As an EDC knife enthusiast or a professional, choosing the best steel for your knife is vital. A good steel selection will ensure you have a knife that is durable, reliable, and efficient in its function. However, with so many options available, selecting the right steel for your EDC knife can be overwhelming. In this article, we will guide you on the key points to consider when looking for the best steel for your EDC knife.
Firstly, you need to consider the steel's ability to hold an edge. A good steel should have a high level of hardness, which will enable it to maintain a sharp edge for longer periods. Secondly, you need to consider the steel's toughness, which will determine how well it can withstand impact, pressure, and wear. Thirdly, you need to consider the steel's corrosion resistance, especially if you live in a humid or coastal environment. Fourthly, you need to consider the steel's ease of sharpening, which will determine how often you can sharpen your knife. Lastly, you need to consider the steel's price, as high-quality steels tend to be more expensive.
In summary, when looking for the best steel for your EDC knife, you should consider its ability to hold an edge, toughness, corrosion resistance, ease of sharpening, and price. By considering these factors, you can select a steel that is suitable for your needs and preferences.
10 Best Steel For Edc Knife
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1. Cjrb Crag Folding Knife – Ar-Rpm9 Steel, Carbon Fiber Handle, Edc Pocket Knife.
The CJRB CUTLERY Folding Knife Crag (J1904) is a high-quality tactical knife that offers an array of features to meet the needs of outdoor enthusiasts, hunters, and everyday carry (EDC) enthusiasts. This pocket knife is a reliable and robust tool that is designed to withstand tough conditions and deliver consistent performance.
One of the most notable features of this folding knife is the flipper that allows for easy and fast one-handed opening. This feature enables users to open the knife with either hand, making it a versatile tool for both right and left-handed individuals. The flipper is also designed to ensure that the blade locks securely in place when opened, providing added safety and stability.
The blade of this folding knife is crafted from AR-RPM9 powder steel, which is a durable and robust material that offers excellent edge retention and toughness. The cleaver-style blade measures 3.43 inches long, making it suitable for a range of cutting tasks, from slicing through tough materials to precision cuts. The blade material of this pocket knife for men is ARTISANCUTLERY patent AR-RPM9 powder steel, which is known for its superior quality and performance.
The handle of the CJRB folding knife is made from patterned carbon fiber, which offers excellent grip and prevents slipping even in wet conditions. The handle material is also lightweight, which ensures that the knife is easy to carry and comfortable to use for extended periods. A steel clip is attached to the handle, allowing users to carry the knife conveniently in their pocket.
Overall, the CJRB CUTLERY Folding Knife Crag (J1904) is a reliable and robust tool that offers a range of features to meet the needs of outdoor enthusiasts, hunters, and EDC enthusiasts. The flipper, AR-RPM9 powder steel blade, patterned carbon fiber handle, and steel clip make this knife a versatile and practical tool that is designed to last. Whether you need a reliable tool for cutting, slicing, or precision tasks, this folding knife is an excellent option that delivers consistent performance.
2. Cold Steel's Ad-10 Tactical Folding Knife: Premium S35vn Steel Blade, Lock, Pocket Clip.
The Cold Steel AD-10 and AD-15 Tactical Folding Knives are premium, all-purpose blades designed for everyday carry (EDC), big game hunts, dangerous expeditions, and exciting adventures. These knives feature ultra-wide saber ground blades with a sturdy drop point, made with premium, ultra-tough S35VN steel for exceptional performance in every situation.
The blades are ground thin at the edge and honed to razor sharpness, providing unprecedented cutting, shearing, and piercing power in a sub 4-inch blade while remaining remarkably resistant to bending, breaking, or chipping. This makes the AD-10 and AD-15 ideal for a wide range of tasks, from slicing through tough materials to delicate precision work.
The handle of these knives is strong and user-friendly, with heat-treated, full-length aluminum liners, 3D machined G-10 scales, and oversized pins and bolts. The precise contouring and integral finger guard ensure a comfortable and secure grip, even during extended use. Additionally, the AD-10 and AD-15 are equipped with an ambidextrous thumb stud and dual pocket clips for lightning quick deployment and convenient carry.
One of the standout features of these knives is the ultra-reliable locking mechanism. The AD-10 and AD-15 use custom knife-maker Andrew Demko's famous TriAd lock, which has been proven over time to be unsurpassed in strength, shock resistance, and durability. This provides unrivaled protection for your irreplaceable fingers, making these knives some of the safest and most reliable on the market.
