Knife Blade Materials: What Your Should Know

CPM-20CV

Developed as Crucible’s answer to M390, CPM-20CV boasts excellent wear resistance, edge retention, and corrosion resistance. Its high chromium content enhances its ability to withstand corrosion, making it suitable for outdoor and marine applications. Similar to the M390, it offers a remarkable balance of performance characteristics, making it a preferred choice for those seeking durability and longevity in their blades.

Is a martensitic stainless steel offering excellent wear resistance, high corrosion resistance, and edge retention, perfect for premium blades.

• Pros:

  — Peak-edge retention capability

  — Stellar corrosion resistance

  — High wear resistance

  — Good hardness level

• Cons:

  — Requires skilled sharpening

  — More costly than other options

  — Not the toughest; can chip

  — Less suitable for heavy-duty use

• Score:

  — Hardness (HRC): 6.1/10

  — Edge Retention: 9.2/10

  — Wear Resistance: 8.9/10

  — Corrosion Resistance: 7.5/10

• Standard Composition:

  — Carbon (C): 1.9%

  — Chromium (Cr): 20%

  — Molybdenum (Mo): 1%

  — Vanadium (V): 4%

  — Tungsten (W): 0.6%

  — Silicon (Si): 0.3%

CPM-S35VN

Developed as an improvement over S30V, CPM S35VN offers enhanced machinability and sharpening ease while maintaining toughness. It’s a top choice for mainstream knife steels, providing excellent performance.

Offers a balanced combination of toughness, edge retention, and corrosion resistance, making it a superb all-rounder for quality knives.

• Pros:

  — Excellent toughness

  — Strong edge retention

  — High corrosion resistance

  — Easier to sharpen than some premium options

• Cons:

  — More expensive than basic steels

  — May require regular maintenance

  — Not as hard as some ultra-premium steels

  — Edge might wear in heavy-duty applications

• Score:

  — Hardness (HRC): 6/10

  — Edge Retention: 6.5/10

  — Wear Resistance: 6.5/10

  — Corrosion Resistance: 7.2/10

• Standard Composition:

  — Carbon (C): 1.4%

  — Chromium (Cr): 14%

  — Molybdenum (Mo): 2%

  — Vanadium (V): 3%

  — Niobium (Nb): 0.5%

CPM-154

Is a high-quality stainless steel known for its impressive blend of wear resistance, corrosion resistance, and attainable hardness, ideal for premium and versatile knives.

• Pros:

  — Exceptional corrosion resistance

  — Superior wear resistance

  — Excellent edge retention

  — Easy to polish for a premium finish

• Cons:

  — Pricier than some other steels

  — Requires skilled sharpening techniques

  — Not the highest hardness compared to some newer steels

  — Can be overkill for basic applications

• Score:

  — Hardness (HRC): 6/10

  — Edge Retention: 6.5/10

  — Wear Resistance: 5.8/10

  — Corrosion Resistance: 6/10

• Standard Composition:

  — Carbon (C): 1.05%

  — Chromium (Cr): 14%

  — Molybdenum (Mo): 4%

  — Manganese (Mn): 0.5%

  — Silicon (Si): 0.3%

154CM

Known for its enhanced edge retention and corrosion resistance compared to 440C, 154CM is a favorite among pocket knife producers like Benchmade. It sharpens well and offers satisfactory toughness for various applications. Its powdered form, CPM 154, boasts finer carbides for improved edge durability.

Is a high-carbon stainless steel known for its excellent balance of edge retention, toughness, and corrosion resistance, making it a favorite for quality knives.

• Pros:

  — Good edge retention

  — High corrosion resistance

  — Superior toughness for hard use

  — Easier to sharpen than many high-end steels

• Cons:

  — May require more frequent sharpening than some premium options

  — Slightly more prone to corrosion than some newer stainless steels

  — Can be difficult to work with for manufacturers

  — Can be difficult to work with for manufacturers

• Score:

  — Hardness (HRC): 6/10

  — Edge Retention: 6.2/10

  — Wear Resistance: 5/10

  — Corrosion Resistance: 5/10

• Standard Composition:

  — Carbon (C): 1.05%

  — Chromium (Cr): 14%

  — Molybdenum (Mo): 4%

  — Manganese (Mn): 0.5%

N690

Is a high-end stainless steel with excellent corrosion resistance and hardness, making it a top choice for premium knife applications.

