full tang zdp-189 vs. laminated zdp-189

[luigisdad]

Hi:
What differences have you seen between the full tang zdp-189 vs. laminated zdp-189? I believe that the Delica and Endura are full tang zdp-189 as is the Stretch CE. The Calypso 3 is laminated with 420j.

Sharpening?

Edge holding?

Chipping?

thank you in advance.

Roy

[kbuzbee]

To me, the laminated sharpens a bit easier (as the 420J is softer and the ZDP is more narrow). I guess the 420J helps avoid corrosion but I haven't had any corrosion issues with my ZDPs. Both are great. I wouldn't choose a knife based on one over the other.

ken

[mrappraisit]

If the bevels were the exact same then there should not be any difference, since the working edge on both types of blades is full ZDP.

Sharpening is more time consuming than say VG-10, but the edge lasts a long time. I got a Caly Jr at X-mas last year and all I have ever done is touch up the blade with the whites on the sharpmaker.

I have never had ZDP chip, but like I said I don't use my folders super hard.

One difference in use is that the 420J scratches WAY easier than the ZDP, so my laminated blades do exhibit scratches quickly. There is also the assertion that the laminated blade is more flexible because the 420J acts as a cushion of sorts, being softer than the ZDP. I have not observed this, but I am not sure how the average knife user could see this in action anyway.

ZDP in either application is a great steel, that holds an edge for a long, long time.

[kbuzbee]

If the bevels were the exact same then there should not be any difference, since the working edge on both types of blades is full ZDP.

That's a great point. These were WAY thinned out. For a standard (factory) edge they would be identical.


Ken