Overall, the Cold Steel AD-10 and AD-15 Tactical Folding Knives are versatile, high-performance blades that are perfect for anyone who demands the best from their tools. Whether you're a hunter, an outdoor enthusiast, or just someone who appreciates quality craftsmanship, these knives are sure to impress.
3. Bohler M390 Steel Folding Pocket Knife With Leather Sheath And Ironwood Handle – Ideal For Edc And Outdoor Camping.
The NEWOOTZ Bohler M390 Steel Folding Pocket Knife with Leather Sheath is a high-quality EDC knife designed for outdoor activities such as camping and hiking. The knife features a premium super steel blade made of Bohler M390 Powder High-speed Steel, which is considered one of the best and most expensive steels for a folding knife. The blade boasts a 62 HRC for excellent heat treatment, high hardness, outstanding edge retention, high corrosion resistance, and excellent wear resistance.
The Ironwood Handle of the knife is classical and beautiful, providing a comfortable grip and ensuring it never stains even with long term use. The handle also features a hidden frame lock that keeps its perfect appearance and protects the user from accidents.
The knife comes with a classic leather sheath, which is made of the first layer of cowhide and implanted with python skin. The sheath is cut by hand and sewn by wax rope. The belt hole at the back of the sheath makes it suitable for all kinds of outdoor activities such as camping and hiking, making it the perfect EDC choice.
The Fliper Open Knife design of the NEWOOTZ Bohler M390 Steel Folding Pocket Knife ensures that it has an extremely durable and sharp 3.5-inch blade while being 4.5 inches closed, and with a total length of 8 inches. The ergonomic fliper open design allows for easy one-handed opening of the knife, making it fast and smooth to use.
NEWOOTZ is an original brand of craftsmen who try their best to supply better hand-made folding knives. They are responsible for their products' life-long warranty against defects, and they offer free delivery and return services, making it risk-free to try their products.
Overall, the NEWOOTZ Bohler M390 Steel Folding Pocket Knife with Leather Sheath is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a premium-quality EDC knife that is perfect for outdoor activities. The knife's high-quality materials, superb craftsmanship, and lifetime warranty make it a reliable and durable tool that is sure to impress.
4. Usa-Made Folding Knife With 3.9" Sharp Blade, Ambidextrous Carry, And High-Performance S35vn Steel.
The SOG SEAL XR Knife is a high-performance folding knife that provides exceptional functionality and durability. This knife is proudly made in the USA and has been designed and optimized with input from professional users to meet and exceed their needs. It features a large format pocket knife design that offers the feel and functionality of a SEAL knife.
One of the key features of the SOG SEAL XR Knife is its ambidextrous design. The knife can be smoothly and rapidly opened with both left and right hands thanks to its reversible pocket clip. Additionally, the knife features three methods of opening such as thumb hole, XR lock, and kick. This makes it a versatile and accessible tool for anyone regardless of their handedness.
The XR lock of the SOG SEAL XR Knife is one of its standout features. It is reliable and powerful, able to withstand up to 1,500 pounds of pressure. This lock provides the ultimate built-in blade locking security when opening and ensures that the blade only opens when needed. This makes the knife an incredibly safe and secure tool for everyday carry.
Another critical aspect of the SOG SEAL XR Knife is the high-performance material it is made from. The blade is made from CPM-S35VN steel, which is a USA-made steel that offers improved toughness, better edge retention, higher resistance to wear, and edge chipping while maintaining ease of sharpening. This steel is known for its exceptional performance and durability, making it an ideal choice for a high-performance folding knife like the SOG SEAL XR.
Overall, the SOG SEAL XR Knife is an exceptional tool that offers exceptional functionality, durability, and performance. It is a versatile and accessible tool that can be used by anyone regardless of their handedness. Additionally, it is made from high-quality, USA-made materials that ensure it will provide reliable service for years to come.
5. Off-Grid Knives Rhino V2 – Large Folding Edc Knife With 154cm Blade, Black Dlc Finish, Ceramic Ball Bearings, G10 Scales, And Deep Pocket Carry.
Off-Grid Knives has released the Rhino V2, an upgraded version of its popular folding EDC knife. The Rhino V2 boasts 154CM blade steel, a tried and true material that has been field tested and proven to provide excellent wear and corrosion resistance, incredible edge retention, toughness, high hardness, and ease of sharpening. The blade is coated with a Diamond Like Coating (DLC) with a tumbled blackwash finish that not only hides wear and tear but also creates a non-reflective surface, giving the knife additional corrosion resistance and toughness.
