i think SR101...{52100} can be tougher to sharpen than most,if not all of the high carbon steels in its class.as we all know thats why they make ball bearings out of it.you dont want your ball bearings wearing down.

it is known for its wear resistance which is why it holds its edge longer.

other HC's like 5160,1095 and the rest of the 10-- family sharpen up like nothing.

52100 is tough.

SR77...{S7} and INFI are easier to sharpen.INFI is actually a delight to sharpen and is a gift from the steel gods.

i would like to see the lateral strength and impact resistance of 52100 though.i am sure it is good but i wonder how good with it being so hard.

personally i like the 52100 over the S7 for a field knife.i think it holds an edge better.