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What makes a quality knife blade?

I am an outdoor enthusiast, and I am looking for a somewhat large knife. It might classify as a dagger, somewhere around 17-23 inches in total length. I don't know much about steel products so I am looking for a blade that will handle heave use on mainly wood and animals. I would like to know what makes one knife better than another in terms of blade quality and hardness.

Thank you for the help.

Caleb Rector
- Harrisonville, Missouri, USA
2002

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2002

I don't have an answer to your question but I have a related question and I'm hoping it can be answered by the same person(s). See #18520 posted on December 13. My question is; which is better, a carving set made with 440 steel or 12C27 steel?

Rene Matthew
- Novato, California, USA

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2002

Hi Caleb and Rene,

in my viewpoint 440c stainless with a rockwell hardness of 56-58 is the best choice for either application. For edge knives used for general outdoor purposes such as skinning, hacking, carving,this type of stainless holds its edge extremely well and does not discolor or rust. Caleb you might pick up a copy of "Blade" magazine for more information on knives using this type of metal.

From an appearance standpoint Rene, again 440 stainless cutlery polished to a fine surface is very attractive and will not rust like carbon steel knife sets and will provide many years of service.

Hope this helps, Dave

David Vinson
Metal Arts Specialties - Leonard, Michigan

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I'm looking into getting a knife that can do pretty well in all circumstances. From research I've found some AUS8 blades that seem pretty good. The knife in particular I'm looking at is the CRKT M16-13T. Also I've found that the SOG Pentagon Elite. It may be a little to militaristic though. Maybe someone can help clarify whether or not this is a good blade.
Thanks.

Garrison Lundberg
USN - Norfolk, Virginia, USA
2005

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February 19, 2012

Will high carbon 440c stainless steel resist salt water? I am a knife maker and someone wants a knife for lobster trapping and clamming.
Thanks,
Randy

Randy Porter
- Wahoo, Nebraska USA