Metals

[Kahlua]

so what is the strongest type of metal anyway?



how does titanium compare to steel/stainless steel?



what do the numbers on the blade mean?



The higher the number the better the metal is or is it the opposite?



thanks for answer <img src="wink.gif" width=15 height=15 align=middle>

[Brian_Turner]

Strongest is a hard term to apply to knives. One of the "metalheads" will be able to give you a more definitive answer with regard to each steel's strengths and weaknesses, but a knife which is "stronger" with regard to impact might not hold an edge very long, and vice-versa. The "best" steel for a knife will vary, and usually be defined by the job that the knife will be used to perform.

As for the numbers, different steels are produced by different companies, and each company will have a product number which denotes each "blend". Numbers like ATS-34, AUS 8, CPM440V, VG-10, and 440C denote different steel types, each with their own properties.

I have one Ti bladed knife (Boker Orion), and it takes a nice edge, but it does need touch ups fairly frequently. If I were looking for an alternative to steel, I'd go with a cobalt alloy like Stellite or Talonite before Ti.

[Paani]

Take a look at these FAQ pages from the main site, they might answer some of your questions:

http://www.spyderco.com/spyderco_products.cfm

http://www.spyderco.com/faq.cfm

[sal]

Hi Kahlua. Welcome to the Spyderco forum. Thanx Brian, Paani.

Brian, that was an excellent general description.

BTW, we've tested some new ti materials that are surprizing.

sal

[MRGwaltney]

Hey Sal,

I am extremely interested in purchasing a Titanium folder, and I'm extremely interested in your comment about suprizing results from new Ti materials.

Have you looked at Beta Titanium?