Knife news, facts and random commentary.

It's that time of year...Price increases coming soon!

noreply@blogger.com (National Knives) — Wed, 12 Dec 2012 22:22:00 +0000

What goes up, must come down. That isn't always the way it works, especially when it comes to inflation. The cost of raw materials, regulation and more are ever increasing it seems and it effects our pocketbooks everywhere we dare open them.

Effective January 1, 2013, Spyderco, Inc. will be increasing the wholesale and MSRP on most of their product line. National Knives will follow suit on January 1, 2013.

Get your orders in now and save some $$$. Don't forget that postage prices will also be going up January 27 of 2013. Now is the time to buy and save!

As a side note, National Knives, LLC is now a supporting (Dealer) member of www.BladeForums.com under the user name National_Knives. If you are not a member, you should consider joining one of the largest online communities of cutlery enthusiasts in the world. A lot of great people and knowledge.

Rob

noreply@blogger.com (National Knives) — Sat, 17 Nov 2012 16:36:00 +0000

Received a couple great Spyderco folders in recently. The Spyderco Starmate C55GP and the Spyderco Szabo folder C146CFP. Below are pics and descriptions from Spyderco's website of both of these folders.

Spyderco Starmate, Model C55GP

Bob Terzuola
Widely recognized as the father of handmade tactical folding knives, Bob Terzuola is one of the most influential figures in custom knifemaking. He was born in Brooklyn, New York is a graduate of New York University. In 1967, he moved to Panama to serve as a Peace Corps trainer and ultimately studied jade carving and gemology in Guatemala. While living in Guatemala, he also developed an interest in knifemaking and by 1979 was making handmade knives for soldiers there. In 1981, he moved to Santa Fe, New Mexico and joined the Knifemakers Guild.

Terzuola is best known for his high-performance tactical folders and fixed blades, which are the tools of choice of many savvy military and special operations personnel worldwide. He is also the author of The Tactical Folding Knife, a definitive work on his meticulous method of custom knifemaking.

Construction and Materials
The latest version of the Starmate faithfully retains all the features of Terzuola’s original design, but differs from the first production of the knife in several ways. Manufactured in Japan, it features a saber-ground blade made from VG-10 stainless steel. Like the original version, its handle is constructed with stainless steel liners and textured G-10 scales; however, unlike the nested liners of the first generation, the new Starmate features full skeletonized liners for a balance of light weight and superior strength.

One of the distinguishing characteristics of a Bob Terzuola design is his improved Walker LinerLock mechanism, which features a concave ramp on the blade’s lock face. This lock geometry, pioneered by Terzuola in his custom knives, provides greater strength and security than conventional flat lock ramps and is proudly featured in the Starmate.

To ensure convenient, versatile carry, the Starmate also features a new four-position clip with a broad triangular base for security and extreme strength. The new clip can be easily configured for tip-up or tip-down carry on either side of the body, allowing you to tune your carry to meet your personal needs and preferences.

Spyderco Szabo Folder, Model C146CFP

Construction and Materials
The heart of the Laci Szabo folder is its 4.5625-inch CPM S30V scimitar-shaped blade. Its partial hollow grind creates excellent edge geometry while reinforcing the spine for increased strength. A Trademark Round Hole™ in the blade supports swift one-handed opening with either hand and, together with a subtle guard on the edge side of the blade, effectively protects the user’s hand during use.

The Szabo’s handle is constructed of full stainless steel liners capped by Gold Line carbon fiber scales. This striking material combines the strength and light weight of carbon fiber with an outer layer of embedded gold-colored wire. Visually stunning yet incredibly durable, it provides a secure, non-slip grip.

To cope with the extreme leverages associated with its longer blade, the Laci Sazabo folder features an enhanced version of Spyderco’s proprietary Compression Lock mechanism—one of the strongest folding knife locks ever designed. When the knife is opened, a split leaf spring integral in one of the handle’s stainless steel liners extends between the stop pin and an upward-facing ramp on the blade’s tang. The wedging force of this spring locks the blade securely and its placement on the back of the handle makes it virtually impossible to disengage during use.

The Szabo folder’s Compression Lock is also unique because it is accompanied by an internal “self-close” mechanism. Nested within one of the handle halves, this mechanism uses a spring piston to engage a plate attached to the blade tang. When the blade is closed, the piston gains mechanical leverage to rotate the plate, keeping the blade nestled securely in the handle for safe carriage. Convenient carry is further supported by a four-position clip that offers tip-up or tip-down carry on either side of the body.

The Laci Szabo folder is a technologically and artistically advanced folding knife from the mind of one of the knife industry’s most creative designers. We sincerely hope that yours serves you and your personal needs well.

Design Inspiration
Laci Szabo is a law enforcement officer, a veteran U.S. Marine, and a word-class martial artist. He is also one of the most visionary knife designers in the industry, combining a unique flair for aesthetics with an in-depth understanding of function and defensive application.

The Laci Szabo folder is a reflection of Szabo’s philosophies regarding folding knife design as it applies to both utility and personal defense. Its large size creates a commanding presence and offers increased reach when used with fencing-style skills. The dramatic scimitar-shaped blade has a long, gently curving belly to maximize cutting power, while leaving the tip well centered to support point-oriented tactics. An unsharpened swedge on the back of the blade ensures an acute point and flows smoothly into a scalloped area on the spine. This unique geometry reduces drag and enhances the blade’s trapping potential when applied with reverse-grip skills. The blade is mated to a generously sized handle that easily accommodates the largest hands and provides extreme leverage in all applications.

