Hey everyone, today we’ll be taking a look at some affordable knives that use the quality
tool steel, D2, that are all available at Knifecenter.com
D2 tool steel is one of the most enduring alloys in the knifemaking industry.
It is a versatile high-carbon, air-hardening tool steel that is defined by its effective
combination of wear resistance, durability, performance, and price.
While not a true stainless steel, it does have enough chromium in it to offer some decent
corrosion resistance, as well.
Once only available on high-end blades, D2 has been trickling down into more affordable
territory, and lately we’ve been seeing a rush of high-value folders around the $50
range that are very impressive.
Here are some of our KnifeCenter favorites.
Leading the charge for quality D2 knives at the sub-$50 price point is Steel Will.
They feature numerous flippers in this category but we especially like the Modus, which has
a modified-sheepsfoot working blade and the Intrigue Series, which has a more refined
profile with a slender drop point blade and a narrow, easy to carry profile.
Aside from D2 steel, both knives feature a liner lock and FRN handle scales available
in multiple color options.
These knives are great for everyday carry.
Another set of affordable D2 knives that we’re big fans of is the Ontario RAT Series, the
RAT Model 1 and Model 2, both available for under $50.
With easy-to-use thumb studs and two different blade lengths, these knives are excellent
for EDC, outdoor, or (in the case of the RAT 1) even tactical use all thanks to solid construction,
drop point blade styles, and that hard working D2 steel.
These knives use FRN handles with a light texture which makes them comfortable to use
and the sturdy liner lock gives you the confidence to really work with this knife.
Similar to the RAT, you can get a knife like the ESEE Avispa.
This knife follows a similar formula to the Ontario by utilizing a light FRN handle scale
and flat ground blade with that great D2 steel.
Like the RAT, the Avispa has a four-position pocket clip to cater to any carry preference.
The major difference with the Avispa is the use of a steel frame lock that makes for even
more security and a slimmer carry.
It’s a great option to have in your survival bag or to swap in and out of your EDC rotation.
Another brand making a big splash in the budget friendly knife space is Bestech.
They have been changing our outlook on what a $50 knife should be by using great materials
with smooth action and rock solid performance.
One of their D2 designs that we love is the Swordfish, which is rocking a gorgeous 4”
blade with a full-length swedge and a two-tone G10 handle.
This is one of those knives that seems like a much more expensive knife in hand, and the
fact that you can get it for just a hair over $50 is astonishing.
This knife joins a slew of D2 folders from Bestech around the $50 mark, including the
Warwolf, the Scimitar flipper, the Kendo models, the Lion and Grampus flippers, and more.
You can find all of them at KnifeCenter.com
Another great brand offering high-performing materials like G10 and D2 at an insanely low
price is ArtisanCutlery.
Their Shark model is one of our favorites thanks to the sleek design, snappy flipping
action, and unbeatable value.
In addition to the Shark, ArtisanCutlery offers several other great series of knives in this
price range with D2 blades, such as the Classic, the Waistline, the Virginia, the Tradition,
and several others.
And don’t forget about the Osprey, a folding cleaver that is sure to wow your friends!
Lastly, we’d like to show you V Nives from Mike Vellekamp and their D2 offerings close
to the $50 mark.
The only knives featuring a lock back mechanism on our list, these blades pair a proven locking
system with FRN handles for traction.
The Rocky sports a wickedly sharp Wharncliffe profile, and the Rocky II features an aggressive
clip point, available with or without a partially serrated blade.
If you want to set your sights a little higher than $50, there are some awesome knives available.
Be sure to check out the Italian-made folders from LionSteel, The Brous Blades Import Line,
and Hiroaki Ohta Friction Folders from Japan, all available at KnifeCenter
The fact that we are able to sell knives with such a fine steel like D2 at such budget-friendly
prices is a great thing for everyone.
Whether you need a hard-working blade or just want to spruce up your EDC rotation, you can
find all these knives and tons more over at KnifeCenter.com
To get your hands on any of these highly competitive D2 knives, click the link in the description
below, and if you have any questions feel free to leave them in the comments.
Make sure to like and subscribe to keep up with all our knife-related content.
In the meantime, don’t forget to visit the original and best online catalog of cutlery
at KnifeCenter.com, and check back often to see what deals we are running on the best
knives and tools on the web.