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Melita-K and steel 50x14MF

 ( The steel 50x14MF also used for machetes AiR Zlatoust )

Brand history : 

The production was organized in Moscow, later moved to Kazan, where it is now based. The main field of activity is metal processing and manufacturing of metal products. These are not only knives, it all started with medical equipment, turbine blades for aircraft engines, and various other products. To create a technology for the production of knives was proposed by meat processors, and later orders for hunting knives, then tourist knives began to come. The production of combat knives at the Melita-K plant was started by the Katran knife

Steel 50X14MF for Melita-K knives :

Steel 50x14mf or the so-called "50-ka" is used for the manufacture of scalpels for medicine, kitchen accessories, throwing and long blades such as machetes.

Initially, the scope of application of 50X14mf was limited to the manufacture of exclusively medical tools and kitchen knives. This is due to the resistance of the alloyed alloy to corrosion damage under the influence of water and chemically active substances. It is important that it does not cause allergies. The presence of chromium and carbon in the composition of steel is sufficient to suppress corrosion processes, as well as the formation of iron carbides during quenching - the hardness of the material reaches 57-58 Rockwell units, which means both high hardness and the necessary elasticity for optimal consumer properties.

Advantages :

• relatively affordable cost;
• sharpening lasts a long time;
• you can sharpen and even re-sharpen or edit the blade at home without any problems;
• the combination of hardness and elasticity allows the steel to transfer shock and fracture loads, which makes it possible to use this "50-ku" material for long knives of the "machete" format.

Minuses :

• Despite the presence of corrosion inhibitors in the composition of a knife made of steel 50x14mf, it is necessary to keep dry and clean - in principle, this requirement is relevant for blades made of any alloy. Otherwise, a dirty blade in a sheath will rust with prolonged contact with moisture.

Chemical composition :

• carbon (0.48-0.55%) - strengthens steel due to the formation of iron carbides, increases the hardness and endurance limit;
• chromium (14.0-15.0%) is a corrosion inhibitor, provides hardening during maintenance, improves resistance to abrasive wear;
• manganese (within 0.6%) - necessary for the deoxidation of steel, purification of the alloy from sulfur and oxygen;
• molybdenum (0.45-0.80%) - the material receives heat resistance and creep resistance when the temperature rises. And also this element provides high hardness of the hardened material, especially since the presence of vanadium (0.10-0.15%) excludes the formation of temper brittleness, and grain refinement helps to improve the mechanical characteristics;
• silicon (within 0.6%) provides good strength characteristics (elasticity and yield strength increases without changing plasticity), wear resistance and hardness also improve after maintenance.

Corrosive properties :

To increase the corrosion resistance, it is enough to carry out maintenance - after exposure to high temperatures, the resistance to the effects of chemically active media, in particular, chlorine-containing ones, also increases. So medical instruments from this brand can easily tolerate pre-sterilization cleaning, sterilization and disinfection. It is also worth noting the resistance of "50" to the effects of a number of acids and weak alkalis, the reaction to organic organisms is also neutral.

Application :

Based on all of the above properties, the main purpose of steel 50x14mf is the manufacture of cutting tools and knives. 

In medicine, scalpels are produced from this brand due to the inertness of steel to an organic environment. Surgical instruments made of 50x14mf are distinguished by an increased service life. Such scalpels become unusable only after 4 surgerys, while scalpels from another popular brand 100X13M in just 2 surgerys. 

In the household, food knives are made of steel 50x14mf. They have the following advantages:

• Long shelf life of sharpening. With proper use of the tool, the steel remains sharp for up to 2 months.
• Technologically uncomplicated sharpening process. It is possible to sharpen 50x14mf in ordinary home conditions and this does not require much experience in this matter.
• The blade is resistant to impact loads, which allows the use of this steel in the manufacture of large blades.
• Despite all of the above advantages, 50x14mf has a relatively low cost.

Among the minuses, it is worth noting the formation of pitting corrosion on the surface of the knife with a long period of exposure to moisture.

The history of the appearance of the first knife

What invention of mankind do you consider the most important? Someone will say the wheel, and someone will note the importance of the computer. However, in our humble opinion, one of the important elements invented by man can be safely called a knife. It was this invention that allowed a person to get out of the comfort zone in which he was and turn from a victim into a hunter.

