KnifeCenter FAQ #91: Easiest Steel To Live With?

[@mcsquirgle]

I appreciate that DCA is such an out of the box thinker. The question asking for a knife for work at a farmers market could have been given little thought if not for DCA's investigative and thoughtful attitude. Great work

[@foxtrot45]

I love 14c28n, takes a screaming edge with traditional or diamond abrasives. Easy to sharpen, easy to modify, easy to maintain

[@daveyboy6985]

I'm with you Cam👍

[@foxtrot45]

@@daveyboy6985 Thank you

[@realbroggo]

And on top is just great value for money - good steel for a good price!!

[@Freakmaster480]

14c28n is by far my favorite budget steel. It and nitrov are just so versatile

[@armenarakelian9876]

completely agree. very tough, very easy to sharpen and can take a very sharp edge.

[@WhstlblwrBlastingEpsteinsILK]

By far my favorite KZbin channel. I can literally binge watch KC videos. Even ones I have already seen. My taste in knives is expanding so I am rewatching older videos to catch whatever I disregarded earlier in my knife life. I fell in love with my CRKT SPEW that I accidentally discovered at a big box store, and started researching the Wharnie, sheepsfoot, cleavers & reverse tanto blades. Discovered Mike Emler & his Artisan Cutlery Sea Snake 🐍 and the rest is history. Thank you so much for the awesome swag in my recent order! Uploading the unboxing video now.

[@d4ngerd4d]

Hey DCA! I'm looking for a specific knife and hope you can help. Below are my desired criteria: - sharpened blade length between 1.5 and 1.52 inches - I don't want it to lock, but it needs to be physically unable to be closed until a certain function (such as a button, part of the liner, or other mechanism) is engaged. - I need it to double as a garden trowel, pickaxe, caribiner, machete, dog doo scooper, and I'd like to use it for food prep. I'll be using it for my job as a gardening rock climbing jungle exploring dog walking old-timey prospector chef. -non-metal steel only please. -The handle should be made from synthetic material, but nothing man-made. -my budget is $7 and some Tic Tacs I just found in the couch. I'm not sure why this knife has been so elusive thus far, but I'm expecting you to come up with the perfect solution without any real effort as always. Thanks!

[@dylanwilliams7146]

This is hilarious. Lmao

[@EDC_Tommy]

Throwing in big Lebowski references? Now it's official, you're the best knife related channel on KZbin.😁

[@oldstogey7864]

For Forrest Farris: What about a small fixed-blade? Schrade and Cold Steel have several models which are under 3.5", stainless, ambidextrous, and very easy to clean when covered in sticky juices. The only folder I'd recommend is the Opinel Inox, which is equally usable for left and right-handers.

[@jimb9283]

Ontario also makes a fruit and vegetable knives for this purpose that are very inexpensive $10 range

[@charlescollier7217]

Every comic knows you have to keep grinding in order to hone your craft.

[@landscapingspecialist]

For my wedding i carried a buck 110. Timeless design, affordable and capable.

[@lifespanofafry1534]

To castrate yourself?

[@PhillipBarnett57]

Andrew Bradshaw: I carried a Boker Plus Brad Zinker Urban Trapper Gentleman's Flipper Knife, Damascus Blade, Cocobolo Wood Handles, and bought one for my best friend. Boker’s lineup has cheaper “less fancy” alternatives for groomsmen as well. It’s a special knife for a special day, and right in your price point. Take a look, and congrats.

[@Beans_blades_VMOGroup]

Love these installments you learn a lot and DCA is always a hoot. With the added bonus of an occasional unexpected Thomas thrown in there, can't beat it.

[@mfreeman313]

For Forrest Farris I would suggest the UK Penknife in LC200N. You'd have to switch the clip to the other side but it seems to touch all the bases. Just under $100 so it's not cheap but not expensive. Slipjoint so minimal finger danger. I've got one as a fishing knife and I really like it.

[@Deibodese]

Oddball suggestion for the wax boxes/fruit slicing knife- a large Case Trapper. Most people think of slip joints as the epitome of unsafe folding knives, but in my experience with those models the spring tension is such that the blade won’t clap shut on you until it’s already more than 50% folded shut. The reason I recommend it, though, is because one blade could be used for the boxes, and the other for the fruit. Most traditional folders have very thin blade stocks, so they are suited for slicing tasks. Plus, Case Trappers are all a hundred bucks, I believe. And you’d totally blend in with a more traditionally-minded crowd, if that’s a consideration.