• Pros:

  — Outstanding corrosion resistance

  — High hardness level

  — Good edge retention

  — Easy maintenance and sharpening

• Cons:

  — More expensive than some alternatives

  — Can be challenging to sharpen without proper tools

  — Slightly less tough than some peers

  — Overkill for basic utility tasks

• Score:

  — Hardness (HRC): 6/10

  — Edge Retention: 6/10

  — Wear Resistance: 6/10

  — Corrosion Resistance: 6/10

• Standard Composition:

  — Carbon (C): 1.07%

  — Chromium (Cr): 17%

  — Molybdenum (Mo): 1.1%

  — Vanadium (V): 0.1%

  — Cobalt (Co): 1.5%

14C28N

Developed by Swedish Sandvik, 14C28N boasts improved corrosion resistance over its predecessor, 13C26. With added chromium and nitrogen, it offers notable rust resistance, making it a popular choice for knives.

Is a Swedish stainless steel optimized for high durability, edge sharpness, and corrosion resistance, ideal for everyday carry knives.

• Pros:

  — Excellent corrosion resistance

  — Superior edge retention

  — Easy to sharpen

  — Balanced performance for price

• Cons:

  — Not as hard as some premium steels

  — May require more frequent care than high-end steels

  — Slightly less wear resistance

  — Not the best for heavy-duty use

• Score:

  — Hardness (HRC): 5.9/10

  — Edge Retention: 3.5/10

  — Wear Resistance: 3.5/10

  — Corrosion Resistance: 5.9/10

• Standard Composition:

  — Carbon (C): 0.62%

  — Chromium (Cr): 14%

  — Molybdenum (Mo): 0.6%

  — Nitrogen (N): 0.11%

AUS-10

Is a high-carbon Japanese stainless steel known for its excellent edge retention and toughness, suitable for high-quality blades.

• Pros:

  — Great edge sharpness and retention

  — High toughness allows for flexibility

  — Resistant to corrosion and wear

  — Fine grain for precision work

• Cons:

  — Moderately difficult to sharpen

  — Slightly less durable than some premium materials

  — May lose luster over time with use

  — Requires proper maintenance

• Score:

  — Hardness (HRC): 5.9/10

  — Edge Retention: 4/10

  — Wear Resistance: 3.7/10

  — Corrosion Resistance: 5.3/10

• Standard Composition:

  — Carbon (C): 0.95 – 1.10%

  — Vanadium (V): 0.10 – 0.25%

  — Molybdenum (Mo): 0.10 – 0.30%

  — Nickel (Ni): 0.49%

10Cr15CoMoV

Is a high-carbon Chinese stainless steel often compared to Japanese VG-10 for its similar properties, perfect for fine cutlery.

• Pros:

  — Excellent edge retention

  — High overall strength and durability

  — Good corrosion resistance

  — Sharpens to a fine edge

• Cons:

  — Can be difficult to sharpen without skill

  — Not as tough as some lower-carbon steels

  — May be prone to chipping if not treated properly

  — Slightly higher cost than basic steels

• Score:

  — Hardness (HRC): 6/10

  — Edge Retention: 6/10

  — Wear Resistance: 5/10

  — Corrosion Resistance: 7/10

• Standard Composition:

  — Carbon (C): 0.95 – 1.20%

  — Chromium (Cr): 14.00 – 15.00%

  — Cobalt (Co): 1.30 – 1.50%

  — Molybdenum (Mo): 0.40 – 0.55%

  — Vanadium (V): 0.10 – 0.25%

D2

Slightly below full stainless classification, D2 offers notable corrosion resistance and superior edge longevity. However, it’s harder to sharpen and requires expertise for fine edges.

