CPM 20CV /Latrobe Duratech 20CV application

JayGoliath

JayGoliath

Joined
Mar 27, 2010
Messages
4,981
Hi all,

I'm not a knifemaker but i figured i would get some honest feedback about this steel.
The only blade i can recall is the SOG Team Leader Duratech version.

Having read some of the postings here and there about how similar Bohler M390 compared to it, how do you rate it with the likes of S90V, ZDP and Elmax?

Would it be a good blade steel for medium size knife at 12" maximum?
 
Latrobe was purchased by Carpenter.

Latrobe 20CV, Bohler M390 and Carpenter 204P are essentially the same composition.
 
Jay, have you ever used the team leader? I got one several years ago and it was an amazing knife. I have not used it since I started making my own, but I but it would do fine.
With the proper thickness and edge geometry, and a little user awareness I bet you could do what ever you wanted with it.
I chopped some poly-carbonate plastic with an S90V knife once and it held up great. There was a little rippling of the edge, but nothing that would not sharpen out. In case you are not familiar with poly-carbonate, we used it as guarding for machines in place of glass for shatter resistance. It is very tough stuff.
I have some 5 and 6 inch M390 blades in the works with camp type chores in mind for their uses.
 
Chris,

I wanted to get one and i found a place that still has it. Only if the tip was tad bit stronger.
Still thinking if i should try M390 or wait for CPM version instead?

AKS,
Since Carpenter acquired Latrobe, i would say 204P is the new "Duratech 20Cv" ?

** i think i found the answer for this:
http://www.azom.com/news.aspx?newsID=33967
 
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I have found both Elmax and M390 to be excellent steels to work . I do blade bevel grinding after heat treat. My blades are all under 4" for folders. I like the way these steels work and am impressed with the use results and that they sharpen in a reasonable manner. Mr. Ankerson in "blade testing" writes up some facts on many steels. Perhaps you may find a few answers there too. Frank
 
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