KnifeCenter FAQ #72: What is a Grail Knife? + Wood Handles and Heat Treatment

[@charlescollier7217]

Not a question - I just want to thank you for the warmth, wit, and knife geekery. Be well, gentlemen.

[@cam8157]

Just bought the Rockstead holy grail. What a masterpiece! So gorgeous!

[@happykt]

😊

[@frankiejdwm_edc1037]

Congrats bro!! Which model? I would love a Higo with the carbon fiber. That's definitely one of my grails.

[@cam8157]

@@frankiejdwm_edc1037 Rockstead higo 2. Same one in the video except with blue liners 😍

[@frankiejdwm_edc1037]

@@cam8157 that's one of my grails for sure too, either the blue, or the silver/gold but need the CF don't want the wood. Congrats bro

[@iceman5117]

What do you use it for?

[@rayrieder2380]

I really enjoy watching you show the knives David . You really know a lot about the knives. I just started watching the knife center about three weeks ago. And now I've bought three knives. And Iam sure I'll be buying more! All because of you thanks a lot.

[@sanjayahlawat8344]

Hey DCA, it's been many a years since I became addicted to your suggestions n evaluations of blades. Gotta say...you just made really big big contribution to my knowledge about blades, steel, n everything about knives... I just can't stop thinking about your next episode.…

[@SBvice]

Finally found a CRK Sebenza after 3 years of searching that got delivered today, they are difficult to find where I am. What an absolutely stunning functional piece of art. It’s probably the closest I’ll ever get to a full custom. Maybe one day when circumstances are more suitable.

[@57HEMIviken]

Congrats!!!

[@happykt]

Last month I bought a LionSteel M4 ST M390 bushcraft fixed blade with Santo wood handles and love it.

[@bennyc409]

A lot of Aussie timbers are quite hard and do fine without stabilisation too. Gidgee, Redgum, Mallee are all good examples.

[@AlwaysApproved]

just got my launch 1 in the mail thursday and man i love this thing. thanks for the great service guys

[@ShastaMcNasty0226]

DCA, I have to say man, I honestly have not bought from Knife Center before, and mostly use that other place...bhq. That being said though, I love the videos you do. They show some nice stuff but never get nearly as detailed as you do. Also, they tend to pander to the masses vs showing and informing from a personal stand point. Keep it man!

[@unfi6798]

There was a time where a KNIFE is just a knife to me but after watching all your shows I am now like a Connoisseur of cutting tools. Knife Centre is very educational & informative. We now know about metallurgy, limitation of processed wood or scales, quality of forging & tempering. We understands Productions & Customs knives and a lot more. So DCA, when do we get our Knife Centre certificate for completion of this courses? Great show as always mate. Greetings from Australia. Stay safe matey.

[@frankiejdwm_edc1037]

Hey Sam Llovejoy you can't go wrong with BenchMade and ZT 2 of the best warranties in the industry. These guys will last a lifetime, they both do reblades, and BM will do new handles as well. Only issue I see is that have these guys you're definitely gonna end up moving up to Hinderer in no time. Good luck buddy.

[@samllovejoy1415]

No doubt the fact that my local dealer doesn’t have hinders ever, is the only reason I don’t have atleast one other than my two zt’s

[@davidsapir3764]

Awesome video DCA, truly. I've found that my Grail Knife goalposts are always on the move. I don't think I'll know what my one true grail is until I stop collecting them. My current Grail Knife is a Zero Tolerance 0462 Sinkovich custom anodized by JD Cutlery. Show side is a black/burgundy carbon fiber weave unlike anything I've ever seen, and the clip side is titanium with an eye popping super storm treatment of so many different colors. It's not the most expensive knife in my collection, but it has a beauty and uniqueness all its own and it's my go to carry for social events.

[@twai8036]

Need some sharpening advice. Which sharpening method is best for sharpening the recurve part of recurve blades? Ceramic rods, flat stones, or leather strips? Thanks

[@ericmack001]

That Rockstead was amazing! What a beautiful knife

[@michaelmj111]

First off, before my question I wanted to say thanks for all your other videos. I had purchased a Kershaw 1776 Link in 20CV, and must admit that I have never (before) been afraid of the sharpness of a knife, but this one concerned me. Then I ran into your video’s about Cross Bar Locks (wish the entire industry would just go with that moniker rather than all the proprietary names)… anyways I decided to exchange the Link for one of Knife Center’s Exclusive Griptilian’s and have really enjoyed the knife thus far, the only hang up is that the Griptilian did not arrive quite as sharp as the Link In FAQ #72 you mention “maybe learn to sharpen better” I Watched your video on how to use a Strop, and found it really useful. My question is, “To Strop or Not to Strop, When is the question”. When should a more abrasive stone be used, and when is simply stropping going to be enough?

