http://www.mcmaster.com/#grade-a2-steel-bars/=5xr6jj
I would try some A-2. I know it is not a true stainless, but is more than others & is a very tough steel. Mcmasters is cheap and has a huge selection in different sizes.
I feel like the inferior 440A and B used on all the cheap import knives is what has given 440C a bad reputation.I have thought about 440A to. What is it that gave it so bad reputation.
Seved
S35VN is similar to S30V but with 3 % V and 5 % Cb... that is if I recall correctly... Any way it is made by Crucible (now named SB Specialty Metals)
Information on Sandvik 12C27 is provided in the link below. 12C27 is a stainless with good toughness which may work out for your purposes but just don't ask me about edge holding or tempering as I have no hands on experience with it. Good luck.
http://www.smt.sandvik.com/sandvik/0140/internet/s001664.nsf/0/204D50A76D94955CC125743900563666
I make Stainless Integrals. I use a thicker 1/2 to 3/4 inch material. Jantz supply has 440c in 1/4''. I just bought a piece of CPM 154 1/2 thick.
Start here Niagara Specialty Metals
I feel like the inferior 440A and B used on all the cheap import knives is what has given 440C a bad reputation.
D2 would be a good choice for a chopper if your wanting a stainless. It's not considered a stainless but it's close. A good friend of mine does land clearing and make the knives for his big grinders because the factory ones are around 2500 bucks a set. He's tried knives made from several different tool steels with different heat treatment and the D2 blades are running with the best of them.
The Carpenter CTS-XHP may be a good choice but the jury is still out on it. It's basically a 440C and D2 in the powdered metal. I've really got my hopes up for this stuff but have not had the time to work and test it yet. Some other have had great results from what I've heard.
CPM 3V is also a good choice it has very high impact resistance. 3V has 3 1/2 times the impact resistance of D2 and twice the wear resistance. It does need to be professionally heat treated IMO.
-John
Yes 440C is one that i thought of a little to much carbon i think, But i could use it maybe. Sorry i am bad at inch do you mean an half inch of CPM154.
Seved