Is a high-carbon, high-chromium tool steel known for its incredible wear resistance and ability to hold a sharp edge, favored for tough applications.

• Pros:

  — Superior wear resistance

  — Excellent edge retention

  — Hard and durable, ideal for heavy use

  — Relatively easy to sharpen for its hardness

• Cons:

  — Not as corrosion resistant as stainless steels

  — Can be brittle if not properly heat-treated

  — Requires regular maintenance to prevent rust

  — Slightly difficult to sharpen due to its hardness

• Score:

  — Hardness (HRC): 6.2/10

  — Edge Retention: 7.5/10

  — Wear Resistance: 4/10

  — Corrosion Resistance: 3/10

• Standard Composition:

  — Carbon (C): 1.4 – 1.6%

  — Chromium (Cr): 11.0 – 13.0%

  — Molybdenum (Mo): 0.7 – 1.2%

  — Vanadium (V): 0.5 – 1.1%

  — Iron (Fe): Balance

9Cr18MoV

Is a high-alloy Chinese stainless steel praised for its fine balance between toughness and corrosion resistance, suited for diverse knives.

• Pros:

  — Great corrosion resistance

  — Balances hardness and toughness

  — Good edge retention

  — Reasonably easy to sharpen with care

• Cons:

  — Slightly less wear resistance than premium steels

  — May require frequent honing for optimal performance

  — Less known outside of Asia compared to other steels

  — Prone to staining if not maintained properly

• Score:

  — Hardness (HRC): 5.8/10

  — Edge Retention: 4/10

  — Wear Resistance: 4/10

  — Corrosion Resistance: 4.5/10

• Standard Composition:

  — Carbon (C): 0.9 – 1.0%

  — Chromium (Cr): 18.0%

  — Molybdenum (Mo): 1.0 – 1.3%

  — Vanadium (V): 0.10 – 0.20%

  — Manganese (Mn): 0.80%

  — Silicon (Si): 0.80%

  — Phosphorus (P): 0.035%

  — Sulfur (S): 0.030%

  — Nickel (Ni): 0.60%

8Cr13MoV

Originating from China, this steel provides a cost-effective solution with higher carbon content than AUS-8. With optimized heat treatment, it offers balanced performance suitable for various applications.

Is a budget-friendly Chinese stainless steel that offers a good balance of toughness, edge retention, and corrosion resistance.

• Pros:

  — Excellent value for the price

  — Good corrosion resistance

  — Easy to sharpen

  — Decent toughness for everyday use

• Cons:

  — Lower edge retention compared to premium steels

  — May require more frequent sharpening

  — Not ideal for heavy-duty use

  — Variability in heat treatment results

• Score:

  — Hardness (HRC): 5.8/10

  — Edge Retention: 3.2/10

  — Wear Resistance: 4/10

  — Corrosion Resistance: 3.6/10

• Standard Composition:

  — Carbon (C): 0.7 – 0.75%

  — Chromium (Cr): 13.0 – 14.5%

  — Molybdenum (Mo): 0.1 – 0.3%

  — Vanadium (V): 0.1 – 0.25%

  — Manganese (Mn): 1.0%

  — Nickel (Ni): 0.6%

  — Silicon (Si): 1.0%

  — Phosphorus (P): 0.04%

  — Sulfur (S): 0.03%

7Cr17MoV

Is an affordable Chinese steel known for its impressive corrosion resistance and ease of sharpening, ideal for budget-friendly designs.