[@jakeganey7032]

For farmers market EDC. TJ Shwarz overland custom fixed blade in magnacut is your best option

[@joelynch9173]

A nice blue knife for the wedding is the We Knives Kitefin with the blue scales. It's really nice and looks even better in person than on video

[@craigdemagall1165]

WE Banter in blue. Light weight and perfect in size.

[@gcvrsa]

4116 and 420HC would be my picks. Holds an edge well enough, virtually impervious to corrosion, easy to sharpen.

[@bullyakker]

I've been using 154cm or 440c for a daily and vg10 for the kitchen the last few years. great stuff that also holds a hell of an edge

[@yuriagbulos4680]

hey DCA. safe way to get your fingers out of the way for backlocks is to use your index finger to press the mid mounted back lock. rest the butt of the knife onf the soft of the thumn. 4 fingers - thumb, middle, ring, and pinky gripping the knife, then flick close as you would a compression lock.. hope that helps. :-)

[@landscapingspecialist]

Ahhh I see you have a Caribbean on the table DCA! One of my most used folding knives. It doesn’t leave my kitchen. I bought it to carry in the winter as my pocket knives are exposed to very corrosive environments. But it made its way into my kitchen and I can’t fathom being without it in my kitchen now!

[@arrowheadguys7637]

I was slicing onions with my Caribbean the other day and my wife says "you know we have knives right?" I looked at her, looked at the knife in my hand, looked back at her and said "but this is the perfect knife for slicing onions". I want to pick up the Spydiechef next, it looks to have better handle clearance for working on the cutting board.

[@slywolfe]

My personal steel preferences are 3V & Cru-Wear for fixed blades, Vanadis 8 & 10V for folders. Magnacut for everything you want stainless.

[@arrowheadguys7637]

No M4?

[@slywolfe]

@@arrowheadguys7637 I love m4 and 4v too, but they get me generally the same performance as magnacut but without the stainless factor. Hence magnacut. But they are next on my list if the others I mentioned aren't an option for whatever reason

[@arrowheadguys7637]

@@slywolfe Ah gotcha. I've just started using Magnacut so I haven't quite formed an opinion on where it ranks among the top for me, but my top 3 currently are CruWear, M4 and 3V

[@slywolfe]

@@arrowheadguys7637 we have the same taste it sounds like haha If you haven't already I highly recommend checking out knife steel nerds blog and Larrin Thomas's KZbin videos 👌

[@arrowheadguys7637]

@@slywolfe Oh yeah I keep up to date with them. Knowing the specs is a good start, but until I get enough use on a knife I try not to form too much of an opinion on it

[@Bethany415]

All the old 2-handed closers are good for finger safe. The Buck 112, or Opinel for instance. But if you want a more modern looking knife, with one handed opening, I'd use Knifecenter's search feature. Filter by "button lock" and the budget you want. I'd personally look at the Kizer Swaggs Swayback. There's a button lock version on their website. $60, 2.99 inch blade, N690 (midrange) steel. Button locks aren't technically ambidextrous, but in practice lefties rarely have problems using them. HTH.

[@jjm6187]

Great combo recommendation for that groom, nice touch!

[@knifenest7229]

For the farmers market job I’d go with a fixed blade because it’s much easier to clean when dealing with food, look at the Gerber Principle it’s $62 bucks.

[@adqak503]

I had the CRKT CEO and really enjoyed it. Nice knife all around. Lost it sadly. Actually lost that knife five times in a month. Found it four times. Something about the pocket clip. The only pocket clip knife that I’ve ever lost.

[@realbroggo]

Lionsteel & MKM both have a number of really good looking (and good quality) gents/groomsman/wedding etc. knives. The Italians really know how to design a beautiful knife. OMHO - They cost a bit but for a special knife are worth it. DCA - always love hearing your knowledge on knife steels. Too much information is still not enough.

[@arrowheadguys7637]

I'd add Fox to that list as well. There's just something a little different about Italian designed knives, and the cost isn't even that bad considering how many $300+ knives we're seeing out of China these days.

[@realbroggo]

@@arrowheadguys7637 100%. I love their co-labs with Jesper Voxnaes!! Have a great day.

[@tmutant]

Your recent video on Benchmade Bugout alternatives got me thinking. How strong are button locks compared to crossbar locks or liner locks? I can only think of three knife companies that make button locks: Kizer, Civivi, and CKRT. Are there any more?

