Information Resource: Bushcraft Knife Steel Guide - Performance vs. Practicality
Product Opportunity Analysis:
1. Identified Need/Problem: The Reddit discussion "Bushcraft/Survival Knife Steel Geeks" highlights a significant need for clarity and guidance in choosing the right knife steels for bushcraft and survival. Enthusiasts, including self-proclaimed "gear snobs," are struggling with the trade-offs between high-performance "super steels" (which are often expensive and offer excellent edge retention but can be hard to sharpen in the field and less tough) and more traditional, tougher, and easier-to-sharpen steels. There's a lot of confusion about value for money (like questioning a $300-$400 knife), the relative importance of edge retention versus toughness, and the practicalities of field maintenance for different steel types. Users are actively studying and debating these points, showing a clear demand for expert, consolidated information.
2. Specific Actionable Product Recommendation:
Product: "The Bushcrafter's Definitive Guide to Knife Steels: Performance, Practicality, and Price"
Format: A comprehensive information resource, delivered through multiple channels for maximum reach and engagement:
- Core Ebook/Digital Guide: A detailed, well-researched publication.
- Content:
- Steel Fundamentals Demystified: Easy-to-understand explanations of steel properties (hardness, toughness, wear resistance, corrosion resistance, sharpenability) specifically contextualized for bushcraft applications (e.g., "what toughness means when batoning wood").
- Common Bushcraft Steels Profiled: In-depth analysis of popular choices like 1095, A2, O1, Sandvik steels (e.g., 12C27, 14C28N), VG-10, D2, CPM 3V, S35VN, Magnacut, etc. Include pros, cons, typical applications, and field maintenance considerations for each.
- The "Super Steel" Debate: A balanced look at high-carbon stainless and exotic alloy steels – when they excel, when they might be overkill or impractical for field use.
- Task-Specific Steel Selection: Guidance on choosing steels based on primary tasks (e.g., fine carving, heavy wood processing, food prep, emergency scenarios).
- Field Sharpening Guide: Techniques and recommended portable tools for various steel types, addressing the common concern about sharpening modern, harder steels in the backcountry.
- Cost vs. Value Analysis: Helping users understand price points and what they are paying for, enabling them to make informed decisions aligned with their budget and actual needs (avoiding "bragging rights" purchases if not practical).
- Heat Treatment & Geometry: Briefly explaining how these factors, beyond just steel type, impact performance.
- Myth Busting: Addressing common misconceptions about knife steels. * Supplementary Online Resource (Website/Blog Section): Key chapters or summaries published online, including quick-reference comparison charts, FAQs, and user-submitted questions/experiences. * Video Series (Optional Enhancement): Short videos demonstrating sharpening techniques for different steels, visual explanations of steel properties (e.g., showing flexibility vs. brittleness concepts), and interviews with experienced bushcrafters or knife makers discussing their steel choices.
- Content:
3. Expected Benefits/Returns:
-
For the User:
- Empowered Decision-Making: Users can confidently select knives with steel properties that best match their specific bushcraft style, skill level, and budget.
- Optimized Field Performance: Choosing the right steel leads to better tool performance, reduced frustration (e.g., from a constantly dulling edge or a chipped blade), and increased safety.
- Cost Efficiency: Users can avoid overspending on "super steels" if their needs are better met by more affordable, easier-to-maintain options, or understand when the investment in a premium steel is justified.
- Improved Maintenance Skills: The guide will enhance their ability to maintain their knives effectively in the field.
- Reduced "Gear Fear": Alleviates anxiety about choosing the "wrong" knife by providing clear, unbiased information.
-
For the Creator/Business (Monetization & Impact):
- Direct Revenue: Sales of the ebook/digital guide. Premium access to the video series or an ad-free version of the online resources.
- Affiliate Marketing Income: Ethically curated links to recommended knives, sharpening tools, and related gear from reputable vendors. Given the context of users considering $300-$400 purchases, even a small percentage affiliate commission can be significant.
- Authority and Credibility: Establishes the creator as an expert in the bushcraft gear niche, potentially leading to other opportunities (e.g., sponsored content, workshops, consultations).
- High Engagement & Audience Building: The topic is clearly one of passionate interest within the bushcraft community, promising good engagement with the content and potential for building a loyal audience/community.
- Solves a Real Problem: Addresses a tangible pain point for a dedicated user group, ensuring market relevance. The discussion shows a "strong interest topic."
Origin Reddit Post
r/bushcraft
Bushcraft/Survival Knife Steel Geeks
Posted by u/alankcooper•06/02/2025
I am a fellow who like go on long distance canoe trips and occasional backpacking. I admit to sometimes being an equipment/gear snob. Recently, I have been studying bushcraft/survival knive
Top Comments
u/Jester_8407
I'm a budget kinda guy but for knives I'm more of a steel snob these days (but not to the extent of some others lol)
The real world effect of steel quality largely comes down to how likely i
u/securitybreach
It's only about $60 bucks or so but well worth it.
u/spideroncoffein
Take a knife you are willing to abuse, because sometimes that is necessary. I'd rather have a 440C that I use than an adamantium decoration piece.
Hell, my favourite outdoor knife is 420C (n
u/Steakfrie
I only need to rationalize where $300-$400 could be better spent and quickly recall what my current knives have accomplished. My old knives make it very easy to pass on boutique blades design
u/PoopSmith87
See, I find that what I call the "combat knife" size of knives (6 to 9 inches) is really niche and not very useful for work or outdoors hobbies. Imo, you want a knife to be strong but small e
u/NotEvenNothing
No. IMO, it's the opposite. Clearly, OP's Spidey senses are telling him this is a bad use of resources.
