Origin and purpose of VG-10?

[Carlos]

VG-10 appears to be yet another brillant discovery by Spyderco. Unlike the controversy which surrounds the CPM steels, I have heard nothing but praise from users and critics on VG-10. It also seems to be replacing ATS-34 at other manufacturers who are following Spyderco's lead.



What we don't know is the origin/purpose of this steel. Sal has mentioned that it is produced in a single foundry in Japan, and has a long 6 month lead time on orders.



But what was the intent behind the steel's creation? I've heard rumours that it was intended for surgical tools, and even for horticultural knives. If possible though, I'd like to know the real story.



Thanks.

[sal]

Hi Carlos. VG10 was introduced to us by a subcontract maker in Seki city. they had just begun using this new steel for horticulteral knives used in grafting.

I have much respect for their opinion and tested one of the pieces personally for about 6 months. I was impressed with the performance and decided to test the steel in the Moran FB model. Once in the field with the Moran, the steel proved exceptional and we began using it on other models.

I am told that there are some "tricks" to heat treat that make a difference, but I've not heat treated VG10 myself.

sal

[Carlos]

Hi Sal,

Thanks for the background info. The moment the Lum Chinese Folder hits the store shelves I'll finally be able to try it out for myself.

-- Carlos

[dePaul]

Sal, I believe that it was Your Co and Fällkniven that began to use the VG-10 steel almost at the same time?
I have one of theirs (F-1). However I am not able to put on the same kind of edge as that on my Calypso Jr Lt. Maybe the heat treatment is different?
Take care!

[sal]

Hi dePaul. I don't mean to be contrary, but Fallkniven decided to use VG10 after testing the Spyderco Moran for a while.

If you figure design time, tooling time, distribution time and testing time, I think that would put Spyderco about a year or two ahead of the rest of the industry with VG10.

Fallkniven's pieces are made by the same maker and should be identical in heat treat to the Calypso jr. They (Fallkniven) are also very passionate about their product and that always helps quality. Their edge might be a bit thicker and that could be your problem.

sal

Edited by - sal on 11/7/00 6:12:09 PM

[sal]

double post, sorry.

Edited by - sal on 11/7/00 6:13:50 PM