If you are looking to buy an EDC pocket knife, then you’re going to want to make sure that you choose one with the best steel. Not only is this going to help you maintain the sharpness of the blade, but it will also be more durable. Ultimately, it will save you time and money in the long run.
Solingen Steel
If you are searching for the best steel for an EDC (Everyday Carry) pocket knife, there are many options available. But before you start shopping, you need to know the differences between the various kinds of steels. In addition to that, you should also think about how you plan to use your knife.
If you’re looking for a knife that can withstand corrosion, you should look for a high-quality knife made from stainless steel. Another type of steel you can consider is tool steel.
Tool steel is a steel that has been used in a number of countries for a long time. These steels are specially alloyed, which allows them to have high wear resistance. However, they are not as rust-resistant as stainless steel.
440C
The best steel for EDC pocket knife isn’t necessarily the hardest or the heaviest. It depends on how you’ll use your blade. If you plan on using it outdoors, then you may be looking for a tougher material.
There are plenty of choices out there. This includes steel, plastic, glass, and synthetic carbon compounds. But the best steel for an EDC pocket knife is one that performs well in terms of toughness, edge retention, and corrosion resistance.
While all steel is not created equal, 440C stainless steel is a good all-around choice. The chromium content helps it resist corrosion, while the carbon content keeps it from wearing out.
ZDP-189
The ZDP-189 stainless steel is one of the most popular folding pocket knife in the market. It offers excellent cutting performance and wear resistance. However, it is not immune to corrosion. You need to follow a basic maintenance routine to keep it rust free.
This high performance steel is made of a combination of 3% Carbon, 20% Chromium, and Tungsten. These ingredients produce an excellent hardness range, which is typically run at 65-67HRC.
Tool steels were originally used to make industrial tool bits. They’re not as tough as stainless steels, but they can provide excellent edge retention.
For a more budget-friendly option, you could opt for 8Cr13MoV. In fact, this is the steel that has reduced the prices of everyday carry knives.
VG-10
There are a number of different steels that you can choose from for your EDC pocket knife. The best steel is one that will last and be easy to sharpen. It will also be able to withstand rust and chipping.
VG-10 is a high-end stainless steel with excellent machinability. Many knife makers use this steel because of its strong corrosion resistance. VG-10 knives are also very sharp. However, this is a relatively brittle steel and may be susceptible to chipping.
VG-10 is largely a Japanese product, but some manufacturers have begun to introduce it into the American market. While not as tough as other steels, it is still very machinable. In fact, many utility knives and outdoor knives are made of VG-10.
Elmax
Elmax is a high carbon alloy steel with a great wear resistance and corrosion resistant properties. It’s a good choice for knives. This steel is perfect for outdoor survival knives.
In addition to its excellent wear and corrosion resistance, it also has good edge retention. You can expect your Elmax knife to last for a long time, with no need for frequent sharpening. The best part is that it is easier to maintain than other types of stainless steel.
Elmax has a high carbon content of 1.7%. In addition to this, it contains 0.8% silicon and 1% molybdenum. These elements boost its strength and machinability.
Damascus
If you’re in the market for an EDC (Every Day Carry) pocket knife, you’ll definitely want to check out Damascus steel. These are knives that have been made with high-quality steel and are known to be durable. However, you’ll need to know a few things about them before purchasing.
Besides being known for its durability and strength, Damascus steel is also a relatively easy to maintain blade. It does not require special care and can even be oiled from time to time to protect it from corrosion.
The blade of a Damascus knife has a unique wavy pattern. This is a result of the process that blacksmiths go through to create the blade. Essentially, they fold two different types of steel into a pattern that resembles a twisted star.