I will accept all s35vn knives sent to me, I don't want you folks to have to suffer with that apparently inferior steel. I will take one for the team! 😅😉
I do not understand why more knife companies do not offer it in their lines. For example; Case could offer it on classic styles and make serious $. They (Case) did offer S30V in a very few vut all sold out immediately. 🤦♂️🤷♂️😁
I have been carrying my cjrb ria for 3 years now and I absolutely love this knife. I have found it to be damn near perfect for every day use. Love the videos DCA keep up the great work.
To be honest, I never noticed any major difference between S30V, S35VN, S45VN, S90V, M390 at all. Anything beyond 440C feels the same for me in usage (except for carbon steels somehow taking insane levels of sharpness) Most of the time for me it's the particular grind, thickness behind the edge and sharpening angle that makes like 80% of the knife performance for me. As such, I was really astonished when I heard some knifemakers stating the same, which I noticed from everyday practice. Most knife steel nerds are no knifemakers or hard users but many of them are collectors which I can totally understand but always keep in mind.
I'm sorry but if you can't tell a large difference in edge retention between s30v and s90v you are either cutting items that just instantly destroy an edge or you are mistaking a knife loosing jts fine edge as that knife being dull. There isn't just a noticeable difference... there is a huge difference. Now I'll agree the difference between production s30v-s35vn-s45vn isn't all that much but jump to s90v from any of them and the edge life jumps drastically.
@@paulparadis66 I have only experienced it once on a small part of a user z wear (cruwear) blade. Hit it with flintz and it came off completely. I don't like tool steels generally because of corrosion, but make an exception for cruwear as it's very nearly stainless.
We became so snobby by the constant upgrades of knife steels....but just remember that Buck 119 when was presented in the beginning, was presented as cutting a nail...and it was a 440c...or whatever those old steels...so excuse me but I am sticking with the old stuff, and still going strong Thanks
I agree. My Buck 110 in 420HC, is in my garage, tough as nails, still sharp, still shiny, no corrosion, still functions as new. Heckler & Koch in collaboration with Benchmade, made a folder years ago, in 440c...still a great performer for me !
For me it is D2, holds an edge and I live in the desert so corrosion is no issue. My leather cutting knife? Spyderco Dragonfly in K390, thin blade for cutting leather and it never dulls.
I can't believe the Bestech Swordfish didn't make this list. The monster 4" liner lock or the huge 3.75" button lock are both under $100. And you could dye those pearly white scales whatever color you wanted.
Especially when he said he was going to start with exclusives. I thought that works be done if the first mentioned. I wonder if it was because another company was/is? offering a Magnacut version for the same price.
@@monkpato That was my thought. De-emphasizing that model as another seller has an exclusive in Magnacut for just over a Benjamin... of course that version is sold out without word on when/if a restock is planned and the S35VN's are still in stock. I really wanted to like the Swordfish, especially as I enjoy/need larger knives (bigass hands). The cutting geometry on it just didn't work for me on slicier tasks even after a reprofile to 17 & 15 degrees. It's a popular model though so it obviously works well enough for a lot of people.
@@JerryLoffelbein I've been eyeballing one for a long time, especially in the KC versions but concerns about the geometry have kept me from getting one. If a knife isn't fairly slicey I just have no use for it.
I own a Cold Steel SD15 with a S35VN blade, a Demko scorpion lock and G10 black scales. An almost perfect all around durable knife. I bought it about a year ago and it is still sharp as day 1. Great video!
I hope there is an even newer better SUPER-MAGNA-CRU-VN steel coming so us mere mortals can appreciate the trickle down of the other high end steels. S35VN is an outstanding steel , heck , one of my favourite knives is in 14c28n, am i the only 1 who thinks you can barely notice the difference in all these high end steels? I strop my blade(s) after every hard use and they all seem to function the same for day to day tasks
I agree. I have several Ruike knives in 14C28N and they are great. A very good balance of price/quality and punch way above their class. They hold an edge well and sharpen up quickly with a quick strop. My Cold Steel knives in S35VN (Recon 1s etc) have proven near bomb proof.
It depends on the use. My EDC is 14c28n (Kershaw Blur), it's a light use blade. Now take that same steel and skin a buck with it, the knife is worthless after 30 seconds of skinning and stopping 37 times to touch up the blade for one deer is not for me. S35VN I may have to touch up once or twice in the process. I can take my cruwear and get through the entire buck without a touchup. My MKC Magnacut can get through 2 bucks with ease. If you're an outdoorsmen and hunter, magnacut is worth every penny. If you're a city slicker (which is most knife collectors in my experience), there is really no use for dropping big money on high end steel.
S30v and S35vn are still my favorite steels after Magnacut. Both steels have never let me down. Both are easily stropped back into shape after normal cutting use.
Cold Steel Lucky Two would be perfect for office carry, opening things and dividing apples, in a knife non-friendly environment. So dainty no one could possibly be alarmed.
In UK, 3” max and non locking is all! After some deliberation I chose a QSP Falcon in s35vn and it gets worked everyday. I use a small “steel” and pocket strop most days and its back to scary sharp. Very easy maintenanceI and a real workhorse. S35vn is still top notch!
I love my Appalachian Drifter II in s35. It’s been my most carried knife for a couple of years and I absolutely love the knife. I use it pretty hard and I’m sad they’ve stopped making it in s35 because I’m not sure what the replacement will be :(
I have a couple knives that are in S35VN. Good stuff, and I can't see it being relegated to budget steel. Midrange for sure, but it'll be there for the next 20 years. 14C28N was something no one was interested in 5 years ago. Now it's a popular steel. Don't think it'll be anything but a budget steel, but hell, it's good enough for me. I actually own more knives in S30V than S35VN. Last time I counted, my collection has 27 different blade alloys.