The Rhino V2 features a large flipper tab with jimping for easy deployment of the blade. The action is smooth, and the blade locks into place with zero play. The knife's fidget factor is high, making it an enjoyable knife to use even for those with big hands. The Rhino V2's G10 scales are textured enough to stay grippy while providing comfort for all-day use. The large ergonomic grip accommodates all hand sizes, making it a confident, safe, and strong knife to use.
This multipurpose EDC knife is perfect for all knife enthusiasts and collectors, as well as military, law enforcement, border patrol, coast guard, federal agents, EMTs, first responders, firemen, hunters, campers, hikers, survivalists, preppers, and all Off-Grid Adventurers. The Rhino V2 is built for versatility, making it perfect for camping trips or as a tactical knife.
The Rhino V2's clip is designed to ride very low in your pocket, making it unobtrusive and easy to carry. The clip's screws are flush with the scales, making it snag-free. The knife's G10 backspacer was added to strengthen the overall build and add some extra heft to the Rhino V2's overbuilt design.
The Rhino V2 has a blade length of 3.50 inches, a width of 1.5 inches at the widest point, a blade thickness of 3.5mm, a full length of 8.25 inches, a handle length of 4.55 inches, and a profile of .5 inches. The knife weighs 6.8oz.
Off-Grid Knives stands behind its products and offers a lifetime replacement policy. Customers can register their Rhino V2 on the Off-Grid Knives website. In summary, the Rhino V2 is a top-performing, multipurpose EDC knife with excellent blade steel, a non-reflective surface, and a comfortable grip. Its low profile and tactical design make it perfect for all Off-Grid Adventurers.
6. Crkt Provoke Kinematic Folding Pocket Knife: D2 Steel Blade, Safety Lock, Low Profile Clip
The CRKT Provoke Kinematic EDC Folding Pocket Knife is a revolutionary piece of equipment that is designed to meet the needs of modern-day adventurers. This folding pocket knife is equipped with a unique Kinematic pivot action that deploys the blade with the push of a thumb, making it a quick and easy option to use when you need it most.
One of the standout features of this knife is its superior performance, thanks to its D2 blade steel. This high-quality material provides excellent edge retention, ensuring that the blade remains sharp and reliable even after extended periods of use. The blade is also designed with a morphing karambit shape, making it ideal for a variety of tasks, including cutting, slicing, and piercing.
In addition to its impressive performance, the CRKT Provoke Kinematic EDC Folding Pocket Knife is also strong and lightweight. The handle is made from aluminum, which combines strength with minimal weight, making it easy to carry with you wherever you go. The knife is also designed with an integrated safety lock, which provides added security when the blade is not in use.
This folding pocket knife is the brainchild of Joe Caswell, a designer based in Newbury Park, California. His innovative design has been praised by adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts alike, who appreciate the knife's unique features and high-quality construction.
Finally, the CRKT Provoke Kinematic EDC Folding Pocket Knife comes with a limited lifetime warranty that covers any defects in materials or workmanship. This guarantee provides added peace of mind for those who use the knife regularly, knowing that they can rely on its quality and durability for years to come. To learn more about the warranty and other details about this product, visit the company's website.
7. Revo Berserk Carry G10 Rev 2 – Orange Features A 9cr Blade, Stainless Steel Handles, Ball Bearing Pivot System, And Compound Karambit Edc Grind. It Comes With A Reversible Pocket Clip And Is An 8.125" Pocket Knife For Men, Ideal For Camping And Other Outd
The REVO Berserk Carry G10 REV 2 folding knife is a versatile and practical tool designed for everyday use. With an overall length of 8.125 inches, a Blade length of 3.38 inches, and a handle of 4.75 inches, this knife has a compact and convenient size for carrying in your pocket or backpack.
One of the most outstanding features of the Berserk Carry G10 REV 2 is its ball bearing pivot system, which allows for a smooth and easy opening and closing of the knife. This system also provides a reversible pocket clip, making it easy to carry and access the knife whenever needed. The knife's stainless steel handle provides a secure and comfortable grip, ensuring the user's safety and convenience.
The design of the REVO Berserk Carry G10 REV 2 is simple and practical, with a textured handle that fits the Revo look and provides maximum control. The knife's Compound Karambit EDC Grind makes it suitable for almost every task, from self-defense to agricultural purposes, making it an ideal tool for everyday carry.