Saving the good steel for a knife you use everyday is a better idea. If OP doesn't al
u/securitybreach
Yeah, its a shame everything has skyrocketed in the last 5 years. Hell even milsurp is stupidly expensive for used gear.
u/WeekSecret3391
I'd rater have an easy to sharpen knife for a long time in the wood than one with a too good of a steel. I also prefer toughness over edge retention because it's better to have a temporarily
u/thekinslayer7x
As someone who's been collecting, using, and abusing knives for years, i really think that toughness is more useful than edge retention. Eventually, something is going to make a knife dull. R
u/oh_three_dum_dum
While super steels are nice and can deliver some great benefits over simple carbon steel, the one thing I have an issue with when thinking about taking knives like that to the field is ease o
u/thekinslayer7x
As someone who's been collecting, using, and abusing knives for years, i really think that toughness is more useful than edge retention. Eventually, something is going to make a knife dull. R
u/Useful_Potato_Vibes
As you just put it yourself, bushcraft is one thing and gear snobbery is another. It seems you'd just buy that $400 blade just for sake of it, bushcraft or not.
u/NotEvenNothing
No. IMO, it's the opposite. Clearly, OP's Spidey senses are telling him this is a bad use of resources.
Saving the good steel for a knife you use everyday is a better idea. If OP doesn't al
u/Sharpshaver7
If you know how to sharpen in the field and keep your knife dry it doesn't really matter. You also don't need super steel if you use it like a normal knife.
Corrosion resistance is nice benef
u/Sweets1995
3V is the way 😁
u/Steakfrie
I only need to rationalize where $300-$400 could be better spent and quickly recall what my current knives have accomplished. My old knives make it very easy to pass on boutique blades design
u/Forge_Le_Femme
There's a good reason why Bushcraft knives tend to shy away from super steels. Simple high carbon steels, unlike super steels, easily resharpen in the field.. super steels take MUCH more work
u/musicplqyingdude
I love 1095 steel it is tough and holds a decent edge. It's easy to sharpen when it gets dull. My go to knife is an Esse 5. I have owned it for years and it has saved my ass more than once.
u/oh_three_dum_dum
While super steels are nice and can deliver some great benefits over simple carbon steel, the one thing I have an issue with when thinking about taking knives like that to the field is ease o
u/thekinslayer7x
As someone who's been collecting, using, and abusing knives for years, i really think that toughness is more useful than edge retention. Eventually, something is going to make a knife dull. R
u/bikumz
There’s a point where return on investment isn’t worth much more than bragging rights. As you get better steels you’re gonna need a better sharpening system.
Most of us are not staying out
u/bikumz
There’s a point where return on investment isn’t worth much more than bragging rights. As you get better steels you’re gonna need a better sharpening system.
Most of us are not staying out
u/demwoodz
Skrama and a bps is all you can ever need
u/securitybreach
It's only about $60 bucks or so but well worth it.
u/bikumz
I miss the days when the bushlore was sub 40 dollars. I think 40for micarta and 32 for wood handle.
u/Unicorn187
When did 3V become a super steel? It's a very tough carbon steel that doesn't rust as easily as 80crov2.
u/cheebalibra
I’ve got the BPS adventurer and love it. But for canoeing I’d think more stainless. The carbon steel is going to require more maintenance around moisture.
u/Jinky_P
If you want it, get it. Personally I use a Mora Kansbol for most of my bushcrafting, but I have a cheap 30 dollar Amazon knife that I use for batoning. I would love the added security of a hi
u/musicplqyingdude
I love 1095 steel it is tough and holds a decent edge. It's easy to sharpen when it gets dull. My go to knife is an Esse 5. I have owned it for years and it has saved my ass more than once.
u/bikumz
There’s a point where return on investment isn’t worth much more than bragging rights. As you get better steels you’re gonna need a better sharpening system.
Most of us are not staying out
u/Bakedeggss
When in doubt buy Mora
u/securitybreach
I've been using my Condor Bushlore Knife for a few years now and I love it. I also have the KA-BAR Becker BK2 but its heavy as shit. Condor link [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002CC6BPM/?coliid=
u/Forge_Le_Femme
There's a good reason why Bushcraft knives tend to shy away from super steels. Simple high carbon steels, unlike super steels, easily resharpen in the field.. super steels take MUCH more work
u/derch1981
Sometimes the cheaper knives are actually better in the field because they are easier to maintain. Super steels are not all that popular in bushcraft communities. In bushcradt people use
u/thekinslayer7x
As someone who's been collecting, using, and abusing knives for years, i really think that toughness is more useful than edge retention. Eventually, something is going to make a knife dull. R
u/thekinslayer7x
As someone who's been collecting, using, and abusing knives for years, i really think that toughness is more useful than edge retention. Eventually, something is going to make a knife dull. R
u/Sharpshaver7
If you know how to sharpen in the field and keep your knife dry it doesn't really matter. You also don't need super steel if you use it like a normal knife.
Corrosion resistance is nice benef
u/Jinky_P
If you want it, get it. Personally I use a Mora Kansbol for most of my bushcrafting, but I have a cheap 30 dollar Amazon knife that I use for batoning. I would love the added security of a hi
u/Fifteen_inches
This is your sign to buy it and bring both.
u/NotEvenNothing
No. IMO, it's the opposite. Clearly, OP's Spidey senses are telling him this is a bad use of resources.
