1095 Carbon steel fixed knife

How good is 1095 Carbon steel?

When it comes down to a steel type 'good' is of course relative term. A steel type is as good as it adheres to the demands of the user. So how does that pan out for 1095 Carbon? Because of the high carbon content in 1095 Carbon steel its sharpness retention is very good. This type of steel is also relatively easy to sharpen razor-sharp. It is a hard type of steel and relatively tough. As such it is suited for different cutting tasks.

What are the disadvantages of 1095 Carbon steel?

With so many steel types out there it can be quite the task to determine which is the best choice for you. That is why it is also important to keep the 'disadvantages' of 1095 Carbon in mind. 1095 is prone to rust and corrosion and needs to be properly maintained.

Which is better? 1095 Carbon compared to...?

Many types of steel are used to produce fixed knives. But which steel type is better? First and foremost, this depends on what you are looking for. However, if you do want to make a comparison: 1095 Carbon steel is similar to 1075 Carbon steel and 1095 Cro Van Carbon steel. 1075 has a lower chrome content and is better equipped to handle blows. It is, however, less hard and also does not retain its sharpness as well.

1095 Cro Van

1095 Cro Van is a steel alloy with a high carbon content. It is an improved version of 1095 steel, with additional elements such as chrome, vanadium, molybdenum and nickel. These elements improve the wear resistance and the toughness.

1095 Carbon fans: which brands use 1095 Carbon steel?

You have never been more sure: you are looking for a fixed knife with a blade made from 1095 Carbon steel. But which brand uses this type of steel for their fixed knives and appeals to you most? Multiple knife manufacturers use 1095 for fixed knives. ESEE, for instance, uses 1095 for survival and outdoor knives due to the reliability and ease of sharpening.

1095 Carbon maintenance

1095 Carbon, like any type of steel, needs to maintained to make the most of it. For 1095 it is important to prevent corrosion. Properly clean and dry the blade after use and apply a thin coat of protective oil to the surface of the blade to decrease the risk of corrosion. Store your knife in a sheath that won't absorb moisture. Leather, for instance, can absorb moisture which can affect the blade of your knife.

A sharp edge ensures that your fixed knife will function as it should. But how do you make sure the edge of your 1095 steel blade will always be sharp? 1095 is relatively easy to sharpen. Use good sharpening stones and a leather strop to remove any burrs.