When well cooked ( rather obvious caveat that applies to any steel ) the performance one can get out of an S35VN blade is impressive and it's in my top 5 favorite steels, easily.
I have that one myself. And the original. I like the upgraded one better because it's prettier. Functionally, I can't tell the difference if I am not looking at them.
I really enjoy my Cold Steel "Lucky One" when I want to carry a knife that's virtually weightless (22.g grams). It's made in Italy as well so it's got great build quality. For those who view that as a bad thing since some Italian companies have a less than stellar reputation for M390 hardness, S35VN is pretty easy to heat treat compared to the more exotic stuff and isn't super difficult to machine. Nobody really *needs* to cut corners with it. I've yet to find any crazy outliers (better OR worse) in performance with the stuff from Spyderco to Kancept, Kizer, Cold Steel, Artisan, Boker (Plus), WE/Civivi, Ontario, QSP, SixLeaf or Vosteed. I WOULD say, S35VN (and S45VN) improve toughness and machinability over S30V, but all being equal, S30V should still have a bit better edge retention... whether you'll notice a difference is debatable for sure, but that's the case academically. And is probably the reason Spyderco (and formerly Benchmade) still releases new models with S30V when S35VN is available.
Great deals, and eventually I might jump on some of these S35VN deals, but with my tight budget right now, IDK. You could get a significantly Bigger & Longer blade in Carbon, Sandvik14C28N, or D2 Steel. Great video!
I have two Spyderco knives in S35vn and I can sharpen them hair popping sharp really quickly. Other steels take twice as long just to get a decent edge.
My nicest steel I own is probably 154cm.. I prefer it over 14c28n even. It just won't corrode and feels like 420HC but holds an edge better. I want to try all the nicer steels at some point. S35VN seems like a great choice. Its getting cheaper now that Magnacut exists.
Seriously, I.m with @bbak. I will step and accept all knives made fromS35VN. It is phenomenal. And albeit Magnacut on paper is the new bad boy, so is the price.
not necessarily there’s a lot of reasonably priced magnacut. hogue has the deka and RSK for both under $175 in it, spyderco has the native 5 in it for $160 ish and the manix 2 in it for like $165 or so
S35 is a fantastic steel. Modern marvel. Remember 154cm, 440c, VG-10? Great steels but S35 changed the game and is still a fantastic steel. I own 4 Chris Reeve in S35 and they will live forever.
I think a better question is whether there's a situation where the average pocket knife guy actually needs a better steel than S35VN. I think most of us don't, given the way we use pocket knives, which are versatile knives of convenience. It's just a great one in that balanced zone that's giving you a good mix of edge retention, toughness, and stain resistance. And if the same knife comes in Magnacut or something that's more expensive, I say take the deal on the S35VN and be happy and satisfied. It's never not going to be a great steel and I don't feel like most people would find themselves in a situation over time where they were wishing they had a better-performing steel. Heavy users, maybe you guys should upgrade if your use has made the case. For the rest of us making a cut or two here or there, we're set.
Oh look, Ontario put out a powder steel 3 inch knife with titanium scales for $100. The same year Benchmade does the same for FIVE HUNDRED AND TWENTY DOLLARS.
Also I love the ria. I have 2 a base version with 12sankiv. And a kc exclusive with arpm9 and both steels are more than capable on that particular knife
Never had problem with 35 chipping like the 30. I prefer the 110 and cts xhp. But overall I'm happy with any knife with 35. Never had any problem with it
My "steel upgrading" ended with s30v on Buck 110 hunter sport. For my use it's a great steel, but I love Bucks 420HC as well. Holds an edge for a long time and it's like 5 minutes to sharpen it again. Those new supersteels are not for me. When I was a kid, my dad had his Buck 110 in 440c and he sharpened it once or twise a year.
@VlNCENT_PRlCEmagnacut is absolutely properly heat treated if you don’t buy shitty knives in it lol… hogue and spyderco both have their magnacut damn near perfect. and ofc some of the higher end manufacturers do too mcnees does it well i hear
@VlNCENT_PRlCEAnecdotal “evidence” from RUclips influencers is garbage. Yes you can get good heat treats with Magnacut (no, it won’t take years), and too may of the amateur influencers way over emphasize heat treat.
In preparation for the new spyderco coating coming soon, can you go over the different types of coatings? (PVD, DLC, black stonewash, etc). Pros and cons, and technical details about each one. Thanks for all you do!
Many people consider S35VN to be MUCH better than the two steels I choose to carry every day: 14C28N and AEB-L. These days my fixed blade carry is my LT Wright Jessmuk-C in AEB-L and I LOVE it. In my pocket, I have either my Vosteed Raccoon or my Bestech Ronan, both in 14C28N. You cannot convince me that anyone in the world has a better knife choice than I do. Just to clarify, allow me to express what the LT Wright, Vosteed, and Ronan have replaced: Spyderco Enuff 2 in K390, Spyderco Endura in K390, Kizer Gemini in CPM-4V (the Knifecenter exclusive) and my Hogue Doug Ritter Mk I in CPM-20CV. S35VN is just fine. 14C28N is better.
these are all great pics for folders with s35vn under $100. I might have also put the 3 inch version of the Cold Steel hold out with s35vn in this list if it were up to me, but its not so I will keep it down. the good thing about s35vn being surpassed is it can be even more affordable now. hopefully we see it on knives under $50 someday. that would be cool right?