Saving the good steel for a knife you use everyday is a better idea. If OP doesn't al
u/Steakfrie
I only need to rationalize where $300-$400 could be better spent and quickly recall what my current knives have accomplished. My old knives make it very easy to pass on boutique blades design
u/Fifteen_inches
This is your sign to buy it and bring both.
u/PoopSmith87
See, I find that what I call the "combat knife" size of knives (6 to 9 inches) is really niche and not very useful for work or outdoors hobbies. Imo, you want a knife to be strong but small e
u/Sharpshaver7
If you know how to sharpen in the field and keep your knife dry it doesn't really matter. You also don't need super steel if you use it like a normal knife.
Corrosion resistance is nice benef
u/Useful_Potato_Vibes
As you just put it yourself, bushcraft is one thing and gear snobbery is another. It seems you'd just buy that $400 blade just for sake of it, bushcraft or not.
u/cheebalibra
I’ve got the BPS adventurer and love it. But for canoeing I’d think more stainless. The carbon steel is going to require more maintenance around moisture.
u/Unicorn187
When did 3V become a super steel? It's a very tough carbon steel that doesn't rust as easily as 80crov2.
u/securitybreach
I've been using my Condor Bushlore Knife for a few years now and I love it. I also have the KA-BAR Becker BK2 but its heavy as shit. Condor link [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002CC6BPM/?coliid=
u/Bakedeggss
When in doubt buy Mora
u/Femveratu
BPS is seriously slept on. I now own several and they are among my sharpest most used knives for carving and bush crafting. I do own a couple Bark River 3V type knives, but between BPS and
u/Sweets1995
3V is the way 😁
u/PoopSmith87
See, I find that what I call the "combat knife" size of knives (6 to 9 inches) is really niche and not very useful for work or outdoors hobbies. Imo, you want a knife to be strong but small e
u/oh_three_dum_dum
While super steels are nice and can deliver some great benefits over simple carbon steel, the one thing I have an issue with when thinking about taking knives like that to the field is ease o
u/musicplqyingdude
I love 1095 steel it is tough and holds a decent edge. It's easy to sharpen when it gets dull. My go to knife is an Esse 5. I have owned it for years and it has saved my ass more than once.
u/Fifteen_inches
This is your sign to buy it and bring both.
u/Jester_8407
I'm a budget kinda guy but for knives I'm more of a steel snob these days (but not to the extent of some others lol)
The real world effect of steel quality largely comes down to how likely i
u/mrRabblerouser
First of all, a 6” blade is overkill and can be cumbersome for most bushcraft tasks. Also, super steels are pretty overrated because you can find blades with CPM 154, N690, AEBL, and 14c that
u/mrRabblerouser
First of all, a 6” blade is overkill and can be cumbersome for most bushcraft tasks. Also, super steels are pretty overrated because you can find blades with CPM 154, N690, AEBL, and 14c that
u/oh_three_dum_dum
While super steels are nice and can deliver some great benefits over simple carbon steel, the one thing I have an issue with when thinking about taking knives like that to the field is ease o
u/Useful_Potato_Vibes
As you just put it yourself, bushcraft is one thing and gear snobbery is another. It seems you'd just buy that $400 blade just for sake of it, bushcraft or not.
u/spideroncoffein
Take a knife you are willing to abuse, because sometimes that is necessary. I'd rather have a 440C that I use than an adamantium decoration piece.
Hell, my favourite outdoor knife is 420C (n
u/Sweets1995
3V is the way 😁
u/oh_three_dum_dum
While super steels are nice and can deliver some great benefits over simple carbon steel, the one thing I have an issue with when thinking about taking knives like that to the field is ease o
u/cheebalibra
I’ve got the BPS adventurer and love it. But for canoeing I’d think more stainless. The carbon steel is going to require more maintenance around moisture.
u/Steakfrie
I only need to rationalize where $300-$400 could be better spent and quickly recall what my current knives have accomplished. My old knives make it very easy to pass on boutique blades design
u/bikumz
There’s a point where return on investment isn’t worth much more than bragging rights. As you get better steels you’re gonna need a better sharpening system.
Most of us are not staying out
u/Useful_Potato_Vibes
As you just put it yourself, bushcraft is one thing and gear snobbery is another. It seems you'd just buy that $400 blade just for sake of it, bushcraft or not.
u/NotEvenNothing
No. IMO, it's the opposite. Clearly, OP's Spidey senses are telling him this is a bad use of resources.
Saving the good steel for a knife you use everyday is a better idea. If OP doesn't al
u/Jester_8407
I'm a budget kinda guy but for knives I'm more of a steel snob these days (but not to the extent of some others lol)
The real world effect of steel quality largely comes down to how likely i
u/Bakedeggss
When in doubt buy Mora
u/demwoodz
Skrama and a bps is all you can ever need
u/Jinky_P
If you want it, get it. Personally I use a Mora Kansbol for most of my bushcrafting, but I have a cheap 30 dollar Amazon knife that I use for batoning. I would love the added security of a hi
u/capt-bob
The reason to buy one is because you want one. Like wanting something nice. People got by with flint, brass blades and cheap carbon blades, and just spent time maintaining them. If you want
u/demwoodz
Skrama and a bps is all you can ever need
u/bikumz
There’s a point where return on investment isn’t worth much more than bragging rights. As you get better steels you’re gonna need a better sharpening system.
