Carbon steel or stainless for a bushcraft knife?

Carbon steel (like the Sandvik used in the Mora Companion HD and Bushcraft Black) sharpens more easily in the field and holds a keen edge, but it will patina and rust if neglected. Stainless is more forgiving for wet environments and beginners. Reviewers across the candidate pool consistently recommend carbon for dedicated bushcraft use and stainless for paddlers or humid climates.