The knife became the invention that emerged as a result of the human need for survival. This element allowed a person to climb the food chain from the lowest step to the very top in a short period of time. Without such an elementary object, a man of the past could not hunt, fish, gather food, build houses, and so on.

The first knives found by archaeologists date back to 2.6 million years ago.

The finds were very crude. They were made from pieces of cracked stone. Spearheads were made in the same way. The primitiveness of these products was high, but already at that time it allowed them to protect themselves and their shelter from wild animals.

Changes in the structure of steel knives appear just with the beginning of the Homo Sapiene period. However, they were still made exclusively of stone. With the development of mankind, copper, tin, bronze and later metal knives began to appear.

Naturally, modern models are fundamentally different from those protection tools, but the essence of their application remains the same. Thus, modern models and historical artifacts have the same history and application.

 Types of folding knife locks

We will focus on the most common locks. These are the main clamps that serve as a reference for many, many knife makers around the world.

A folding knife is a convenient and functional tool that has long won love and recognition. Of course, a pocket knife, or, as it is more often called, a folding knife, is easier to carry with you than a knife with a fixed blade. However, at all times, from the first appearance of a knife with a retractable blade, there was a question - "how to protect the owner from sudden closing or opening of the blade." In our time, castles of different types are unknown. A folding knife, like any tool, has many varieties, suitable for different uses.

Slipjoint:

The simplest version of a folding knife lock. In fact, this is not even a lock as such - when unfolded, the blade is fixed with a spacer that acts as a spring. If you press firmly on the butt of the blade, the knife will fold. The lock does not provide rigid fixation, but still protects the blade from accidental folding.

Slipjoint pocket knives are not designed for tough jobs, but they are ideal for light everyday tasks - from slicing food to planing wooden blocks.

Liner lock:

This is the most popular lock used in modern folding knives - its simple design and reliability make it one of the best. In the open state, the blade directly holds a part of the liner - the spring-loaded plate abuts against the heel of the blade. To fold the knife, simply slide the plate away from the blade. Most knives can do this even with one hand.  

Renowned knifemaker Bob Dozier has developed a universal Tab Lock. The fundamental difference from the classic "liner" is that not a part, but the entire plane of the liner adjoins the "heel" of the blade, providing better grip and reliable locking. Thus, the whole plate is the spring, not a separate section of it.  Folding knives with Liner Lock type locks are used for a wide variety of tasks, as they are able to withstand heavy loads on the blade, thanks to their reliable design.

Frame lock:

The Frame Lock is a kind of variation of the classic "liner", with the only difference that the closing spring is not a metal plate, but part of the handle. Folding knives with this type of lock have a steel handle. Some craftsmen believe that “frame” locks are more reliable to protect the owner from accidental pressing, especially during heavy work with a knife. As an additional argument, fans of this type of retainer highlight the absence of "unnecessary" parts in the knife and a simpler design.

An interesting and rather rare Bolster lock is a variation of the "lock frame". The principle of its operation is exactly the same, only the locking plate is part of the bolster.

Back lock (Spine lock, Lockback):

One of the most famous and first locks, which is sometimes called the "spine" for the characteristic metal part of the lock, which runs along the entire "back" of the knife handle. The structure of the castle is quite simple, but at the same time reliable. The same "spine" simultaneously acts as a lock button and a blade stopper in the open state. With a special hook, the rocker arm runs along the entire handle and engages in a slot in the "heel" of the blade. A thin plate inside the handle acts as a spring. 

The “back lock” has enough varieties. For example, Front lock (Mid lock), used by many well-known companies. The only difference between these types of locks is that in knives with "mid lock" the close button is in the middle of the handle.

Button lock (Plunge lock):

A simple and convenient blade locking system originally conceived for use in automatic knives. Such a lock was supposed to block the blade both in the open and in the closed state. Most knives with Button Lock open and close easily with one hand.

Knives with steel  Böhler M390

Steel is supplied from the BÖHLER Edelstahl GmbH & Co KG plant in Kapfenberg, Austria. It produces incredibly wear-resistant alloys, the so-called "special steels". Although the M390 is one of the most popular steels on the knife market, Böhler developed it for use in molds in the foundry industry. This is what is indicated in the official Böhler steel summary table as the main purpose of use. That the M390 is great for knife blades is considered an alternative target.

