whats the best steel for a pocket knife?

[Frogman]

I think powder steel as used by Falkniven in some of their more expensive knives is best. I have it in a pocket knife I carry and one fixed blade knife. It holds an edge very well and is easy to sharpen.

 

[DAVE_M]

IMO, the best steel is the steel that you feel is adequate for the task at hand.

S30V, VG-10, and 154CM are just fine and dandy for an EDC blade. My EDC is a well worn Benchmade Griptilian with a 154CM blade.
Elmax, S35VN, S90V, S110V, M390, Sleipner, CPM-154, CPM-M4, Vanax, CTS-XHP, PD1, and all the other "Super Steels" have their place, but it's not necessary for a letter opener/box cutter.

One day, I will own a Medford Micro Praetorian and a Sniper Bladeworks LPC, but until then, the Griptilian will do. I also EDC a few "pocket knife" fixed blades in O1 & 1095.

 

[Pdeben0045]

Personally carry a Benchmade mini barrage 154cm with an assisted open and it's decent for everyday use but if you want one that's truly universal and easy to sharpen holds a decent edge my vote is on Spyderco h1 it rockwells at 58-59 and will never rust

 

[SVTFreak]

Personally carry a Benchmade mini barrage 154cm with an assisted open and it's decent for everyday use but if you want one that's truly universal and easy to sharpen holds a decent edge my vote is on Spyderco h1 it rockwells at 58-59 and will never rust

Benchmades 154 CM is a very good steel. Fwiw, ats 34 is same formula from different steel maker.

I like benchmades. The minibarrage is one of my favorite knives. Not a fan of the grips. They feel cheap to me for some reason. But lately the last couple I've seen had uneven grinds and one even had different angle on one side as the other and a hot spot at the tip. Not cool for the price that they are. But there is no denying their steel and heat treat is on point.