[@glenngoins3100]

I have that Civivi knife you are holding there. It's a great knife and you're right it does take a great edge.

[@landscapingspecialist]

First time ever that DCA and I agree on a knife for a subscriber. Caribbean, is hard to argue against for any task!

[@rhubarbrhino]

Question: the perfect knife / 2-3 knives for a cocktail bar and cocktail prep. Don’t want them to match but be a cool eclectic mix. Should look good next to bottles of whisky and rum. Wood handle or gentlemanly would be nice!

[@arrowheadguys7637]

MKM Malga

[@joshr533]

Hi David and team. I love KniFAQ, thank you! How do you sharpen your machetes? Is a belt grinder the quickest and easiest way? Thank you!

[@butchcassidy3373]

I usually use a river rock. Works great

[@mikerollins3088]

When the situation had come up about the groom who wanted a nice, small knife those parameters I has first thought of the Cjrb Ria! Figured he could get the 12c27 version in blue for cheap or for some more class he could get the KC Exclusive version (S35vn in denim micarta) or the carbon fiber version.

[@Marcobuck]

A steel you can het really sharp and Berry easy is the 420Hc of Buck with the Paul Bos heat threat, It is cheap, you get a really good edge and It holds it's esge reasonable good for the price

[@cosasdepuromacho1247]

My Favorite knives Channel,Saying hi to Camera man Thomas and David the Goat Knives 🔥👌💯👍💪🐐🐐🐐

[@midwestgear]

For the very stainless needle in the hay stack look at the Para3 lightweight in spy27. I'm a carpenter and rust every blade but that hasn't showed any hint of tarnish yet.

[@renedepaula]

I own the two first knives and I highly recommend them both!

[@thomasbgood9218]

Besteck Swordfish as a fix blade? Hello DCA, Thank you for all the work you put into the channel! I really like the Bestech Swordfish, I like the shape of the blade, the ergonomics of the handle, and the blade to handle ratio. But I would want a fix blad version. To my knowledge Bestech do not make a fix blade version, do you have a suggestion for another fix blade that comes close, preferably 4 to 4.5 inch blade length. Thanks in advance!

[@dbg0206091]

Want a SHAP knife...? Get the Lansky Diamond Sharpening system; and also the leather strop attachment. Hair popping on any knife; 4 useful angle guides; mirror polish. I've learned from my mistakes. Hope this helps someone.

[@hanno_t]

Hey DCA, I'm a desk worker and often tend to fidget around with stuff. What is the most fidgety knife you'd pick to flick around sitting at your home office desk? Thanks!

[@chrishynes6091]

QUESTION.. What makes the best sheath material? Leather , Kydex, plastic or other. Could you give the pros and cons ? Thanks!

[@aPoxOnUsernames]

Knife recommendation: I recently got a promotion and want to treat myself to a new knife, but what knife ... i was thinking about a 940 Osborn, but would like to look at other options. Requirements: finger safe action, fidget friendly, built to be used - everything from boxes to camping and backpacking, and not black ( all my other knives seem to be black). Under $500 ish ( which I know is significantly over the 940, but the right knife is more important than the price).

[@GabrielDeMfromNY]

Treat yourself to a chavez

[@aPoxOnUsernames]

@@GabrielDeMfromNY That might be enough to get me to care about the price more :)... first two that came up were over 3x the budget... But... yeah... i wouldn't turn one down

[@aPoxOnUsernames]

@@GabrielDeMfromNY That might be enough to get me to care about the price more :)... first two that came up were over 3x the budget... But... yeah... i wouldn't turn one down

[@arrowheadguys7637]

Don't overthink it. Every knife collector should own a 940 and IMO no collection is complete without one. It was my first "big boy" folder and I can't recommend it enough. Even though its been around 20+ years its design is quirky enough to still feel original in a sea of blah titanium frame locks that TBH all start to look the same.

[@jb7707]

Benchmade 945 is a smaller version and can be had in green or get aftermarket scales

[@daverock00]

I recently purchased my first OTF and I’m curious on the correct way to oil/lube the knife… does it need to be disassembled every time to oil or can you add a few drops to the blade? Any tips would be appreciated! If it matters the knife is a Boker Lhotak

[@michaelshaw76]

Hello DCA (and Thomas), I will be starting a new career as an emergency room nurse soon and want to have a good quality knife that is easy to manipulate one-handed and easy to clean that is not super tactical. It should be a folder and pretty ambidextrous in operation. I would appreciate some options in the under $100 and $100-200 ranges. Thanks for consistently providing great advice on knives for sometimes oddly specific situations. Thank you in advance!