• Pros:

  — Highly resistant to rust

  — Very easy to sharpen

  — Affordable for bulk manufacturing

  — Suitable for low-cost tools

• Cons:

  — Lower edge retention

  — Softer steel may deform under stress

  — Not for high-performance use

  — Sharpening required more often

• Score:

  — Hardness (HRC): 5.6/10

  — Edge Retention: 3/10

  — Wear Resistance: 3/10

  — Corrosion Resistance: 4/10

• Standard Composition:

  — Carbon (C): 0.7 – 0.70%

  — Chromium (Cr): 17%

  — Molybdenum (Mo): 1.10%

  — Vanadium (V): 0.10%

  — Manganese (Mn): 0.8%

  — Silicon (Si): 0.8%

  — Phosphorus (P): 0.04%

  — Sulfur (S): 0.03%

5Cr15MoV

Is a Chinese stainless steel primarily known for its exceptional corrosion resistance and ease of maintenance, ideal for entry-level knives.

• Pros:

  — High corrosion resistance makes it durable

  — Very easy to sharpen, even for beginners

  — Affordable, great for budget-conscious projects

  — Maintains a decent edge with regular use

• Cons:

  — Lower edge retention compared to higher-end steels

  — Softer steel may require frequent sharpening

  — Not suitable for heavy-duty or high-performance tasks

  — May lack the prestige of higher-end materials

• Score:

  — Hardness (HRC): 5.6/10

  — Edge Retention: 4/10

  — Wear Resistance: 3/10

  — Corrosion Resistance: 3.5/10

• Standard Composition:

  — Carbon (C): 0.5%

  — Chromium (Cr): 15%

  — Molybdenum (Mo): 0.5%

  — Vanadium (V): 0.10%

  — Manganese (Mn): 1.0%

  — Silicon (Si): 1.0%

  — Phosphorus (P): 0.035%

  — Sulfur (S): 0.03%

SK5

Is a high carbon Japanese steel, prized for its ability to hold a sharp edge and its durability in tough conditions, perfect for heavy-duty tools.

• Pros:

  — Excellent edge retention

  — High durability under stress

  — Suitable for heavy-duty applications

  — Can be sharpened to a very fine edge

• Cons:

  — More prone to rust if not cared for

  — Requires regular maintenance

  — Harder to sharpen due to high hardness

  — Not as tough as some other high carbon steels

• Score:

  — Hardness (HRC): 6.1/10

  — Edge Retention: 5/10

  — Wear Resistance: 5/10

  — Corrosion Resistance: 3/10

• Standard Composition:

  — Carbon (C): 0.80-0.90%

  — Chromium (Cr): 0.30%

  — Tungsten (W): <0.35%

  — Silicon (Si): 0.35%

  — Manganese (Mn): 0.50%

  — Phosphorus (P): 0.030%

  — Sulfur (S): 0.030%

3Cr13

Is a Chinese stainless steel known for its remarkable balance between affordability and functionality, ideal for value-oriented tools.

• Pros:

  — Highly cost-effective for bulk manufacturing

  — Resistant to corrosion in normal conditions

  — Easy to sharpen, requires basic tools

  — Decent toughness for everyday use

• Cons:

  — Lower edge retention, may need frequent honing

  — Softer steel, less wear-resistant

  — Not optimal for high-end or premium items

  — May not perform well under extreme conditions

• Score:

  — Hardness (HRC): 5.3/10

  — Edge Retention: 2/10

  — Wear Resistance: 2.5/10

  — Corrosion Resistance: 7/10

• Standard Composition:

  — Carbon (C): 0.26-0.35%

  — Chromium (Cr): 12.00-14.00%

  — Nickel (Ni): ≤0.60%

  — Silicon (Si): ≤1.00%

  — Manganese (Mn): ≤1.00%

  — Phosphorus (P): ≤0.035%

  — Sulfur (S): ≤0.030%

2Cr13

Is a Chinese stainless steel that offers an excellent blend of strength and corrosion resistance, making it suitable for budget-friendly tools and accessories.