[@knifecenter]

Glad you are enjoying the Griptilian! As for when to use a more abrasive stone, if stropping isn't keeping it as sharp as you like or expect, then back it up to the finest stone to lightly sharpen, then strop. Hope that helps! -DCA

[@michaelmj111]

@@knifecenter Thanks! And thanks again for carrying the 20CV version of the Griptilian

[@markfcoble]

Thank you for your work. Good stuff as usual. Gerber Suspension multi tool here at high mountain desert plateau hideout NM. Or.... Skeletool sometimes. Pliers handy! Wood handles are beautiful.

[@nicoreloux]

I loved the question about bringing back the inspiration. After wanting (and buying) a lot of different models, i kind of burnt out as well and could not find any more excitement in the latest releases. That's when i started making my own knives. They are far from perfect for sure, but they are unique and fit my expectations quite well. This really fueled my interest for knives.

[@renemuellervideo]

Hey David! Love the content, thank you very much. Question: what would you recommend when asked for "Opinel but fixed blade"? P.s. show the face of your cool sounding camera man some time 😁 cheers, stay well!

[@maxlvledc]

Hey DCA, please order the importance of these characteristics in order of importace: Ergonomics, blade geometry, blade length, steel choice, handle material, lock choice, heat treatment, and opening method. (Kind of a trick question as context is everything! Choose your own context 👍)

[@ziechontan1717]

Talk about shaving and Mr Anderson reaches for not one but three axes 😄 not surprised that I enjoy every video I've watched on this channel.

[@TheObro123]

You guys are awesome. Really enjoyed watching this after a long day of looking for excuses to use my knife at work lol. Love seeing the hatchets and axes too.

[@nathanjones56]

Hey DCA, Love the series. Do you ever buy a knife with the sole intention of customizing it? e.g. I bought a Buck Spitfire just to make micarta scales for it. And can you show us one you impressed yourself with? Thanks.

[@bena3341]

Bought a couple of Svord Peasant knives to do that and make them into rustic steak knives.

[@realbroggo]

Recommendation for a FAQ - Weird knives that actually work. There are some knives out there with weird designs and are often just thought of as collectables, however, some of these actually make good users. For example, about 2 years ago I bought a Cold Steel Black Talon with a massive hawksbill blade on a whim. To look at, this knife looks aggressive and overdone. However, I now regularly use it in the garden to open bags, cut up shade cloth, pruning etc. The blade works a wonder. My grail knife is a Chaves Ultramar Redencio - very hard to come by in Aus & very $$$. Thanks heaps.

[@tyarnold4088]

Chaves are made by reate in China.

[@JMcConnell]

Hey DCA, thanks for always dropping so much knowledge! What is meant by "clean". I often hear knifemakers refer to another's work as "clean", but there seem to be multiple qualities captured there. For example, "clean lines" and "clean build" are distinct properties. I have some idea of what is meant here, but could you share some examples to gawk at to help reinforce that intuition?

[@danielwendell542]

It's a stylistic and design comment! Normally means the design is either a nice example of the form (a 'clean' Bowie knife design) or doesn't have too much clutter / extraneous stuff on the handle (many people cite the Civvi Elementum as a 'clean' design).

[@JMcConnell]

@@danielwendell542, the lack of extraneous stuff is a usage I’ve picked up on, but the nice example of the form is a new one for me. Thanks!

[@chazhendrickson4755]

Hello DCA and Thomas. Absolutely love the series keep up the great work. Question have you guys ever put together a list of the grind angles of the different manufacturers? I know there are general guidelines but it would be great to get the same crisp edge as the factory. Again outstanding series. Thanks for all you do.

[@knifecenter]

Check out the first question in FAQ #71: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gWqpq6aEedecmdU

[@levijc01]

Hey DCA! I love opening and closing knives just as much as using them. In your opinion, what knives have the most satisfying action to open and what knives have the best fidget factor. Thanks!