[@paulthelefty]

Benchmade bugout

[@arrowheadguys7637]

@@paulthelefty Agreed, get one with the blue handle and it'll fit right in with your scrubs.

[@austinfreiburger9095]

Hey DCA and Thomas, I recently picked up my first D2 blade. What product(s) do you recommend for lubricating and cleaning?

[@arrowheadguys7637]

I've never oiled any of my D2 knives. Just keep them clean and dry.

[@Ericstraordinary]

If you are worried about corrosion, it probably isn't going to be an issue unless you are in a very humid environment or using it near the ocean. In that case, I would recommend Ballistol.

[@warriorfilm]

For the farmer market, the Buck Spitfire or the CJRB Maileah.

[@Quiff]

Hi DCA, you always emphasize that Axis/crossbar locks are finger-save, but I'll like to provide a counter point. Crossbar locks don't have a detent, so they're always easier to open than other locks. The thumbstud can easily get tangled with threads in your pocket, and opens without you knowing it. My Benchmade Bugout had half-opened in my pocket (tip up carry) without me noticing it this way, and when I stick my hand into the pocket reaching for coins, left me with a bloody finger dripping all over the floor, and sent me to the ER. That's a risk that comes with crossbar locks and people are not realizing this problem enough IMO.

[@paulthelefty]

Most people put the blade opening against the seam in their pocket, making what happened to you impossible… sucks you got cut.

[@Quiff]

@@paulthelefty Yes, but the knife will shift around in the pocket, not staying still all the time.

[@lorenfuchek105]

Spyderco kapara or ikuchi for the farmers market job would be awesome and can be trained to use left handed.

[@cesaravila739]

Measure once cute twice: the farmers market knife. How about the CRKT Overland! It good at food prep and edc ! Budget friendly

[@knifecenter]

I had considered it but I wanted to get them closer to their max allowable blade length, and the frame lock definitely is far off from "finger-safe". Otherwise good sugguestion -DCA

[@stevenstroupe3805]

Paying attention to the knives steel. Is new to me in my EDC. Recently bought me the spiderco stretch 2. K390. Very impressed . Know. I will definitely take the knife steel into consideration before purchasing. Before if it was the color. Price. Design I was looking for. I bought it. The steel didn't matter. Not anymore.

[@arrowheadguys7637]

Once you start caring about your knife's steel its a game changer for knife collecting. Suddenly all the basic stainless knives get removed from your wishlist and it becomes much easier to choose your next purchase.

[@stevenstroupe3805]

@@arrowheadguys7637 I could not agree more.

[@MrBeefy-og7nw]

Thomas. Look at the Seax on the table. There's your infamous "reverse (Americanized) tanto! Yeah man it's true. If you gotta cry on DCA's shoulder it ok dude although DCA might have a different opinion. Just pointing this out...

[@lee_temp3499]

Looking for a fixed blade that I can carry for construction work has to have a easy on off sheath, using the mora companion and it's good but looking for something stronger, sheath is as important as the blade. Great videos

[@acid6urns]

the mora garberg is full tang and a similar sheath, you could also look at maybe some of the kabar or esee smaller fixed blades? or if you want edge retention bladehq has a kizer fixed blade exclusive with 10v steel

[@rpmg759152]

Hi David. I have a set of wood-handled kitchen knives we received as a wedding present in 1985. While we were away, our house sitter put several of them in the dish washer, repeatedly. The steel was unaffected but as you can probably imagine, I now have some loose scales rattling around on their tangs. Can these be fixed? Thanks!

[@jmamer]

Hello Knife Center! This may seem like a strange request...but...are there one-hand-open-knives (flippers, button lock, thumb studs, etc) that lock closed? By that I mean knives that require that I push a button or slide a latch to allow the knife to open. It can be an uncomfortable surprise while fishing around in your pocket to find that the detent on your pocket knife was not quite strong enough to keep it closed. Other than that I'm looking for a flat ground blade in pretty good steel (NitroV is my current favorite) and not too long (2.5"-3" or so). Thank you!

