The Fallknivens all use VG-10 steel. The A1 is roughly equivalent to a Ka-Bar (6") size wise. I personally consider 6" blades a little bit too big for general survival use. My personal preferance is for a blade of about 4". I would emphasise that that is a matter of personal preferance, not a 4" is good 6" is bad statement. The laminated VG-10 steel is very, very good. Easily comparable to D2 or S30V. The knives themselves are very easy to sharpen with good edge retention. Which is a major consideration. I would, however, very strongly recommend that you purchase Fallknivens own sharpener. The D4 would be my personal recommendation. All the knives in their range have squared spines which makes them ideal for use with a ferronium rod. Ideally the full sized swedish fire steel. The Doan magnesium block also gives excellent results. All the above is based on personal experiance. The only other thing that I can suggest is that you consider, very carefully, what you want to do with the knife. If possible handle all the knives in the range. If the A1 feels right in your hand, buy it.