A dynamic synthesis of form and function, the Laci Szabo folder faithfully captures both the creativity and practicality of its designer.

Thanks for looking,
Rob

Video Overview of ZT 0561 @ The Edge Observer

noreply@blogger.com (National Knives) — Wed, 07 Nov 2012 15:29:00 +0000

A must see video overview by Andew @ The Edge Observer - http://www.edgeobserver.com/zero-tolerance-0561/

Thanks for looking,
Rob

New to the market - Fixed Blade Knives and Folding Knives

noreply@blogger.com (National Knives) — Wed, 03 Oct 2012 15:28:00 +0000

Over the past few months, there has been several new additions to the cutlery market. I won't list them all, but will focus on a select few.

The Cold Steel Mackinac (pronounced Mackinaw) Hunter is an updated version of more traditionally styled folders. The Hunter features Cold Steel's patented Tri-Ad Lock which essentially adds a stop pin to the mix of the internal workings. That addition aids in the reduction or elimination of vertical blade play that is present in many lock back type folders.

The blade is AUS-8A stainless steel and features a plain edge and a 3.5" (89 mm) length bringing the overall open length of the Hunter to approximately 8.25" (210 mm) and a overall weight of 6.6 ounces (187 grams).

Cold Steel Mackinac Hunter, 3-1/2" SS Blade, Faux Stag Handle 54FBT

Spyderco has put out some great knives in recent times and one of my favorites is the Gayle Bradley Air. This sweet little liner lock features an M4 steel blade which is renown for it excellent cutting abilities. The blade is a 2.5" (76 mm) sheepsfoot style, plain edge and is approximately 3/32" (2 mm) thick.

This incredible knife features gray glass fibers scales that offer a bit of texture for grip, but also helps keep the weight down. As the name implies, the Air is a lightweight knife coming in about an incredible 1.3 ounces (37 grams). That is a whole lot of knife in a very lightweight package.

Spyderco Bradley Air, 2-1/2" M4 Blade, Glass Fiber Handle C159GFP

The Air is definitely one of my favorites in the world of new releases, however, there is another Spyderco that is competing for top spot in my book. It is the Spyderco Techno. What a great knife! Not as light as the Air, in fact if it is more than twice the weight of the Air and comes in about 3.5 ounces (99 grams). Like the Gay Bradley Air, the Techno features a flat ground 2.5" (76 mm) blade, but that is where the similarities end. The Techno's blade features Carpenter Steel's CTS-XHP stainless steel (stonewashed) and is almost twice as thick as the Air's blade at 5/32" (4 mm).

The Techno also features a titanium handle with a built in frame lock and accommodates a right hand or left hand tip up pocket clip option.

Spyderco Techno, Plain 2-1/2" CTS-XHP SS Blade, Ti Handle C158TIP

All these great knives can be found at National Knives, LLC along with many others. Stop by and take a look. While you are there, don't forget to scroll down to the bottom of the page and Join the Mailing List where you will receive occasional emails from National Knives, LLC introducing new products, email only specials and more.

Thanks for looking,
Rob

A bit about the DAREx Work Sharp Knife and Tool Sharpener

noreply@blogger.com (National Knives) — Wed, 20 Jun 2012 15:07:00 +0000

National Knives, LLC has picked up the DAREx Work Sharp Knife and Tool Sharpener. The electric sharpening system is relative easy to use and creates a sturdy convex edge on your cutlery.

DAREx Work Sharp Sharpening System

Thanks for looking,
Rob

Emerson Knives

noreply@blogger.com (National Knives) — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 23:10:00 +0000

Just received some Emerson knives in.

Take a look at some fine, USA made, heavy duty knives or reward yourself and buy one.

Thanks for looking,
Rob

Just received some Spyderco Lionspys C157GTIP

noreply@blogger.com (National Knives) — Mon, 12 Mar 2012 20:26:00 +0000

New and currently (03/12/12) in stock.

$280.99 + shipping

Rob

Spyderco Price Increase!

noreply@blogger.com (National Knives) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 19:41:00 +0000

What goes up, must come down. That isn't always the way it works, especially when it comes to inflation. The cost of raw materials, regulation and more are ever increasing it seems and it effects our pocketbooks everywhere we dare open them.

Effective January 1, 2012, Spyderco, Inc. will be increasing the wholesale and MSRP on most of their product line. National Knives will follow suit on January 1, 2012. Because of time constraints, National Knives, doing business as Robbob8 on eBay, has already increased prices there (eBay). www.NationalKnives.com pricing, as stated previously, will be changed to reflect the price increase on January 1, 2012.

Get your orders in now and save some $$$.

As a side note, National Knives is now a supporting (Dealer) member of www.BladeForums.com under the user name National_Knives. If you are not a member, you should consider joining one of the largest online communities of cutlery enthusiasts in the world. A lot of great people and knowledge.