I thought you were going to talk about S35VN. I like it a lot mostly because of how easy it is to put a screamingly sharp toothy edge on it. So easy even I can do it. 😂. And the toughness and edge retention is perfectly fine for my uses.
I don't see the problem as being with the steel but rather the rest of the knife that you showed. I feel like you can get much better handles and overall knife experience with the current knives that are out there.
It 100% has a place….under $100 FOR SURE! I’d love to have most manufacturers go back to S35VN in that somewhat budget range. I think a better question….is the RAT series still relevant,,,I say no. QSP, Sencut and Kubey (several others) have all put out multiple models, with better materials at a better price…not DRASTICALLY better, but certainly considered better. I haven’t recommended a RAT in yeeeears!
Taking the same direction. What are your thoughts about s35vn on a fixed blade in today's Market. What other steels would you say FIT the "middle" of the budget-performance. Or actual most real value.
Steel type is irrelevant unless the maker knows how to optimize it's utility, heat treat, and of course ...blade geometry. If you have a spyderco in s90v that's heat treated to 54...the steel type is just a stamp. My rat in s35vn out performs my s90v pm2 eight days a week. My ad15 in s35vn out performed my usa made 4 max in 20cv ...there's lots of examples we could go over. If the manufacturer isn't optimizing the steel they're selling...it makes no sense for them to use anything more premium than 1095 or 420hc. Great video. 😎🤘
Yeah, I imagine a lot of the super expensive custom knives people buy have super steels that are hardened just by a dude doing everything by eye. "That looks cherry red to me *dunk*" is literally all the thought that goes into it.
@@Jake-bt3fc most of us have ovens nowadays but I definiteky get what you're saying. If you get to the point where you have an oven and you don't wanna mess up 300 bucks worth of steel...your knives are probably priced accordingly 🤣
Hey dude! Love that video. You know, I got my hands on a Lil Native Slip joint and I love it. Is there anything else like it? It's the safest slip joint I've ever used, a length legal in most places, with the spider home and a pocket clip. Where's the sprint run in unobtainium???
Still a fantastically well-balanced steel. It's difficult to argue with at most price points, assuming the build quality warrants the price asked. Is it as exciting as the newer super steels? No, not really, but the fact that it's ubiquitous is a great thing, not a bad thing. Imagine if back in 2015 someone told you, "Someday people are going to treat S35VN the way we treat VG10." You'd be thrilled! "Wow! S35VN is gonna be available in that many knives? That's great!"
This Thursday, you should have the pocket tango on the table, but accidentally skip over till the end. I think that would be hilarious! 😂 And another shameless plug opportunity 😉
Yeah, Cold Steel S35VN is fantastic. My Recon 1s have proven to be nearly bomb proof. I've used them extensively and in hard work environments and they never let me down. Tough, hold an edge well and easy to sharpen to a razor edge.
Personal i think that s35vn is an awesome steel. Great for larger hard use folders and small to medium fix blade knives . It is a great balance of toughness stainless and edge holding. No it's not magnacut, nor is it 1095 . And that is the beauty of choice.
S35VN is still a great steel for everyday use. I don't think it really has a place in the high end anymore, but I think it is a brilliant option for a semi budget steel.
Id rather have S35VN instead of M390 or S90V I prefer tougher steels, and its still decently tough. I think its ease of sharpening makes it better than MagnaCut for MOST people. MagnaCut isnt that easy to sharpen, especially when compared to S35VN. If you want a stainless, i think S35VN, the 14c28n class of steels, and 154CM/CPM154 are all better choices for most people than some of the other steels i mentioned. The edge retension is fine for most people's uses and you are unlikely to chip it unless you do some dumb stuff with your knife.
Funny I returned to Buck HC with the slim select and love it over my steel snob phase. With a tiny V-sharpener in the pocket it is always hair popping sharp in under 5 seconds and is a cost that attracts no attention. SO many people walking around with what amounts to a hundred dollar note or three flapping out of their pocket is just asking for trouble in the current economy and pro-crime governance.
S35 is similar to d2 in a way by that I mean it's not considered "top of the line" anymore but it used to be and it's still a very good steel. As far as I'm concerned pretty much all steels have their place and fit to certain knives and price points. For me I'd rather pay around $100 for s35 over paying $200+ for magnacut. S35 is plenty good enough for what most of us need/ use a pocket knife for
S35vn is a decent steel but with s45vn (what i think CR and Crucible wanted s35vn to be) and Magnacut being out now, i don't see a reason to choose it (besides you bought tons of it and have to use it up) over those 2. And i haven't really experienced a great s35vn besides a custom knife, Fantoni (do a great job with steels except maybe s125v at 61-62hrc which is way too low) and Microtech. I'll take s30v and especially Elmax over it any day.
S35VN is great. I am no expert in any way but It's simple to notice when you use your knives every day (like average use, not hardcore tasks) and good ol 35 is always the last blades I need to sharpen. I would like to know how it goes against M390 (huge trend nowdays) because toe to toe, I barely felt any difference, but price tag is way higher. What do you think, DCA?
So s30v and s35vn will always be good steel, good steel doesn't just stop being good, but we are regulating them to more budget options. So a new Spyderco knife at a premium price of $262.50 in s30v seems a bit steep doesnt it?
