Vic I think 440C is a common steel because it is good stuff that does it's job well.. For a second run SS4 I think it would be a great choice- D2 is good stuff but isn't 440C a bit harder to break? 440C plus Busse treat=great new SS4 or other smaller knife. sr77 for indestructible big knives good stainless for the smaller edc ones!?

(440C should be cheap and easy to get too, very much in-keeping with the 'bang for the buck' philosophy..)