Why is M390 steel so popular?

The answer lies on the surface - it's excellent retention of spice. The M390 is so wear-resistant that it retains the desired shape of the cutting edge for a long time. Hence the conclusion that you will not need to sharpen your knife often. Accordingly, the knife will last longer. Obviously, the more often you sharpen a knife, the faster it wears out. Böhler manufactures the M390 using the powder metallurgy method. Typically, a manufacturer combines different elements in an alloy that is poured into molds and rolled to form sheets that can be used by knife manufacturers. Böhler, however, takes this process one step further. After connecting these elements, they are placed in a special gas spray machine that sprays the molten steel. As a result, the structure becomes much finer at the molecular level. In addition to retaining cutting ability, the M390 has several other great qualities. For example, this steel can be cured to a fairly high degree without risk of structural failure.

Also M390 is relatively stainless. Due to the large amount of chromium in the composition, there is little chance of corrosion. This is especially noticeable in comparison with other hard steels, which are known for their sharpness, but are easily corroded.

Chemical components:

• Carbon up to 1.9%: found in all types of steel in varying amounts. Decreases toughness, but increases hardness and wear;
• Silicon up to 0.7%: increases steel hardness, improves hardenability;
• Manganese up to 0.3%: enough to increase tensile strength, but not enough to lead to brittleness;
• Chromium up to 20%: again, chromium is found in all types of steel and is used to increase hardness, tensile strength and corrosion resistance through toughness;
• Molybdenum up to 1%. Makes steel heat resistant and more resistant to cutting edge;
• Tungsten up to 0.6%: Usually found where large amounts of chromium are used. Tungsten increases the wear resistance of the knife, compensating for the lack of strength of chromium;
• Vanadium up to 4%: Used for the production of fine-grained steel by heat treatment. Since powder steel depends on the correct distribution of fine grains, vanadium is a must. This is for added wear resistance of the cutting edge.

Disadvantages of the Böhler M390:

Of course, there are also disadvantages. For example, M390 is relatively expensive steel. Not only in terms of price per kilogram, but also in terms of modification. The wear resistance of this steel tells us that it is difficult to machine. Thus, you need more time to change anything in the blade and the abrasives will wear out much faster. Therefore, a knife made of M390 steel is often more expensive than a knife made of other types of steel.

The M390 is also not easy to sharpen. That is, if you only use Arkansas stone, it will not go far. M390 prefers diamond coated stones or ceramics. Preferably at a very fixed angle.

Dagestan and knives as an art form

(Kizlyar knives)

The History:

The Caucasus has been famous for its melee weapons since ancient times. Armourers have always been valued for their beautiful, perfectly shaped and sharp knives. The centuries-old experience and skill of ancestors revived the Dagestan enterprise of the city of Kizlyar in its products.

Knives were made in those parts, starting approximately from the 1st-2nd century BC, when Caucasian Albania appeared. This contributed, along with the emergence of trade relations, the development of the formidable arms craft. But we will recall the time that is closer to us than the mention of Caucasian Albania.

There were both small industries that satisfied the needs of only the local population for such a product, and larger ones, which later grew into entire centers for the supply of weapons not only to the whole of Dagestan, but also to other, more remote regions of the Caucasus. Hence the name "weapons smithy". The blades were made of both all-steel and welded steel, which was of particular value due to the pattern obtained with this manufacturing method.

The decoration:

The decoration also played an important role. This is a real art that modern masters are now reviving. But the acquisition of a good Kizlyar, Dagestan, knife in the past was considered a great success in Russia. Now you can buy Kizlyar knives with or without ornaments without even leaving your home, since there are Internet resources selling various equipment, and along with it, knives. But a good blade, decorated with an ancient pattern, has not left anyone indifferent.

The craftsmen had several types of ornamentation, which had clear differences, but could be combined on one blade. So, for example, one of the compositions was called "tutta", which means "branch", "tree" in translation. This ornament was built along vertical symmetry. The axis divided the surface intended for decoration into two equal parts. And it was believed that such an ornament can only be performed with high quality by a very experienced master.

