Mull,
01 tool steel is a good all round carbon steel. It holds a good edge and is easy to sharpen. The downside is that it needs some looking after to avoid rust.
I'm not familiar with that particular surgical steel you mention. I'm sure it will hold an edge but might be difficult to sharpen.
RWL 34 is regarded by many as hard to beat for making knives. It is a stainless, so is easier to maintain, holds an edge and is relatively easy to sharpen. It isn't cheap and it isn't as easy to harden as some steels. It also requires a slightly different method of polishing than carbons. However, if its a one off piece and you don't mind throwing some cash at it you probably won't go far wrong with RWL 34.
Cheers,
Bob