[@YouTube_Scientist]

Button locks for myself personally. Satisfying and fidgety are a little bit different. I'm assuming you meant what I thought and grouped those together into "most prone to play around with". Correct me if I'm wrong I'll apologize 👍

[@levijc01]

@@KZbin_Scientist Just got my first button lock. Civivi Cogent. Love it! 👍

[@YouTube_Scientist]

@@levijc01 hah Altus here in stonewashed black oxide nitro-v and black hardware wood scales it was 85 bucks and I figured that it looks a little bit better than my Spyderco sage 1 in Maxamets pocket clip and just in general it's my... "Dress up knife". I was very hesitant about button locks being someone who understands engineering but if that fails I'm using my knife rong. Imo.

[@YouTube_Scientist]

I don't buy stupid expensive folding knives that I can make much better for myself with my own shit. The most expensive knife I own is my sage 1 in Maxamet. 216. I ya okay buy 150$ bars of Zapps Rex 121 (on AKS if it's labeled cpm it can be made by Zapp although they won't tell you this). All CPM grades are licensed to Robert Zapp from crucible industries LLC. I can show you the PDF.

[@eddielittleii8919]

Question (or clarification) The "A" in A2 tool steel indicates Air hardening. The "W" in W2 tool steel indicates water quench, the "O" in O2 tool steel indicates oil quench. What does the "D" in D2 tool steel indicate?

[@_MiMo_]

"Die"- a device for cutting metal. I really don't know but that's my guess. Another guess would be dioxide.🤷‍♂️

[@eddielittleii8919]

@@_MiMo_ @Michael Morgan I just received confirmation, you were correct. The Knife Steel Nerds channel (the creator of CPM Magnacut) just got back to me... The D indicates "Die" typical purpose steel, it is not related to quench speed. Thank you for your input. D2 is widespread in the knife collection world, people may as well know what it means. Mabye it will still be on the show?

[@_MiMo_]

@@eddielittleii8919 Was a great question! I think they'll like it.👍

[@FriedPi-mc5yt]

Hey DCA, can you give some suggestions for a smaller (2”-2 1/2” edge), budget blade that punches above its weight?

[@adamjames1375]

My vote goes to the Spyderco Dragonfly.

[@FriedPi-mc5yt]

@@adamjames1375 The Dragonfly definitely punches above its weight class. But I’m not sure I would call it a “budget knife”.

[@adamjames1375]

They are a bit spendy. Check out the 726 Mini Buck Spitfire @ $38 on Amazon. I've always been really happy with Bucks' geometry and 420 h.c. It's just outside of your specs @ 2-3/4" blade length but could be a winner. I'm going to pick one up for my son's first knife.

[@knifecenter]

Spyderco Cat: kcoti.com/3pMgfnb -DCA

[@FriedPi-mc5yt]

@@knifecenter Thanks DCA!!!

[@shaunbarnett2972]

So I have a folding knife - Sky 102 Serpentine - with wooden scales that have warped. Can I perform some kind of steam treatment and clamping to straighten the scales out again? Have you ever attempted to straighten wooden scales out?

[@shanelu87]

Great description on heat treating. I work as a metallurgist for a huge metals distributor in the aerospace industry. Would love to chat to you guys more if you ever want a little more information on the technical heat treating processes and what can go right/wrong!

[@fancyhitchpin8675]

Hey DCA, super serious question for you. If someone were to buy that Rockstead what would be the best dishwasher setting to keep it extra shiny like that?

[@jdisdetermined]

Mainly just lots and lots of rinse aid additive. 👍

[@AlexanderWolf]

Hi DCA, Seth and Thomas. I want to know your opinion on the purchase of Cold steel and now SOG by GSM Outdoors. Do you think that the quality will be maintained and they will let the companies freely in their creation and design of new products or they will interfere by lowering the quality to have lower cost products but also lower quality ones? I am very worried because I love both brands. Best wishes from Chile.

[@chrisdettone1648]

Got African rosewood scales on my Damascus Elementum and love them. No issues so far.

[@Frank-ss6py]

I'm actually getting one of My Grail knives Pretty soon !...it's a CAROTHERS PROFORMANCE KNIVES SHIV 2.0 in Delta3V where as the OG Shiv was made in A2 instead of 3V with the Delta heat treatment protocol so it's a better steel and a better heat treatment process!...