[@Redwash48]

I've been looking for a good multitool for under a $100 that will be good for my camping kit. Thanks guys!

[@HUZ9k3s5w]

My favorite steel is 80CrV2. So easy.

[@esporev]

That clip of Eric Glessar is funny cause I learned that trick from seeing him in a video doing it. Unlocking my k390 delica and using my finger to stop the blade, he often does it and I started doing it from seeing him. I’ve never seen that “cut” video

[@gaberoo9099]

Hey DCA, how bout the Spyderco Para 3 lightweight in BD1N steel? Sub 3 inch blade, stainless, finger safe mechanism and washers in the pivot.

[@dougbrown7150]

Thanks for the simple breakdown of arrpm9. I've been thinking of getting a knife with it

[@EDCandLace]

For easiest steel to live with I would say for most people LC200N as the more premium choice or 14c28n for a more budget offering. Once it's available in more models and availability isn't a issue I would say magnacut would take over the all around easiest to live with.

[@johnrylee6277]

So, I have a mini griptillian and a standard size both in 154cm. Both are probably 8+ years old. Both are VERY hard use knives. I'm thinking about replacing them with a newer combo. I'm a farmer/mechanic/welder/always outdoors type of guy. Definitely not scared to break or beat on a tool to get the job done. I'm a decent hand sharpener but not interested in something that requires a machine to sharpen the knives. Thanks for any recommendations. With the great luck I've had with Benchmade, I'd be interested in them first.

[@arrowheadguys7637]

Not sure if you want a matching set, but Benchmade makes large and smaller versions of a lot of knives, so you're in luck there. Freek, Bugout, Osborne, and Crooked River. If you don't mind a mix matched set I would suggest a Super Freek and Mini-Osborne or a full size Osborne and a Mini-Bugout.

[@slywolfe]

DCA & knife fam - what would you recommend for a sub 2.5 inch slipjoint? California knife laws are rough so I'm pretty limited in what I can carry certain places, but if such a unicorn knife exists it would be the best EDC option for me at the moment (Preferably for < $150 if possible)

[@arrowheadguys7637]

Check out the Maserin Sessantesimo, The Fallkniven LTC and the James Brand Pike. All 3 of those meet your requirements for length and cost.

[@Ericstraordinary]

Spyderco Li'l Native Slipit.

[@DullPoints]

Question for DCA: Is there a folding knife whose handle lets you safely grip right up to the cutting edge without a finger choil? I'm a big fan, thanks for always delivering solid info.

[@knifecenter]

Spyderco Caribbean or Tenacious (and related knives) -DCA

[@robertromania8134]

Witch one is good for hunting mushrooms? I like the little ones.

[@staywoke2198]

My wedding knife was gold plated Leek.

[@thefrogking481]

Wtf is a "wedding knife" ?!?!

[@staywoke2198]

@@thefrogking481 like an edc knife but instead of everyday, it’s for one day, your wedding

[@ironsights7028]

That ceo compact is a nice lil knife. I wish someone would make aftermarket scales for it. The blue finish starts wearing off literally within a week of being in the pocket.

[@MatisseStLaurent]

DCA I need a knife to carry at my own funeral. I think I will be wearing a suit but I'm not sure what color. I was thinking about something with wood scales to match my coffin. Price is not a concern because well, I'll be dead. Any suggestions?

[@arrowheadguys7637]

Definitely the carcass splitter.

[@Ericstraordinary]

Bowie with a coffin-shaped handle.

[@LucisPictor]

Hi, DCA. I haven't found a review of the Kizer Vanguard Converse with tanto 154CM and jade G10 scales. It seems to me that it's an amazing deal ATM. Do you think you could review it? Thanks. Fantastic videos, BTW!

[@stevewealthy6120]

Best kitchen Chefs knife under $100. I want it to hold a edge for as long as possible. I don't care if it's stainless or not. Thanks

[@imunclebubba8218]

Hey DCA. I'm a hotel GM and therefore find myself doing small repairs out on my property when my maintenance guy is off. Usually it's just tightening something down that has become loose. I love the thought of a small multitool, but due to medication I have to take, I have brittle nails. That means all of the multi tools that have knife knicks as opening mechanisms I can't use. I don't need anything major just something with a screwdriver and maybe a pair of pliers. Any recommendations?

