Is this CPM 3V knife worth it just for the steel?

[Tripplet918]

Looking for a long lasting edge on a fixed knife.

Opinions requested.

https://www.midwayusa.com/product/1025870355?pid=623797

[TrappedinCalifornia]

Just for the steel? Uh... Compared to which other knives and intended use?

MSRP for that knife is $259.99 and while Midway's price isn't exactly 'unique,' by comparison, $109.99 is a good price.

With that said, opinions vary as to the overall value of the knife. Generally speaking, the design is considered to be 'good.' However, Cold Steel has had a few 'issues' (in the opinion of some) from time-to-time; including with regard to the longevity of the grip. The Carbon V model (which is the "Old School" version), made in the States, was, mostly, looked upon with favor; though there were detractors as well. (I managed to pickup one in late '98 or early '99.)

The 3V version, made in Taiwan, has had 'mixed' reviews. Part of that is likely due to advances in steel designs and adoption by various companies; i.e., the competition is more intense now. Without getting into the advantages/disadvantages 'debate' of carbon vs. more corrosion-resistant blade materials, the quality of heat treat, etc., let's just say that, for the price, it's a viable option. Maybe not 'the best' available, depending on your druthers/use, but a viable one... depending on how and how 'hard' you use the knife.

[Mute]

It's a decent steel. But the steel is only as good as the maker's ability to probably use it. At the sales price from Midway, I'd say it's a good buy. Most CPM 3V fixed blades will run in the $200+ price range so you're definitely saving some money if this is the steel you'd like to get.

[drunktank]

When you say you want a long lasting edge, are you referring to toughness or edge retention? If it?s toughness, I?d look up the heat treatment/hardness for that knife as well to see if it fits your needs. Personally, I?d find something on the used market or even go for a Leuku for $70 more but that?s just me (SRK?s feel like crap in my hand but I can?t attest to the quality of their 3V steel - ymmv). Plus it?s made in Taiwan.

[NapalmCheese]

The 3V SRK at $110 is a good deal.

However, 3V favors toughness, not necessarily edge retention. IIRC the 3V version is still flat ground as was the original design for the SRK. The handles are comfortable. At one time (maybe still) BUDS candidates were issued an SRK. It's just a good knife and 3V is good steel.

I have an SRK in Carbon V that I've used to field dress deer, make camp dinner, and do random camp chores. It works just fine. I have a SRK-C in SK5 coming in a couple of days to replace the Mora companion that used to ride in my wife's get home bag in her car.

[Tripplet918]

Thanks for the input folks! As usual, CG is an amazing resource.

[boludo12]

If the 3V is done right that is a great price and knife. I happen to love the grip of the SRT. The square sides/angles work great for me and I have a few older SK5 versions that have been in use for 10+ years and no problems with the handles. One is strapped to a backpack that rolls around the bed of my truck and its still good to go.

I just bought my "last fixed blades i'll ever need" but this tempts me to no end at that price.

[fx1974]

Late to the party here... but I have a few 3V knives including this SRK and I can tell from experience that the 3V steel is legit. My 3V SRK is a heavy user and has held up really really well. The blade profiles are different between the SK5 and the 3V and even between the 3V SRK and SRK-C.

One of the few pics I have is below. After batoning through tough beef ribs the knife barely had a few burrs that you'd only know by a paper cut test... touched up nicely with a DMT rod.

[OCEquestrian]

It's NOT the steel, it's the heat treat!

[Satex]

My opinion may not be popular, but I am ok with all medium+ quality steels. Sharpening a knife isn't difficult and pulling out the stone 1-2 times a year is a relaxing past time. I will pay $$$ for a knife if the feel and handling works for me but I won't pay for steel alone. Also, knifes nowadays are overpriced because they did a great job marketing. I find no justification in $150+ knives. I did pay much more for a custom personalized kitchen knife once but that's justified :-)

[jyo]

I have no experience with the more recent Taiwan made SRKs, but have used the original Carbon V USA made SRK and the Japanese made AUS-8 SRK with fine results after many years of use... Be aware that I use knives for cutting, not prying, preparing firewood (I use an axe for that) or digging in the earth...