CPM 3V Kizer Critical Mini (Coated or Satin?)

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Pcexbird

Joined
Nov 27, 2020
Messages
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I am looking to buy the Kizer Critical Mini and am very new to CPM 3V.

I am wondering if there is any benefit to ordering it coated or getting the plain blade version?

I'm unsure if Kizer uses true DLC or another type of black coating. But being that CPM 3V isn't true SS is it still a good steel in uncoated version?

Any advice is appreciated.
 
I have lots of 3V - but nothing from Kizer specifically.

My experience is that 3V takes very little maintenance to keep it rust/stain free. A simple wipe with an oily rag once in a while or after using it, has always worked for me. Common sense applies too - don't store your knife in a leather sheath, and don't put it away wet.

Remember that coatings do nothing to protect the edge of the blade. I am not a fan of coatings in general, and after use they all tend to get scratched and scuffed anyway. That's not necessarily a bad thing, as it adds character and many like the looks of an obviously well-used knife. Also, some of the thicker "bed liner" epoxy coatings actually impede slicing ability due to the increased surface friction created.

I personally don't see the point of coatings (spec-ops zero-dark-thirty requirements not withstanding), again offering no corrosion protection to the edge of the blade where you want it most.
 
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I normally associate 3V with toughness , which is much less a concern on a 3" folder than a long fixed blade chopper .

But northing wrong with it either and seems a good deal at ~$100 .

I only have 3V on one large "survival " type that might have to use for prying or other abuse .
 
Hey thanks guys. I am really on the fence on whether to get the Kizer or spring for the Yojimbo 2. Thanks for easing my mind about the non-coated variety. Much appreciated.
 
I have the coated Critical mini and love it. It's a very tough and sharp blade. You can't go wrong with it.
 
Hvactech said:
I have the coated Critical mini and love it. It's a very tough and sharp blade. You can't go wrong with it.
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Do you know which coating they use on this was wondering if it's a DLC or more of a stonewash? Would you consider the satin blade just as good?
 
I think it's more like the dlc. I haven't really used mine too hard, but I haven't scratched the coating yet. Yes I'm sure the satin will be just fine as well. Just give it a wipe down with oil after getting it wet or every so often. I do that with all my blades stainless or not
 
Pcexbird said:
Do you know which coating they use on this was wondering if it's a DLC or more of a stonewash? Would you consider the satin blade just as good?
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Even assuming it's real DLC , it's mostly a matter of preference / appearance .

DLC is slicker and may help hold oil or other rust inhibitors because it is porous . And it's black . Maybe easier to clean .

I still always keep oil or polish to prevent rust under DLC .

I'd just go with whichever appeals to you most . ;)
 
Do you know which coating they use on this was wondering if it's a DLC or more of a stonewash? Would you consider the satin blade just as good?
Hvactech said:
I think it's more like the dlc. I haven't really used mine too hard, but I haven't scratched the coating yet. Yes I'm sure the satin will be just fine as well. Just give it a wipe down with oil after getting it wet or every so often. I do that with all my blades stainless or not
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Sorry to nag but do you do or recommend the same with S45vn?
 
S45VN is a great steel as well, I believe it is more stainless than the 3v, so you wouldn't have to worry about corrosion as much. But I also believe that 3v is tougher. They are both superior steels that you can't go wrong with.
 
Here is a great guide to different steels and how they compare.

www.bladehq.com

Knife Steel Guide - Knife Life

In its most basic form, steel is just iron and carbon, but people have been studying, experimenting with, and perfecting steel with other elements for specific applications for millennia. The study of steel is now so complex and nuanced that one can acquire a graduate degree in the subject and...
www.bladehq.com www.bladehq.com
 
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