bruce what the hell does that mean? through hardened??? forgive my ignorance???
Brian and Jim did a great job of answering your question, Recon. I'll only add that SR101 does not possess INFI's or SR77's lateral strength. That's why, generally speaking, Jerry differentially-hardens his large SR101 blades.
Would I buy an M9 if it weren't differentially-hardened? No. With all due respect for Jim's and Vic's comments, for me it would be a deal-breaker. In a SHTF situation, I'd trust my differentially-hardened Camp Tramp before I'd trust a through-hardened M9.
Was the M-6 through hardened of diff tempered?I'd say if that was then the M-9 would certainly be.
Yes! I just doubled check the Rat forum. M6 was differential, as well as the Chopwieler. The only larger than 6" knives that broke my little rule of thumb were the Mojos. When I asked about it, it was stated that it was because they had a different "intention" for those knives that the rest of the line. As in, they were more a tactical tool, than a wilderness tool.
Brian,
For the record, Swamp Rat "Did" release a Thru-Hardened Battle Rat a few years ago.
Microscopic Extravaganza - Battle Rat (thru hardened, black blade, tan res-c) $118.95
So, a 9.5" Battle Rat that has some reasonable documentation of being put through some sufficient testing and I have yet to see one damaged.
I had one. At the time it was released, I have already acquired an original Differentially heat treated Battle rat with black Res-C and I had stripped it. But, the release price was about $20 less than the then discontinued Battle Rat that was being highly sought even then. I couldn't resist. But, I ended up selling mine mint. I just really don't care for the tan Res-C.
If I had to bet, I would bet Andy still has a through-hardened Battle Rat (?????).
Point of the story: Busse has sold some large SR-101 blades that have held up very well.
I would have to trust Jerry on through hardening his SR-101 if he says it will work. But, I actually like the look of the temper line.
There is a compromise with the differentially heat-treated blades - with the spines being much softer, they can ding much easier. But, I consider it a minor compromise and still prefer the temper line.
My point in asking was more about feeling it should be stated - rather than not.
One thing I NEVER saw confirmed (and I think I asked!) - I don't know if the hardness on the through tempered Battle Rats were the same as the edges of the differentially heat treated Battle Rats. - I don't "need" to know, but curious.
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