first off I agree, the NMSFNO is really a gorgeous piece of steel and you will not regret spending the money if you have it. It really is worth it and it is currently in my top 2 favorite blades. That said I think this toughness arguement gets old, let's face it whether it is S7 or 52-100 (Swamp Rat) or INFI or A2 or 3V for what we use knives for we are not going to break them. Yes S7 has more lateral strength than 52-100 but I challenge you to break a Swamp Rat in 52-100. What are you using a knife for that would require that kind of lateral strength? Don't get me wrong I love my Scrapyard knives and am really looking forward to the next release I just think this whole which one is tougher question really doesn't apply to what we use knifes for. I am curious, what do you use your blades for?