[@Squatch-sj3vg]

@DCA best value today for made in America knives? Assuming maker/brand doesn't matter, blade shape doesn't matter, locking/non locking doesn't matter, but must be made in America and must be in stock at time of video premier and for extra points must be less than 150$ at checkout shipping anywhere globally. PS I'm a fixed blade guy with truly XL hands but this was purposefully meant to serve as many people as possible Good luck!

[@arrowheadguys7637]

Probably the Benchmade Griptilian.

[@knifecenter]

Kershaw Leek (and related Onions), Blur, Link, Dividend, etc. -DCA

[@CopyNPasteComments]

Hey DCA, how do you decide when it’s time to sharpen/clean your knives? Do you sharpen a knife right when you get it or do you use the factory edge till it’s not performing to your standards? Thanks and love the content! Also for the guy who needs a knife for the farmers market, Pacific Salt 2 in LC200N

[@arrowheadguys7637]

@The Fart Of General Zod Good advice. Stropping often will keep that edge sharp a lot longer.

[@silverfingerthesilverstack5062]

Get all CRKT knives for yourself and your bestmen and use the money saved having the blades engraved with something meaningful

[@brianmatthews3450]

hey dca I do a lot of fishing and I'm looking for a folding edc that is good to fillet fish with but also good for everyday tasks. want to limit the amount of knives I take on vacation. just want to take my ria, my minimalist and one more looking for a budget option under $50. what would u recommend? thanks

[@artemgurevich4000]

What is considered good detent for a locking knife and why is it so important to have a drop shut action on a quality folder?

[@deltafunction0]

For Farmer's market I was thinking a Spyderco Salt with no serrations. Or even a stainless Opinel.

[@sublyme2157]

Haha, if I walked up to a food establishment and the person behind the counter was using a folding knife to prep food, I would turn around and walk away. :)

[@kjgas6945]

Very good!!! Keep the music! Thank you DCA!!👍👍🤠🤠🎯🎯🎼🎵🎵🎵🎶🎶😃😃

[@enzowarren9832]

420HC is the easiest imo. Extremely tough (around 5160 / AEBL / LC200N levels of toughness) extremely corrosion resistant (doesn’t matter if you sheath it wet in a rainstorm, it won’t rust) and very easy to keep sharp. Couple minutes on a pocket stone and it’ll shave facial hair. My favorite overall steel would have to be S7 or Sleipner, but “easiest” is definitely 420HC imo.

[@Emozisbit]

I would not say “extremely corrosion resistant”. I’ve very easily rusted the steel before.

[@enzowarren9832]

@@Emozisbit On what knife? Poor quality heat treat / tempering (which is featured on many 420HC budget-tier knives) can lead to corrosion resistance issues with any steel. On a quality knife made from 420HC (buck knives, leatherman, ontario knives, condor knives, etc) I’ve never seen a spec of rust. I regularly sheath my Buck Frontiersman wet, and it’s been on my belt through many rainstorms in the woods.

[@mcsquirgle]

@@enzowarren9832 i just want to shout out the Buck 124 Frontiersman out here. That knife is FANTASTIC. i wish KnifeCenter would carry it so I could have bought it here

[@enzowarren9832]

@@mcsquirgle Agreed! the 124 is truly a wonderful knife!

[@PerceptionVsReality333]

Totally agree, I've had my Buck119 since 09 & my Buck110 even longer & they've been 100% reliable. 420HC is good stuff but underrated.

[@johnathan.jerusik]

Just saying, my main knife I use everyday is a bugout. The s30v is very very easy to work with. I find no issue with the edge retention. I don't find it worse than a 20cv. It sharpens up amazing! And strops back so much easier! I have no issue with chips, or rolls, and it slices. It has become my favorite day to day steel. For the hard use, I stick to a 3v fixed blade. But that's my 2 cents.

[@MrWinger1951]

I agree completely. I wonder if Benchmade does a secondary heat treat to their knives with s30v?

[@janjimpson240]

I agree with both your preferences. I use benchmades and spyderco s30v most the time and it performs great and is easy to maintain. And if you look at edge retention testing videos online, s30v is not that far behind m390, but it's easier to sharpen and is tougher. People give it a bad rap but it's an excellent day to day steel

[@johnathan.jerusik]

@@janjimpson240 It's the main steel now I look for. I still wish CRK made sebenzas with s30v. I mean I have never had a 20cv or m390 that I have liked. It's like you don't get that better of edge retention but you lose strength and sharpening. When I saw the DBK boys use a bugout with s30v baton through a log, I'm sold!