Most of us are not staying out
u/bikumz
There’s a point where return on investment isn’t worth much more than bragging rights. As you get better steels you’re gonna need a better sharpening system.
Most of us are not staying out
u/Sharpshaver7
If you know how to sharpen in the field and keep your knife dry it doesn't really matter. You also don't need super steel if you use it like a normal knife.
Corrosion resistance is nice benef
u/Sharpshaver7
If you know how to sharpen in the field and keep your knife dry it doesn't really matter. You also don't need super steel if you use it like a normal knife.
Corrosion resistance is nice benef
u/Forge_Le_Femme
There's a good reason why Bushcraft knives tend to shy away from super steels. Simple high carbon steels, unlike super steels, easily resharpen in the field.. super steels take MUCH more work
u/securitybreach
I've been using my Condor Bushlore Knife for a few years now and I love it. I also have the KA-BAR Becker BK2 but its heavy as shit. Condor link [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002CC6BPM/?coliid=
u/Fifteen_inches
This is your sign to buy it and bring both.
u/Femveratu
BPS is seriously slept on. I now own several and they are among my sharpest most used knives for carving and bush crafting. I do own a couple Bark River 3V type knives, but between BPS and
u/Jester_8407
I'm a budget kinda guy but for knives I'm more of a steel snob these days (but not to the extent of some others lol)
The real world effect of steel quality largely comes down to how likely i
u/Useful_Potato_Vibes
As you just put it yourself, bushcraft is one thing and gear snobbery is another. It seems you'd just buy that $400 blade just for sake of it, bushcraft or not.
u/derch1981
Sometimes the cheaper knives are actually better in the field because they are easier to maintain. Super steels are not all that popular in bushcraft communities. In bushcradt people use
u/WeekSecret3391
I'd rater have an easy to sharpen knife for a long time in the wood than one with a too good of a steel. I also prefer toughness over edge retention because it's better to have a temporarily
u/capt-bob
The reason to buy one is because you want one. Like wanting something nice. People got by with flint, brass blades and cheap carbon blades, and just spent time maintaining them. If you want
u/WeekSecret3391
I'd rater have an easy to sharpen knife for a long time in the wood than one with a too good of a steel. I also prefer toughness over edge retention because it's better to have a temporarily
u/capt-bob
The reason to buy one is because you want one. Like wanting something nice. People got by with flint, brass blades and cheap carbon blades, and just spent time maintaining them. If you want
u/cheebalibra
I’ve got the BPS adventurer and love it. But for canoeing I’d think more stainless. The carbon steel is going to require more maintenance around moisture.
u/demwoodz
Skrama and a bps is all you can ever need
u/demwoodz
Skrama and a bps is all you can ever need
u/WeekSecret3391
I'd rater have an easy to sharpen knife for a long time in the wood than one with a too good of a steel. I also prefer toughness over edge retention because it's better to have a temporarily
u/Sharpshaver7
If you know how to sharpen in the field and keep your knife dry it doesn't really matter. You also don't need super steel if you use it like a normal knife.
Corrosion resistance is nice benef
u/derch1981
Sometimes the cheaper knives are actually better in the field because they are easier to maintain. Super steels are not all that popular in bushcraft communities. In bushcradt people use
u/demwoodz
Skrama and a bps is all you can ever need
u/musicplqyingdude
I love 1095 steel it is tough and holds a decent edge. It's easy to sharpen when it gets dull. My go to knife is an Esse 5. I have owned it for years and it has saved my ass more than once.
u/Forge_Le_Femme
There's a good reason why Bushcraft knives tend to shy away from super steels. Simple high carbon steels, unlike super steels, easily resharpen in the field.. super steels take MUCH more work
u/capt-bob
The reason to buy one is because you want one. Like wanting something nice. People got by with flint, brass blades and cheap carbon blades, and just spent time maintaining them. If you want
u/spideroncoffein
Take a knife you are willing to abuse, because sometimes that is necessary. I'd rather have a 440C that I use than an adamantium decoration piece.
Hell, my favourite outdoor knife is 420C (n
u/Bakedeggss
When in doubt buy Mora
u/PoopSmith87
See, I find that what I call the "combat knife" size of knives (6 to 9 inches) is really niche and not very useful for work or outdoors hobbies. Imo, you want a knife to be strong but small e
u/WeekSecret3391
I'd rater have an easy to sharpen knife for a long time in the wood than one with a too good of a steel. I also prefer toughness over edge retention because it's better to have a temporarily
u/Useful_Potato_Vibes
As you just put it yourself, bushcraft is one thing and gear snobbery is another. It seems you'd just buy that $400 blade just for sake of it, bushcraft or not.
u/mrRabblerouser
First of all, a 6” blade is overkill and can be cumbersome for most bushcraft tasks. Also, super steels are pretty overrated because you can find blades with CPM 154, N690, AEBL, and 14c that
u/derch1981
Sometimes the cheaper knives are actually better in the field because they are easier to maintain. Super steels are not all that popular in bushcraft communities. In bushcradt people use
u/thekinslayer7x
As someone who's been collecting, using, and abusing knives for years, i really think that toughness is more useful than edge retention. Eventually, something is going to make a knife dull. R
u/Bakedeggss
When in doubt buy Mora
u/Kascket
80crv2 is really good too
u/musicplqyingdude
I love 1095 steel it is tough and holds a decent edge. It's easy to sharpen when it gets dull. My go to knife is an Esse 5. I have owned it for years and it has saved my ass more than once.
u/capt-bob
The reason to buy one is because you want one. Like wanting something nice. People got by with flint, brass blades and cheap carbon blades, and just spent time maintaining them. If you want
u/Sweets1995
3V is the way 😁
u/Fifteen_inches
This is your sign to buy it and bring both.
u/NotEvenNothing
No. IMO, it's the opposite. Clearly, OP's Spidey senses are telling him this is a bad use of resources.