[@rwe1]

Hey David! To bounce off the wood handle question this week, why not more hard rubber handles? It has a lot of natural grip, more than G-10. Thanks

[@bcrowe101]

Question for DCA... I have the carbon fiber bugout and want aftermarket scales. What is the breakdown of what the blade is worth vs the scales, so I can have an accurate value for the knife with the new scales.. Thanks!

[@tobyhall1167]

Hey DCA, what is an inexpensive knife to experience a convex grind. Thanks for all that you and the crew do, keep up the great content.

[@ivanho2849]

Hi David, love your videos. I’m still looking for an “ideal for me” edc … recently, I bought a Spyopera, and I really love the quality, size, and the finish of it; I love the handle material, the Italian made details, the steel, and the price … however, it is a lockback knife! Do you have any suggestions about a similar knife (between $150 -$250ish)? I have looked at the Viper Turn, again a lockback knife! It does not have to be Italian made, it similar quality and details, with either compression lock or AXIS type lock, prefer handles that are not FRN/GRN or Grivory. Appreciate all your help!

[@chriswahla8584]

Love the work you and your minions do, and glad I am a customer. Who plays the mandolin in the background of your excellent videos? Does Thomas have a musical side to his many talents? Keep up the great work.

[@knifecenter]

It was performed by "Stock Music" -DCA

[@christopherellison5689]

Hey DCA, I was wondering if you could recommend a knife roll. At present I have pocket knives all over the house. Thanks

[@cosasdepuromacho1247]

Always Watching the Best Channel Knives 🔥💯👍👌💪🇺🇸

[@rkalnitz]

Love the KniFAQ!. My question is, all things being equal, why not a finger choil on every folder? Seems to add versatility and other benefits without any cost. Elucidate me on the pros/cons. Thanks!

[@nateknutson578]

Question: For sharpening a Scandi grind, what would you recommend for a simple/approachable method or tool that keeps the bevel uniform-looking and free of marks from the stone? I have a Spyderco sharpmaker and a 400/1000 grit pocket stone, and while I'm able to keep the edge performance good with these tools, it doesn't look good. If one does need to use a heavier grit stone for taking down a chip on a Scandi grind knife, what's a good method for getting it back to a good surface finish, and ideally still keep the bevel transition looking sharp and defined? (I've had trouble doing this by hand with using successive sandpaper grits).

[@donniedoobie9627]

The rockstead higo has been my grail knife since the first time I saw it.

[@tapiolaakkonen5350]

Hi DCA & Thomas! Help man to sleep. It's over midnight all I can think of is what sharpening tool should I get on the road for large survival knife like BK9 or RTAK II? Extra points for the tool that I can count on if I never find away back to civilisation. -Tapio from Finland

[@QenaitheCustodianGuard]

I have the Lars Fält, it's incredible in every aspect, beautiful curly birch, nice big blade, my recommendation for any bushcraft knife and this aswell, get a dangler and treat the handle with food grade countertop oil (like ronseal)

[@SirGalath]

Hello David 👋 I've been talking with a friend lately about diminishing returns on the knife world. Whats your take? Which pricepoint do you think currently offers the most value for folders and fixed blades as tools on today's market? Some examples for each would be a plus Thanks 😁

[@danielwendell542]

Nick Shabazz has a great video on diminishing returns in the knife/watch world! Might be worth a look

[@SirGalath]

@@danielwendell542 thanks

[@yoinkhaha]

Also, 9:18, knives have been being made for a long, long, long….. long… long… time. And it’s an ungodly competitive business if you are producing any kind of larger numbers. Thanks to all the knife journalists out there for helping spot garbage as well as gems

[@wolf2bear77]

Hey David. Love the series. Where do you research the value of a knife? Especially if the knife is older and discontinued by the manufacturer. Any help in pointing me in the right direction would be great! Thanks for your help.

[@dpoppen1]

What about Curly Birchwood? I also wonder if there are ways to help keep the wood handles in tact over time?

[@JS-wt7eb]

For cutting cardboard.... Spyderco Manix II with a S110V blade.... yes it takes a bit to put a proper edge on it.... But then its a once a week strop and its good to go. Best knife for that job.