Rob

Video overview and written review of the Spyderco Bob Lum Chinese folder models.

noreply@blogger.com (National Knives) — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 23:20:00 +0000

http://EdgeObeserver.com has done it again with an overview of the Spyderco Lum Chinese folder. Look for the coupon code good for $5.00 off at NationalKnives.com. http://www.edgeobserver.com/?p=1073

What a Steel! A look at Carpenter Technology Corporation.

noreply@blogger.com (National Knives) — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 18:29:00 +0000

In the late 1800s, James Carpenter received a patent for a tool steel that was air-hardened. At that point in history, James Carpenter's industrial complex amounted to just one building in Pennsylvania. This was the beginning of what would be known today as Carpenter Technology Corporation, a producer of a wide array of steels along with other metallurgical products.

Carpenter Technology Corporation produces a wide array of products that surround us in our day to day lives. In the car you drive, the plane you fly, from the doctor's office to outer space, chances are you have encountered their products without even knowing about it. Unlike the cars and planes that are branded with the manufacturers name and logo, Carpenter and other industry suppliers don't often get the opportunity to brand their products, at least not in a fashion that would be recognizable to most of us. The premium knife industry understands that the type of steel used to make the blade of the knife is very important to the end user (you and me). With this in mind, knife manufacturers have been labeling the blades of their knives with the type of steel used to produce it. This bit of information helps those of us that have a steel fixation (also known as "Steel Junkies") to better choose the knife that is most appropriate for the task at hand.

CTS™ XHP

Offers grindability, edge retention and corrosion resistance comparable to 440C stainless steel.
Contains 1.60% Carbon, 0.40% Silicon, 0.35% Nickel, 0.45% Vanadium, 0.50% Manganese, 16.00% Chromium, 0.80% Molybdenum.
Ideal hardness (HRc) is between 60 - 64.
Can be compared to a corrosion resistant D2 tool steel or a high hardness (HRc) 440C stainless steel.
Can be polished or left in a matte finish.

Spyderco Military, Plain 4" CTS-XHP Blade, Brown G-10 Handle Sprint Run C36GPBNXHP

CTS™ BD1

Offers high hardness and wear resistance
Contains 0.85% - 0.95% Carbon, 0.040% Phosphorous, 1.00% Silicon, 0.50% Molybdenum, 1.00% Manganese, 0.030% Sulfur, 15.00% - 17.00% Chromium.
Ideal hardness (HRc) is between 58 - 60.

Spyderco UK Penknife, CTS-BD1 Stainless Steel Blade, FRN Handle C94FRN

CTS™ 204P

Offers high wear resistance and high corrosion resistance.
Contains 1.90% Carbon, 0.60% Silicon, 1.00% Molybdenum, 0.65% Tungsten, 0.35% Manganese, 20.00% Chromium, 4.00% Vanadium.
Ideal hardness (HRc) is between 57 - 63.

CTS™ 40CP

Offers high hardness.
Contains 0.95% - 1.20% Carbon, 0.040% Phosphorous, 1.00% Silicon, 0.75% Molybdenum, 1.00% Manganese, 0.030% Sulfur, 16.00% - 18.00% Chromium.
Ideal hardness (HRc) is between 60 - 62.

CTS™ 20CP (Micro-Melt® 420 CW)

Offers high wear resistance and high corrosion resistance
Contains 2.25% Carbon, 0.030% Sulfur, 12.80% Chromium, 9.25% Vanadium, 0.50% Manganese, 0.90% Silicon, 1.30% Molybdenum.
Ideal hardness (HRc) 56 - 60.
Compared to Crucible Industries CPM® S90V

Spyderco ParaMilitary 2, Plain Edge CTS-20CP Blade, Gray G-10 Handle, Sprint Run, C81GGY20CP2

CTS™ TMT (Trinamet® Stainless)

Offers excellent corrosion resistance.
Contains 0.30% Carbon, 0.040% Phosphorous, 1.00% Silicon, 1.00% - 3.00% Molybdenum, 1.00% Manganese, 0.030% Sulfur, 12.00% - 14.00% Chromium, 2.00% - 3.00% Copper
Ideal hardness (HRc) 49 - 53.

CTS™ 10 (410 Stainless)

Offers good corrosion resistance.
Contains 0.15% Carbon, 0.040% Phosphorous, 1.00% Silicon, 1.00% Manganese, 0.030% Sulfur, 11.50% - 13.50% Chromium.
Often used in creating a Damascus style pattern (laminate) on knife blade.

Al Mar Ultra Chef, Plain VG-10 Stainless Steel Blade with 410 Stainless Steel Layers (33 per side) and 410 Stainless Steel Handle SC8

CTS™ 20 (420 Stainless)

Offer good corrosion resistance.
Contains 0.15% Carbon, 0.040% Phosphorous, 1.00% Silicon, 1.00% Manganese, 0.030% Sulfur, 12.00% - 14.00% Chromium.
Offers better corrosion resistances than CTS™ 10 (410 Stainless) as well as better strength and hardness.
Ideal hardness (HRc) 49 - 52

CTS™ 40A (440A Stainless)

Offers better hardness than 410 and 420 stainless steels
Contains 0.60% - 0.75% Carbon, 0.040% Phosphorous, 1.00% Silicon, 0.75% Molybdenum, 1.00% Manganese, 0.030% Sulfur, 16.00% - 18.00% Chromium
Ideal hardness (HRc) 50 - 57

CTS™ 40C (440C Stainless)

Offers higher attainable hardness levels than CTS™ 40A (440A Stainless).
Contains 0.95% - 1.20% Carbon, 0.040% Phosphorous, 1.00% Silicon, 0.75% Molybdenum, 1.00% Manganese, 0.030% Sulfur, 16.00% - 18.00% Chromium
Ideal hardness (HRc) 56 - 60.

