EDC BLADES

THERE’S A LOT TO CONSIDER WHEN LOOKING FOR A SUITABLE EVERYDAY CARRY KNIFE

- MIKE SEARSON

When it comes to choosing a knife for everyday carry, a lot of factors come into play. In some ways it can be more daunting than choosing a new pistol and for a very good reason: You are more likely to use your EDC knife on a daily basis as opposed to using your firearm.

That is not to say you are going to engage in knife fights with opponents every day once you start carrying a knife. Rather, think of the tasks that you will accomplish, whether it’s cutting open boxes, slicing an apple, opening envelopes or using it as a pinch hitter when your local steakhouse serves your preferred meat of choice with a knife that won’t cut butter.

BLADE STEEL

One area that you might want to pay close attention to is the type of steel used in the blade. There are two primary divisions here: stainless and carbon steel. Each one has its advantages and disadvantages.

For the most part, I prefer carbon steel or tool steel. These blades tend to be stronger, easier to sharpen and hold an edge longer than their stainless counterparts. The main disadvantage is that they are more susceptible to rust and corrosion. If I did not live in the desert climate of the Sierra Nevada, however, they would not be my first choice.

Stainless steels used to have a bad rap because what makes a steel "stainless" is the presence of chromium in the alloy. In the distant past, this would compromise the edge-holding ability or strength of the blade. Stainless steels have come a long way since the 1940s and most stainless steel blades can be just as sharp or as strong as carbon steel. If you live in an area around water or have high humidity, they should be your first choice, unless you have a special coating on your blade to protect it.

BLADE LENGTH