[@nihiluskarr2717]

Hi DCA, First I would like to thank you again for all of the content, and help you have been me in the past. I'm currently shopping for a pocket fixed blade with M390/CTS-204P/CPM-20CV. Right now I'm looking at the LionSteel M1, but was wondering what you consider to be the most premium (material, and fit & finish) pocket fixed blade, for under $150 USD? I also have a secondary question regarding the LionSteel M1. I would really like Micarta handles, but do not presently have the skill, time, or tools to make them myself. What is your recommendation for getting custom micarta handles for the LionSteel M1 (preferably without spending more than $100)?

[@twatmunro]

I'm not DCA but you're talking about spending around $250 here. I wouldn't bother with LionSteel. For that money, you could get yourself one of the awesome Bark River EDC sized fixed blades -- the PSK EDC or the Essential in Elmax, Cruware or Magnacut handled in any kind of Micarta you want. PSK EDC in Natural Canvas Micarta in S45VN will cost you less than $200.

[@nihiluskarr2717]

They definitely have some interesting choices. I will have to keep them in mind moving forward. So, thank you for the recommendation. Which the main reason I was looking at the LionSteel M1 was because of the steel it's made from, and the overall design (plus it's $145 right now). However, the handle being G10 isn't a deal breaker by any means. I was mainly curious what recommendations there would be under the $150 mark. So, while I greatly appreciate your recommendations. They are a tad out of my target. As for upgrading the handles. That was something that I thought I would see what people had to say about, since it's not something I've done before, and don't know what price range or options are out there.

[@kush662]

I got a good challenging question for you, what is a good fixed blade knife in the sequence of priority list and can do them all. I would be very surprised if you found one to fit all 1) food prep ( very good at slicing, stainless only) 2) tactical / hard use / basic camping tasks ( feather stick and firemaking included) 3) completely water resistant ( h1, lc200n, magnacut, vanax) 4) bushcraft

[@lordquenntillieusiii9250]

I believe the question meant what folder designs would work well as fixed blade designs

[@GOxHAM]

Going to add on top of the cardboard cutting question. When you cut things, you’ll quickly realize certain objects will roll/dull any knife edge, regardless of how nice a blade steel is. Hence why I’m not super into blade steels anymore. Cardboard, ceramic plates, bone, metal, etc. will roll 8CR13MOV and M390. However, the softer steel will have a more noticeable roll, but will be easier to resharpen. A dull edge or a rolled edge is nothing to worry about if you sharpen your knives. Chipping is the only thing to worry about. Although still repairable, a chipped edge takes significantly more time and metal removal. Similarly to a broken tip.

[@simartnullnet]

Hey DCA, I don't wear a neck knife, but I find a lot of the newer neck knives like the CRKT minimalist Katana really intriguing. What are the best neck knives for someone like me who just likes small fixed blades?

[@maureenleahy8292]

Thanks for answering my question about a grail bushcraft knife.

[@tsdted5029]

You guys are awesome. Thanks for the great videos

[@travisgarn7300]

Hello DCA, I’ve been a fan for about 6 months now and have bought “quite a few” knives after watching your videos. I’m asking you to revisit the bench made bug out alternative question from about a year ago but a lil different. I like everything about the bugout (blade shape, thin profile, etc) except I want a slightly larger blade. Preferably around the 3.4 in to 3.75 in range. Suggestions?

[@brianwhitelaw7483]

Hi DCA. This is a follow-up to the question regarding why there are so few production knives with wooden scales. I have a custom fixed blade with Zebrawood scales. What is the best way to care for it? Mineral oil? Beeswax?

[@hdjnfirnfnhdhdjjdkdk9349]

Hey Knife Specialist, Med'sMan here :). Can you do war combos, like a hawk, a larger fixed blade and a folding one? Mad Max style or survival gear in war scenarios. Urban or nature. U can include flashlights, fire starters or lighters, maybe a saw, things to help you survive in case of an invasion. It's kind of trendy right now, unfortunately. If u prefere nail clippers, i understand :)) Good luck!

[@BluestedSRT4]

??? When we think about traditional slip joint knives there are many multi-bladed patterns. Two blade trappers, three blade stockmans, 4 blade congresses, etcetera. Why do you think we don't see more multi-bladed modern locking knives, barring some fantasy knives I can only think of a few, the Benchmade Outlast being one of them. Thoughts? Hope you can help.