Spyderco Cat, Plain 2-7/16" 440C Stainless Steel Blade, Black G-10 Handle, C129GP

CTS™ B52 (52100 Alloy)

Offer great wear resistance.
Contains 1.00% Carbon, 0.25% Silicon, 0.30% Manganese, 1.40% Chromium.
Ideal hardness (HRc) 48 - 66

CTS™ B70 (CRB® 7 Alloy)

Offers good corrosion resistance and wear resistance.
Contains 1.10% Carbon, 0.30% Silicon, 2.00% Molybdenum, 1.00% Vanadium, 0.40% Manganese, 14.00% Chromium, 0.25% Columbium/Niobium.
Ideal hardness (HRc) 58 - 64.

Carpenter Technology offers a wide array of steels, some of which are currently or have been used in the cutlery industry as well as others that have the potential to be used in the cutlery industry. This is just a basic breakdown of some of Carpenter's products. The ingredients used to make these steels offer differing characteristics which are better explained here.

Rob

"Alloy TechZone." Advanced Specialty, Titanium and Powder Metallurgy Materials from Carpenter Technology. CRScartech.com>.

The Edge Obeserver Video Overview of the Caly 3.5 Sprint Run C144GPGY

noreply@blogger.com (National Knives) — Mon, 07 Nov 2011 00:21:00 +0000

WOW! Awesome video overview and written review of the Spyderco Caly 3.5 Sprint @ The Edge Observerer. Check it out. - http://www.edgeobserver.com/?p=952

Spyderco Caly 3.5, Plain 3-1/2" Aogami Super Blue Steel Blade, Gray G-10 Handle C144GPGY

Rob

What a Steel! - What do those ingredients mean to me?

noreply@blogger.com (National Knives) — Mon, 10 Oct 2011 20:43:00 +0000

In "What a Steel! Part 1" and in future "What a Steel!" posts, I will do my best to accurately list what each steel contains, giving them their characteristics. In doing so, I won't be listing what each ingredient does each time it is listed, instead I will use this post as a reference and will point each "What a Steel!" post back to this one for reference. This will allow you, my readers and customers, the ability to better determine how each of the ingredients affect the steel performance, both in a positive and negative manner.

The one component that remains consistent amongst all steels is iron. However, iron is not sourced from one or two locations, but multiple locations and from multiple sources. Iron is inherently a soft metal and is hardened and made usable as a knife blade by the addition of other ingredients, each of which adds and/or detracts a quality or qualities, such a corrosion resistance.
Please feel free to comment on this post as well as any other post.

This post will be updated often as new information becomes available and does not contain all elements used in the production of various types of steel.

Carbon - C

Most common element added to iron.
Increases hardness.
Increased edge retention.
High carbon steels tend to be a bit more resistant to corrosion.
According to the American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI), a for a steel to be considered high carbon, it must contain at least 0.3% carbon. Many high carbon steels used in knife manufacturing hover in the 1.00% area.

Chromium - Cr

Added to create stainless steel.
A minimum of 10% chromium is required for a steel to be considered stainless according to AISI.
When exposed to oxygen, chromium forms a protective barrier to aid in corrosion resistance.
Corrosion resistance (rust resistance) is not the same as corrosion proof (rust proof) and most stainless steels will oxidize (corrode) given the ideal conditions.
Hardness and toughness also benefit from the addition of chromium.

Copper - Cu

Aides in corrosion resistance

Hydrogen - H

Used in place of carbon to make H1 stainless steel.
Used to partially replace carbon to make X15 stainless steel.
H1 stainless steel has shown strong evidence to be the closest to a true "rust proof" stainless steel.

Manganese - Mn

Aides in ability to harden and overall hardness
Aides in overall toughness.
Adds to corrosion resistance
Aides in the ability to machine.

Molybdenum - Mo

Aides in the ability to harden and in overall hardness.
Aides in toughness and corrosion resistance.
Helps with the ability to machine.

Nickel - Ni

Aides in overall toughness.
May aide in corrosion resistance.
Necessary ingredient in austenitic (chromium/nickel) stainless steel, which is the most common variety. According to the AISI, this type of stainless steel accounts for approximately 70% of all stainless steel production.

Niobium - Nb

Aides in grain production
Aides in corrosion resistance

Phosphorous - P

Aides in the ability to machine.
Aides in the ability to harden.

Silicon - Si

Added to metal in the molten state to aide in the removal of gases and oxidation.
Aides in overall strength.

Sulfur - S

Aides in the ability to machine.

Tungsten - W

Aides in toughness and wear resistance.
Aides in the ability harden.

Vanadium - V

Added to aide in wear resistance and strength.
Allows for fine grain production during heat treatment attributing to the overall hardness (HRc) of the finished blade, edge retention and overall sharpness.
Toughness also benefits from the addition of vanadium.

