You are looking for a fixed blade made from CPM 3V steel. But what is CPM 3V steel? And which fixed knives are made from this type of steel? You will find the answer here! CPM 3V is a top-quality tool steel developed by Crucible Industries. It was developed with the help of the Crucible Particle Metallurgy (CPM) process. It offers a good combination of toughness and wear resistance. As such it is a good choice for use in fixed blades.

CPM 3V steel fixed knife

CPM 3V steel fixed knife

## Features of the Bark River Bravo 

### Bark River Bravo blade 

The Bark River Bravo is available in different steel types: CPM 3V steel, A2 or CruWear. CPM 3V is a type of tool steel known for its exceptional strength. As such it won't break and will retain its sharpness well. A2 is also not stainless, so make sure to dry the knife after use and apply some maintenance oil occasionally. Like CPM 3V, A2 is a tool steel that would sooner bend than break. CPM CruWear is a tool steel that is known for its exceptional sharpness retention. Sharpen it once, and it'll stay that way for an impressively long time. You do, however, need to be careful with moisture and acids: CPM Cru Wear is not completely stainless. There's one thing that these different blades have in common; they are all solidly constructed with a thick enough blade to be able to perform heavy-duty tasks. The edge of the Bravo always has a convex grind. 

 ### Bark River Bravo handle 

There are different handle materials to choose from, like wood or micarta. Micarta is a strong and lightweight material, made from linen and synthetic resin. It feels comfortable in hand, even in wet or cold circumstances. There are also other types of handle materials in the Bravo collection, such as Desert Ironwood or Pinecone. Desert Ironwood is a type of hardwood mainly found in the United States and Mexico. It has a distinctive colour and a beautiful grain. This great type of wood makes the knife look extra luxurious. Pinecone is an extra special handle material: it's a pinecone cast in epoxy resin. This is achieved through a special process that makes every knife unique. It's also virtually impossible to make the left and right sides of the handle the same. The material can have natural imperfections, such as small holes and noticeable flaws. However, you forget all about those when you look at the material: it is truly spectacular. 

### So many people, so many knives 

The great thing about how Bark River produces knives is the large amount of variations that are possible. The result? Knives with over 10 different types of steel, and 10 different types of handle materials. Add the fact that there are also variations in jimping, and special light-weight versions and you there is enough to choose from! 

 ### History of Bark River Bravo 

The remarkable thing about the Bark River Bravo collection is its history. Members of the 1st Force Reconnaissance Company of the US Marine Corps were looking for a new bushcraft knife without any means or support from their organisation. Together they purchased a bunch of knives and started testing them until they could no longer be used. In the end there was only one knife left: the Bark River Gameskeeper. They decided to take this knife and head over to Bark River to have it adjusted. The Gameskeeper was namely a hunting knife and could definitely use an upgrade to be used for bushcraft purposes. The result of these adjustments is the Bark River Bravo 1. Today there are multiple versions available of this knife, even with different types of steel. This once again shows that Bark River listens to what their customers prefer!

Bark River Bravo

## Features of the LionSteel T6

### LionSteel T6 blade

The blade is made from CPM 3V steel. This is an extremely tough, strong, American type of steel. If you watch reviews of CPM 3V on Youtube, you will see that this steel is optimised to be incredibly tough. This LionSteel T6 can really take a beating! CPM 3V retains its sharpness well and is easy to sharpen. You do need to be careful with acids, salt and moisture: CPM 3V is not completely stainless. It may form a patina over time. Or even rust, if you don't maintain it well. Fortunately, a little bit of oil goes a long way.

### LionSteel T6 handle

A characteristic feature of the LionSteel T6 is the micarta handle. This handle is milled from one piece of micarta. As a result, the handle is very strong. It also feels great in hand. You can sense straight away that this knife can handle quite a lot. The large finger guard at the front of the handle gives you plenty of grip on the knife. It keeps your fingers away from the edge when you're using the knife for heavier tasks. The handle is large - large enough to hold it with a full fist. Even while wearing gloves.