Hi dca, im looking for recommendations for a new knife. Is there anything out there that is a crossbar lock, with a flipper tab, over 3 inches, ideally closer to 3.5 inches, with washes and in d2 steel. I plan to use it as an outdoors camping/ hiking knife. Basicslt the sog terminus xr but a bit longer. The kershaw covalent is the closest i have found but im worried the ball bearings would get clogged up with dirt etc. As for why i want a knife with these specifications? Its because i want one.
DCA, been asking for weeks now but want to see if you can break down top blade MATERIALS and steels that have the best edge retention. Not too worried about toughness or stainless, just whatever I have to sharpen the least
Been watching your vids and others. I am about to pull the trigger on the Kizer Baby for EDC on the coast of Florida (hot humid salt air and more than a bit of perspiration). Is there anything that competes with the baby in this price range ($60) that does not have a coated blade? Thank you for all you do. I respect all opinions, so everyone, please chime in.
S35VN's relevance depends on your budget and use. If money is not a concern, there's no reason to bypass magnacut or cruwear for it. If you're a hunter, the extra money spent on magnacut is well worth it over S35VN.
My most carried knife by far is my Mini Bugout in S30V and I love it. Also this might just be me, but I absolutely HATE the name Magnacut. I always picture the "I study the blade" mall ninja types when I hear it.
I'll take all the s35vn you want to throw at me. At one time all steels are considered premium. Like everything else with times things improve. However you still don't need more then s35. I like it because it's more affordable yet still performs well.
Hey DCA, Idk if the Boker Urban Trapper has blue Titanium liners or if they are actually Stainless, BUT just to let you know the Red Burgundy Boker Kwaiken says on your website that they are in fact Gold colored Stainless liners and not Titanium as you mentioned good sir. 😉 Just lettin u knw, I don't believe it was intentional, but felt like it was better to say something.
The problem with S35VN is that it wasn't the steel it was hoped to be. Chris Reeves wanted something with S30V performance that was easier to machine. But the result was something that lacked in performance, but retained the high cost of a CPM super steel. S45VN is the steel that S35VN was supposed to be. Don't get me wrong, there is nothing wrong with S35VN, the only problem is for a while people were paying more for a steel that didn't perform as well. Its basically stainless D2 from a performance standpoint, but much more expensive.
I will accept all s35vn knives sent to me, I don't want you folks to have to suffer with that apparently inferior steel. I will take one for the team! 😅😉
I will join you in this community effort 😮💨
I will sacrifice for the team as well.
Gonna hijack here and say I don't have any knives in s35vn yet so if anyone has one they don't want anymore...
LOL, very kind offer
👍😁 Put me on that list!
I love S35VN. Holds a edge and easy to sharpen.
*CPM-S35VN is STILL some of the best moderately priced knife steel* its amazing for an EDC blade. Good balance of properties.
I do not understand why more knife companies do not offer it in their lines. For example; Case could offer it on classic styles and make serious $. They (Case) did offer S30V in a very few vut all sold out immediately. 🤦♂️🤷♂️😁
@@timwagster9458Don't almost all of them? With some exceptions, of course but I feel like it's almost impossible to get away from, in a good way.
I have been carrying my cjrb ria for 3 years now and I absolutely love this knife. I have found it to be damn near perfect for every day use. Love the videos DCA keep up the great work.
s35vn is my favorite steel. It does mostly everything well. It´s like a well rounded mma fighter, not a specialist.
@VlNCENT_PRlCEHolloway all the way, Gaethje has very little chance of winning imo.
To be honest, I never noticed any major difference between S30V, S35VN, S45VN, S90V, M390 at all. Anything beyond 440C feels the same for me in usage (except for carbon steels somehow taking insane levels of sharpness)
Most of the time for me it's the particular grind, thickness behind the edge and sharpening angle that makes like 80% of the knife performance for me. As such, I was really astonished when I heard some knifemakers stating the same, which I noticed from everyday practice.
Most knife steel nerds are no knifemakers or hard users but many of them are collectors which I can totally understand but always keep in mind.
Agreed. Only difference I've noticed is s110v is chippier, and cruwear is tougher but will patina sightly if really abused.
😂😂😂😂 no wonder they still make outdated 440c blades. If you can't tell the difference, you're either lying or unobservant.
@@dan_taninecz_geopol The patina isn't a bad thing on cruwear. Even the salt knives designed for water use patina.
I'm sorry but if you can't tell a large difference in edge retention between s30v and s90v you are either cutting items that just instantly destroy an edge or you are mistaking a knife loosing jts fine edge as that knife being dull. There isn't just a noticeable difference... there is a huge difference. Now I'll agree the difference between production s30v-s35vn-s45vn isn't all that much but jump to s90v from any of them and the edge life jumps drastically.
@@paulparadis66 I have only experienced it once on a small part of a user z wear (cruwear) blade. Hit it with flintz and it came off completely. I don't like tool steels generally because of corrosion, but make an exception for cruwear as it's very nearly stainless.
We became so snobby by the constant upgrades of knife steels....but just remember that Buck 119 when was presented in the beginning, was presented as cutting a nail...and it was a 440c...or whatever those old steels...so excuse me but I am sticking with the old stuff, and still going strong
Thanks
I agree. My Buck 110 in 420HC, is in my garage, tough as nails, still sharp, still shiny, no corrosion, still functions as new. Heckler & Koch in collaboration with Benchmade, made a folder years ago, in 440c...still a great performer for me !