Russian hunters and other hunters have always liked the steel of Dagestan, and now Kizlyar knives. They combine reliability and aesthetics, the spirit of the past and the ergonomics of our time, grace and formidable strength. And once having received such a blade as a companion, you will walk with it many kilometers of the roads of your life and will be able to pass it on to your sons almost the same as it was on the day of your meeting.

Categories:

Kizlyar knives are produced in several categories: 

• Hunting;
• Dagger;
• Tourist / folding.

1. Kizlyar hunting knives deservedly enjoy the greatest recognition among hunters, since they fully meet the following basic provisions:

• the design of the knife with a handle pressed onto the shank, which runs along its entire length;
• handle material made of Caucasian walnut, leather, wood, rubber-plastic;
• blade geometry. In the vast majority of models, the blade tapers to a point, and some have a dedicated stiffener;
• dimensions. Ideal for hunting knife sizes are in the range of 20-25 cm with a long blade of no more than 13-15 cm.

2. Kizlyar daggers are one of the oldest weapons for hand-to-hand combat. Modern models are produced in the form of a gift or souvenir product, since the combat dagger belongs to the category of edged weapons, the storage and carrying of which requires a license and special permission. All samples have the manufacturer's mark; if desired, a custom-made inscription is applied to the upper part of the dagger.

3. Kizlyar tourist knives are the main tool in any hiking trip. They are of high quality, reliable and versatile. The high-carbon steel of the blades keeps their sharpness for a long time and is ideal for processing products and small woodworking. Some models are equipped with a sereiter - a serrated sharpened section that is convenient for making fire with a flint or cutting ropes.

Kizlyar knives are the dream of many connoisseurs and connoisseurs of cold steel. They have a great shape, recognizable the first time.

Famous steel D2

D2 - high quality tool steel. At the moment it is out of competition due to the class level and the corresponding quality. It contains all the necessary qualities, and the components are combined in the correct ratio.

Information :

D2 is a premium steel of a special segment, which is appreciated by many experts in this field. The alloy has a high level of carbon and chromium in its composition, is resistant to corrosion, wear, as well as all kinds of loads and mechanical stress. The finished D2 knife has excellent cutting properties and will not dull with prolonged use.

D2 steel chemical composition :

In addition to the presence and correct ratio of the above elements, the manufacture of steel cannot do without heat treatment. This process takes place at temperatures reaching 870 degrees. After that, it cools down, undergoes pre-planned processing, and then hardens again. Only then is it cooled outside high temperatures.

Advantages of D2 steel for knives :

• Steel has high hardness - it keeps sharpening for a long time,
• Steel is a semi-stainless steel,
• The carbon content makes the cut of this steel more aggressive,
• Low price.

Disadvantages of D2 steel for knives :

Of course, this steel has disadvantages. Any steel has its drawbacks. D2 has practically one - steel is not completely stainless. Given the high carbon content of steel, D2 knives can be “pitted”. slight pitting, and on contact with acidic media, the blade may darken slightly.

Analogs :

Among the high-carbon steels, the D2 grade is the most popular. If you sharpen the knife blade correctly, then such a knife will serve its owner for a long time. Among the Russian counterparts, the X12MF steel grade is known, and in Japan the analogue of steel is the SLD grade. Blades made of this steel do not rust, but it is preferable not to leave the knives in a humid environment, but wipe with a dry cloth after use.

Conclusion :

Summing up, we can say about steel D2 that it has more pluses than minuses. D2 steel has excellent anti-corrosion properties, but not enough chromium to be called stainless. It has a high hardness, holds the sharpen well. But it is less tough in comparison with competitors, therefore, in order to sharpen it, you will have to seek the help of a master.

AiR Zlatoust knives

Brand history

The history of the unique art of Zlatoust steel engraving is more than 200 years old. It all started with the organization in 1815 of the Zlatoust factory of "white weapons", as cold weapons were called then: sabers, swords, checkers, cleavers and much more. But from the first days the factory produced not only military, but also ceremonial and decorated decorated weapons. The foundation was laid by German gun-makers specially invited for training from Solingen. Born two centuries ago as a result of the joint work of European masters and Ural craftsmen, this art of metal decoration acquired its unique face in Zlatoust.