Saving the good steel for a knife you use everyday is a better idea. If OP doesn't al
u/PoopSmith87
See, I find that what I call the "combat knife" size of knives (6 to 9 inches) is really niche and not very useful for work or outdoors hobbies. Imo, you want a knife to be strong but small e
u/Femveratu
BPS is seriously slept on. I now own several and they are among my sharpest most used knives for carving and bush crafting. I do own a couple Bark River 3V type knives, but between BPS and
u/Unicorn187
When did 3V become a super steel? It's a very tough carbon steel that doesn't rust as easily as 80crov2.
u/Sharpshaver7
If you know how to sharpen in the field and keep your knife dry it doesn't really matter. You also don't need super steel if you use it like a normal knife.
Corrosion resistance is nice benef
u/Femveratu
BPS is seriously slept on. I now own several and they are among my sharpest most used knives for carving and bush crafting. I do own a couple Bark River 3V type knives, but between BPS and
u/Sweets1995
3V is the way 😁
u/Forge_Le_Femme
There's a good reason why Bushcraft knives tend to shy away from super steels. Simple high carbon steels, unlike super steels, easily resharpen in the field.. super steels take MUCH more work
u/capt-bob
The reason to buy one is because you want one. Like wanting something nice. People got by with flint, brass blades and cheap carbon blades, and just spent time maintaining them. If you want
u/Femveratu
BPS is seriously slept on. I now own several and they are among my sharpest most used knives for carving and bush crafting. I do own a couple Bark River 3V type knives, but between BPS and
u/senior_pickles
The most important item you carry into the woods is your knife. Almost everything you need can be crafted with it. You should go into the woods with the best knife you can afford. This will b
u/thekinslayer7x
As someone who's been collecting, using, and abusing knives for years, i really think that toughness is more useful than edge retention. Eventually, something is going to make a knife dull. R
u/Forge_Le_Femme
There's a good reason why Bushcraft knives tend to shy away from super steels. Simple high carbon steels, unlike super steels, easily resharpen in the field.. super steels take MUCH more work
u/Unicorn187
When did 3V become a super steel? It's a very tough carbon steel that doesn't rust as easily as 80crov2.
u/Jinky_P
If you want it, get it. Personally I use a Mora Kansbol for most of my bushcrafting, but I have a cheap 30 dollar Amazon knife that I use for batoning. I would love the added security of a hi
u/Steakfrie
I only need to rationalize where $300-$400 could be better spent and quickly recall what my current knives have accomplished. My old knives make it very easy to pass on boutique blades design
u/MaterialExcellent987
Served for 8 years in USMC I don’t know one guy in SF that carries a Walmart knife and I know many. We don’t skimp on gear and we can get good quality knives ordered from exchange for good pr
u/spideroncoffein
Take a knife you are willing to abuse, because sometimes that is necessary. I'd rather have a 440C that I use than an adamantium decoration piece.
Hell, my favourite outdoor knife is 420C (n
u/bikumz
There’s a point where return on investment isn’t worth much more than bragging rights. As you get better steels you’re gonna need a better sharpening system.
Most of us are not staying out
u/Femveratu
BPS is seriously slept on. I now own several and they are among my sharpest most used knives for carving and bush crafting. I do own a couple Bark River 3V type knives, but between BPS and
u/Steakfrie
I only need to rationalize where $300-$400 could be better spent and quickly recall what my current knives have accomplished. My old knives make it very easy to pass on boutique blades design
u/NotEvenNothing
No. IMO, it's the opposite. Clearly, OP's Spidey senses are telling him this is a bad use of resources.
Saving the good steel for a knife you use everyday is a better idea. If OP doesn't al
u/securitybreach
I've been using my Condor Bushlore Knife for a few years now and I love it. I also have the KA-BAR Becker BK2 but its heavy as shit. Condor link [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002CC6BPM/?coliid=
u/derch1981
Sometimes the cheaper knives are actually better in the field because they are easier to maintain. Super steels are not all that popular in bushcraft communities. In bushcradt people use
u/Jinky_P
If you want it, get it. Personally I use a Mora Kansbol for most of my bushcrafting, but I have a cheap 30 dollar Amazon knife that I use for batoning. I would love the added security of a hi
u/Useful_Potato_Vibes
As you just put it yourself, bushcraft is one thing and gear snobbery is another. It seems you'd just buy that $400 blade just for sake of it, bushcraft or not.
u/PoopSmith87
See, I find that what I call the "combat knife" size of knives (6 to 9 inches) is really niche and not very useful for work or outdoors hobbies. Imo, you want a knife to be strong but small e
u/WeekSecret3391
I'd rater have an easy to sharpen knife for a long time in the wood than one with a too good of a steel. I also prefer toughness over edge retention because it's better to have a temporarily
u/Jinky_P
If you want it, get it. Personally I use a Mora Kansbol for most of my bushcrafting, but I have a cheap 30 dollar Amazon knife that I use for batoning. I would love the added security of a hi
u/Useful_Potato_Vibes
As you just put it yourself, bushcraft is one thing and gear snobbery is another. It seems you'd just buy that $400 blade just for sake of it, bushcraft or not.
u/securitybreach
I've been using my Condor Bushlore Knife for a few years now and I love it. I also have the KA-BAR Becker BK2 but its heavy as shit. Condor link [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002CC6BPM/?coliid=
u/bikumz
There’s a point where return on investment isn’t worth much more than bragging rights. As you get better steels you’re gonna need a better sharpening system.