For me it is D2, holds an edge and I live in the desert so corrosion is no issue. My leather cutting knife? Spyderco Dragonfly in K390, thin blade for cutting leather and it never dulls.
I remember when D2 was custom only.
Even 1095 was a rarity.
You go girl!
@@MountainFisherk390 is the bees knees.
I can't believe the Bestech Swordfish didn't make this list. The monster 4" liner lock or the huge 3.75" button lock are both under $100. And you could dye those pearly white scales whatever color you wanted.
Especially when he said he was going to start with exclusives. I thought that works be done if the first mentioned. I wonder if it was because another company was/is? offering a Magnacut version for the same price.
@@monkpato That was my thought. De-emphasizing that model as another seller has an exclusive in Magnacut for just over a Benjamin... of course that version is sold out without word on when/if a restock is planned and the S35VN's are still in stock.
I really wanted to like the Swordfish, especially as I enjoy/need larger knives (bigass hands). The cutting geometry on it just didn't work for me on slicier tasks even after a reprofile to 17 & 15 degrees. It's a popular model though so it obviously works well enough for a lot of people.
@@JerryLoffelbein I've been eyeballing one for a long time, especially in the KC versions but concerns about the geometry have kept me from getting one. If a knife isn't fairly slicey I just have no use for it.
I own a Cold Steel SD15 with a S35VN blade, a Demko scorpion lock and G10 black scales. An almost perfect all around durable knife. I bought it about a year ago and it is still sharp as day 1. Great video!
S35VN is on 3 of my 4 knives. Love it. Good to sharpen, along with everything else you get with it.
good taste, but remember you get what you pay for, all those cheap amazon knives claiming s35 or m390 aren't that.
I hope there is an even newer better SUPER-MAGNA-CRU-VN steel coming so us mere mortals can appreciate the trickle down of the other high end steels. S35VN is an outstanding steel , heck , one of my favourite knives is in 14c28n, am i the only 1 who thinks you can barely notice the difference in all these high end steels? I strop my blade(s) after every hard use and they all seem to function the same for day to day tasks
I agree. I have several Ruike knives in 14C28N and they are great. A very good balance of price/quality and punch way above their class. They hold an edge well and sharpen up quickly with a quick strop.
My Cold Steel knives in S35VN (Recon 1s etc) have proven near bomb proof.
I agree and daily quick sharpen my carry also
14c28n is one of my fav steels. My EDC is 14c28n.
It depends on the use. My EDC is 14c28n (Kershaw Blur), it's a light use blade. Now take that same steel and skin a buck with it, the knife is worthless after 30 seconds of skinning and stopping 37 times to touch up the blade for one deer is not for me. S35VN I may have to touch up once or twice in the process. I can take my cruwear and get through the entire buck without a touchup. My MKC Magnacut can get through 2 bucks with ease. If you're an outdoorsmen and hunter, magnacut is worth every penny. If you're a city slicker (which is most knife collectors in my experience), there is really no use for dropping big money on high end steel.
@@Swearengen1980 Utter nonsense. 145c28n will last much longer than 30 seconds.
I started with D2, my last several knives are S35VN and are my favorite, sharpest, knifes!
S30v and S35vn are still my favorite steels after Magnacut. Both steels have never let me down. Both are easily stropped back into shape after normal cutting use.
Don't forget s45vn too
I have a Kizer Militaw in s35vn and it's been an absolute champ. Use it at work all the time and stays sharp.
Cold Steel Lucky Two would be perfect for office carry, opening things and dividing apples, in a knife non-friendly environment. So dainty no one could possibly be alarmed.
In UK, 3” max and non locking is all! After some deliberation I chose a QSP Falcon in s35vn and it gets worked everyday. I use a small “steel” and pocket strop most days and its back to scary sharp. Very easy maintenanceI and a real workhorse. S35vn is still top notch!
Locks are literally a safety feature so you don't cut your fingers.
Making locks illegal is like making seatbelts illegal so people won't speed, lol.
I love my Appalachian Drifter II in s35. It’s been my most carried knife for a couple of years and I absolutely love the knife.
I use it pretty hard and I’m sad they’ve stopped making it in s35 because I’m not sure what the replacement will be :(
I have a couple knives that are in S35VN. Good stuff, and I can't see it being relegated to budget steel. Midrange for sure, but it'll be there for the next 20 years. 14C28N was something no one was interested in 5 years ago. Now it's a popular steel. Don't think it'll be anything but a budget steel, but hell, it's good enough for me. I actually own more knives in S30V than S35VN. Last time I counted, my collection has 27 different blade alloys.
mmmm you can get s35vn for under $100 pretty easily so i’d say it’s in the budget range if you look around
Buck’s new S45VN Micarta 110slim for $99 is killer btw, can’t wait to scoop that bad boy. That Urban Trapper and Civivi is a steal too.
I was expecting to see the Lucky here, not dissapointed. My first knife in S35VN, and very good bang for your buck, in my pocket as I watch.
if you like slipjoints (i do) it’s a killer deal and you get a plain edge blade for regular use and a serrated one for fibrous material
I'm convinced that the more skilled one is at sharpening and blade maintenance, the more happy that man is with "inferior" blade materials.
When well cooked ( rather obvious caveat that applies to any steel ) the performance one can get out of an S35VN blade is impressive and it's in my top 5 favorite steels, easily.
Just got my Knifecenter exclusive Kwaiken air in the full sized and i love it!! I love and have many blades in s35vn
Absolutely love all my Esee knives in this steel! One of my favorites in edc fixed blades.