[@tamaplayer22]

S30v is still an amazing performer! I think we're too spoiled with all these new "improved" steels and forget how good what we had before was

[@johnathan.jerusik]

@@tamaplayer22 I have tried alot of the more improved steels and I don't like alot of them. I have tried, vanex, s90v, maxament, 20cv, magnacut, s35vn, s45vn, and non have done anything for me. 3v and s30v just check all my boxes. I will say that the magnacut was not at a good heat treatment and I didn't find it any different than a s35vn. And the s45vn was a CRK and they don't do there heat treatment high enough so the edge retention was terrible!

[@PhillPhill-ob4hl]

Rate stainless by stainlessness please and thank you. Many weeds will be in need.

[@armenarakelian9876]

not going to lie DCA knows his stuff to a T... have to disagree with RPM9 though i think its really low quality. I have a CJRB ria and the edge was lost quickly and will not come back... the flat grind has the steel behind the edge WAY too thick to resharpen to a sharp angle without grinding down the bevels. I dont recommend it. dont mean to be a negative comment, just how i feel about that steel. love the video though, thanks for the info!

[@ScotMerrifield]

The background music is great!

[@niklasborg8745]

Hi DCA and Thomas. I live in Denmark, but have started to take an interest in knives. i want to start a collection but where to start and what "strategy" for the future? in Denmark it is illegal to have folding knives that can be opened with one hand. I like fixed blades, but folding knives are also of interest. some thoughts ?

[@mcrn12]

Hi DCA. I would like to hear your recommendation for a knife to carry while mountain biking. pPreferably something with a lock so that when, not if, I crash I do not stab myself. Thanks a lot and love your videos. Also the lighter the better and I already have a Kershaw leak :)

[@mielbeekman]

Opinels are very light and can lock closed

[@hubrechtpeeters644]

Hello DCA, for the farmers knife request in this video : I think the Spyderco Kapara meets the criteria. Thanks for the hours of infotainment you gave me. Kindest regards from Belgium. Hubrecht Peeters.

[@hubrechtpeeters644]

I checked, 3.6” blade, so not an option.

[@knifecenter]

Also not even close to cheap unfortunately -DCA

[@Vares65]

Hey DCA, serious question here: any tips on explaining to the Significant Other why I spend so much money on knives? Seriously dude, help me out here because I don't see me stopping anytime soon.

[@bhavyagautam6314]

Hey, i am from india here not many people buy knives so its very hard to get hands on any bushcraft or any type of knife. However, swiss army knives are available but are very pricy due to inflation and conversion rates. I bought 'Sika 90 Grip Fixed Knife Black' and 'Axis 85 Folding Knife Black' of solognac brand from Decathlon. Could you review them and tell if they are any good or not? Also if you could suggest any bushcraft camping knifes both foldable and fixed blade available in India? t

[@jjm6187]

What about the Spyderco SpydieChef for food prep?

[@reafkennedy3069]

Het DCA, I'm looking for a couple of decent knives to carry to my cabin and leave. Stainless is a must. Mostly kitchen stuff. Would like to stay around $200 for the pair.

[@arrowheadguys7637]

Without knowing what kind of knives you're looking for, my recommendation would be the Moki Banff and the CJRB Silax. The pair comes in at $205 total, gives you a smaller knife for paring, cleaning fish etc and a larger kitchen utility type of knife, both stainless.

[@unfi6798]

Always an entertaining show gentlemen.! Cowabunga.!

[@PerceptionVsReality333]

I'd say 420HC & 1095 are the best knife steels to live with. But this is just my opinion.

[@geico1975]

HA! "Really ties the room together" The dude and his knives abide:)

[@gianm454]

Hey DCA, hope you guys are doing well. Want to buy White River Knives M1 Pro Backpacker Fixed Blade Knife 3.25" S35VN Stonewashed, Textured Black G10 Handles, Kydex Sheath - WRM1-TBL But must be preordered and Im kind of in a Hurry for it. Is there other options with similar characteristics (for about same price range). S35VN, Fixed blade but slim profile with a decent grip (specially for when its wet/muddy), Hardshell sheath (like kydex/Plastic) is a big plus. It will be used for skinning mainly (Boars)...

[@landscapingspecialist]

I have the drop point Caribbean. Maybe I’ll pick up a sheepsfoot this winter

[@arrowheadguys7637]

LOL I have the sheepsfoot and am thinking I need to pick up a drop point.

