N690Co
N690Co is an Austrian steel that is often compared favorably against 440C. Depending on heat treatment it may have equal or better wear resistance and toughness.
K110
K110 is a cold work tool steel from Austria. Analogue K110 is better known as D2 tool steel. It is a dimensionally stable, high carbon, high-chromium (12%) steel. Particularly suitable for air hardening it also has good toughness. Due to its strength and durability, K110 has excellent characteristics for a blade. Although high in carbon, K110 is not easily oxidized and does not corrode.
9Cr18MoV
High carbon chromium bearing steel that is corrosion resistant. It is steel that is known to keep its cutting edge and has good corrosion resistance. Blades made from this grade of steel are also easy to sharpen. 9Cr18MoV is one of the most popular knife steels in the world and is a great value in terms of price and quality.
9Cr15MoV
An extremely practical steel that is similar in characteristics to 440C and AUS-10. 9Cr15MoV is an excellent choice for a practical working knife. A blade from this steel can be repaired or conditioned if necessary in the field. Increased molybdenum content increases the corrosion resistance, provides uniform distribution of chromium in the metal structure, and also facilitates the uniform hardness over the entire thickness of the blade.
G10
One of the most popular materials used to manufacture knife handles. It has excellent strength properties. It is also non-flammable, non-conductive and has excellent moisture resistance. G10 glass fiber laminate is based on epoxy resins and fiberglass. Visually G10 has a pronounced fibrous structure. G10 can have different colors, depending on the color of the base fabric.
Polymer
Polymer (nylon) is a modern synthetic plastic with many features. When reinforced with fiberglass, it becomes a strong, rigid material with excellent characteristics for sheaths and knife handles. Sheaths made of polymer have a smooth non-porous surface and are easy to clean. Polymer has a high-temperature tolerance and may be used in the harshest environments across the globe. Polymer sheaths provide a secure hold on the knife, ensuring its protection.
TPR
TPR is a Thermoplastic Rubber. A TPR handle with deep grooves ensures slip resistance, even when handled with wet or slippery hands. The thermoplastic rubber handle is lightweight, moisture-resistant and feels comfortable in your hand.
TPE
TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer) is a composite of different polymers which have thermoplastic and elastic properties. TPE has the positive characteristics of plastic and rubber. TPE handles have deep grooves ensuring slip resistance, even when handled with wet or slippery hands.
Cordura®
High-strength nylon fabric with a special thread structure. Cordura® fabrics are known for their durability and resistance to abrasions, tears and scuffs. Cordura® fabrics have a longstanding military heritage (over 45 years), and many US military fabric specs are based on Cordura® brand specifications.
Micarta
This material is used in making knife handles. It consists of a film based mixture containing phenolic resins glued together with a variety of papers and fabrics. It has pleasant tactile properties. Micarta is durable and moisture resistant and also has dielectric properties.
Kydex
Kydex, a material initially used in the aviation industry, has become a staple material in the manufacture of knife sheaths. Kydex is sturdy, durable, lightweight, heat-resistant, and waterproof. This acrylic-based thermoplastic polyvinyl chloride has a high hardness.
Leather
For several millennia, people have carried their knives in a leather sheath. It is a classic, natural material with amazing properties. Skin tight, it captures the knife due to friction. Leather sheaths are durable and do not lose their attractive appearance with time. Moreover, a knife may be pulled from a leather sheath in completely silence.
S35VN
S35VN is an American powdered steel created by Crucible Steel in collaboration with famous knifemaker Chris Reeve especially for knife industry. It contains 1.38% carbon, 14% chromium, 3% vanadium, 2% molybdenum, 0.5% niobium and has a hardness of 59-60 HRC. One of the best available blade steels.
D2
D2 is a semi-stainless tool steel that exhibits excellent characteristics as a blade steel. This air-hardened steel is more corrosion resistant than other high carbon steels due to its high chromium content and offers a good mix of toughness, wear resistance, and edge holding ability.
FRN
Lightweight material that is durable, resistant to water, and easy to clean. FRN handle scales may be molded with complex shapes and textures to improve ergonomics and slip resistance.
M390
Known as a super-steel, M390 is a premium powdered stainless steel. Featuring, excellent corrosion resistance and very high hardness for excellent wear resistance, Bohler-Uddeholm M390 is known to take a fine edge and hold it!