Is AUS-8 Steel Good for Outdoor Knives?

Camping
1

I’m currently on the hunt for a knife that can stand up to the challenges of outdoor activities like camping and hiking, and I keep hearing about AUS-8 steel. I’m wondering how it performs in those situations. Does anyone have experience using AUS-8 steel blades for tasks like carving, food prep, or even batoning?

Here are some specific points I’m interested in:

  • Edge Retention: How does it hold an edge after repeated use?
  • Corrosion Resistance: Since I might be using it near water, how well does it resist rust?
  • Ease of Sharpening: Is AUS-8 easy to sharpen in the field if necessary?
  • Durability: Can it handle tougher jobs without chipping or breaking?

If anyone could share their thoughts or personal experiences with AUS-8 knives, especially in a camping or survival context, I’d really appreciate it! Thanks!

2

AUS-8 steel is quite popular among knife makers! It’s known for good edge retention and reasonable toughness. But how does it hold up against harder steels?

3

Absolutely, AUS-8 is good for outdoor knives. It strikes a nice balance between hardness and corrosion resistance, making it reliable for various tasks!

4

AUS-8 is decent but I still prefer S35VN for its better edge retention. Anyone else feel that way?

5

I agree S35VN is superior, but AUS-8 is still a good budget option. It’s not all about the top-tier steels!

3 Likes
6

Edge retention in AUS-8 is good but not great. You may have to hone it more often after heavy use. How do you all maintain your outdoor knives?

1 Like
7

True! I think maintaining a sharp edge comes down to frequent honing and proper care - it’s part of the outdoor experience!

3 Likes
8

Corrosion resistance is where AUS-8 shines for its price point. Perfect for humid outdoor environments. Any thoughts on its performance in saltwater?

9

Definitely! But I still wouldn’t take it into saltwater for extended periods. You might want to rinse it off quickly!

10

Does anyone find AUS-8 easier to sharpen than VG-10 or other high-alloy steels? Just curious!

11

I think AUS-8 is easier to sharpen. It responds well to basic sharpeners without much hassle.

12

While AUS-8 may not have the highest hardness, it still offers great versatility for an outdoor knife. I’d recommend it for general use.

13

Versatility is key! I think AUS-8 provides a solid mix without breaking the bank.

2 Likes
14

AUS-8 has been a budget favorite for years! I understand its limits, but can we agree it’s still a decent choice for beginners?

15

Definitely! I’ve had AUS-8 knives as my first ones, and they served me well until I started exploring higher-end steels.

3 Likes
16

Can someone clarify, what makes AUS-8 tougher than cheaper steels like 420HC? Is it just the alloy content?

17

The alloying elements in AUS-8, like vanadium and chromium, enhance its toughness and edge durability. It’s a cut above the rest!

18

AUS-8 steel is excellent for outdoor knives due to its balance of edge retention and ease of sharpening. It’s a great choice for camping and hiking!

19

I’ve used AUS-8 in my kitchen knives too, and it performs wonderfully for everyday tasks!

20

For more tactical applications, AUS-8 is decent, but it can be prone to chipping with heavy use. Be mindful of that when choosing!