GIN-1 or 8Cr13Mo v ?

[spydie fanatic]

I was wondering if the cheaper model ukpk in old skool gin1 or the steel the byrd line were made in would be considered "more useful" in a folder.

The GIN-1 is before my time and I have no experience with a byrd, so I was wondering if anyone could chime in.

Thx! :)

[Freediver]

I know nothing about GIN other than it goes well with some tonic water and lime.

[spydie fanatic]

Really? I ought to try that!! :rolleyes:

[keen1]

Gin-1 and 8Cr13Mov are quite comparable though I'd give the Gin-1 a slight edge. My first Spydie was a Hunter in Gin-1, that I've used for 15 years or so. The blade has held up extremely well considering it is an inexpensive Japanese steel. So far the Chinese 8Cr13Mov steel on my Persistence and Ambitious has performed admirably and touches up well, but feels a bit softer.

[Undertow82]

Although Gin-1 has higher Carbon and Chromium levels I believe that the Nickel and Vanadium in the 8Cr13MoV gives it a s slight edge, pardon the pun, over Gin-1.

I'm just basing that off of looking at the steel chart in the Spyderco catalog.

[spydietingle]

Gin-1 and 8Cr13Mov are quite comparable though I'd give the Gin-1 a slight edge. My first Spydie was a Hunter in Gin-1, that I've used for 15 years or so. The blade has held up extremely well considering it is an inexpensive Japanese steel. So far the Chinese 8Cr13Mov steel on my Persistence and Ambitious has performed admirably and touches up well, but feels a bit softer.

Being that I have no experience with Gin-1 I can't comment. I do with 8Cr13Mov and agree 100%. It holds a "decent" edge and is super easy to sharpen every other night or so. Couple strops and it's back in action.

[araneae]

I have found both to be quite useful.

[TekNyc]

Ive had problems touching up the Gin 1 steel to where I want it. The 8cr13mov sharpens real well.