Hi Dean,

Just because the man wants a kitchen knife for his boat doesn't mean that it has to be salt water resistant. I would suggest using the steel that you're most comfortable with and explain to the customer how to care for it.

Gary

I have only used two stainless steels for knives, 440C and 154CM. I used these because although maximum performance can only be achieved through specialized HT, you can use the same methods as for HC steels and get a pretty darn good blade. I still have my first kitchen knife I ever made and it was stock removal 440C. It is still a great knife (although a bit thicker than I'd like)

Gary has a good point though, care and use is the owner's responsibility.

If you are concerned enough about it, 440C is a good choice.

https://www.alphaknifesupply.com/zdata-bladesteelS-440C.htm

Thank you both, I really want to take care of this guy as he will most likely spend over $500 to win this knife at auction. 154CM may be the way to go, I'll do some research on HT. Gary I understand your point and I have some HC steel on my bench now, but really am worried about rust. I know how Cape Cod can reek havoc on steel as I lived there many years ago.

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Thank you both, I really want to take care of this guy as he will most likely spend over $500 to win this knife at auction. 154CM may be the way to go, I'll do some research on HT. Gary I understand your point and I have some HC steel on my bench now, but really am worried about rust. I know how Cape Cod can reek havoc on steel as I lived there many years ago.

154CM HT info. It does not get as hard as 440C with traditional HT methods.

Adding Cryo greatly improves this steel.

https://www.alphaknifesupply.com/zdata-bladesteelS-154CM.htm

Thank you Joshua, I think I will go with the 154CM however I belive I will send it out for HT. I do not have the equipment to properly HT according to your link.

If you ever want to give cryogenic treatment a try, I understand that you can do a decent job using dry ice.

Some folks have told me that they use it in a tub of acetone, others just sandwiching the blade between two blocks.

Not that I am suggesting you try it on this particular project, but in case you ever feel the need to experiment with that sort of thing. <img src=' http://www.americanbladesmith.com/ipboard/public/style_emoticons//wink.gi f' class='bbc_emoticon' alt=';)' />