There are a lot of different types and properties of steel. While these properties are important, it’s a good idea to look at the overall balance, fit and finish of your knife and how the steel performs when you cut.
This is something that many websites, blogs, and writers miss out on when discussing blades. They are all too focused on the properties of steel, and they overlook the balance, fit, finish, geometry, accessories, service, and design of a knife.
Hardness
There are a lot of different things that can affect the hardness and toughness of a knife. For example, it can be very hard and chip and crack easily, or it can be very soft and brittle and not hold its edge for long.
What makes a steel harder is how much carbon it has. In addition, it can also have a lot of other elements like nickel and chromium added to increase its strength and hardness.
This hardening process is called heat treating or quenching. It is a critical part of the process for knife steels to be as hard as possible and to have optimum toughness.
Corrosion Resistance
Corrosion is a natural process that occurs when metals are exposed to corrosive elements like water or air. In these environments the metal reacts with oxygen and produces oxides (rusting in iron) and sulfides or hydroxides that degrade and disintegrate the metal starting from a small part of the metal and spreading to the entire piece of steel.
To prevent corrosion, many steels are alloyed with additional elements, such as chromium. When this element is added, it forms a thin and adherent oxide film on the surface of the steel that reduces the corrosion rate dramatically.
In addition to chromium, nickel is also an important alloying element in stainless steels. This combination provides both corrosion resistance and ductility, which is necessary for cutting tools.
Finish
When you are looking at a knife, one of the first things that you will notice is its finish. A finished blade has a good, sharp edge and looks nice.
The finish on a knife can also be an indicator of how well made it is. A high quality knife will have a bolster on it, which is a thick, hard part of the blade that gives it balance and a little weight.
The other thing that you will notice on a good knife is that it is balanced and has a nice grip. Often you will see that the tang runs all the way down the handle of the knife, which is a sign that it is made with a full tang.
Weight
The weight of your knife can play a significant role in how it handles, as well as how it performs. A lighter knife is easier to carry and will allow you to handle it with more confidence.
It is important to note that a knife’s weight will vary based on its dimensions and weight-bearing material. For example, a folding knife will typically be very light and easy to carry, while a fixed blade will be heavier.
When it comes to steel, there are three main types: Carbon, Alloy, and Stainless Steel. Each type has a different combination of elements that contribute to its hardness, strength, and corrosion resistance.
If you’re looking to purchase a new knife, it’s best to know what type of steel it is. This can help you find the right knife for your needs and budget.