PocketToolX Piranha now in 420HC...

[Death's Head]

I have my second one coming in and noticed on the website after I placed the order that the latest batch has now switched from 154CM to 420HC.
Probably a smart move from the common uses that have come up from the consumer/user end with fracturing of the tool. 
I noticed on a separate thread that there were some changes made on the tool to beef up portions of the tool that would undergo heavier stress to help prevent fracturing.  Those issues seems to fixed for the most part.
But still, I'm surprised that not more custom pocket tool makers not use tougher steels for their tools.  I've my share of Atwoods chip at the edge, and I would rightly assume this wouldn't have happened if the tool wasn't made of S30V.
Anyways, I'm looking forward to my new Piranha.  I was told by PocketToolX that the 420HC was hardened to about 43RC IIRC. 

[Mr. Whippy]

43 Rockwell seems fairly soft to me.  Previously, they were hardened to somewhere around 55-60.  I'd think the wrenches would deform pretty easily...

May have to get one to test. 

[Death's Head]

Should be fine actually just going by the numbers. When you think of tools such as prybars, wrenches and the like, their RC is in the mid 40's as well.
But it's all assumption right now. I'll have to use one extensively first before coming to a solid opinion.

[David]

I`d think this is a good move. S30V is prone to chipping. S35VN is the knife steel that is suppose to cure that problem. S30V was developed for knife blades. Why people are using it in tools has to be marketing as tools dont need to hold an edge.

[Death's Head]

Right.  The previous steel that were used are not tool steels.  That being said, neither is Ti.

[Mr. Whippy]

I don't really buy Ti one piece tools anymore (unless they're amazingly anodized).  Titanium just doesn't hold up to regular use.

[Death's Head]

Just came in today.  Now with new packaging.  Also the logo is now etched.

[Mr. Whippy]

Since they improved the strength of the open wrench,  I've been extremely happy with my Piranha.  It's a very good one piece tool.

[Death's Head]

The fit and finish has improved a bit from my last samples from them, but still have the telltale signs of a mass produced piece, unlike well finished piece from Atwood.  Especially classic Atwoods from 5+ years ago.

[jzmtl]

Was the price dropped for 420HC? Seems it did, but I'm not sure.

Still don't know if it's worth $50 though.