### LionSteel T6 sheath

The LionSteel T6 comes in a handy kydex belt sheath. It has a nylon belt loop (max. belt width 10 cm). This belt loop also functions as an extended MOLLE attachment. This gives you the freedom to carry the T6 any way you want.

LionSteel T6

## Features of the Bark River Aurora 

### Bark River Aurora blade 

The Bark River Aurora is available in different steel types: CPM 3V steel, CPM 154-staal, A2 or CruWear. CPM 3V is a type of tool steel known for its exceptional strength. As such it won't break and will retain its sharpness well. CPM 154 steel is a premium type of stainless steel that retains its sharpness well. A2 is an incredibly strong and tough type of steel, but it is not stainless. Dry the knife after use and apply a coat of oil when necessary. Like CPM 3V, A2 is a tool steel that would sooner bend than break. CPM CruWear is a tool steel that is known for its exceptional sharpness retention. Sharpen it once, and it'll stay that way for an impressively long time. You do, however, need to be careful with moisture and acids: CPM CruWear is not completely stainless. There's one thing that these different blades have in common; they are all solidly constructed with a thick enough blade to be able to perform heavy-duty tasks. The edge of the Aurora always has a convex grind. 

 

### Bark River Aurora handle 

In terms of the handle, there are many options to choose from. For example, there are different kinds of micarta handles available. Micarta is a strong and lightweight material, made from linen and synthetic resin. It feels comfortable in hand, even in wet or cold circumstances. You could also choose a wooden handle, like Desert Ironwood or American Walnut. Desert Ironwood is a type of hardwood mainly found in the United States and Mexico. It has a distinctive colour and a beautiful grain. This great type of wood makes the knife look extra luxurious. American Walnut is a gorgeous type of wood that feels great in hand. It kind of looks like the interior of a classic car. The Aurora is also available with a SureTouch G10 handle. This is a combination of layers of G10 with layers of rubber. As a result, the knife can handle its own and offers you enough grip. 

### So many people, so many knives 

The great thing about how Bark River produces knives is the large number of variations that are possible. The result? Knives with over 10 different types of steel, and 10 different types of handle materials. Add the fact that there are also variations in jimping, and special light-weight versions and you there is enough to choose from!

Bark River Aurora

The MKM Normar was created through a collaboration between Knivesandtools, Jesper Voxnaes and MKM. With this knife, we wanted to get the most out of this type of steel. And we were successful! Of course, we extensively tested (i.e. abused) this knife, and the edge remained perfect. The knife was designed by Jesper Voxnaes. You can tell by the simple yet effective lines. A modern design with a hint of a traditional bushcraft knife. Available with different handle materials. Which is your favourite?

MKM Normar

## Features of the Bark River Gunny 

### Bark River Gunny blade 

The Bark River Gunny is available in different steel types: CPM 3V steel, A2 or CPM S45VN steel. CPM 3V is a type of tool steel known for its exceptional strength. As such it won't break and will retain its sharpness well. Like CPM 3V, A2 is a tool steel that would sooner bend than break. A2 is also not stainless, so make sure to dry the knife after use and apply some maintenance oil every once in a while. Do you prefer a knife with a stainless blade? No problem! Simply choose the Gunny with CPM S45VN steel. This is a premium type of stainless steel that retains its sharpness well. There's one thing that these different blades have in common; they are all solidly constructed with a thick enough blade to be able to perform heavy-duty tasks. The edge of the Gunny always has a convex grind. 

### Bark River Gunny handle 

There are different handle materials to choose from, like different types of wood or micarta. Micarta is a strong and lightweight material, made from linen and synthetic resin. Feels comfortable in hand, even in wet or cold circumstances. The wood types available in the Gunny collection are Desert Ironwood, Forest Green Elder Burl and American Walnut. Desert Ironwood is a type of hardwood mainly found in the United States and Mexico. It has a distinctive colour and a beautiful grain. This great type of wood makes the knife look extra luxurious. Forest Green Elder Burl is a type of maple root wood that turns green when stabilised. The rich pattern with numerous knots makes it the kind of handle material you can always discover new patterns in. And lastly, American Walnut is a gorgeous type of wood that feels great in hand. It kind of looks like the interior of a classic car. This great type of wood makes the knife look extra luxurious. 

