1066 steel is a high-carbon steel known for its excellent toughness and durability, making it a suitable choice for knife blades. It falls within the range of carbon steels that are commonly used for knife making.

Key characteristics of 1066 steel include:

1. Toughness: 1066 steel exhibits high toughness, which allows it to withstand impacts, resist chipping, and handle heavy cutting tasks without easily deforming or breaking.
2. Edge Retention: While 1066 steel may not have the same level of edge retention as some higher-end steels, it can still hold a sharp edge for a reasonable amount of time, particularly when properly heat treated and sharpened.
3. Ease of Sharpening: 1066 steel is generally easy to sharpen, making it convenient for maintenance and keeping the blade sharp over time.
4. Corrosion Resistance: It's important to note that 1066 steel is not stainless and is prone to rust and corrosion if not properly cared for. Regular cleaning and maintenance, as well as applying a protective coating or oil, can help mitigate this risk.

When using 1066 steel for knife blades, proper heat treatment is crucial to achieve the desired balance of hardness, toughness, and other properties. Heat treatment involves processes such as quenching and tempering to optimize the steel's performance. It's recommended to consult with an experienced bladesmith or follow established heat treatment guidelines for 1066 steel to ensure the best results.

Overall, 1066 steel can be a good choice for knife blades, particularly for applications that require durability, toughness, and ease of sharpening. However, the quality of the blade also depends on factors such as the design, craftsmanship, and heat treatment, so it's important to source knives made with 1066 steel from reputable manufacturers or bladesmiths.