[@crapurai]

Will you show the real steel lynx folder please? I would like to know your thoughts on the knife.

[@matthewmcguire202]

What two knives would you pick if you were dropped in the wilderness and had to survive as long as possible? Part 2: throw a multi tool in there as well.

[@adamjames1375]

Becker BK9 Mora Companion H.D. Carbon steel Leatherman S.T. 300

[@danielwendell542]

ESSE 6 as large main blade (although it won't take the place of an axe, it would do enough) ESSE Izula 2 as a small fixed blade for game prep, specific small tasks and backup. Leatherman Wave for a multi tool with a sharpener and pliers and tools. Has worked for me up in the North Woods of Maine for bird camp and moose camp for years!

[@matthewmcguire202]

Some really solid combos there. I would go with an Esee junglas 2 and a Benchmade 200 puuko. And a Leatherman wave cannot be beat!

[@gaetano57]

Varusteleka Skrama 240 Fallkniven F1 Victorinox Multitool

[@lmcq784]

Hey DCA & Thomas! Love this series; keep up the great work! Question: How do you recommend picking or choosing an appropriate machete type and/or length for a particular task? Thanks!

[@jamesmullins7117]

Hey David, I've yet to see a button lock cleaver knife, do you think there is a reason why that is? Could you give an example of a button lock cleaver (non-auto)? Or maybe nobody has tried to produce one yet? I think if a maker were to produce one it would be very popular

[@NoNo2493]

Any fixed blade recommendation under 3” with a premium steel and slicy profile (preferably in a Kydex sheath)? I just got the Bradford g-necker and it’s awesome but the spine is a bit chunky.

[@silencesir1987]

Hi DCA, Im a big fan of the channel and your take on all things knives. My dad is retiring in a few weeks and I want to get him an engraved knife to celebrate the event. He carries a Mini grip that I gave him a couple years ago and he loves it. I myself, being a spyderco guy, am stuck between a bugout since he likes the axis lock or a para 3 LW. I think he'd like both but would like to your opinion on the situation. TIA

[@silencesir1987]

Hear*

[@phantom370]

Hey DCA, what would you recommend for a bushcraft axe? I'm looking to complete my bushcraft load out, while I wait for winter to end here in North Dakota. But I am having trouble deciding between a hatchet and a 20" small forest axe. If it helps the knife I currently belt carry is a Benchmade Pukko 200.

[@knifecenter]

A Hults Bruk in whatever size feels right for your needs: kcoti.com/2FzzufP -DCA

[@user-wy1dl2me2p]

That Falikniven desert iron wood is beautiful.

[@slick_slicers]

The best Bushcraft knife made today is the Jacklore Classic, but even raerer than a Woodlore. Took me three years of hard work to get one!

[@tarinindell8217]

Heya DCA, looking for a "buy once, cry once" knife. Needs to be a "do everything" knife. I dont use a pocket knife much day to day, but it needs to be able to handle anything i throw at it- EDC uses, camping/bushcraft uses, even some self defense if needed. What you do recommend for under $250-ish Ive been eyeballing the Spyderco Shaman and the Benchmade Adamas, but im open to suggestions. Thanks!

[@K.V.P14]

i started my collection last year, i currently have 8 knives ranging from a kershaw leek to a benchmade super freek. when i got them all out for a 'family photo' i realised i dont own a Tanto shaped blade. could you recommend a tanto shaped blade, 3-4 inch blade, preferably a flipper within the 75-100 dollar range. Thanks

[@slick_slicers]

I have a Higo II and a Hizen and I carry and use them both. If a knife cost my £1k ($1,300), it owes me a shed load of work in return! My only worry is that if I do ever blunt them, I’ll have to send them to Japan for sharpening. For a Grail Bushcraft knife, look at the Jacklore Classic from Sandy Jack. A very refined evolution of the Woodlore. Unfortunately, they are almost as hard to get hold of. Sandy only produces 2 or 3 per week, most go to friends and existing customers and only a dozen or so per year end up for sale on his website. They go within 5 minutes of being posted. It took me more than three years to get one. It’ll be on my KZbin channel soon.