Rob

What a Steel! Part 1 - Crucible Industries, LLC

noreply@blogger.com (National Knives) — Tue, 27 Sep 2011 12:09:00 +0000

Premium steels are revolutionizing the knife industry. When premium steels are referred to, most often it is in reference to a high performance steel that maintains a cutting edge somewhere along the lines of forever. Okay, forever is really stretching the truth quite a bit, but for those out there that don't often use a pocket knife, or a hunting knife, the possibility of literally going years between sharpening is possible. Steel producers from all over the world are constantly challenging themselves to upgrade, not just out of competition, but because of demand. Who creates this demand? We (consumers) do. For those out there that consider themselves steel junkies and are always looking at the latest and greatest, the mere thought of Spyderco releasing a knife with a blade in Crucible Industries CPM-S90V® stainless steel, gets the heart pumping and leads us to empty out the piggy banks and play the part of a laboratory experiment for little known drug companies for a few extra dollars so we can afford to add yet another knife to our collection.

Crucible Industries is headquartered in Syracuse, New York and produces some of the most popular and finest knife steels in the United States. Crucible has been doing so since 1876 with roots going back to England a hundred years earlier. With over 1000 patents, Crucible is a leader in the steel industry, not just for knives, but creating steel for just about any specialty and everyday use. Crucible's premier line of steels are known as Crucible Particle Metallurgy®, or CPM® as it is most commonly referred to and are best known for their wear and corrosion resistance, toughness and their ease of grinding.

A list of CPM® stainless, high speed and tool steels most commonly used in knife manufacturing:

CPM-154®

Offers easier grinding, polishing and better toughness over standard 154 CM and better edge retention (stays sharper longer) and resistance to chipping than 440C stainless steel.
Contains 1.05% Carbon, 14.00% Chromium and 4.00% Molybdenum
Ideal hardness (HRc) range is between 55 and 62
Does not offer the wear resistance of CPM-S30V stainless steel.
Does offer the same toughness as CPM-S30V stainless steel.
Does offer better grind ability than CPM-S30V stainless steel.

CPM-S30V®

Offers better wear and corrosion resistance and toughness versus 440C and D2.
Contains 1.45% Carbon, 14.00% Chromium, 4.00% Vanadium, and 2.00% Molybdenum
Ideal hardness (HRc) range is between 58 and 61.

Zero Tolerance Bayonet, 7-1/2" CPM-S30V Stainless Steel Blade, Ranger Green G-10 Handle ZT-9

CPM-S35VN®

Designed to be tougher than CPM-S30V stainless steel.
Contains 1.40% Carbon, 14.00% Chromium, 3.00% Vanadium, 2.00% Molybdenum, and 0.50% Niobium
Ideal hardness (HRc) range is between 58 and 61.
Offers the ability to withstand 20% more impact energy than CPM-S30V stainless steel.
Offers similar edge retention to CPM-S30V stainless steel.

Spyderco Native 5, 3" S35VN Stainless Steel Blade, Black G-10 Handle C41GP5

CPM-S90V®

Designed to offer outstanding, long lasting edge retention.
Contains 2.30% Carbon, 14.00% Chromium, 9.00% Vanadium, and 1.00% Molybdenum.
Ideal hardness (HRc) range is between 56 and 59
Offers better corrosion resistance than 440C and 154CM.
Offers better toughness than 440C.

CPM-S110V®

Designed to offer better corrosion resistance than 440C and CPM-S30V.
Contains 2.80% Carbon, 15.25% Chromium, 9.00% Vanadium, 3.00% Niobium, 2.25% Molybdenum, and 2.50% Cobalt.
Ideal hardness (HRc) range is between 58 and 61.

CPM-3V®

Designed to offer outstanding resistance to chipping and breakage.
Contains 0.80% Carbon, 7.50% Chromium, 2.75% Vanadium, and 1.30% Molybdenum.
Ideal hardness (HRc) range is between 58 and 60.
Offers better toughness than A2, D2 and CPM-M4 steels.

Zero Tolerance Military, 5-3/4" 3V Steel Blade, Matte Black G10 Handle 0100

CPM-M4®

Designed to offer more wear resistance and toughness.
Contains 1.42% Carbon, 4.00% Chromium, 4.00% Vanadium, 5.50% Tungsten, 5.25% Molybdenum, 0.30% (0.70%) Manganese, and 0.06% (0.22%) Sulfur.
Ideal hardness (HRc) range is between 58 and 66.

Spyderco Gayle Bradley, 3-7/16" M4 Steel Blade, Black Carbon Fiber Handle C134CFP

A list of other steels produced by Crucible Industries, LLC:

154CM

Designed as an upgraded 440C steel which offers better corrosion and wear resistance as well as better edge retention.
Contains 1.05% Carbon, 14.00% Chromium, and 4.00% Molybdenum.
Ideal hardness (HRc) range is between 55 and 62.

Benchmade Mini-Griptilian, 2.91" 154CM Steel Blade, Gray Handle, 555SGY-600 - Set

420

General purpose stainless steel
Contains >0.15% Carbon, 1.00% Manganese, 0.04% Phosphorous, 0.03% Sulfur, 1.00% Silicone, and 12.00% - 14.00% Chromium
Ideal hardness (HRc) range is between 51 and 55.

