Carbon Steel vs. Stainless Steel: Best Material for Handmade Pocket Knives

Carbon steel and stainless steel are two widely used types with distinct properties. When choosing between handmade carbon steel or stainless steel pocket knives, you may prioritize sharpness, durability, hassle-free maintenance, and aesthetic appeal. Let’s look at the basic differences between the two kinds of steel to make an informed decision about the best material for your handmade pocket knife in the UK.   

Carbon vs. Stainless Steel

Carbon Steel is an alloy containing high carbon content and is ideal for several tools and machinery. It is known for its durability and strength and is affordable. This steel is prone to rust if not maintained properly. Stainless steel, on the other hand, contains chromium, which provides excellent corrosion resistance and a polished finish. This steel is used for creating kitchenware, medical tools, and outdoor structures. In terms of price, stainless steel can be more expensive compared to carbon steel.

When it comes to knives, carbon steel can be sharpened easily and stays sharp for a long time despite regular use. This is one of the hardest known substances with exceptional strength and cutting ability that stays with you for years to come. That is the reason carbon steel is termed the cheapest and the best pocket knife for hunting and kitchen use. 

Like carbon steel, 440 stainless steel knives are also known for their ease of use and sharpness. They are among the best-used kitchen tools as they contain over 12% chromium, which is highly useful. A 440 stainless steel blade is one of the finest, durable, and recyclable materials used for crafting knives.  

Which is Better: Carbon or Stainless Steel Knives?

Both carbon steel and stainless steel knives have their specific benefits and uses. Depending on the application, you may choose to buy carbon steel or stainless steel knives to serve your purpose. Carbon steel is widely preferred for its strength and cost-effectiveness. However, rust can be a concern in this case. Stainless steel knives are corrosion-resistant and are aesthetically appealing. Hence, they are helpful, especially in moisture-prone areas.

Top Handmade Carbon vs. Stainless Steel Pocket Knives at Perkin Knives

3 Best Stainless Steel Knives in the UK

1. Pocket Knife Foldable Folding Knife with Lock BFK

This is a foldable pocket knife crafted with a 3Cr13 stainless steel blade and a 430 stainless steel handle. The overall length of the blade is 198mm, whereas the closed length is 110mm. The unlockable folding blade of this beautiful pocket knife is well under 3 inches. This is a perfect pocket folding knife for adventure and wildlife seekers. 

2. Perkin Pocket Knife Folding Hunting Knife Tactical PKF1006

This folding hunting pocket knife is made of a 3Cr13 stainless steel blade with a handle made of aluminium. This exquisitely appealing knife comes with an overall length of 185mm, whereas the closed length of the knife is 110mm. In inches, the length comes to 7.2 inches when opened, and when closed it is 4.3 inches. The knife comes with a 2.9-inch-long liner lock mechanism blade. 

3. Beautiful Handcrafted 440c Steel Hunting Knife with Bull Horn & Brass Handle

Another exquisite knife from Perkin Knives, this piece is available with an 8-inch blade along with a 5-inch buffalo horn and a brass handle. This stainless steel pocket knife is available with a handmade leather sheath to protect it from damage.

3 Best Carbon Steel Knives in the UK

1. Handmade 01 Carbon Steel Full Tang Hunting Knife – Work of Art by JD 

This knife is a beautiful work of art by JD that serves as the perfect outdoor tool for hunters and wildlife enthusiasts. Made with 01 carbon steel, this full-tang hunting knife is an exclusive piece suited for the best hunting purposes. You get a handmade leather sheath with this knife for protection.

2. Fixed-Blade Survival Knife with Micarta Handle

Another plain yet attractive piece from Perkin Knives, this fixed-blade survival knife comes with a stainless carbon steel blade and a Micarta handle. This sturdy knife is known for its razor-sharp blade that works perfectly for hunting and other uses. The knife has an overall length of 10.5 inches, whereas the blade size is 6 inches. Like other Perkin knives, this one also comes with a leather sheath. 

3. Handcrafted Hunting Knife 01 Carbon Steel Blade Bowie Knife with Sheath

Perfectly crafted by hand, this gorgeous piece of 01 carbon steel pocket knife for hunting presents strength and durability. The knife has a blade length of 10 inches, whereas the wood handle of the knife is around 5 inches long. The knife is available with a handmade leather sheath for protection against damage. 

Buy the Best Handmade Pocket Knives in the UK from Perkin Knives 

Both carbon and stainless steel are good materials for pocket knives. Perkin Knives presents some incredibly appealing and robust carbon and stainless steel pocket knives and other knives for various uses, including hunting. 

Buying a pocket knife made of carbon or stainless steel from Perkin Knives is a worthy investment. These handmade pocket knives are ideal for hunters owing to their functionality and durability. Perkin Knives is one of the best knife manufacturers in the UK. 

You can choose the most functional and robust pocket knife to fit your precise needs. However, do make sure to understand the best UK legal pocket knife rules before buying one. You can order our knives online and receive the product within 3-4 weeks based on location.