All About Pocket Knives

I am wondering if the old Imperial Ireland CARBON blades are as good as the Imperial USA ones?

I am talking about edge holding on the carbon blades.

Thanks, Bryan

I am seriously opposed to Imperial Ireland steel, but keep in mind I'm a huge fan of the USA steel, actually it's probably my fav!!!!
Doesn't sharpen for crap IMO.

Carrying this right now

Obviously cheaper knives, but don't pass on them. Newer ones from the 1990s, but older are hit-and-miss. I have a Tradesman Imperial Ireland electrician that gets used as my work beater, and it holds an edge halfway decent. I'd put it equal to the USA stainless of the '70s, but not their carbon steel. I have a Camco that was made in the old Jowika factory, and it's crap. Horrid quality, horid steel.

The only ireland imperial I have used or sharpened is a newer stainless one from the 1990's or early 2000's. I still have it in my truck's glove box. It's a little tricky to get a good edge on because it raises a burr extremely fast. I have not used it much so I can't comment on edge retention.

I can tell you that the USA imperial carbon steel is excellent. Easy to sharpen and takes a beautiful razor edge. It holds an edge fine, not amazing, but it's up to the task and everything needs to be resharpened eventually anyways.

I have a black plastic Hawkbill, in great shape and very sharp. It was given to me and I think I sharpened it. It stays in a case

Production went to Ireland to bring cost down. They're neat knives but I prefer USA Imperial's, especially vintage ones, like their Hammer Brand from pre-1950. This carbon steel sharpens up very quickly on a stone.