When you want to build a custom knife, you’ll find that there are a number of ways to go about it. You can choose to buy a pre-made knife from a reputable company like Maxamet, Cold Steel, AISI D2, or Ohta, or you can try your hand at making it from scratch. Regardless of the path you take, you’ll end up with a high-quality knife that will be a worthy addition to your collection.
AISI D2
D2 tool steel has been a staple in the knife industry for many years. It is a versatile air hardening tool steel that offers excellent toughness and wear resistance. Many different applications utilize this steel, including shear knives, slitting cutters, planer blades, food processing knives and more.
Because of its high Chromium content, D2 provides good corrosion resistance. But it isn’t as tough as lower alloyed steels. To improve the toughness of your knife, consider other stainless steels that offer increased wear resistance.
AISI D2 is one of the most widely used knife steels in the world. It is also known as Hitachi SLD, Uddeholm Sverker 21, SKD11 and 1.2379.
CPM-D2
Known for its durability and resistance to rust, D2 is a great tool steel to use for making a knife. While it is not stainless steel, it is durable enough to withstand even the most extreme abrasion.
The chromium content of D2 allows it to offer slightly better corrosion resistance than other tool steels. In addition, its high carbon content provides for excellent hardness and wear resistance.
D2 has been used in knives for decades. Many companies have been experimenting with the properties of this material. Some have gone the coating route and others have used powdered steel to further improve the microstructure.
Maxamet
D2 tool steel is a popular steel for knives. It is a high carbon, high chromium steel that provides a hard, sharp edge for many years. The chromium content makes it rust-resistant and durable.
Many reputable knifemakers use D2 in their blades. For instance, CRKT makes two versions of the D2 folder. One version has a full flat back to the spine. Another version is shaped a bit more rounded.
This is a good steel for EDC knives. It is inexpensive and has premium qualities. However, if you are looking for a long-term knife, you may want to consider other materials.
Cowry-X
D2 is a common steel used in many knives. Typically, it has a hardness of around 61 HRC. This high level of carbon makes it an ideal material for cutting through thick materials.
It also offers good edge retention and wear resistance. However, there are dozens of steels that can rival or outshine it. The best knife for you depends on a number of factors, including what you need the knife for and the conditions you expect to use it.
The best blades for the job are often those with a wider edge and a more complex shape. They are made with a variety of handle materials, which help to make the blade distinctively individualized.
Ohta Knives
Ohta Knives is a Japanese company that is known for producing high quality knives with simple, yet functional designs. The company has been in operation since 1898 and its founder is Hiroaki Ohta.
D2 tool steel is one of the most commonly used steels in knife production. It’s an air-hardened high-carbon composition that offers both toughness and wear resistance. Some knife makers use it for its superior stain resistance.
This blade is a drop point design, providing a great cutting edge. It’s made from D2 tool steel with a black oxide finish. It also has a stainless steel pin and a lanyard hole. A flat leather slip case is included for easy carrying.
Cold Steel Leatherneck-SF
D2 tool steel is a common choice for knives. With its high Chromium content, it provides excellent wear resistance. It also has excellent corrosion resistance.
D2 can be used in a variety of knife styles. You can find clip points, tantos, fixed blades, and even folders. Most of these knives can be found at a reasonable price.
German D2 tool steel has a reputation for excellent sharpness retention. Using this steel for knives can be a great way to add a rugged edge to your next outdoor adventure. In fact, many factories and custom makers use D2 to make rugged knives for hunting or other outdoorsy activities.