The REVO Berserk Carry G10 REV 2 folding knife is not only suitable for everyday carry but also has multiple functions, making it a versatile tool that can be used for camping, hunting, survival, and tactical purposes. Its durable construction ensures that it can withstand even the toughest conditions, making it an excellent choice for outdoor activities.
In conclusion, the REVO Berserk Carry G10 REV 2 folding knife is a reliable and practical tool that provides safety, convenience, and control. Its compact size, ball bearing pivot system, and reversible pocket clip make it easy to carry and access whenever needed. Its practical design, multi-functionality, and durability make it an excellent choice for a wide range of activities.
8. Spyderco Subvert Folding Utility Knife With 4.14" Cpm S30v Blade And Orange G-10 Handle – Plainedge – Edc Knife.
The Spyderco Subvert Specialty Folding Utility Knife is a high-quality knife that is designed for everyday carry (EDC). The knife features a 4.14" CPM S30V premium stainless steel blade that provides exceptional cutting performance and durability. The blade has a full-flat grind, which reduces drag during cutting and decreases overall weight, making it easy to handle.
The handle of the knife is made from orange G-10 titanium, which is a rigid, non-slip material that is impervious to temperature changes and chemicals. The handle is designed to provide a comfortable grip, even in wet or slippery conditions. The knife also features a locking mechanism that ensures the blade stays securely in place when in use.
One of the standout features of the Spyderco Subvert is its plainedge blade. This means that the knife has a sharpened blade with no serrations or teeth, which provides a smooth cutting experience. This type of blade is particularly useful for slicing through materials such as cardboard or rope.
The Spyderco Subvert is a folding knife, which makes it compact and easy to carry. The closed length of the knife is 5.11", while the overall length is 9.25". This makes it small enough to fit in a pocket or a backpack, while still providing a substantial cutting blade when needed.
In summary, the Spyderco Subvert Specialty Folding Utility Knife is a high-quality knife that is designed for everyday carry. It features a premium stainless steel blade, a comfortable G-10 titanium handle, and a plainedge blade that provides a smooth cutting experience. The knife is also compact and easy to carry, making it a great choice for anyone who needs a reliable knife for everyday use.
9. Artisancutlery Sirius Folding Knife With Black Pvd Ar-Rpm9 Blade And G10 Handle – Edc Pocket Knife (Model 1849p)
ARTISANCUTLERY has recently introduced their latest collaboration with renowned knifemaker Ray Laconico, the Folding Knife SIRIUS (1849P). This exceptional knife is a blend of beauty and function, designed to meet the needs of both everyday carry (EDC) users and tactical enthusiasts.
The SIRIUS features a flipper opening mechanism, making it easy to deploy with either hand. This tactical knife is equipped with a drop point style blade, crafted from durable AR-RPM9 steel, which measures 3.54 inches in length. The blade material is ARTISANCUTLERY's patent AR-RPM9 powder steel with black PVD, which not only enhances the knife's durability but also adds to its visual appeal.
The handle of the SIRIUS is made from lightly textured black G10, which improves grip and prevents slipping during use. The handle design is ergonomic and comfortable to hold, making it suitable for prolonged use. The knife's design is both functional and aesthetically appealing, with several premium elements that add to its overall value.
The SIRIUS is a versatile knife that can be used for various purposes, including EDC and tactical applications. Its high-grade materials make it durable and long-lasting, while its design ensures that it is easy to use and maintain. ARTISANCUTLERY has designed this knife to meet the needs of both professionals and those who are looking for a reliable everyday carry knife.
Overall, the ARTISANCUTLERY Folding Knife SIRIUS (1849P) is an exceptional knife that combines beauty and function. It is a must-have for anyone who is looking for a reliable and versatile knife that can be used for various purposes. Its premium materials and design ensure that it is not only functional but also visually appealing, making it a great addition to any collection.
10. Kizer V3605e1 Black Aluminum Handle Pocket Knife With 3 Inch 154cm Steel Blade And Clip.
The Kizer Original Folding Pocket Knife with Clip, Black Aluminum Handle EDC Knife, 3 Inch154CM Steel Blade Knife, V3605E1 is a high-quality pocket knife that is perfect for everyday carry. This knife features a button lock mechanism and Kizer's Action, which makes its open action very snappy and close smoothly. The aluminum handle is corrosion-resistant and provides a comfortable grip, making it easy to use for extended periods.