### So many people, so many knives 

The great thing about how Bark River produces knives is the large amount of variations that are possible. Bark River Knives makes all of its knives almost entirely by hand. As a result, each knife is unique. Especially when working with natural materials, a knife will have a unique look. The knife you receive can therefore be subtly different from the product photos. The model and type of material, however, will always be the same.

Bark River Gunny

## Features of Böker Bronco knives 

This design was inspired by the classic Finnish puukko knife. Thanks to the minimalist design and rounded handle, this knife feels great in hand. Many Böker Bronco hunting knives are made with a full-tang construction, meaning the steel of the blade runs throughout the entire handle. This ensures extra strength and reliability during use. Hunters appreciate this robust construction because the knife can withstand heavy-duty use. 

 

### Böker Bronco and Böker Bronco Basic 

The Bronco and the Bronco Basic both feature blades made from CPM 3V steel. This robust, American tool steel retains its sharpness well and is also easy to sharpen. However, CPM 3V is not entirely stainless, so keep in mind that you should regularly apply a coat of oil. This type of steel is popular because it's incredibly tough. As a result, it can handle even the toughest tasks in the forest. 

 

The handle is made from thermoplastic elastomer. It's a material that offers a good grip, even in wet conditions. 

 

### Böker Bronco Mini 

The Böker Bronco Mini has a blade made from 80CrV2 steel. This sturdy carbon steel is extremely tough and easy to sharpen. The downside is that this steel is not very corrosion resistant, so be careful with moisture, acid and salt and clean and dry well after each use. The handle is made from thermoplastic elastomer. It's a material that offers a good grip, even in wet conditions. 

 

### Böker Bronco sheath 

The Böker Bronco and Böker Bronco Basic both come with a nice leather sheath. This sheath has a belt loop with enough room for belts up to 5.5 cm. The Mini comes in a nice Kydex sheath. This sheath has a belt clip with enough room for belts up to 3.5 cm. The belt clip is designed to also work on a backpack or your trouser pocket.

Böker Bronco

## Features of the Benchmade Bailout 
Though the Bailout will certainly hold its own as an EDC knife, it was originally designed for Benchmade's Black Class line. This tactical knife is ideal for first responders and military personnel, which is reflected in the use of materials and features of the knives. 
 
### Benchmade Bailout blade 
The blade has a tanto shape, perfect for self-defence and piercing tasks. The standard version of the Bailout has a blade made from 3V steel with a non-reflective coating. Other versions feature CPM M4 steel. 
 
### Benchmade Bailout handle 
Handles in the Bailout series are mainly made of aluminium or Grivory. The latter is a light-weight type of plastic that is remarkably strong for its weight. A remarkable detail is the aluminium backspacer enhanced with an elongated lanyard hole. The backspacer can be used as a glass breaker. 
 
### Benchmade Axis lock 
The Axis lock is perhaps the most famous Benchmade invention to date. It's a rock-solid lock which can be controlled from both sides of the handle. The Axis lock is the preferred lock for left-handed users and turns almost all Benchmade knives into a friend to all. 
 
## Made in the USA 
Benchmade knives are produced in the United States. High-end techniques, modern materials and motivated employees produce amazing knives for enthusiasts and professionals on a daily basis. From hunters to military personnel: everyone will find the perfect knife at Benchmade.

Benchmade Bailout

## Features of the Bark River Bushcrafter 

### Versions of the Bark River Bushcrafter 

There are many different versions of the Bark River Bushcrafter. There's the Bushcrafter, the Bushcrafter II and the Ultra Lite Bushcrafter, for instance. All based on the same model, but each with its own specific characteristics that make the model extra worthwhile. The Ultra Lite version, for instance, is great when hiking because of its weight. Do you prefer a bigger bushcraft knife? If so check out the Bark River Bushcrafter II. [Read more in this expert review](kato://content/migrated_topic_519). 