I really like the penguin with the black blade
I have that one myself. And the original. I like the upgraded one better because it's prettier. Functionally, I can't tell the difference if I am not looking at them.
I really enjoy my Cold Steel "Lucky One" when I want to carry a knife that's virtually weightless (22.g grams). It's made in Italy as well so it's got great build quality.
For those who view that as a bad thing since some Italian companies have a less than stellar reputation for M390 hardness, S35VN is pretty easy to heat treat compared to the more exotic stuff and isn't super difficult to machine. Nobody really *needs* to cut corners with it. I've yet to find any crazy outliers (better OR worse) in performance with the stuff from Spyderco to Kancept, Kizer, Cold Steel, Artisan, Boker (Plus), WE/Civivi, Ontario, QSP, SixLeaf or Vosteed.
I WOULD say, S35VN (and S45VN) improve toughness and machinability over S30V, but all being equal, S30V should still have a bit better edge retention... whether you'll notice a difference is debatable for sure, but that's the case academically. And is probably the reason Spyderco (and formerly Benchmade) still releases new models with S30V when S35VN is available.
Nice selection of knives on the table this video. I'll have to add some to my wishlist.
Great deals, and eventually I might jump on some of these S35VN deals, but with my tight budget right now, IDK. You could get a significantly Bigger & Longer blade in Carbon, Sandvik14C28N, or D2 Steel. Great video!
Great videos DCA!
S35VN is fantastic and always will be. I’m happy AF I can get it for $85 knives now.
I don’t have any knives in s35vn, but I do own a couple of Spydercos in s30v and it is great stuff.
Some really nice knives today that we can carry in an office setting - thanks!
Sitting here fidgeting with my $150 14c28n knife... YES IS THE ANSWER
Thus Ria S35VN and round CF handle is a beauty !! ^^
I have two Spyderco knives in S35vn and I can sharpen them hair popping sharp really quickly. Other steels take twice as long just to get a decent edge.
Not for everyone but love the Kizer Sliver.
I have plenty of edc knives with s35, no complaints
My nicest steel I own is probably 154cm.. I prefer it over 14c28n even. It just won't corrode and feels like 420HC but holds an edge better. I want to try all the nicer steels at some point. S35VN seems like a great choice. Its getting cheaper now that Magnacut exists.
Seriously, I.m with @bbak. I will step and accept all knives made fromS35VN. It is phenomenal. And albeit Magnacut on paper is the new bad boy, so is the price.
not necessarily there’s a lot of reasonably priced magnacut. hogue has the deka and RSK for both under $175 in it, spyderco has the native 5 in it for $160 ish and the manix 2 in it for like $165 or so
S35 is a fantastic steel. Modern marvel. Remember 154cm, 440c, VG-10? Great steels but S35 changed the game and is still a fantastic steel. I own 4 Chris Reeve in S35 and they will live forever.
I think a better question is whether there's a situation where the average pocket knife guy actually needs a better steel than S35VN. I think most of us don't, given the way we use pocket knives, which are versatile knives of convenience. It's just a great one in that balanced zone that's giving you a good mix of edge retention, toughness, and stain resistance. And if the same knife comes in Magnacut or something that's more expensive, I say take the deal on the S35VN and be happy and satisfied. It's never not going to be a great steel and I don't feel like most people would find themselves in a situation over time where they were wishing they had a better-performing steel. Heavy users, maybe you guys should upgrade if your use has made the case. For the rest of us making a cut or two here or there, we're set.
Oh look, Ontario put out a powder steel 3 inch knife with titanium scales for $100. The same year Benchmade does the same for FIVE HUNDRED AND TWENTY DOLLARS.
The Benchmade doesn't have scales.
For the price, it's great. Love mine.
Also I love the ria. I have 2 a base version with 12sankiv. And a kc exclusive with arpm9 and both steels are more than capable on that particular knife
Never had problem with 35 chipping like the 30. I prefer the 110 and cts xhp. But overall I'm happy with any knife with 35. Never had any problem with it
My "steel upgrading" ended with s30v on Buck 110 hunter sport. For my use it's a great steel, but I love Bucks 420HC as well. Holds an edge for a long time and it's like 5 minutes to sharpen it again. Those new supersteels are not for me. When I was a kid, my dad had his Buck 110 in 440c and he sharpened it once or twise a year.
A lot of us can't afford the latest an greatest .S35vn is a great steel,i don't need better
@VlNCENT_PRlCEmagnacut is absolutely properly heat treated if you don’t buy shitty knives in it lol… hogue and spyderco both have their magnacut damn near perfect. and ofc some of the higher end manufacturers do too mcnees does it well i hear
@VlNCENT_PRlCEAnecdotal “evidence” from RUclips influencers is garbage. Yes you can get good heat treats with Magnacut (no, it won’t take years), and too may of the amateur influencers way over emphasize heat treat.
@VlNCENT_PRlCE ok? provide your sources
In preparation for the new spyderco coating coming soon, can you go over the different types of coatings? (PVD, DLC, black stonewash, etc). Pros and cons, and technical details about each one. Thanks for all you do!
The best collection there is for us blue collars. Cheers DCA & Thomas from Australia.
