp. M390 is especially stubborn to get a good edge on.
 
draggat said:
Took the words right out of my mouth! You might even consider getting an edge pro or for faster results, a work sharp. M390 is especially stubborn to get a good edge on.
Click to expand...

So it will give my Lansky 5 stone system a run for its money, huh?!? I like a good challenge!
 
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I used to have the Lansky 5 ceramic stone system. I thought it performed very well for the money. But I did buy a coarse diamond stone for use on very wear resistant steels.
 
I would say the Elmax version will fit your needs just fine!
 
So I ended up choosing the Elmax. For what I use it for, the Elmax will handle with no problem, plus it was $40 bucks cheaper! I just placed the order and I should have it by Monday. I'm super stoked on my first ZT purchase! I'll be sure to come back and post pictures when it comes in!!!
 
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