Valkman
Member
I own Buck knives in their 3 most recent “standard” steels. All function well for me in both ease of sharpening and edge retention. Bucks heat treat makes lesser steel into medium quality or better steel. I would not hesitate to grab a 420 HC Buck knife to head into the zombie apocalypse. I don’t believe they would stake their 100+ year reputation on a steel that did not preform.
They can stake a lot on their heat treat, which to me is the best in the world. I used them for my knives when Paul Bos was there and though he is long gone there just isn't any place better IMHO.