[@dertydan]

i cant imagine letting anyone else sharpen my knives

[@slick_slicers]

@@dertydan nor would I with any others, but a zero edge, convex grind with absolutely no scratch pattern whatsoever on a 67 Rockwell blade, is well beyond my skill.

[@adrianscalf9875]

Hey DCA, I truly enjoy these Q&A sessions maybe you can answer mine. I have carried a Buck Odyssey 181 for nearly 25 years. Looking to replace it finally for a new EDC, and I am suck on what to get with so many options out there. Would like to keep it in the $50 to $100 range. In your opinion what's the "best of the best".

[@adrianscalf9875]

I have to add that one handed operation is a must

[@AtafalWonder]

David, is stropping compound supposed to be hard as a brick, and am I supposed to be heating it up before rubbing it on the strop, or is this a quality issue? Also,I'm unable to find your video on stropping you made a while back.

[@danjohnson1809]

Should not be hard as a rock.

[@knifecenter]

Here is the vid - kzbin.info/www/bejne/lXfIhJt7iZVnaac If you are dealing with hard compound, it can definitely help to lightly warm the end with something like a hair dryer or candle flame before application. -DCA

[@silencesir1987]

Hi DCA! Great videos, love your content! I think we all enjoy Thomas's often implied sarcastic comments and was wondering what are his top 5 favorite knives?

[@bgotty2684]

Hi DCA ! I have modded an Opinel n°10 (making it a tanto, milling the handle to have a seatbelt-cutter and thinning the handle) and I'm not satisfied with its handling. The blade is really slicy but lack edge retention. I EDC a beater fixed blade (Real Steel Cormorant), and I need a slicier folder. The Opinel is 2.1mm thick (0.082 inches), so I think I need a thin high full-flat grind, 3.5 inches to preferably 4, if possible in D2 or upper in edge-retention. Budget is 70 dollars max, give or take. But it can be way lower (D2 can be a bargain these days) ^^ A french fellow knife beater

[@RockyMountainBear]

Is there a way to try out some of these blades in hand, before purchasing? I was spoiled living so close to a certain knife retail headquarters, but they shut down their storefront since 2019. Now, I prefer shopping with you guys online, but it still isn't the same as in person. I don't know any other stores that carry knives for guys who like knives. They all carry cheaper Gerber, CRKT & the occasional Buck or Leatherman. It REALLY helps being able to hold a knife in my hands. Also, less online sales means less cardboard for whomever has an aversion to cutting cardboard. ...with their knife. 🤦

[@chadca201]

Knifecenter hasn't had the benchmade Adamas in stock since before Christmas

[@MichiganMatt]

Awesome vid as usual! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 keep em coming!!

[@jonh2119]

I never thought I'd get away with saying "DCA got the Clap!", yet here we are... Rude jokes aside, thanks for another great episode! Keep up the good work! 👍

[@danjohnson1809]

Very funny. I thought the same, just didn't say it!

[@not_amused9658]

Hey DCA, hoping you can provide your unique input on this; can you help distinguish the most popular steel types by their actual usefulness (not just their metallurgic properties that we're all familiar with)? Would love to see you organize some groups of the popular steels by their real-world functions, and help us visualize these with a perfect steel/function/design example. (Bonus points for pointing out which steels are essentially identical) Thanks!

[@huntingislife7817]

Hey DCA. I’m wondering what are the best fidget friendly knives in the 4”+ size range?

[@THC800]

I cut cardboard with my 20cv, 4v, and xhp spyderco knives. I must say though...my cutting experience was soooooooo much better then my 8Cr13Mov and BD1N counter parts. Money well invested in better steels on your favorite models in my opinion :)

[@YouTube_Scientist]

Could you perhaps address de-tempering through belt sharpening regardless of speed with the edge being so thin? It's not the temperature of the thicker spine or primary grinds that you're holding by bare skin.. Just the one thing that I continually have to teach people. Got the idea from the rockstead convex edge in zdp. I also primary grind convex but not infinity.

[@JPK1981]

Hello DCA, As an outdoor enthusiasts I'm looking for a comparison between 1095 and CPM-3V. I currently have a Jeff Freeman 451 in CPM-3v. Why would either be better for hard outdoor use?

[@lordgarion514]

1095 is a basic steel. CPM-3v is specifically designed to be hard to chip or break.