Most of us are not staying out
u/cheebalibra
I’ve got the BPS adventurer and love it. But for canoeing I’d think more stainless. The carbon steel is going to require more maintenance around moisture.
u/NotEvenNothing
No. IMO, it's the opposite. Clearly, OP's Spidey senses are telling him this is a bad use of resources.
Saving the good steel for a knife you use everyday is a better idea. If OP doesn't al
u/securitybreach
I've been using my Condor Bushlore Knife for a few years now and I love it. I also have the KA-BAR Becker BK2 but its heavy as shit. Condor link [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002CC6BPM/?coliid=
u/thekinslayer7x
As someone who's been collecting, using, and abusing knives for years, i really think that toughness is more useful than edge retention. Eventually, something is going to make a knife dull. R
u/mrRabblerouser
First of all, a 6” blade is overkill and can be cumbersome for most bushcraft tasks. Also, super steels are pretty overrated because you can find blades with CPM 154, N690, AEBL, and 14c that
u/derch1981
Sometimes the cheaper knives are actually better in the field because they are easier to maintain. Super steels are not all that popular in bushcraft communities. In bushcradt people use
u/capt-bob
The reason to buy one is because you want one. Like wanting something nice. People got by with flint, brass blades and cheap carbon blades, and just spent time maintaining them. If you want
u/Unicorn187
When did 3V become a super steel? It's a very tough carbon steel that doesn't rust as easily as 80crov2.
u/Useful_Potato_Vibes
As you just put it yourself, bushcraft is one thing and gear snobbery is another. It seems you'd just buy that $400 blade just for sake of it, bushcraft or not.
u/bikumz
I miss the days when the bushlore was sub 40 dollars. I think 40for micarta and 32 for wood handle.
u/bikumz
There’s a point where return on investment isn’t worth much more than bragging rights. As you get better steels you’re gonna need a better sharpening system.
Most of us are not staying out
u/musicplqyingdude
I love 1095 steel it is tough and holds a decent edge. It's easy to sharpen when it gets dull. My go to knife is an Esse 5. I have owned it for years and it has saved my ass more than once.
u/thekinslayer7x
As someone who's been collecting, using, and abusing knives for years, i really think that toughness is more useful than edge retention. Eventually, something is going to make a knife dull. R
u/NotEvenNothing
No. IMO, it's the opposite. Clearly, OP's Spidey senses are telling him this is a bad use of resources.
Saving the good steel for a knife you use everyday is a better idea. If OP doesn't al
u/PoopSmith87
See, I find that what I call the "combat knife" size of knives (6 to 9 inches) is really niche and not very useful for work or outdoors hobbies. Imo, you want a knife to be strong but small e
u/securitybreach
Yeah, its a shame everything has skyrocketed in the last 5 years. Hell even milsurp is stupidly expensive for used gear.
u/Femveratu
BPS is seriously slept on. I now own several and they are among my sharpest most used knives for carving and bush crafting. I do own a couple Bark River 3V type knives, but between BPS and
u/cheebalibra
I’ve got the BPS adventurer and love it. But for canoeing I’d think more stainless. The carbon steel is going to require more maintenance around moisture.
u/Steakfrie
I only need to rationalize where $300-$400 could be better spent and quickly recall what my current knives have accomplished. My old knives make it very easy to pass on boutique blades design
u/derch1981
Sometimes the cheaper knives are actually better in the field because they are easier to maintain. Super steels are not all that popular in bushcraft communities. In bushcradt people use
u/derch1981
Sometimes the cheaper knives are actually better in the field because they are easier to maintain. Super steels are not all that popular in bushcraft communities. In bushcradt people use
u/Fifteen_inches
This is your sign to buy it and bring both.
u/Bakedeggss
When in doubt buy Mora
u/Sweets1995
3V is the way 😁
u/mrRabblerouser
First of all, a 6” blade is overkill and can be cumbersome for most bushcraft tasks. Also, super steels are pretty overrated because you can find blades with CPM 154, N690, AEBL, and 14c that
u/mrRabblerouser
First of all, a 6” blade is overkill and can be cumbersome for most bushcraft tasks. Also, super steels are pretty overrated because you can find blades with CPM 154, N690, AEBL, and 14c that
u/Femveratu
BPS is seriously slept on. I now own several and they are among my sharpest most used knives for carving and bush crafting. I do own a couple Bark River 3V type knives, but between BPS and
u/musicplqyingdude
I love 1095 steel it is tough and holds a decent edge. It's easy to sharpen when it gets dull. My go to knife is an Esse 5. I have owned it for years and it has saved my ass more than once.
u/PoopSmith87
See, I find that what I call the "combat knife" size of knives (6 to 9 inches) is really niche and not very useful for work or outdoors hobbies. Imo, you want a knife to be strong but small e
u/securitybreach
I've been using my Condor Bushlore Knife for a few years now and I love it. I also have the KA-BAR Becker BK2 but its heavy as shit. Condor link [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002CC6BPM/?coliid=
u/spideroncoffein
Take a knife you are willing to abuse, because sometimes that is necessary. I'd rather have a 440C that I use than an adamantium decoration piece.