• Pros:

  — Good corrosion resistance at a low cost

  — Fairly easy to sharpen with basic tools

  — Decent strength for everyday applications

  — Affordable for large scale production

• Cons:

  — Lower hardness and edge retention

  — May require more frequent sharpening

  — Not suitable for premium or high-end use

  — Limited wear resistance

• Score:

  — Hardness (HRC): 5.2/10

  — Edge Retention: 2/10

  — Wear Resistance: 2/10

  — Corrosion Resistance: 7/10

• Standard Composition:

  — Carbon (C): 0.16-0.25%

  — Chromium (Cr): 12.00-14.00%

  — Nickel (Ni): ≤0.60%

  — Silicon (Si): ≤1.00%

  — Manganese (Mn): ≤1.00%

  — Phosphorus (P): ≤0.035%

  — Sulfur (S): ≤0.030%

Damascus Steel

Is renowned for its distinctive patterned design, exceptional toughness, and ability to be honed to a keen edge, making it a premium choice for fine blades.

• Pros:

  — High-end aesthetic appeal

  — Superior edge retention capabilities

  — Excellent toughness and durability

  — Resistant to shattering

• Cons:

  — More expensive than simpler steels

  — Requires skilled craftsmanship to forge

  — Maintenance is necessary to prevent corrosion

  — Variability in quality depending on maker

• Score:

  — Hardness (HRC): 5.5/10

  — Edge Retention: 5/10

  — Wear Resistance: 5/10

  — Corrosion Resistance: 4/10

• Standard Composition:

  Damascus steel does not have a “standard” composition, as it is made through a process of folding and forging multiple layers of steels of varying properties. Typically, it combines high carbon and low carbon steels to create its unique characteristics.

CPM-3V

Is a high toughness, tool steel grade known for its outstanding resistance to breakage and chipping in high wear environments.

• Pros:

  — Exceptional toughness, reduces breakage risk

  — Good wear resistance for longevity

  — Maintains a sharp edge well

  — Suitable for hard-use applications

• Cons:

  — Relatively difficult to sharpen

  — More expensive than some tool steels

  — Not as corrosion-resistant as some stainless steels

  — May require more maintenance

• Score:

  — Hardness (HRC): 6/10

  — Edge Retention: 7/10

  — Wear Resistance: 5/10

  — Corrosion Resistance: 5/10

• Standard Composition:

  — Carbon (C): 0.80%

  — Chromium (Cr): 7.50%

  — Vanadium (V): 2.75%

  — Molybdenum (Mo): 1.30%

CPM-S90V

With its high carbon and vanadium content, CPM S90V is a stalwart in durability and edge retention. Its triple vanadium content compared to other steels like Elmax or S30V ensures extended sharpness even under heavy use. While sharpening may require patience, the payoff in terms of longevity and performance makes it a favorite among those who prioritize edge retention above all else.

Is a martensitic stainless steel that offers unparalleled edge retention and excellent resistance to wear and abrasion.

• Pros:

  — Superior edge retention preserves sharpness

  — High resistance to wear extends lifespan

  — Resists corrosion effectively in most environments

  — Ideal for premium, long-lasting blades

• Cons:

  — Challenging to sharpen without proper tools

  — Higher cost reflects its premium qualities

  — Less toughness compared to some other steels

  — Not the best for high-impact applications

• Score:

  — Hardness (HRC): 6/10

  — Edge Retention: 9/10

  — Wear Resistance: 9/10

  — Corrosion Resistance: 5/10

• Standard Composition:

  — Carbon (C): 2.30%

  — Chromium (Cr): 14%

  — Vanadium (V): 9%

  — Molybdenum (Mo): 1.00%

CPM-S110V

Renowned for its exceptional wear resistance and edge retention, CPM S110V stands out as a top choice for demanding knife applications. Despite its rarity and manufacturing challenges, its ability to maintain a sharp edge over prolonged use makes it highly desirable for enthusiasts and professionals alike. While sharpening can be more difficult due to its hardness, the longevity and performance it offers justify the investment for those seeking unparalleled durability in their blades.

Is distinguished by its exceptional edge retention and corrosion resistance, making it a top choice for high-end blades.