[@JPK1981]

@@lordgarion514 but what's the performance comparison? Edge retention? Toughness? Corrosion resistance?

[@monkeylovemagic3339]

1095 is easier to sharpen. It can be quickly brought back to preferred sharpness in the field with a pocket sharpener, but it has low corrosion resistance, so you have to clean and oil it often. Both are very tough and resistant to chipping/cracking. Search for Knife Steel charts on hardness/toughness/corrosion resistance. Both are good steels when well treated.

[@JPK1981]

@Monkey Lovemagic I went with the 3v based on extensive reading and carry DMT sharpening tools for that reason. I was just looking for a comparison out of curiosity. I have zero experience with 1095, but I know it requires a lot of care. I'm finding more now on the 3v that equal care is almost necessary. Thank you for your response. I truly appreciate your input.

[@slick_slicers]

Use the Rockstead, what else is it for? I use mine!

[@AYellowPepper]

Hey DCA i have a very deep in the weeds question: With SOG touting their cryo treatment, how many knife companys do actually cryo treat their knives? Dr. Larrin thomas recently uploaded a video explaining that even simple carbon steels can benefit from dry ice treatment... Would it be Possible/make sense to retroactively cryo treat knife blades at home? maybe even LN²

[@YouTube_Scientist]

No it would not. You know it's possible to do but pointless and possibly detrimental. And Larrin is not Jesus. Just saying. Science is science. It requires peer review at bare minimum.

[@harrycrab8725]

Is there some reason why I shouldn’t be terrified by that Spyderco one-handed lock release towards fingers thingy that everyone does?

[@HeyItsCoates]

I got a BigIDesigns TPT Slide for doing utility tasks like cutting cardboard and what not.

[@mplsatty]

Will there be a 2022 edition of the Knife Center catalog?

[@michaelshuey1614]

With the exception of Buck, why are so many entry level and mid-range knives not sporting a hollow grind? I have carried Buck knives for skinning and processing for almost 40 years and prefer a hollow grind for all of its benefits. After years of sharpening it’s still thin behind the edge. My straight razors that I use for everyday growth are hollow ground. My custom high-end grail knives are hollow ground. What’s up?

[@curtismiller274]

I would like to have a smaller American made Magnacut steel folding knife and am wondering if Sharps Brothers knives are good quality.

[@chriss3886]

DCA - think the fixed blade question was what folder design would you like to see turned into a fixed blade (alla the examples given). And Boss Heat Treatment from Buck, to get the most out of a basic carbon steel.

[@marcthompson4063]

There are lots of cool razor knives with lock back and pocket clips, great for cardboard. just change the blade when you need to.

[@adamjames1375]

It's what I carry everyday. They're not sexy or super cool, but I'd have a difficult time arguing that they're not most often the superior tool. I'm in construction and have had dozens of makes and models, the Milwaukee button locks & their similiarly built competition are outstanding tools.

[@machtmer]

Honestly, my problem with nearly all “grail” knives (and I believe I am not at all unique in this), is that as a leftie if I’m going to pay >$500 for a knife I want it actually to accommodate me. Other than the Sebenza, or going perhaps full-full custom, I’ve not found many (really, any) left-handed grail knives ever. For us lefties DCA, what are your thoughts on where the industry is with regard to making left-handed grail knives? As an enthusiast, I’d love to one day have at least one full-dress hand-ground and polished Damasteel folder with full timascus scales. Or similar. But if I’m going to buy in that ballpark, I want it to work. Thanks!

[@BloodGrooveKnives]

DCA, speaking of wooden handles, will you explain how wood Micarta is made?

[@Biggrizz777]

Why is it so hard to find a great eastern cutlery knife in 1095 for sale?

[@YouTube_Scientist]

That's a good question. Probably psychology and change?. Or eastern metallurgy/production practices? The only eastern steels I can find similar is SUP4 and I've never seen a knife in that or the sandvik 20C equivalent.

[@suttonmatthew]

The Rockstead is a hardcore user that’s harder than a file. Yes, the blade finish is awesome, but can easily be restored if somehow it was scratched. Similar to Chris Reeve folders, the Rockstead is impervious to damage.

[@kkim5000]

and it doesn't seem to scratch all that easily either, i know people have been freaking out about messing up the mirror polish but i've seen rocksteads used for a couple of years that still have that edge and finish.