Many people consider S35VN to be MUCH better than the two steels I choose to carry every day: 14C28N and AEB-L. These days my fixed blade carry is my LT Wright Jessmuk-C in AEB-L and I LOVE it. In my pocket, I have either my Vosteed Raccoon or my Bestech Ronan, both in 14C28N. You cannot convince me that anyone in the world has a better knife choice than I do. Just to clarify, allow me to express what the LT Wright, Vosteed, and Ronan have replaced: Spyderco Enuff 2 in K390, Spyderco Endura in K390, Kizer Gemini in CPM-4V (the Knifecenter exclusive) and my Hogue Doug Ritter Mk I in CPM-20CV. S35VN is just fine. 14C28N is better.
If it is tough, holds an edge for a decent amount of time, easy to sharpen & reasonably priced ... It's a good steel. Doesn't matter how "old" it is
these are all great pics for folders with s35vn under $100. I might have also put the 3 inch version of the Cold Steel hold out with s35vn in this list if it were up to me, but its not so I will keep it down. the good thing about s35vn being surpassed is it can be even more affordable now. hopefully we see it on knives under $50 someday. that would be cool right?
I thought you were going to talk about S35VN. I like it a lot mostly because of how easy it is to put a screamingly sharp toothy edge on it. So easy even I can do it. 😂. And the toughness and edge retention is perfectly fine for my uses.
I don't see the problem as being with the steel but rather the rest of the knife that you showed. I feel like you can get much better handles and overall knife experience with the current knives that are out there.
i mean you can always get more expensive knives in s35vn, you can easily get titanium s35vn frame locks for under $150 all day
S35VN is a fantastic edc steel, just like S30V is. People just want that new steel smell.
It astonishes me that some people think it's old hat considering it was developed just 15 years ago.
It 100% has a place….under $100 FOR SURE! I’d love to have most manufacturers go back to S35VN in that somewhat budget range. I think a better question….is the RAT series still relevant,,,I say no. QSP, Sencut and Kubey (several others) have all put out multiple models, with better materials at a better price…not DRASTICALLY better, but certainly considered better. I haven’t recommended a RAT in yeeeears!
I can’t tell the difference between s30v, s35v, s45, or cpm 154. Edge geometry and heat treat are a bigger deal than small differences in steel.
Taking the same direction.
What are your thoughts about s35vn on a fixed blade in today's Market.
What other steels would you say FIT the "middle" of the budget-performance.
Or actual most real value.
Steel type is irrelevant unless the maker knows how to optimize it's utility, heat treat, and of course ...blade geometry. If you have a spyderco in s90v that's heat treated to 54...the steel type is just a stamp. My rat in s35vn out performs my s90v pm2 eight days a week.
My ad15 in s35vn out performed my usa made 4 max in 20cv ...there's lots of examples we could go over.
If the manufacturer isn't optimizing the steel they're selling...it makes no sense for them to use anything more premium than 1095 or 420hc.
Great video. 😎🤘
Yeah, I imagine a lot of the super expensive custom knives people buy have super steels that are hardened just by a dude doing everything by eye. "That looks cherry red to me *dunk*" is literally all the thought that goes into it.
@@Jake-bt3fc most of us have ovens nowadays but I definiteky get what you're saying. If you get to the point where you have an oven and you don't wanna mess up 300 bucks worth of steel...your knives are probably priced accordingly 🤣
As a knifemaker,I use S35VN frequently, and lots of folks ask for it by name. It's way cheaper than Magnacut.
Hey dude! Love that video. You know, I got my hands on a Lil Native Slip joint and I love it. Is there anything else like it? It's the safest slip joint I've ever used, a length legal in most places, with the spider home and a pocket clip. Where's the sprint run in unobtainium???
Civivi Badlands Vagabond....on sale I stocked up...S35VN works well for me. Got some XMAS gifts covered 🎄
Still a fantastically well-balanced steel. It's difficult to argue with at most price points, assuming the build quality warrants the price asked. Is it as exciting as the newer super steels? No, not really, but the fact that it's ubiquitous is a great thing, not a bad thing. Imagine if back in 2015 someone told you, "Someday people are going to treat S35VN the way we treat VG10." You'd be thrilled! "Wow! S35VN is gonna be available in that many knives? That's great!"
That Drifter is rad
This Thursday, you should have the pocket tango on the table, but accidentally skip over till the end. I think that would be hilarious! 😂 And another shameless plug opportunity 😉
Most of my cold steels have s35, never let me down.
Yeah, Cold Steel S35VN is fantastic. My Recon 1s have proven to be nearly bomb proof. I've used them extensively and in hard work environments and they never let me down. Tough, hold an edge well and easy to sharpen to a razor edge.
@@henryvandeventer2457 I never leave the house without my recon 1
Personal i think that s35vn is an awesome steel. Great for larger hard use folders and small to medium fix blade knives . It is a great balance of toughness stainless and edge holding. No it's not magnacut, nor is it 1095 . And that is the beauty of choice.
S35VN is still a great steel for everyday use. I don't think it really has a place in the high end anymore, but I think it is a brilliant option for a semi budget steel.
Slightly over 100 bucks you have that Civivi Conspirator in S35VN, that's the one I'd go for..cool lineup though.
Bronze may not matter anymore, but if Ulysses came after you with his bronze sword it would matter.
not if you had anything made of iron
@@EC-dz4bq Bronze is harder than wrought iron. Iron sucks before you turn it into steel.
Id rather have S35VN instead of M390 or S90V
I prefer tougher steels, and its still decently tough.
I think its ease of sharpening makes it better than MagnaCut for MOST people.
MagnaCut isnt that easy to sharpen, especially when compared to S35VN.