 

### Bark River Bushcrafter blade 

The Bark River Bushcrafter is available in different steel types: CPM 3V steel, CPM 154 steel or CruWear. CPM 3V is a type of tool steel known for its exceptional strength. As such it won't break and will retain its sharpness well. CPM 154 steel is a premium type of stainless steel that retains its sharpness well. CPM CruWear is a tool steel that is known for its exceptional sharpness retention. Sharpen it once, and it'll stay that way for an impressively long time. You do, however, need to be careful with moisture and acids: CPM CruWear is not completely stainless. There's one thing that these different blades have in common; they are all solidly constructed with a thick enough blade to be able to perform heavy-duty tasks. . 

### Bark River Bushcrafter handle 

The handle is available in different materials. For example, there are different kinds of micarta handles to choose from. Micarta is a strong and lightweight material, made from linen and synthetic resin. This material feels comfortable in hand, even in wet or cold circumstances. You could also choose a wooden handle, like Desert Ironwood or cocobolo. Desert Ironwood is a type of hardwood mainly found in the United States and Mexico. It has a distinctive colour and a beautiful grain. This great type of wood makes the knife look extra luxurious. Cocobolo is a very elegant wood from the rosewood family. You could also opt for a handle made from Hellfire Maple Burl. A breathtakingly beautiful type of wood. It is extracted from the root wood of a maple and then stabilized with a red resin. As such, the material is sustainable and incredibly beautiful. A real eye-catcher. And there's another unique handle material: camel bone. This is a stunning, classic-looking handle material. Camel bone is a natural material, which means that no two knives are the same. Truly unique! 

### So many people, so many knives 

The great thing about how Bark River produces knives is the large amount of variations that are possible. The result? Knives with over 10 different types of steel, and 10 different types of handle materials. Add the fact that there are also variations in jimping, and special light-weight versions and you there is enough to choose from!

Bark River Bushcrafter

## Features of Kizer Vanguard knives 

Kizer Vanguard knives are made from sturdy materials while keeping the price low. Some of the knives you’ll find under the Vanguard banner include the Drop Bear, Infinity, and Sheepdog. 

The blades in this series are primarily made from steels such as 154CM and N690. 154CM is a stainless steel that retains its sharpness for a long time and is easy to sharpen. Böhler N690 is particularly a tough steel that won’t lose its sharpness quickly. If you want a Kizer Vanguard knife that can really take a beating, there are also knives made from CPM 3V steel. This is a very tough steel that is nearly indestructible. 

Handles are made from practical materials such as G10 and micarta. These are available in various colours and patterns. For example, a rugged-looking, lightweight, and grippy micarta handle with a denim look. 

With the Kizer Knives Vanguard series, you get a lot of bang for your buck. As a result, the Vanguard series is the perfect choice for anyone looking for a sturdy yet affordable knife.

Kizer Vanguard

## Reasons to buy LionSteel 

LionSteel uses high-quality materials and cutting-edge production techniques to manufacture durable and reliable knives. This brand has won the many prizes over the past years, including the ‘Overall Knife of the Year’, the ‘Manufacturing Quality Award’ and the ‘Most Innovative Imported Design’ award during the Blade Show in the USA. If that isn't proof of quality...


### LionSteel knives: blades 

Many of LionSteel's knives have blades made Böhler M390 steel or Sleipner steel. LionSteel also commonly uses CPM MagnaCut steel. This is a premium type of stainless steel known for its hardness, wear resistance and corrosion resistance. All the aforementioned steel types can handle their own, making them great choices for LionSteel's pocket knives and outdoor knives.
 
### LionSteel knives: handles 

The knives are available in different handle materials. Think of aluminium, titanium, micarta or a variety of luxurious wood types. LionSteel is known for their use of integral handles for some of their knives. An integral handle means the handle is made from one piece of material, resulting in a seamless design without screws or other fasteners.

## Knivesandtools Exclusives 

Knivesandtools has special 'Exclusive' versions of existing LionSteel knives. These Knivesandtools Exclusives feature CPM MagnaCut blades or 3V steel. Check our series pages of LionSteel knives to see if there are Exclusive Knivesandtools editions. 