Hell, my favourite outdoor knife is 420C (n
u/oh_three_dum_dum
While super steels are nice and can deliver some great benefits over simple carbon steel, the one thing I have an issue with when thinking about taking knives like that to the field is ease o
u/securitybreach
I've been using my Condor Bushlore Knife for a few years now and I love it. I also have the KA-BAR Becker BK2 but its heavy as shit. Condor link [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002CC6BPM/?coliid=
u/capt-bob
The reason to buy one is because you want one. Like wanting something nice. People got by with flint, brass blades and cheap carbon blades, and just spent time maintaining them. If you want
u/Resident-Welcome3901
Special operators, according to one source, buy their mission knives at Walmart, fabricate a sheath from fabric and duct tape, because it’s a tool and may be damaged or discarded as needed. U
u/WeekSecret3391
I'd rater have an easy to sharpen knife for a long time in the wood than one with a too good of a steel. I also prefer toughness over edge retention because it's better to have a temporarily
u/musicplqyingdude
I love 1095 steel it is tough and holds a decent edge. It's easy to sharpen when it gets dull. My go to knife is an Esse 5. I have owned it for years and it has saved my ass more than once.
u/Jester_8407
I'm a budget kinda guy but for knives I'm more of a steel snob these days (but not to the extent of some others lol)
The real world effect of steel quality largely comes down to how likely i
u/demwoodz
Skrama and a bps is all you can ever need
u/Forge_Le_Femme
There's a good reason why Bushcraft knives tend to shy away from super steels. Simple high carbon steels, unlike super steels, easily resharpen in the field.. super steels take MUCH more work
u/derch1981
Sometimes the cheaper knives are actually better in the field because they are easier to maintain. Super steels are not all that popular in bushcraft communities. In bushcradt people use
u/Steakfrie
I only need to rationalize where $300-$400 could be better spent and quickly recall what my current knives have accomplished. My old knives make it very easy to pass on boutique blades design
u/spideroncoffein
Take a knife you are willing to abuse, because sometimes that is necessary. I'd rather have a 440C that I use than an adamantium decoration piece.
Hell, my favourite outdoor knife is 420C (n
u/Sweets1995
3V is the way 😁
u/Jinky_P
If you want it, get it. Personally I use a Mora Kansbol for most of my bushcrafting, but I have a cheap 30 dollar Amazon knife that I use for batoning. I would love the added security of a hi
u/oh_three_dum_dum
While super steels are nice and can deliver some great benefits over simple carbon steel, the one thing I have an issue with when thinking about taking knives like that to the field is ease o
u/Bakedeggss
When in doubt buy Mora
u/musicplqyingdude
I love 1095 steel it is tough and holds a decent edge. It's easy to sharpen when it gets dull. My go to knife is an Esse 5. I have owned it for years and it has saved my ass more than once.
u/Fifteen_inches
This is your sign to buy it and bring both.
u/Sweets1995
3V is the way 😁
u/Steakfrie
I only need to rationalize where $300-$400 could be better spent and quickly recall what my current knives have accomplished. My old knives make it very easy to pass on boutique blades design
u/thekinslayer7x
As someone who's been collecting, using, and abusing knives for years, i really think that toughness is more useful than edge retention. Eventually, something is going to make a knife dull. R
u/mrRabblerouser
First of all, a 6” blade is overkill and can be cumbersome for most bushcraft tasks. Also, super steels are pretty overrated because you can find blades with CPM 154, N690, AEBL, and 14c that
u/Unicorn187
When did 3V become a super steel? It's a very tough carbon steel that doesn't rust as easily as 80crov2.
u/Fifteen_inches
This is your sign to buy it and bring both.
u/Sharpshaver7
If you know how to sharpen in the field and keep your knife dry it doesn't really matter. You also don't need super steel if you use it like a normal knife.
Corrosion resistance is nice benef
u/oh_three_dum_dum
Different schools of thought. There’s at least one user in here who does some pretty intricate carving with a sort of kukri style knife that’s pretty big and doesn’t look like it would be gre
u/Bakedeggss
When in doubt buy Mora
u/demwoodz
Skrama and a bps is all you can ever need
u/securitybreach
I've been using my Condor Bushlore Knife for a few years now and I love it. I also have the KA-BAR Becker BK2 but its heavy as shit. Condor link [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002CC6BPM/?coliid=
u/Bakedeggss
When in doubt buy Mora
u/Fifteen_inches
This is your sign to buy it and bring both.
u/oh_three_dum_dum
While super steels are nice and can deliver some great benefits over simple carbon steel, the one thing I have an issue with when thinking about taking knives like that to the field is ease o
u/Sweets1995
3V is the way 😁
u/Jester_8407
I'm a budget kinda guy but for knives I'm more of a steel snob these days (but not to the extent of some others lol)
The real world effect of steel quality largely comes down to how likely i
u/NotEvenNothing
No. IMO, it's the opposite. Clearly, OP's Spidey senses are telling him this is a bad use of resources.