440A

Designed to be the toughest high Chromium cutlery steels
Contains 0.60%/0.75% Carbon, 0.04% Phosphorous, 16.00%/18.00% Chromium, 1.00% Manganese, 1.00% Silicone, 0.03% Sulfur, and 0.75% Molybdenum.
Ideal hardness (HRc) range is between 52 and 57.
Ideal for cutlery requiring a "mirror" finish.

440C

Designed to offer higher hardness, good corrosion resistance and good edge retention.
Contains 0.95%/1.20% Carbon, 1.00% Manganese, 1.00% Silicone, 0.40% Phosphorous, 0.03% Sulfur, 16.00%/18.00% Chromium, and 0.75% Molybdenum.
Ideal hardness (HRc) range is between 54 and 59.
Ideal for cutlery requiring a "mirror" finish.

Spyderco Cat, 2-7/16" 440C Stainless Steel Blade, Black G-10 Handle C129GP

Designed to be tougher than D2 and CRUWEAR.
Contains 1.00% Carbon, 0.85% Manganese, 5.25% Chromium, 1.10% Molybdenum, and 0.25% Vanadium.
Ideal hardness (HRc) range is between 58 and 62.

CRUWEAR

Designed as an upgrade to D2 tool steel with better wear resistance and toughness.
Contains 1.10% Carbon, 7.50% Chromium, 2.40% Vanadium, 1.15% Tungsten, and 1.60% Molybdenum
Ideal hardness (HRc) range is between 60 and 65.

Offers a balance of toughness and wear resistance.
Contains 1.55% Carbon, 11.50% Chromium, 0.80% Vanadium, and 0.90% Molybdenum.
Ideal hardness (HRc) range is between 60 and 62
Known for it's ability to take a very sharp edge and hold it.

What do those ingredients mean to me? Click here.

Rob

Crucible Industries, LLC. "What a Steel! Part 1 - Crucible Industries, LLC." ::Crucible Industries:: Home :: You & Us. Crucible Industries, LLC. Web. 25 Sept. 2011. <http://www.crucibleservice.com>.

Spyderco Manix 2. Made in America. Made Right.

noreply@blogger.com (National Knives) — Sun, 18 Sep 2011 13:39:00 +0000

Spyderco Manix 2, 3-3/8" Plain 154CM Stainless Blade, Black G-10 Handle C101GP2

A great multi tasking folder that utilizes a ball bearing lock system, grippy black G-10 handles and a plain edge, 3-3/8" 154CM stainless steel blade. The pocket clip is set up for right hand/left hand tip up carry and the knife features a lanyard hole.

The Spyderco Manix 2 is Made in the USA in Golden, Colorado and is now in stock at National Knives for $69.99 plus shipping (starting at $3.99).

Rob

Spyderco Delica 4. Great Value. Great Knife.

noreply@blogger.com (National Knives) — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 00:38:00 +0000

Spyderco Delica 4, 2-7/8" VG-10 Stainless Blade, Green Handle C11FPGR

One of Spyderco's best selling knives of all time is the Delica. With a multitude of variations, from handle material types to blade steels, there is bound to be one made that fits your needs. The Delica shown here is shown with a green Fiber Glass Reinforced, or FRN, handle which is a lightweight and extremely durable material. The color is optional, you can get this particular model with a blue, purple, gray, black, brown and of course, green FRN handle. The blade steel is a higher end stainless steel made in Japan called VG-10 which will offer great corrosion resistance and excellent edge retention. The grind on this particular model is referred to as a full flat ground which means that when the blade was ground, starting at the cutting edge and moving to the spine, the blade begins thing and gradually gets thicker. This grind is well suited for low resistance slicing. This also features a right hand/left hand, tip up or tip down black pocket clip which allows you to adapt it to your needs.

This this particular model is $53.99 + shipping (starts at $3.99 for USPS Priority) at www.NationalKnives.com. You can also view other Delica models here.

Rob

TOPS Tom Brown Tracker Knife

noreply@blogger.com (National Knives) — Sat, 10 Sep 2011 14:53:00 +0000

TOPS Tom Brown Tracker, 4-1/4" Blade, Linen Micarta Handle TBT-010

TOPS Knives are built tough. These knives were designed to be used and used hard, to stand up in extreme conditions and have been proven in the hands of professionals from around the world.

Starting with the "working end" of the knife, the blade, it is noted that the overall shape of the blade is not of a traditional design, then again this is not a traditional knife by any means. This knife is designed to be multifunctional and can be used to saw, chop, carve, split, scrape, etc. Built of 1095 high carbon steel and hardened to HRc 58 allows this knife to be abused with limited concern of breakage. It is easy to keep sharp and is willing to take a shaving sharp edge given the correct amount of attention and experience.

The Linen Micarta handles finish off this 11-7/8" (302 mm) knife and wrap themselves around the full tang and provide excellent grip, with or without gloves and offer several hand placement positions for a multitude of tasks.

You can purchase this knife here for $239.20 with free USPS Priority shipping to all 50 U.S. states and APO/FPO addresses.