• Pros:

  — Unmatched edge retention for continuous use

  — Excellent corrosion resistance for longevity

  — High wear resistance ideal for intensive tasks

  — Maintains performance in harsh conditions

• Cons:

  — Requires expertise to sharpen properly

  — Higher upfront cost due to premium quality

  — May be too brittle for heavy-duty tasks

  — Not the best for those new to knife maintenance

• Score:

  — Hardness (HRC): 6.6/10

  — Edge Retention: 10/10

  — Wear Resistance: 9/10

  — Corrosion Resistance: 6/10

• Standard Composition:

  — Carbon (C): 2.80%

  — Chromium (Cr): 15.25%

  — Vanadium (V): 9%

  — Molybdenum (Mo): 2.25%

  — Niobium (Nb): 3.0%

ELMAX

European Uddeholm’s Elmax offers a unique blend of wear and corrosion resistance, combining stainless steel properties with carbon steel-like performance. With impressive edge retention and ease of sharpening, it’s considered a versatile all-around knife steel suitable for various applications. Its rust resistance ensures longevity, making it a popular choice among users who seek a balance between performance and maintenance.

Is a high chromium-vanadium-molybdenum alloyed steel, known for its superb blend of toughness and wear resistance, making it a versatile choice for high-quality blades.

• Pros:

  — Excellent wear resistance ensures long blade life

  — High corrosion resistance for diverse environments

  — Good toughness prevents chipping and breaking

  — Retains edge well with moderate use

• Cons:

  — Sharpening requires more effort than simpler steels

  — Slightly higher cost due to premium qualities

  — May be overkill for basic cutting tasks

  — Not as widely available as other high-end steels

• Score:

  — Hardness (HRC): 6.2/10

  — Edge Retention:8.5/10

  — Wear Resistance: 8.5/10

  — Corrosion Resistance: 5.5/10

• Standard Composition:

  — Carbon (C): 1.7%

  — Chromium (Cr): 18%

  — Vanadium (V): 3%

  — Molybdenum (Mo): 1.1%

H1

Developed for supreme rust resistance by Japan’s Myodo Metals, H1 steel is virtually immune to corrosion. While its edge retention is lower, it’s ideal for diving knives and is considered a premium material.

Is a nitrogen-based alloy known for its exceptional corrosion resistance, making it ideal for marine environments and applications prone to rust.

• Pros:

  — Unparalleled corrosion resistance, even in saltwater

  — Requires minimal maintenance for upkeep

  — Retains a working edge in harsh conditions

  — Can be honed to a sharp edge easily

• Cons:

  — Lower wear resistance compared to some premium steels

  — Not as hard as other knife materials

  — Edge retention is moderate, requiring frequent touch-ups

  — May not be suitable for heavy-duty cutting tasks

• Score:

  — Hardness (HRC): 5.9/10

  — Edge Retention: 2/10

  — Wear Resistance: 2/10

  — Corrosion Resistance: 10/10

• Standard Composition:

  — Nitrogen (N): A significant amount, replacing carbon to achieve rust resistance

  — Chromium (Cr): Around 14-16%

  — Nickel (Ni): Present, enhances corrosion resistance

  — Manganese (Mn), Silicon (Si), Molybdenum (Mo): Small amounts for structure and toughness

K110

Is an Austrian-made high-carbon, high-chromium tool steel, famed for its remarkable balance of toughness, wear resistance, and edge retention.

• Pros:

  — Excellent wear resistance for prolonged use

  — Good toughness to resist chipping and breaking

  — Superior edge retention keeps blades sharp longer

  — Fairly easy to sharpen for maintenance

• Cons:

  — Requires regular maintenance to prevent rust

  — Slightly harder to sharpen than more common steels

  — May not be as widely available as other steels

  — Can be considered expensive for bulk manufacturing

• Score:

  — Hardness (HRC): 6.2/10

  — Edge Retention: 7.5/10

  — Wear Resistance: 4/10

  — Corrosion Resistance: 3/10

• Standard Composition:

  — Carbon (C): 1.55%

  — Chromium (Cr): 11.8%

  — Molybdenum (Mo): 0.8%

  — Vanadium (V): 0.9%

  — Silicon (Si), Manganese (Mn): Minimal amounts for improved structure

AUS-8

Made in Japan, AUS-8 offers better rust resistance than 440B but with slightly lower hardness. While not as durable as higher-end steels, it’s easy to sharpen to a sharp edge.