Zlatoust engraving on metal, as an art, absorbed the richest traditions of Russian and Western European gunsmiths of the 17th-18th centuries, but the Ural engravers created their own original style of decorating weapons. Initially, the designs on the blades consisted of several traditional compositions that were not related to each other. Over time, detailed thematic plots appeared: real figures of warriors, massive battle scenes, hunting motives, Ural landscapes. The remarkable art of Zlatoust artists-engravers throughout the 19th century remained at a high level, and the products in terms of their artistic value and technique of execution were considered unsurpassed not only in Russia, but also in the oldest weapon centers in Western Europe. At the beginning of the 90s of the XX century, several art workshops of non-state ownership appeared in Zlatoust, which gave a further impetus to the revival and development of original art - metal engraving.

The company "AiR" was founded on July 26, 1999 with the aim of reviving and developing the best traditions of making edged weapons and household items, decorated in the style of Zlatoust engraving. At that time, up to a dozen small enterprises were working in Zlatoust, engaged in the manufacture of decorated edged weapons. Unlike the firms that produced expensive blades decorated with gold, the A&R Company started the serial production of simple and reliable hunting knives. Zlatoust decorated weapons already in the 19th century gained fame not only in Russia, but also far beyond its borders. Zlatoust decorated blades are kept in the Kremlin Armory, in the Hermitage, in the Military History Museum of St. Petersburg, in the State Historical Museum in Moscow, in the Library of Congress of the United States, the Imperial War Museum in London and in the Louvre of France

By now, the AiR Company has grown to the level of a leader in the manufacture of working knives and decorated products. The organic synthesis of the traditions of the gunsmiths of the past and modern technologies, combined with excellent quality, ensured the popularity of Airov knives among tourists, fishermen, and hunters. The blades are forged from Zlatoust high-carbon corrosion-resistant steel with excellent technical characteristics. The assortment is constantly growing.

 History of the knife FERAT

One of the main characteristics and parameters of the knife is reliability. The engineers were tasked with designing a folding tactical knife with a powerful dagger-shaped blade. In the process, when designing a knife-dagger, we encountered one feature. When choosing a lock mechanic, we opted for a basic liner lock, since this lock is reliable, unpretentious and the biggest plus for a tactical folding knife is that it can be instantly opened with one hand. For this purpose, there are special elements at the base of the blade - cylindrical pins, that have a round shape.

The knife was originally designed using a ballbearing assembly. The widest support with a bearing of a larger diameter made it possible to eliminate vertical backlash to a minimum. This knife has a thick construction, so it is very strong and reliable. However, the knife is quite light, so you can easily carry it with you all day long.

During the designing and testing of the samples, one feature was noticed. The reliability of holding the blade in the working position was influenced by the thickness and angle of the heel, plus the size of the liner. With a narrow and long blade relative to the width, it was necessary to keep it securely in the open position, it was necessary to increase the thickness of the liner. And since the liner in the design is part of the knife frame, this would lead to an increase in the size and weight of the knife. This is how an additional liner retainer appeared. The gracefully and reliably designed retainer turns the knife into a powerful fighting tool that has become almost a full-tang.

We were inspired by the Czechoslovakian film «Ferat Vampire». The knife takes the name of a mechanical monster in the form of a car that feeds on human blood. But our little pocket monster serves the other way around - it is a reliable assistant in different life situations.

For certain purposes, the knife can be used without opening the blade, for example, breaking a glass. In this case, the knife is being used as a stick, while the blow is applied with the handle.

After finishing and testing all units and elements on samples, a further task was set by the designers. 3D modeling, prototyping on CNC machines and using 3D printers, the designers completed the task 100%. Ferat received new laconic forms and attractive design and the possibility of using the clip that is rearranged on both sides. Under the lanyard, you can use the extreme link in the heel of the handle.. Now on the market there are already counterfeit parodies with similar designs.

High tech and concise, sparkling and modern, progressive design and high-quality components – all this are Ferat.  Attention to small details will reveal that real pro team was working hard on this model.

Dagger blade shape with false blade predetermines high penetration ability.  Additional lateral stiffness achieved by fuller.  For cutting perfection with thick enough blade hollow grind is used, providing an absolute control over the cut.  Opening is enhanced with ball bearing, making the opening a snap.  The handle has a powerful 0.087 inch (2.2 mm) frame with two pointers serving as a glass braker.  Additional safety is provided by liner lock, eliminating closing of the blade under load.