## LionSteel series 

### LionSteel M1 

The LionSteel M1 is a compact fixed knife in the famous LionSteel M series. This is the perfect knife to carry with you on a daily basis for all kinds of different tasks. The blade is made from stainless Austrian Böhler M390 steel. 

### LionSteel M4 

The LionSteel M4 is an all-round fixed knife. It is designed as a knife for bushcraft enthusiasts and other outdoor fans.

### LionSteel M5 

The LionSteel M5 is the perfect combination of hunting knife and survival knife. The blades are made from Sleipner steel. The M5 is incredibly strong with a blade thickness of 4.5 mm

### LionSteel M7 

The fixed knives in the LionSteel M7 series are large and sturdy knives for outdoor use. The blades are made from Sleipner steel. 

### LionSteel T5 

The LionSteel T5 is a tough-looking fixed knife designed to be an all-round tactical knife. From making fire to food prep; the LionSteel T5 is there for you. 
 
### LionSteel T6 

The LionSteel T6 is a large fixed knife. Its size falls between the T5 and the M7. Just like these other LionSteel knives, the T6 is very solidly constructed. 
 
### LionSteel Thrill 

The Lionsteel Thrill lives up to its name. It is a sensational modern gentleman's knife, enhanced with an ingenious slipjoint mechanism and a handle made from one piece of titanium.


## LionSteel: perhaps the best knife manufacturer of Europe 

LionSteel produces fixed knives and pocket knives for a diverse target audience. From hunters and outdoor enthusiasts to those who prefer gentleman's knives. There is something for everyone. In collaboration with Italian designers and users, LionSteel was able to perfect their knives down to the very last detail. 

These stunning knives are not mass-produced with an assembly line. Only the knives that have been ordered are produced, which reduces inventory costs and allows the knives to be offered at affordable prices in spite of the many steps in the process that are done by hand. 

## History of LionSteel 

LionSteel was founded in 1969 in Maniago, the knife capital of Italy. This company is known for their consistent choice of high-quality materials like Sleipner steel, Böhler M390 steel, titanium, carbon fibre, micarta and fancy types of wood. 

LionSteel has secured several patents in the knife industry, and is responsible for various technical innovations in the field as well. For example, the RotoBlock safety mechanism for their pocket knives. 

This brand has won a variety of prizes for their knives and multi-tools. LionSteel is popular across the globe among knife collectors, professionals and outdoor enthusiasts. This company is always developing new designs and production methods to meet ever-changing customer demands. 

LionSteel is part of a cooperation between the largest knife makers from Maniago, Italy: MKM Knives. MKM Knives, which stands for Maniago Knife Makers, launched a collection of premium knives. They join forces, achieving even better results. MKM is a collaboration of LionSteel, Viper, Fox and Mercury. All knives are made from high-quality materials and finished to Italian standards.

LionSteel

You are looking for a fixed blade. For yourself. Or perhaps as a gift for someone else. You do not necessarily have a preference when it comes to handle material, colour or blade length. But simply one demand. The fixed knife needs to be made from a specific steel type. But what do you need to pay attention to when it comes to steel types? What are the differences and which is 'the best'? Discover the most popular steel types here and find out! From Sleipner to D2, all sorts of Carbon steel and many more!

Fixed knife by steel type

Fixed knife by steel type

Andrew Demko is one of the best designers in the knife world. He is known for his innovative contributions to the industry. Especially well-known are his inventions of the Tri-Ad-Lock and the Scorpion Lock for Cold Steel. Demko has continued to deliver, now for his own brand, with popular models like the AD 20.5, a knife series equipped with the one-handed Shark-Lock. This locking mechanism can be seen as a further development of his previous designs, and it is one of the coolest locks to date. Demko Knives also produces cool fixed knives for tactical purposes.

Demko Knives

## Benchmade Blue Class features 
The knives in this Class are suited for EDC use, whether that's in an urban environment or outdoors. This is reflected in the use of materials and special features. Benchmade's Blue Class contains EDC knives, bushcraft knives and outdoor knives. 
 