Is a Japanese medium-carbon, high-chromium stainless steel that offers a good balance of toughness, edge retention, and corrosion resistance.

• Pros:

  — Good corrosion resistance for less maintenance

  — Easy to sharpen to a razor edge

  — Offers a good balance between toughness and hardness

  — Affordable, making it great for budget-conscious projects

• Cons:

  — Edge retention is moderate; may need frequent sharpening

  — Not as hard as premium steels

  — Can be prone to wear if used heavily

  — May not perform as well in extreme conditions

• Score:

  — Hardness (HRC): 5.9/10

  — Edge Retention: 4/10

  — Wear Resistance: 3.7/10

  — Corrosion Resistance: 5.3/10

• Standard Composition:

  — Carbon (C): 0.75%

  — Chromium (Cr): 14.5%

  — Molybdenum (Mo): 0.3%

  — Vanadium (V): 0.25%

  — Nickel (Ni): Minimal amounts

  — Silicon (Si), Manganese (Mn): Present for structure

CPM-4V

Is a powder metallurgy tool steel known for its high impact toughness and excellent wear resistance.

• Pros:

  — Superior impact toughness for heavy-duty use

  — High wear resistance for extended tool life

  — Maintains a sharp edge well

  — Resistant to chipping during strenuous tasks

• Cons:

  — More difficult to sharpen than simpler steels

  — Moderately prone to corrosion; maintenance required

  — Can be costly due to advanced production process

  — May be overkill for everyday, light-duty tools

• Score:

  — Hardness (HRC): 6.7/10

  — Edge Retention: 8/10

  — Wear Resistance: 5/10

  — Corrosion Resistance: 4/10

• Standard Composition:

  — Carbon (C): 1.35%

  — Chromium (Cr): 4.0%

  — Vanadium (V): 3.85%

  — Molybdenum (Mo): 2.75%

  — Tungsten (W): Minimal amounts

  — Silicon (Si), Manganese (Mn): Present for structure

CPM-S45VN

Is a premium stainless steel that offers an excellent balance of hardness, toughness, and corrosion resistance.

• Pros:

  — Enhanced corrosion resistance for longevity

  — Superior edge retention keeps blades sharp longer

  — Offers improved toughness over predecessor steels

  — Balanced composition for versatile applications

• Cons:

  — Higher cost due to premium quality

  — Requires skilled sharpening techniques

  — May be over-engineered for basic tool needs

  — Availability can be limited due to demand

• Score:

  — Hardness (HRC): 6.2/10

  — Edge Retention: 6.9/10

  — Wear Resistance: 7/10

  — Corrosion Resistance: 7.2/10

• Standard Composition:

  — Carbon (C): 0.61%

  — Chromium (Cr): 16%

  — Vanadium (V): 3%

  — Niobium (Nb): 0.5%

  — Molybdenum (Mo): 2%

  — Silicon (Si), Manganese (Mn): Present for structure

O1

Is a nitrogen-based stainless steel known for its exceptional resistance to rust, making it ideal for marine environments.

• Pros:

  — Virtually immune to rust; perfect for wet conditions

  — Maintains decent edge in corrosive environments

  — Work-hardens, improving with use

  — Easy to sharpen, even in the field

• Cons:

  — Not as hard as some premium steels

  — Edge retention lower than high-carbon options

  — May require more frequent sharpening with heavy use

  — Limited use in applications requiring extreme sharpness

• Score:

  — Hardness (HRC): 5.9/10

  — Edge Retention: 2/10

  — Wear Resistance: 2/10

  — Corrosion Resistance: 10/10

• Standard Composition:

  — Nitrogen (N): Significant amount replacing Carbon

  — Chromium (Cr): 14-16%

  — Nickel (Ni): Present for toughness

  — Manganese (Mn), Silicon (Si): Present for structure

Maxamet

Is an ultra-hard high-speed powder steel known for its supreme cutting efficiency and edge retention capabilities.

