Is this the older knife with SK-5 steel or the newer model with the O-1 steel. I ask because the descriptions are not accurate sometimes.
771091
not complaining I ordered the sk-5 model knowing the history and reputation of that steel in past history... O-1 being even better in some aspects... the one I received is stamped o-1 and so far I have nothing to complain about. very sharp used in many every day tasks and continues to remain sharp... would not hesitate to buy another extremely good value and would recommend to anyone buy this knife!!!! 5 stars no disappointment what so ever....!
771092
the knife pictured, wit the brass guard, is the newer model with O-1. However, there are many SK-5 knives in inventory online, so I would try to ask before buying. O-1 is an absolutely wonderful, first-class carbon tool steel. That said, there is nothing wrong with SK-5, which is a quality, Japanese 1080 carbon steel. In fact, some might prefer the SK-5 as it will likely rust slightly less, and more importantly, will have more impact strength and toughness, (though O-1 is still pretty darn tough.)
771093
You need to ask the individual seller. O-1 is a somewhat superior steel to SK-5. So SK-5 should be cheaper.
1768790
It is the SK5 but I'm not sure what the 01 or O1 is supposed to mean. I ordered mine disregarding the 01/O1 and got exactly what I wanted. If it's the SK5 you're looking for then this is what you should order. It came razor sharp, wooden handle with bronze caps, and the high quality sheath. Hope this helps
1045402
I am pretty sure they stopped making the older models. I couldn't find the older ones anyway. This one does have more power and is a very good knife. I think it is expensive but still a great knife.
1813088
I have an actual military issue pilot survival knife I carried while on the Army. I wanted a second one. After review, I went with the Ontario. I can't see any difference. The knife and even the sheath seem to be the same as the issue one to me.
577178
Check Morakniv's website they have a lot of really cool information about the differences in steel types. I'm no expert myself.
1136905
I emailed Cold Steel and they explained about the gring,flat vs hollow.I never really noticed before,now it's easy to spot but it still does not stop sellers from listing both and or using a picture different than what their actoally selling. I already have a SK-5 knife and was thinking about buying another for a present.I will be in contact with the seller before I make a purchase to be sure what I am getting. Frankly I would not want the stainless version.
1141509
Honestly, I think it's the same knife from different sellers. The picture looks the exact same. In any case, it's a pretty good knife, a little tight to open, but that's better than too loose. I don't think Gerber offers the same style knife in different steel qualities. I bought the one certified by Amazon just in case it was wrong and I had to return it. That's usually the safest bet. Good luck!
1024580
I do not know the answer and I did not see it listed on the Cold Steel website. What I do know is that it is one outstanding small game knife, great pack knife. I used it all season on pheasant, grouse, rabbit and squirrels and it still has the same incredible sharp edge.
1245415
Don't know a lot about the cold steel leatherneck series. They look like a K-bar upgrade and K-bar has been a well used and appreciated knife. I have read the SOG knife was chosen by a panel of military inspector types as the best of the best and the elite is an improved model.
1701705
I don't know why they show the trainer knife or the d2 description. I have bought three of these knives over the last three years with the drop point and they have all been 154 cm. I like this steel for this knife. It is a lot easier to sharpen than d2 but still has good edge retention. The description on the knives I bought only show 154cm. The blade is the same all the way and is a full tang that is cut out the same as the aluminum handle scales. The only negatives on this knife with me is the sheath, which is probably just my preferences, and handle scales have sharp edges and should have been blended and more curved around the edges for comfort. I don't know why they show the trainer knife or the d2 description. I have bought three of these knives over the last three years with the drop point and they have all been 154 cm. I like this steel for this knife. It is a lot easier to sharpen than d2 but still has good edge retention. The description on the knives I bought only show 154cm. The blade is the same all the way and is a full tang that is cut out the same as the aluminum handle scales. The only negatives on this knife with me is the sheath, which is probably just my preferences, and handle scales have sharp edges and should... » Read More I don't know why they show the trainer knife or the d2 description. I have bought three of these knives over the last three years with the drop point and they have all been 154 cm. I like this steel for this knife. It is a lot easier to sharpen than d2 but still has good edge retention. The description on the knives I bought only show 154cm. The blade is the same all the way and is a full tang that is cut out the same as the aluminum handle scales. The only negatives on this knife with me is the sheath, which is probably just my preferences, and handle scales have sharp edges and should have been blended and more curved around the edges for comfort. « Show Less
2159491
I 'believe' it is the authentic one, but I'd advise passing on any with the Rothco "middle-man" involved. They have a habit of selling cheap Chinese replicas, and sometimes the real thing. Why gamble? Plus Rothco doesn't make a thing, they're just middle-men. Look for this under the authentic Ontario 499 or AFSK, which mean the same thing. By the way, it's a sold knife with a rather crude "polish". Which is great as you'll put it right to work and it'll take a beating.