### Blue Class blades 
Within the Blue Class line, you will find steels that retain their sharpness for a very long time. This is an important feature for a knife you'll be using every day for a variety of cutting jobs. For example, steel types like CPM S30V, CPM S90V, CPM 3V or Böhler M390. The blade shapes in this Class are simple yet effective, making them suitable for a large range of cutting tasks. 
 
### Blue Class handles 
Knives from the Blue Class line are lightweight, so they won't bother you when you carry them everywhere you go. Benchmade achieves this by omitting steel liners and using lightweight materials for the handle scales, such as grivory, carbon fibre or aluminium. 
 
### Benchmade AXIS lock 
A locking mechanism commonly found on knives in Benchmade's Blue Class is the AXIS lock. This Benchmade invention is popular among knife fans. A solid lock which can be controlled from both sides of the handle. Many have copied this lock, but only few succeeded. The Axis lock is the preferred lock by left-handed users and turns almost all Benchmade knives into a friend to all. 
 
## Benchmade knives: made in the USA 
Benchmade knives are produced in the United States. High-end techniques, modern materials and motivated employees produce amazing knives for enthusiasts and professionals on a daily basis. From hunters to military personnel: everyone will find the perfect knife at Benchmade.

Benchmade Blue Class

## Böker Bronco: made for adventure

The Böker Bronco is made of CPM-3V steel one of the most advanced steels, known for its exceptional toughness, wear resistance and shock resistance. This makes the knife ideal for heavy tasks such as chopping and batoning, as well as for precision work such as carving feathersticks. The drop-point blade with a high sabre grind offers versatility and excellent control, while the full-tang construction ensures a reliable knife. The handle is made of **TPE (thermoplastic elastomer)**, a material that is soft, durable and slip-resistant. Even in wet or cold conditions, your grip remains optimal. The Böker Bronco comes with a high-quality **leather sheath** with space for a firesteel, so you can always light a fire should you suddenly find yourself in a survival situation.

The Böker Bronco Basic is a version that does not come with a firesteel.

## Böker Bronco Mini: compact and versatile

For those looking for the power of the Bronco but in a more compact size, there's the **Böker Bronco Mini**. This smaller knife features a blade made of 80CrV2 steel. This steel type retains its sharpness well and is shock resistant. The drop-point blade with black stonewashed finish offers the same versatility as its bigger brother, but in a more manageable design. The Bronco Mini also has a full-tang construction, ensuring a strong and reliable knife. The TPE handle offers a firm grip and feels comfortable during prolonged use. Instead of a leather sheath, the Mini comes with a **kydex sheath** equipped with a clip for safe and compact storage.

## Made for use in nature

Both the [Böker](kato://category/bokerzakmessen) Bronco and Bronco Mini are equipped to handle both precise and heavy-duty cutting tasks. Whether you're going camping, hiking or bushcrafting, these knives will be the perfect companion.

Spotlight: Böker Bronco & Böker Bronco Mini

According to many bushcraft enthusiasts the Bark River Bushcrafter 1 is the ultimate bushcraft knife. This status is not earned overnight. As such a lot of research was carried out during the design process to make this knife as perfect as possible. We can wholeheartedly confirm that Bark River Knives did a great job. To fully comprehend what makes the Bushcrafter 1 this unique you need to use it. That’s why we asked bushcraft expert Padraig Croke of the Trial by Fire Podcast to review it for us.

## Bark River Bushcrafter 1

When I sat down to write this article, I didn’t know where to start. Do I approach this by beginning with the legacy of the Bark River company? Do I jump straight into the specs of the knife or do I talk about the properties of 3V steel? I don’t believe it really matters much, except to tell you that this knife is simply exceptional.

The price point of the Bushcrafter is a little out of my usual spend on a knife, but with Bark River Knives having the reputation they do, I was very interested to see what all the fuss was about. As the old saying goes ‘a ten euro knife will cut just as a well as a 300 euro knife.’ Probably… But there is a difference. The build and fit of this knife is really something to behold, and truly exceeded my expectations.