• Pros:

  — Exceptional edge retention for long-term sharpness

  — Very high hardness offers impressive wear resistance

  — Remains sharp under extensive use

  — Ideal for technical cutting tasks

• Cons:

  — Challenging to sharpen due to hardness

  — More prone to corrosion without proper care

  — May require more frequent sharpening with heavy use

  — Not recommended for novice users

• Score:

  — Hardness (HRC): 6/10

  — Edge Retention: 10/10

  — Wear Resistance: 8.5/10

  — Corrosion Resistance: 4.5/10

• Standard Composition:

  — Carbon (C): 2.15%

  — Cobalt (Co): 10%

  — Vanadium (V): 6%

  — Chromium (Cr): 4.75%

  — Sulfur (S), Molybdenum (Mo): Present for machinability

1095

Is a classic high-carbon steel known for its excellent hardness and edge retention, favored for its traditional knife-making qualities.

• Pros:

  — Excellent edge retention keeps blades sharp longer

  — High hardness allows for precision cutting

  — Easy to sharpen, even for beginners

  — Affordable, making it great for many applications

• Cons:

  — Prone to rust without proper care

  — Requires regular maintenance to prevent oxidation

  — Not as tough as some modern alloys

  — May chip if used improperly on hard materials

• Score:

  — Hardness (HRC): 5.8/10

  — Edge Retention: 4/10

  — Wear Resistance: 2/10

  — Corrosion Resistance: 2/10

• Standard Composition:

  — Carbon (C): 0.95%

  — Manganese (Mn): 0.4%

  — Trace amounts of Phosphorus (P) and Sulfur (S)

CTS-BD1

Engineered for Spyderco, CTS-BD1 offers similar performance to AUS-8 and 8Cr13MoV but with improved retention and corrosion resistance due to higher chromium content. While not as wear-resistant as steels like 154CM, it’s easy to sharpen.

Is a high-carbon chromium steel offering a balanced combination of hardness, edge retention, and corrosion resistance.

• Pros:

  — Good edge retention ensures lasting sharpness

  — High corrosion resistance ideal for daily use

  — Easy to sharpen, suits various skill levels

  — Versatile for a wide range of cutting tasks

• Cons:

  — Moderate wear resistance compared to higher-end steels

  — Hardness not as high as premium options

  — May require more frequent sharpening than premium steels

  — Not the best for extremely heavy-duty tasks

• Score:

  — Hardness (HRC): 5.9/10

  — Edge Retention: 3.5/10

  — Wear Resistance: 3.5/10

  — Corrosion Resistance: 5.9/10

• Standard Composition:

  — Carbon (C): 0.9%

  — Chromium (Cr): 15.75%

  — Molybdenum (Mo): 0.3%

  — Vanadium (V): 0.1%

  — Silicon (Si), Manganese (Mn): Present for enhanced properties

A2

Is an air-hardened tool steel known for its excellent toughness and decent edge retention, making it robust for heavy-duty use.

• Pros:

  — Superior toughness withstands rigorous tasks

  — Good wear resistance for longer lifespan

  — Decent edge retention for sustained sharpness

  — Fairly easy to sharpen with the right tools

• Cons:

  — Moderate corrosion resistance, requires care

  — Not as hard as some high-end steels

  — May require more frequent care to prevent rust

  — Slightly more challenging to sharpen than less tough steels

• Score:

  — Hardness (HRC): 6.2/10

  — Edge Retention: 6/10

  — Wear Resistance: 6/10

  — Corrosion Resistance: 8/10

• Standard Composition:

  — Carbon (C): 1.0%

  — Chromium (Cr): 5.5%

  — Molybdenum (Mo): 1.1%

  — Vanadium (V): 0.2%

  — Manganese (Mn), Silicon (Si): Present in small quantities for improved properties

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