Saving the good steel for a knife you use everyday is a better idea. If OP doesn't al
u/derch1981
Sometimes the cheaper knives are actually better in the field because they are easier to maintain. Super steels are not all that popular in bushcraft communities. In bushcradt people use
u/capt-bob
The reason to buy one is because you want one. Like wanting something nice. People got by with flint, brass blades and cheap carbon blades, and just spent time maintaining them. If you want
u/spideroncoffein
Take a knife you are willing to abuse, because sometimes that is necessary. I'd rather have a 440C that I use than an adamantium decoration piece.
Hell, my favourite outdoor knife is 420C (n
u/PoopSmith87
See, I find that what I call the "combat knife" size of knives (6 to 9 inches) is really niche and not very useful for work or outdoors hobbies. Imo, you want a knife to be strong but small e
u/NotEvenNothing
No. IMO, it's the opposite. Clearly, OP's Spidey senses are telling him this is a bad use of resources.
Saving the good steel for a knife you use everyday is a better idea. If OP doesn't al
u/Unicorn187
When did 3V become a super steel? It's a very tough carbon steel that doesn't rust as easily as 80crov2.
u/Jinky_P
If you want it, get it. Personally I use a Mora Kansbol for most of my bushcrafting, but I have a cheap 30 dollar Amazon knife that I use for batoning. I would love the added security of a hi
u/oh_three_dum_dum
While super steels are nice and can deliver some great benefits over simple carbon steel, the one thing I have an issue with when thinking about taking knives like that to the field is ease o
u/Femveratu
BPS is seriously slept on. I now own several and they are among my sharpest most used knives for carving and bush crafting. I do own a couple Bark River 3V type knives, but between BPS and
u/cheebalibra
I’ve got the BPS adventurer and love it. But for canoeing I’d think more stainless. The carbon steel is going to require more maintenance around moisture.
u/Useful_Potato_Vibes
As you just put it yourself, bushcraft is one thing and gear snobbery is another. It seems you'd just buy that $400 blade just for sake of it, bushcraft or not.
u/Sharpshaver7
If you know how to sharpen in the field and keep your knife dry it doesn't really matter. You also don't need super steel if you use it like a normal knife.
Corrosion resistance is nice benef
u/spideroncoffein
Take a knife you are willing to abuse, because sometimes that is necessary. I'd rather have a 440C that I use than an adamantium decoration piece.
Hell, my favourite outdoor knife is 420C (n
u/cheebalibra
I’ve got the BPS adventurer and love it. But for canoeing I’d think more stainless. The carbon steel is going to require more maintenance around moisture.
u/Sweets1995
3V is the way 😁
u/Forge_Le_Femme
There's a good reason why Bushcraft knives tend to shy away from super steels. Simple high carbon steels, unlike super steels, easily resharpen in the field.. super steels take MUCH more work
u/Jinky_P
If you want it, get it. Personally I use a Mora Kansbol for most of my bushcrafting, but I have a cheap 30 dollar Amazon knife that I use for batoning. I would love the added security of a hi
u/Fifteen_inches
This is your sign to buy it and bring both.
u/Unicorn187
When did 3V become a super steel? It's a very tough carbon steel that doesn't rust as easily as 80crov2.
u/spideroncoffein
Take a knife you are willing to abuse, because sometimes that is necessary. I'd rather have a 440C that I use than an adamantium decoration piece.
Hell, my favourite outdoor knife is 420C (n
u/mrRabblerouser
First of all, a 6” blade is overkill and can be cumbersome for most bushcraft tasks. Also, super steels are pretty overrated because you can find blades with CPM 154, N690, AEBL, and 14c that
u/securitybreach
I've been using my Condor Bushlore Knife for a few years now and I love it. I also have the KA-BAR Becker BK2 but its heavy as shit. Condor link [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002CC6BPM/?coliid=
u/Steakfrie
I only need to rationalize where $300-$400 could be better spent and quickly recall what my current knives have accomplished. My old knives make it very easy to pass on boutique blades design
u/WeekSecret3391
I'd rater have an easy to sharpen knife for a long time in the wood than one with a too good of a steel. I also prefer toughness over edge retention because it's better to have a temporarily
u/bikumz
There’s a point where return on investment isn’t worth much more than bragging rights. As you get better steels you’re gonna need a better sharpening system.
Most of us are not staying out
u/Jinky_P
If you want it, get it. Personally I use a Mora Kansbol for most of my bushcrafting, but I have a cheap 30 dollar Amazon knife that I use for batoning. I would love the added security of a hi
u/WeekSecret3391
I'd rater have an easy to sharpen knife for a long time in the wood than one with a too good of a steel. I also prefer toughness over edge retention because it's better to have a temporarily
u/securitybreach
It's only about $60 bucks or so but well worth it.
u/Femveratu
BPS is seriously slept on. I now own several and they are among my sharpest most used knives for carving and bush crafting. I do own a couple Bark River 3V type knives, but between BPS and
u/Forge_Le_Femme
There's a good reason why Bushcraft knives tend to shy away from super steels. Simple high carbon steels, unlike super steels, easily resharpen in the field.. super steels take MUCH more work
u/WeekSecret3391
I'd rater have an easy to sharpen knife for a long time in the wood than one with a too good of a steel. I also prefer toughness over edge retention because it's better to have a temporarily
u/Jester_8407
I'm a budget kinda guy but for knives I'm more of a steel snob these days (but not to the extent of some others lol)
The real world effect of steel quality largely comes down to how likely i