Bark River Knives Bushcrafter 1 Expert Review | The perfect bushcraft knife

## 1\. Benchmade Leuku 202

An EDC for in nature is always a good idea. Even if you go for a simple walk in the woods it is important to be prepared for anything. After the success of the Puukko Benchmade has introduced the [Benchmade Leuku 202.](kato://product/BE202) A knife inspired by a Scandinavian classic. Benchmade stayed true to the classic design, but updated it with modern materials. The CPM 3V steel blade, for instance! This is one of the best and toughest types of steel on the market today.

Carryosity #1 Knife Only Edition: Top 3 Benchmade 2020 knives

Benchmade produces a lot of excellent bushcraft knives. Two of the most popular options are the [Benchmade Puukko 200](kato://product/BE200) and the [Benchmade Leuku 202](kato://product/BE202). Both with similar origins. But what are the differences? We will compare both models.


## Similarities between the Benchmade Puukko and Leuku


Both have Scandinavian origins. Both the traditional Puukko model and the Leuku model come from this region. Originally, of course, always enhanced with a wooden handle. But that is not typical for Benchmade. That is why Benchmade used Santoprene for the handle. Rubber-like, offers enough grip and is rock-solid. Even in extremely cold circumstances. Even the size of the handle is similar.


They also share the same type of steel: CPM 3V. Extremely tough and therefore it can handle the most extreme circumstances. Finally, both come with the same leather sheath with belt loop.

Benchmade Puukko vs Leuku: battle of the bushcraft knives

### Type of steel

Fortunately we can discuss the types of steel used. The differences are namely quite clear. The Bailout is available with fine 'tool steels'. CPM 3V and CPM M4. Tough types of steel that retain their sharpness well. But not completely stainless. That is why the blades contain coatings. They are, however, easy to sharpen in the field, even with limited means.

In this respect the Bugout is a little more user-friendly for 'normal' users. The blade is namely made from CPM S30V. A premium type of steel that is corrosion resistant. As such you don't have to worry about that. It also retains its sharpness well. You can sharpen it in the field, but we recommend doing it at home and taking your time.

### Blade shapes

The Bugout has a fairly standard drop-point blade. Standard, because it is great for daily tasks. 

The Bailout, however, is enhanced with a tanto blade. Here you also see that the Bailout was intended for tactical use.

Benchmade Bugout vs Bailout

The discussion about what ‘the best type of steel’ for a knife is, has been around since the emergence of steel knives. After all, ‘the best knife steel’ doesn’t exist. There are many good types of steel, many different styles of steel, but these are not equally suitable for every application.


The question: ‘what is the best steel?’ is in this sense basically equal to the question: ‘what is the best car?’. A Ferrari is a great car, but stuffing it with luggage as you are getting ready for a holiday might be tricky.  Not to mention driving it over a sandy, bumpy road somewhere in the middle of nowhere. Conversely you won’t get far in a 4x4 off-road vehicle on the Formula 1 track. The same applies to types of steel.


## Which factors are important when it comes a type of steel?


A type of steel is always an alloy of different elements. Because of these different elements specific properties can be improved. However, it will always be a compromise. More of A means less of B. More of B means less of C, etc. 

Different qualities you need to pay attention to when it comes to steel are: **sharpness retention**, **toughness**, **rust resistance**, and **how easy you can sharpen it**. There are actually no types of steel that excel in all four.

What is the best type of knife steel?

What is the best type of knife steel?

Andrew Demko is one of the best designers in the knife world. He is known for his innovative contributions to the industry. Especially well-known are his inventions of the Tri-Ad-Lock and the Scorpion Lock for Cold Steel. Demko has continued to deliver, now for his own brand, with popular models like the AD 20.5, a knife series equipped with the one-handed Shark Lock. This locking mechanism can be seen as a further development of his previous designs, and it is one of the coolest locks to date. [Demko Knives](kato://category/demkoknives) also produces cool fixed knives for tactical purposes.

## A wide selection of series

Demko Knives offers a wide range of knife series, suitable for all kinds of applications. The AD20.5 series, produced in Taiwan, consists of high-quality knives equipped with the Shark Lock mechanism and made from premium materials like CPM 3V and CPM 20CV.

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