[@drewpfeif5028]

Hey DCA. How can I get a deep carry clip for my KC exclusive swayback? Does it share a hole pattern with another common knife? Thanks

[@schotzfired]

Hey DCA, do you have a recommendation for a professional waterskiier? I am sponsored by Speedo, and only wear bright colors. I need a bright knife that is very stainless and not a spyderco

[@80808O]

Shame you dont want spyderco. They make the knives you are looking for.

[@schotzfired]

@@80808O the salt series fills my exact requirements but no spyderco

[@arrowheadguys7637]

If you aren't into Spyderco I'd suggest get a Benchmade Bugout and throw some bright aftermarket scales on it by Metonboss. IF you don't mind chinese production Artisan and Bestech typically have some loud colors.

[@cliffbunyea8416]

While you're skiing? Ok then, buy a small diver's knife. With plastic ties, you want to attach the sheath and knife invertedly to the shoulder strap of your preserver. That knife needs to be mounted to your less dominant side. Now, you can release one hand from the tow handle, and grab the knife handle. Of course, the easiest way to go, buy a normal large diver's knife and strap it to your leg. Now, that's cool. Problem solved, I guess?

[@Ericstraordinary]

Sandrin Torino in bright red.

[@spikedickey5703]

I can’t believe people carry knives at their weddings!!! Greetings from N.Z.

[@sal1964]

I'm going to Mars for vacation what knife do you recommend I bring thanks sal

[@arrowheadguys7637]

Fox Mars Sputnik?

[@Ericstraordinary]

Ka-Bar USSF "Space-Bar".

[@SlothAlliance]

Hi DCA. What would you recommend for a collectable knife that would gain value over time?

[@arrowheadguys7637]

Anything with a limited production run and a serial number is a good bet. Also sprint runs with limited numbers that are likely to not get made again.

[@Legato-2057]

Any recommendations for a flipper knife with finger safe closing? I am aware of the Benchmade Arcane, but I would prefer a non-assisted knife.

[@knifecenter]

Many many button lock flippers, or the SOG Terminus XR -DCA

[@hudsonwade1089]

I need a knife with good build, American designed and made, and easy to sharpen and full stainless. Any recommendations

[@dauayub1395]

Hey DCA. I hear you express your appreciation for 14C28N quite often, but when I used the Real Steel Bushcraft in that steel, the sharp spine was marred/torn up so badly after two of three scrapes over a fire steel I have no confidence in the knife as a dependable tool. Is it normal for this steel? Is it normal for the spine to get that torn up that quickly? My Lionsteel B35 has scraped 10-20 times more ferro rod and shows no damage at all... I am new to bushcraft and am trying to develop proper expectations on steels and knife durability...

[@knifecenter]

Honestly I would consider that normal. I have experienced spine degradation from every knife I have used as a striker... 12C27, 14C28N, A2, O1, S30V... never tried it on Sleipner specifically though. -DCA

[@aaronross1688]

Hello DCA, I am looking at purchasing a larger folder (Kizer Sheepdog XL) that I prefer not to carry in my front jeans pocket, where I usually keep them. I am wanting to carry in my back pocket, but I am concerned about the pocket clip damaging our couch or truck seats. Any suggestions?

[@crookmcstealie]

I just got my first rat 1 about a week ago, it's as good as everyone says. I just put it in my back pocket after I read your comment and it fits easily (I'm even wearing slacks or some type of golf pants from Costco so the pocket is pretty small.) It's also pretty comfortable to sit on, I have it pushed all the way to the outside of the pocket and it's not bothering me at all while I write this. The pocket clip doesn't stick up too much and it's pretty wide so I don't feel like it would catch on things too much. It's actually one of my favorite pocket clips because it goes in and out so smooth. It's a pretty big knife though, it's right on the edge for me to where I may only carry it camping instead of for work, but you said big. Love the Rat 1. Civivi elementum button lock is pretty big too, but I would be nervous to always be sitting on a button lock. I have fallen asleep with the button lock in my pocket a couple of times and it never opened so it could probably work in a back pocket. Just tried it, it's even more comfortable sitting than the rat 1.

[@arrowheadguys7637]

I don't have one but the Spyderco Military is what everyone says to be the perfect back pocket large folder.

[@Ericstraordinary]

Wire clips are probably the most gentle ones.