HUNTING KNIVES - FEATURES AND BENEFITS

A hunting arsenal should consist of many elements, and one of the main accessories is a knife. Without a knife, it will not be possible to process prey, be it fish or meat. But often a hunting knife is needed for hiking purposes - to cut off bushes, cut rope, mud, chop branches for a fire, open something, and so on.

ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF KNIVES FOR HUNTING

Each hunter chooses a knife based on his own needs and goals. There are no utility knives. The selection is made based on the assigned tasks. For example, a hunting knife with an elongated blade and guard will not be very convenient to butcher the carcass.

For processing and cutting, it is better to use a classic knife with a length of 12-14 cm with a wide blade, an especially thick butt is not needed, because the thicker the knife, the more it meets the resistance when cutting. The mass, ideally, should not exceed 180 grams, otherwise it will be physically expensive to manage it. It will be more convenient and easier to work, especially over a long time, if the chopping knife has a good balance. Of course, someone uses longer blades for cutting, but the work will not be as accurate as 13-centimeter ones.

Folding hunting knives should be taken with special care. It is more convenient to carry them with you, but do not forget that a folding knife requires more careful care.

Hunting blades are more durable than kitchen blades because they often have to cut through fairly hard objects. An important thing for such a knife is a strong handle, which is easy to handle in any conditions. Typically, these knives have an all-metal construction.

With the development of world metallurgy, in recent years, knives with blades made of powder steel are gaining more and more popularity among hunters. Such a knife perfectly keeps sharpening, like any high-carbon steel, but, at the same time, it is practically not susceptible to corrosion, wear-resistant, shows excellent strength characteristics and is not inferior in cutting aggressiveness.

WHEN CHOOSING A KNIFE, PAY ATTENTION TO THE FOLLOWING POINTS

The knife should lie comfortably in the hand: it is the ergonomics of the handle of a particular knife that plays an important role. It should be comfortable for your hand. Take a knife and make a few sharp movements, and then a few small ones. The hand should not get tired. It is advisable that the knife fits you from the first minute, and you do not have to get used to it.

• Wood, type-setting birch bark or type-setting leather (medium strength, comfortable to hold in hand at any temperature);
• Metal (increased strength, heats up or cools down depending on the weather, preferably used with anti-slip pads);
• Plastic (low strength, it is better to refuse products with such handles due to unreliability. They have one advantage - low price).

PAY ATTENTION

Pay close attention to the geometry of the blade. Thanks to one shape or another, you can cut something quickly and efficiently. If the knife has a thin blade, it will cut easily, but due to its thinness, the blade has a lower margin of safety. Therefore, decide what kind of tasks you set for this knife.

As for steel, here you need to decide on the purchase budget, and do not forget that a knife is the thing that can save you in unfavorable circumstances. remember that a knife is your friend, who, helping you, requires attention to himself. With this approach, the knife will serve you faithfully for more than one year, or even more than a dozen years.

Steel AUS-8

Choosing a compromise between Damascus steels with a hardness of 58-62 HRC and stainless steel of the 95X18 and 50X14MF type, pay attention to the AUS-8 steel, which by its characteristics occupies an intermediate position between them, that is, the "golden mean".

Some call it "obsolete steel", but we see only advantages in this - AUS-8 is easy to process, eminent gunsmiths and artisans know how to work with it, so the risk of encountering low-quality blades made of Japanese stainless steel is very small, although ... In general, as always, Buy where there is a return guarantee in which case.

10 characteristics of AUS-8 steel and knives made of it :

• High mechanical properties (strong steel);
• Easy to grind and polish;
• With proper heat, AUS-8 knives show an aggressive cut, keep sharpening well;
• Resistance of the cutting edge of knives to chipping;
• Medium corrosion resistance (don't forget to care for the knife);
• Has toughness (feel free to use for cleavers, machetes and tourist hatchets);
• Easily sharpened at home, as well as with improvised means;
• Relatively low price with stable quality;
• Recommend knives from AUS-8 for hunters, fishermen, tourists, hikers, fishermen, chefs or for work in the kitchen.

Negative moments :

• Prolonged exposure of the knife in a humid environment may undergo pitting (pitting) corrosion;
• The hardness of steel can "walk" from manufacturer to manufacturer, but within reasonable limits.

Chemical composition :