Tony..and others,
Back in the early 90's I had 50 carbon steel "Stanabacks" forged. I was going to give up my short, 4" stainless knife and have the 4 5/8" length available in both stainless steel and carbon. Of course they didn't sell. It's a "Florida" thing. Ya'll wouldn't understand.
I begged Gary to let me "switch back" and he politely agreed. The majority of folks that asked for a carbon offering did not come through. They weren't from "around here". If something will hold up in Florida it will hold up most anywhere. Anyway: Stainless is "all" that is available now and thank God for that!
As a side note: The very first "Stanaback Special / Serial Numbered knife", i.e. the 4" was done initially to help "use up" the forging and make way for the carbon. I guess it all works out in the long run...so long as ya'll don't want another "rusty" Stanaback Special!!
Best for now, Capt. Chris