ATS-34 always a good choice, has been the hottest high-end stainless in the 1990s. 154-CM is the original American version, but for a long time was not manufactured in the sizes knifemakers need, and then not at all, so knifemakers switched over to ATS-34. CPM is again making high-quality 154-CM, and some companies seeking to stick with American-made products are using it. ATS-34 is a Hitachi product that is very, very similar to 154-CM. Normally hardened to around 59-61 Rc, it holds an edge very well and is tough enough even at that high hardness. Many custom makers and production companies use ATS-34.