If you want a stainless, i think S35VN, the 14c28n class of steels, and 154CM/CPM154 are all better choices for most people than some of the other steels i mentioned.
The edge retension is fine for most people's uses and you are unlikely to chip it unless you do some dumb stuff with your knife.
Funny I returned to Buck HC with the slim select and love it over my steel snob phase. With a tiny V-sharpener in the pocket it is always hair popping sharp in under 5 seconds and is a cost that attracts no attention.
SO many people walking around with what amounts to a hundred dollar note or three flapping out of their pocket is just asking for trouble in the current economy and pro-crime governance.
S35 is similar to d2 in a way by that I mean it's not considered "top of the line" anymore but it used to be and it's still a very good steel. As far as I'm concerned pretty much all steels have their place and fit to certain knives and price points. For me I'd rather pay around $100 for s35 over paying $200+ for magnacut. S35 is plenty good enough for what most of us need/ use a pocket knife for
Hey DCA,
I‘m always a little disappointed when there are no fixed blades in the line up. Are there any good S35VN fixed blades under 100$ ???
I’m pretty fond of s35 I have many more formidable steels and lesser steels but s35 is great all around.
Where’s the SOG Terminus XR? The S35VN with CF/G10 composite handled variant is still widely available
S35vn is a decent steel but with s45vn (what i think CR and Crucible wanted s35vn to be) and Magnacut being out now, i don't see a reason to choose it (besides you bought tons of it and have to use it up) over those 2. And i haven't really experienced a great s35vn besides a custom knife, Fantoni (do a great job with steels except maybe s125v at 61-62hrc which is way too low) and Microtech. I'll take s30v and especially Elmax over it any day.
S35VN is great. I am no expert in any way but It's simple to notice when you use your knives every day (like average use, not hardcore tasks) and good ol 35 is always the last blades I need to sharpen. I would like to know how it goes against M390 (huge trend nowdays) because toe to toe, I barely felt any difference, but price tag is way higher. What do you think, DCA?
Blasphemous! It’s one of my favorite steels.
So s30v and s35vn will always be good steel, good steel doesn't just stop being good, but we are regulating them to more budget options. So a new Spyderco knife at a premium price of $262.50 in s30v seems a bit steep doesnt it?
Most of the knife people use a knife for fidgeting and maybe open up packages from time to time, then they sell it. And they buy new knives.
Hi dca, im looking for recommendations for a new knife. Is there anything out there that is a crossbar lock, with a flipper tab, over 3 inches, ideally closer to 3.5 inches, with washes and in d2 steel. I plan to use it as an outdoors camping/ hiking knife.
Basicslt the sog terminus xr but a bit longer. The kershaw covalent is the closest i have found but im worried the ball bearings would get clogged up with dirt etc.
As for why i want a knife with these specifications? Its because i want one.
I am looking at an s35vn steel for my next knife.
DCA, been asking for weeks now but want to see if you can break down top blade MATERIALS and steels that have the best edge retention. Not too worried about toughness or stainless, just whatever I have to sharpen the least
I, too, would enjoy being exposed to Dave's opinion. FWIW, Nick Shabazz, and Pete of Cedric and Ada have great videos on this topic.
Been watching your vids and others. I am about to pull the trigger on the Kizer Baby for EDC on the coast of Florida (hot humid salt air and more than a bit of perspiration). Is there anything that competes with the baby in this price range ($60) that does not have a coated blade? Thank you for all you do. I respect all opinions, so everyone, please chime in.
What are the fixed blade options in the same price range that doesnt chip?
The only issue with the Leek is the pocket clip, I really dislike it.
I put a Lynch Northwest deep carry clip on my Leek. It makes a huge difference on how it carries and feels in the hand. Well worth the upgrade.
S35VN's relevance depends on your budget and use. If money is not a concern, there's no reason to bypass magnacut or cruwear for it. If you're a hunter, the extra money spent on magnacut is well worth it over S35VN.
When is the Urban trapper Auto coming out??
How about a Knifecenter exclusive Kershaw Iridium with S35VN? I love that knife but with a better steel it would be GOAT.
Hand lotion is a wonderous thing David.
Bucks 420 HC is good enough for me 😊
Just remember, you steel snobs, you fizzed over D2 when it was first used for knife blades.....
Older steels are not crap.
Got to have that latest and greatest Super Steel to.......look at.
My most carried knife by far is my Mini Bugout in S30V and I love it. Also this might just be me, but I absolutely HATE the name Magnacut. I always picture the "I study the blade" mall ninja types when I hear it.
I'll take all the s35vn you want to throw at me. At one time all steels are considered premium. Like everything else with times things improve. However you still don't need more then s35. I like it because it's more affordable yet still performs well.
Hey DCA, Idk if the Boker Urban Trapper has blue Titanium liners or if they are actually Stainless, BUT just to let you know the Red Burgundy Boker Kwaiken says on your website that they are in fact Gold colored Stainless liners and not Titanium as you mentioned good sir. 😉 Just lettin u knw, I don't believe it was intentional, but felt like it was better to say something.
The problem with S35VN is that it wasn't the steel it was hoped to be. Chris Reeves wanted something with S30V performance that was easier to machine. But the result was something that lacked in performance, but retained the high cost of a CPM super steel. S45VN is the steel that S35VN was supposed to be. Don't get me wrong, there is nothing wrong with S35VN, the only problem is for a while people were paying more for a steel that didn't perform as well. Its basically stainless D2 from a performance standpoint, but much more expensive.
i am rocking every day: kizer original titanium xl