Right ... my S30V and ATS-4 blades are much harder, hold their edge considerably longer. The one Damascus blade I own does sharpen quicker, though, but doesn't hold its edge quite as long.
"The one Damascus blade I own does sharpen quicker, though, but doesn't hold its edge quite as long."
Exactly as you would expect. The Damascus steel is quite a bit softer than your other blades. I use Case knives because the steel is so hard and strong. I don't dare shave with them.
I generally have better luck getting a really fine edge on carbon steel than alloy/stainless. It seems like the stainless work hardens quickly, and aggressive sharpening seems to work better. If I get too light with it, it seems like it starts wanting to chip at the edge rather than grind it.