388681
I'm not sure why it really matters what the S.E.A.L. teams use or not, however this may help answer your question. Not long ago I watched a documentary on Discovery Channel about S.E.A.L. training and the instructors literally said the Ontario MK. 3 was standard issue, yet in the schools most instructors and students used the Cold Steel SRK. Also, I have a cousin that went to college in West Virginia that was a roomate with a USN S.E.A.L. that told me basically they carry all different brands of knives. So, I get the impression the Ontario is the "official" USN knife but S.E.A.L.s carry whatever they want. For what it's worth I like the Ontario MK. 3 reguardless. I'm not sure why it really matters what the S.E.A.L. teams use or not, however this may help answer your question. Not long ago I watched a documentary on Discovery Channel about S.E.A.L. training and the instructors literally said the Ontario MK. 3 was standard issue, yet in the schools most instructors and students used the Cold Steel SRK. Also, I have a cousin that went to college in West Virginia that was a roomate with a USN S.E.A.L. that told me basically they carry all different brands of knives. So, I get the impression the Ontario is the "official" USN knife but S.E.A.L.s... » Read More I'm not sure why it really matters what the S.E.A.L. teams use or not, however this may help answer your question. Not long ago I watched a documentary on Discovery Channel about S.E.A.L. training and the instructors literally said the Ontario MK. 3 was standard issue, yet in the schools most instructors and students used the Cold Steel SRK. Also, I have a cousin that went to college in West Virginia that was a roomate with a USN S.E.A.L. that told me basically they carry all different brands of knives. So, I get the impression the Ontario is the "official" USN knife but S.E.A.L.s carry whatever they want. For what it's worth I like the Ontario MK. 3 reguardless. « Show Less
1399493
My understanding is O1 is slightly better and the change was a factory decision. I may be wrong about it but either one is good, outstanding even. I have the Laredo in what I believe is SK5 and a Natchez in O1 and have sharpened both, neither seemed better at sharpeneing or edge retention or wear. Both of mine are shaving sharp and yes I have used them outdoors with no problems just be sensable and don't start whacking on the handles. Both blade steels I highly recommended. The only steel (layered) that I know to be better is the San Mai but the price increase is substantial. I hope this helps you. My understanding is O1 is slightly better and the change was a factory decision. I may be wrong about it but either one is good, outstanding even. I have the Laredo in what I believe is SK5 and a Natchez in O1 and have sharpened both, neither seemed better at sharpeneing or edge retention or wear. Both of mine are shaving sharp and yes I have used them outdoors with no problems just be sensable and don't start whacking on the handles. Both blade steels I highly recommended. The only steel (layered) that I know to be better is the San Mai but the price increase is substantial. I hope this... » Read More My understanding is O1 is slightly better and the change was a factory decision. I may be wrong about it but either one is good, outstanding even. I have the Laredo in what I believe is SK5 and a Natchez in O1 and have sharpened both, neither seemed better at sharpeneing or edge retention or wear. Both of mine are shaving sharp and yes I have used them outdoors with no problems just be sensable and don't start whacking on the handles. Both blade steels I highly recommended. The only steel (layered) that I know to be better is the San Mai but the price increase is substantial. I hope this helps you. « Show Less
14600
Mine does not list the steel type, but unless you have a special run of this knife the steel is all the same.
1025451
Seki City Japan. Using VG-10 steel, FRN handle scales. It's a good quality knife and I did a lot of research before buying it, but at the end I bought it mostly because I loved how it looked. If it were me, I would buy an Ontario Rat Model 2. It looks more simple, but the craftsmanship is way better, zero blade play and built like a rock. And it is half the price. Also look at the Benchmade Mini Griptilian.
268975
The one I received has the newer rough finish. It is a well made knife and case I carry it every day.
1622517
I own the knife and I'm really pleased with it. I'm not an expert but from what I've read those two styles of Steel are virtually the same.if it were me I would trust the buck website over other information. If you buy the knife I'm sure you'll be happy with it I am with mine.