I was looking over the product sheets here:
http://www.nsm-ny.com/index.cfm?fuseact ... page_id=35
In comparing Ingot to Powder Cruwear the differences are what I expected. A little bit tougher impact scores ( extra 5 lb at same hardness for powder version) with slightly less Adhesive wear scores. I'm not really sure adhesive wear is something that is really very noticeable on a knife steel. Abrasive scores were not given but I don't expect much if any difference.
What I might notice in Powder steels is the finer grain structure and smaller carbides over what you would get from an ingot steel of the same composition heat treated the same way. Some might notice, some may not. I believe Cliff Stamp didn't think the typical numbers involved were noticeable to humans, I'm not sure I agree ( going by memory, I could be incorrect in what Cliff said).
In general I do feel I notice the effect we have talked about where steel performs better after a couple of sharpenings has removed some steel to a greater extent in the higher alloyed powder steels than I do in simpler ingot steels, O-1 being an example I've spoken about.
I feel the powder steels are cleaner, easier to sharpen ( even after some steel has been removed) for the same chemistry and hardness. CPM 154 vs 154cm being a classic example. I like the powder steel much better. I will probably like CPM Cruwear for the same reason I prefer CPM 154 over 154cm.
I'm really looking forward to this, and have even been more excited about trying it in CPM Cruwear. Looking at Niagara it is obvious that the powder process has added costs. It's expensive steel.
All in all it just keeps getting better and better the more I learn about this sprint. It's nice to See that Sal didn't waste potential by a heat treat and hardness that didn't go for a good balance of wear and toughness. They seemed to pick a sweet spot for the steel that should appeal across the board. That is no surprise though. They always seem too. Not the highest, but far from a low hardness either. Just right for a hard use knife with a 4 inch blade that needs a certain amount of toughness, wear resistance and sharpenability.
If I designed this sprint I can't think of anything I would have changed. I even like the color selected. I can't wait to get one in my hot hands now. Remember though. Like 3V, if the rust is allowed to stay, it will pit. The depth can surprise you. Don't sweat rust spots on the blade after a day at work out in the sun in Texas but don't forget it when you get home either. Rinse the salt off and give it a quick wipe down. Silicone gun cloths are perfect for that and easily available at big box store sporting goods sections for $2.99.
Now, back to waiting.
Joe
"A Mastiff is to a dog what a Lion is to a housecat. He stands alone and all others sink before him. His courage does not exceed temper and generosity, and in attachment he equals the kindest of his race" Cynographia Britannic 1800
"Unless you're the lead dog the view is pretty much gonna stay the same!"