Rob

When it comes to keeping your knives sharp, do you shy away from all in one kits?

noreply@blogger.com (National Knives) — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 14:19:00 +0000

In my last post, I wrote of the Spyderco Sharpmaker and it's relative ease of use. Some of you might prefer an alternative method of sharpening, whether it be a different manufacturer's kit, the use of bench stones or ?. The only kit National Knives currently carries is the Spyderco Sharpmaker, in fact most of National Knives sharpening products are produced by Spyderco.

Here are some of Spyderco's Bench Sharpening Stones.

Spyderco Bench Sharpening Stone, 2" x 8" x 1/2", Fine Grit 302F

Spyderco Bench Sharpening Stone, 2" x 8" x 1/2", Medium Grit 302M

Spyderco Bench Sharpening Stone, 2" x 8" x 1/2", Ultra Fine Grit 302UF

These stones will take care of most sharpening tasks, but take a bit of time and practice to find a perfect technique. One advantage to using bench stones over a kit, is the user can sharpen their knife to whatever angle they prefer, where as kits may limit the angle.

Purchasing a set of these stones, if one so chooses, can get a bit pricier than a kit. The 302F and 302M (top two) are $39.99 each + shipping (starting at $3.99 and .99 for each additional item) and the 302UF is $51.99 + shipping (starting at $3.99).

These sharpening stones do not require the used of any type of lubricant, they are autoclave save, dishwasher safe and can be easily cleaned using a plastic scouring pad and an abrasive cleanser. The high alumina ceramic used to make these is produced in the United States.

Rob

Keeping those knives, scissors, etc. sharp

noreply@blogger.com (National Knives) — Sat, 03 Sep 2011 16:13:00 +0000

A dull knife will make any job more challenging than a sharp knife will. A dull knife can potentially cause more injuries as you will exert more force when cutting than you would if you were using a sharp knife. A knife is a tool made to simplify your task, you can relate a dull knife to a coin and a sharp knife to a flat edge screwdriver, both can potentially get the job if unscrewing/screwing done, just one (the sharp knife/flat edge screwdriver) is going to make it a whole lot easier and is going to require a lot less effort on your part. Your pocket knives, hunting knives, kitchen knives, scissors of all varieties, lawn mower blades and more, they all perform better when properly sharpened.

You say that you don't know how to properly sharpen a knife? Good news! Spyderco manufactures the Triangle Sharpmaker, model 204MF which is a relatively inexpensive kit that is very easy to use and gets your knives back in to proper working order. It comes with a "How To" DVD and instruction manual, 2 - fine grit triangle rods and 2 - medium grit triangle rods, 2 - brass safety rods and a base that doubles as a storage container for the rods.

Spyderco Triangle Sharpmaker Sharpening Set, Instructional DVD 204MF

National Knives sells this kit for $51.99 + shipping (starting at $8.99). Replacement fine and medium rods are available for $11.49 + shipping (starting at $3.99) and are sold individually. For those that have knives in poor shape and need to remove a lot of metal fast, you can purchase the optional diamond rods for $41.99 + shipping (starting at $3.99) for a set of 2 rods. If you are really looking for a professional edge Spyderco also manufactures an ultra fine rod that polishes up the edge of your knife. The fine, medium and ultra fine stones are made of high alumina ceramic, can be cleaned with a plastic scouring pad and a powdered abrasive cleaner and are autoclave safe. The diamond rods should be rinsed in fresh, clean water.

This kit is capable of sharpening both plain edge knives and serrated edge knives, but also has the capability of sharpening pointed items like fish hooks, darts, awls and more.

Rob

Spyderco Caly 3.5 Sprint Run with Aogami Super Blue Steel Blade

noreply@blogger.com (National Knives) — Tue, 30 Aug 2011 14:02:00 +0000

Spyderco Caly 3.5, 3-1/2" Super Blue Steel Blade, Gray Handle C144GPGY

I really like this knife! The Spyderco Caly 3.5 Sprint Run with gray G-10 handle and Aogami Super Blue Steel blade is home run in my opinion. There are some of you that don't like the color of the handle, being a lighter shade of gray, you feel as though this particular color is prone to show more dirt and I won't argue with you as it probably will. If I was keeping this knife in the safe or as part of a collection and was concerned about getting it dirty, I could relate, but if I am carrying this knife on a day to day basis, then I would expect it to get dirty and if it didn't, then I would know that I don't need to carry a knife at all as I am not using it.

This knife comes wrapped in a corrosion preventing paper wrap as the blade is not 100% corrosion resistant, in fact, it will "tarnish" as time goes by and some fans of this knife have been purposely "tarnishing" the blade as some feel it adds to the beauty of the knife. I would suggest you visit some knife forums and get some suggestions and ideas on how to go about it and what to expect.

The name of the steel used to manufacture the blade on this knife, as mentioned earlier, has nothing to do with the color of the blade. When the steel is produced it is wrapped in paper that is blue before being shipped to be made into knife blades, etc. and that's it, nothing more to it and nothing less.\

National Knives has these in stock and ready to ship. They are a great buy at $145.99 + shipping (starting at $3.99 for USPS Priority).