One of the standout features of this knife is its excellent 154CM blade. The 3" blade is made of 154CM steel, which provides razor-sharp cutting performance and holds the edge well. This makes it perfect for a variety of cutting tasks, from opening packages to slicing through tough materials.
The pocket clip is another great feature of this knife. It secures the knife in the pocket of your jeans or pants, making it easy to carry with you wherever you go. This is perfect for everyday carry in pockets, purses, backpacks, briefcases, and more.
The total length of this knife is 6.85", and it weighs just 2.61 oz. This makes it lightweight and easy to carry, without sacrificing any of its functionality. The black aluminum handle also gives it a sleek and professional look, making it suitable for use in a variety of settings.
Overall, the Kizer Original Folding Pocket Knife with Clip, Black Aluminum Handle EDC Knife, 3 Inch154CM Steel Blade Knife, V3605E1 is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality pocket knife that is easy to use and carry. Its button lock mechanism, well-known Kizer's Action, and excellent blade make it a reliable and versatile tool for a variety of cutting tasks.
Best Steel For Edc Knife FAQs
How does the heat treatment of steel impact the performance of an EDC knife?
Heat treatment of steel is a crucial process that greatly affects the performance of an EDC knife. Heat treatment involves heating and cooling the steel to alter its physical and mechanical properties. Proper heat treatment can improve the hardness, toughness, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance of the steel. These properties greatly impact the edge retention, sharpness, and durability of the knife. A well-heat treated EDC knife will hold its edge longer, resist chipping and breaking, and remain sharp even after multiple uses. On the other hand, poorly heat-treated steel will result in a knife that dulls quickly, chips easily, and breaks under stress. Therefore, a good EDC knife should be made from high-quality steel that has undergone proper heat treatment to ensure optimal performance.
How does the price of steel impact the overall value of an EDC knife?
The price of steel has a significant impact on the overall value of an EDC knife. The quality of the steel used in the blade is a crucial factor that determines the durability, sharpness, and overall performance of the knife. High-quality steel, such as premium stainless or Damascus steel, is more expensive and provides better performance and longevity. However, the cost of the steel also depends on its availability and production processes. Therefore, the price of an EDC knife is directly affected by the quality and availability of the steel used in its construction. A knife made with high-quality steel may be more expensive, but it will also have a longer lifespan and provide better performance, making it a worthwhile investment for those in need of a reliable EDC knife.
What are the characteristics of the best steel for an EDC knife?
The best steel for an EDC knife is one that is durable, corrosion-resistant, and holds a sharp edge. A high carbon content steel is desirable as it provides excellent edge retention and toughness. Steel with a high level of chromium and vanadium can also increase corrosion resistance. Additionally, the steel's heat treatment and tempering process can affect its performance, so it is important to consider the manufacturer's process. A steel with a Rockwell hardness of 56-60 is ideal for EDC knives as it balances edge retention and ease of sharpening. However, the best steel for an EDC knife ultimately depends on the individual's preferences and usage requirements.
What are the differences between high carbon and stainless steel for an EDC knife?
High carbon steel and stainless steel are two of the most common materials used in the manufacturing of EDC knives. High carbon steel is harder and holds a sharper edge for a longer period of time than stainless steel. However, it is more prone to rust and corrosion. Stainless steel, on the other hand, is more resistant to rust and corrosion, but it is not as hard as high carbon steel and may require more frequent sharpening.
In terms of maintenance, high carbon steel requires more attention to prevent rust and corrosion, while stainless steel is easier to maintain. High carbon steel also requires more care when sharpening, as it is more brittle and can chip or break if not handled properly.
Ultimately, the choice between high carbon and stainless steel for an EDC knife depends on personal preference and the intended use of the knife. If a sharp edge is a top priority, high carbon steel may be the better choice. If durability and ease of maintenance are more important, stainless steel may be the better option.
What are the pros and cons of using Damascus steel for an EDC knife?
1. Unique and aesthetically pleasing design due to the distinctive patterns created by the forging process.
2. High carbon content provides superior edge retention and sharpness.
3. Resistant to chipping or breaking due to its layered structure.
4. Enhanced durability and toughness due to the use of multiple alloys.
5. Good corrosion resistance due to the presence of chromium in some Damascus steels.
1. Expensive compared to other types of steel.
2. Can be difficult to sharpen due to the complex pattern and structure.
3. Quality and performance can vary greatly depending on the manufacturer and the specific alloy used.
4. Can be prone to rust and staining if not properly cared for and maintained.
5. Limited availability due to the complex and time-consuming forging process.