The most common steels used for survival knives are VG-10 steel (a high-quality stainless steel), carbon steel and tool steel. Many experts will tell you that carbon steel is the best, as it can achieve a much sharper edge than stainless steel.
Also, it’s harder and more durable than other knife steels. Stainless steel is also great because it resists rusting and corrosion for a very long time.