Rob

New Arrival - Zero Tolerance Folding Knife 0350ST

noreply@blogger.com (National Knives) — Mon, 29 Aug 2011 20:34:00 +0000

Zero Tolerance Combat, 3-1/4" Black Blade, Black G-10 Handle 0350ST

The 0350ST arrived a couple of days ago, but I have been too busy to post these beauties. This is a smaller version of the 0300ST by about 10% and features a standard black G-10 handle that provides great grip. This does feature a flipper allowing for easy one handed assisted opening. The blade is CPM-S30V which offers a great combination of edge retention and corrosion resistance. The blade is also black Diamond Like Carbon (DLC) coated and is partially serrated allowing the best of both cutting edges on one knife.

To purchase this knife, simply visit National Knives at www.NationalKnives.com and order. Zero Tolerance products are shipped free to all 50 states.

Rob

Spyderco Damascus Delica - Just in!

noreply@blogger.com (National Knives) — Mon, 22 Aug 2011 13:04:00 +0000

Spyderco Delica, 2-7/8" SS Damascus Blade, Orange Bone Handle C11JBOP

These have just landed. This Delica is a Sprint Run (Limited Edition) and is $204.99 + shipping (starts at $3.99 for USPS Priority). Please stop in and visit National Knives today for this and other great knives at great prices.

Spyderco Military Sprint Run - Just in!

noreply@blogger.com (National Knives) — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 13:44:00 +0000

Spyderco Military, 4" Plain XHP Blade, Brown G-10 Handle C36GPBNXHP

You can find them here for $164.99 + shipping (starts at $3.99). Take a look around while you are visiting and see our growing selection and low prices. National Knives ships out packages Monday through Saturday and orders are shipped in most cases within 24 hours of being placed.

Spyderco Shabaria Sprint Run

noreply@blogger.com (National Knives) — Tue, 16 Aug 2011 14:17:00 +0000

Spyderco Shabaria, 3-7/8" Stainless Blade, Carbon Fiber Handle C59CFP

The Spyderco Shabaria is a design brought to life by custom knife maker Eduard Bradichansky and is modeled after a knife by the same name carried by the Jordan River Valley nomads hundreds of years ago.

With the Shabaria's hollow ground, plain edge, VG-10 stainless steel blade and it's lightweight black Carbon Fiber handle, this knife is a makes for a great every day carry (EDC) knife or as an unique addition to your collection.

Spyderco UK Pen Knife in G-10

noreply@blogger.com (National Knives) — Fri, 12 Aug 2011 01:27:00 +0000

Unfortunately, knife laws are following gun laws and are being strengthened all over the world. I won't go into whether or not they are effective, I think you can probably figure out my stance on the issue without me having to tell you. I will tell you that to some it nothing more than a mere hindrance and to others, they are more like a nightmare you just can seem to wake up from.

The United Kingdom has had laws imposed on what kind of knife can be carried and Spyderco answered with the UK Pen Knife (UKPK). The name may imply that this knife is only available in the United Kingdom, thankfully, Spyderco has made it available to all and with the rapidly changing laws, I would have to agree with their marketing strategy.

Spyderco UK Pen Knife, 3" S30V SS Blade, Foliage Green Handle C94GPFG3

The UKPK utilizes GIN-1 and CPM-S30V stainless steels as it's primary blade materials. The handle materials include Carbon Fiber, Titanium, Fiberglass Reinforced Nylon (FRN), and G-10 (shown above). Carbon fiber and FRN both are lightweight materials with carbon fiber adding a decorative, classy touch and FRN being relatively inexpensive, but neither are very "grippy". Titanium is another smooth material, virtually indestructible, and high tech, but expensive. G-10 is not as expensive as carbon fiber or titanium, but is more so than FRN. With G-10, the user ultimately gets a knife that offers great grip allowing for better control over the knife, in turn allowing for more precise cuts and better safety.

The UKPK is part of Spyderco Slipit line in which the blade does not incorporate any form of locking mechanism, the blade is held open (per Spyderco) by "resistance pressure at the pivot area" of the blade. The non-locking platform is what keeps this knife legal in the UK as well as other areas of the world.

Of course, you don't have to be obligated by law to be "forced" to have to carry the UKPK, you can carry it in any area of the world where it is legal for the simple reason that it is a high quality knife that will offer you years of reliable use in an attractive, handy and lightweight package.

Rob

Quick as Lightning! The Kershaw Blur.

noreply@blogger.com (National Knives) — Tue, 09 Aug 2011 19:35:00 +0000

With a name like "Blur" it should come to no surprise that this knife opens fast. It should also come to no surprise that this knife is a spring-assisted opener, not a switchblade/automatic knife, but about as close as you can get to one legally.

Kershaw Blur Folder, 3-3/8" Stainless Blade, Aluminum Handle 1670S30V

This a sweet liner lock folder features right hand and left hand thumbstud, a right hand tip up or tip down black steel pocket clip, a lightweight black aluminum handle that has Trac-Tec inlays which are great for grip and control. The blade on this particular model is a stonewashed CPM-S30V stainless steel, which differs from the other Blur models which feature Sandvik's 14C28N stainless steel. What's the difference? CPM-S30V is considered an upgrade to 14C28N stainless in that it will typically hold an edge longer.

The one disadvantage, if you can call it that, is that this knife does not incorporate a "flipper" which is essentially a "tab" that is part of the blade that protrudes out of the back of the knife and allows the user to open the blade with the forefinger (or any finger), whereas the thumbstud is, well, self-explanatory in that it is designed to be utilized by the thumb.

Rob