If RAT insist on field sharpenable tough yet inexpensive steels for their knives, how about A2?? It’s not expensive, but much tougher and better edge retention over 1095. It air hardens, so heat treatment has to be easier, and being a tougher steel, I’d think warranty claims would drop.
All I want in my life right now is essentially a 4HM that is the same thickness as the 3HM with a 90deg spine and the black coating with micarta handle scales. Real simple. 4in slicer with a very comfortable handle. Call it the Bush-Rat or Rat‐Crafter.