Quick Answer
Folding knives generally exhibit lower edge retention compared to fixed-blade knives due to the folding mechanism and stress concentrations on the blade.
Edge Retention in Folding Knives
Folding knives often have a thinner, more flexible blade to accommodate the folding mechanism, which reduces edge retention. For example, a typical pocket knife has a 0.8-1.2 mm blade thickness, whereas a fixed-blade knife can have a 1.5-2.5 mm thickness. This thinner blade is more prone to wear and deformation, especially when subjected to high-impact tasks.
Edge Retention in Fixed-Blade Knives
Fixed-blade knives typically have a thicker, more robust blade that can withstand greater stress and impact. The edge retention of a fixed-blade knife is often improved by features such as a full-flat grind, high-carbon content (e.g., CPM S30V or CPM S35VN), and proper heat treatment. For instance, a well-made fixed-blade knife with a 2.0 mm thickness and a full-flat grind can maintain its edge for thousands of cuts, whereas a folding knife with a 0.8 mm thickness may require frequent sharpening.
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