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At A Glance
Nitro-V is a relatively new steel known for superior performance in corrosion resistance, toughness, and edge retention due to its Nitrogen and Vanadium addition. Meanwhile, S35VN, developed by Crucible Industries and knife maker Chris Reeve, offers improved toughness over previous steels without compromising wear resistance and edge retention. Nitro-V shines with excellent corrosion resistance and edge retention but comes at a slightly higher price than S35VN. On the other hand, S35VN is slightly easier to sharpen and more affordable, making it an attractive option for those seeking performance on a budget. The ultimate choice depends on the knife’s intended use and the user’s personal preference, with both steels being excellent choices for high-quality knives.
Top Rated Knives
Nitro-V
S35VN
The selection of a blade steel can be a complex process, heavily influenced by numerous factors. Two types of blade steel that are frequently put into comparison are Nitro-V and S35VN. In this article, we will conduct an in-depth comparison between Nitro-V and S35VN in terms of their composition, hardness, toughness, corrosion resistance, edge retention, and ease of sharpening to determine which steel is a more favorable choice for knives.
For both experienced knife enthusiasts and beginners, navigating through the intricate world of knife-making materials can be quite the challenge. To provide a clearer understanding of this subject, we will explore the specifics of Nitro-V and S35VN, two popular types of knife steel, and compare their composition, hardness, toughness, corrosion resistance, edge retention, and ease of sharpening to ascertain which one might be a better choice for knives.
Steel Background
Understanding the origins and the composition of each type of steel is fundamental before diving into an exhaustive comparison.
Nitro-V
Nitro-V is a relatively new knife steel that is designed to offer superior performance in corrosion resistance, toughness, and edge retention. It’s essentially an enhanced version of the popular AEB-L, with the addition of Nitrogen and Vanadium for improved edge performance and durability.
S35VN
S35VN, or CPM S35VN, is a high-end stainless steel developed by Crucible Industries and knife maker Chris Reeve. It was designed to offer improved toughness over the previous S30V steel, without compromising on wear resistance and edge retention. The CPM refers to the Crucible Particle Metallurgy process, which ensures a highly consistent and high-quality steel.
➤ Read More: S35VN Knife Steel Review
Steel Composition
Examining the chemical composition of each steel can help us understand their performance characteristics.
Nitro-V
- Carbon: 0.85%
- Chromium: 14.00%
- Vanadium: 0.15%
- Nitrogen: 0.11%
- Manganese: 0.50%
- Silicon: 0.40%
S35VN
- Carbon: 1.4%
- Chromium: 14%
- Molybdenum: 2%
- Vanadium: 3%
- Niobium: .5%
- Manganese: .5%
- Silicon: .5%
- Phosphorus: .02%
- Sulfur: .02%
The chemical composition reveals that Nitro-V has less Carbon but an additional Nitrogen content compared to S35VN, contributing to its superior corrosion resistance.
Nitro-V vs S35VN – Complete Comparison
Hardness
Hardness is a key aspect of blade steel as it significantly influences edge retention and wear resistance.
Nitro-V has a Rockwell hardness (HRC) of 58-62, which makes it a fairly hard steel offering good edge retention and wear resistance. Despite its hardness, it manages to maintain decent toughness to resist chipping or breaking.
S35VN, on the other hand, has a Rockwell hardness (HRC) of 58-61. This hardness range provides a good balance between edge retention and toughness, ensuring that the knife can withstand heavy use without being prone to chipping.
Toughness
The toughness of steel is its ability to withstand chips and cracks under strenuous usage.
Nitro-V offers excellent toughness, much owing to its unique combination of elements, including Nitrogen. This makes it an ideal choice for knives that are designed for challenging conditions or heavy usage.
S35VN also provides high toughness, making it a suitable candidate for knives used in strenuous conditions. Its toughness has been improved over its predecessor, S30V, and it offers good resistance against chipping and breaking.
Corrosion Resistance
Corrosion resistance determines how well a steel can resist oxidation and rust.
Nitro-V, with its 14% Chromium and added Nitrogen, boasts excellent corrosion resistance, making it suitable for knives exposed to wet or humid conditions.
S35VN also features 14% Chromium, providing it with good corrosion resistance, though not quite as resistant as Nitro-V due to the absence of Nitrogen.
Ease of Sharpening
Edge retention is the steel’s ability to retain its edge during use. Harder steels maintain their edge better but are more challenging to sharpen.
Despite being hard steel, Nitro-V is relatively straightforward to sharpen compared to other steels of similar hardness. Its uniform and fine grain structure makes it easier to achieve a razor-sharp edge.
S35VN, while offering good hardness, can be a little bit more challenging to sharpen to a razor edge compared to Nitro-V. However, with the right tools and techniques, it can still be effectively sharpened.
Edge Retention
Edge retention refers to the ability of a blade to keep its sharpness during usage.
With excellent hardness and a unique composition, Nitro-V offers outstanding edge retention, making it a great choice for knives intended for tasks requiring high sharpness over prolonged periods.
S35VN also provides excellent edge retention, making it suitable for knives used for heavy-duty cutting or chopping tasks.
Price
Nitro-V, due to its enhanced performance characteristics, tends to be a bit more expensive than S35VN. However, this price increase is justified by its superior corrosion resistance, toughness, and edge retention.
On the other hand, S35VN, while being a high-end steel, is slightly more affordable compared to Nitro-V, making it an attractive option for those seeking high-quality performance without breaking the bank.
Conclusion
Both Nitro-V and S35VN are exceptional blade steels with unique strengths. Nitro-V offers exceptional toughness, corrosion resistance, and edge retention, making it a superior choice for knives intended for harsh environments or heavy usage. S35VN, on the other hand, also presents excellent toughness and edge retention, and is a bit more affordable, making it a favorable choice for those seeking high performance without stretching their budget.
In the end, the choice between Nitro-V and S35VN depends on the intended usage of the knife and the personal preference of the user. Both types of steel have proven to be excellent choices for knives, trusted by countless knife makers and manufacturers worldwide. It is crucial to ensure a reputable brand and manufacturer when purchasing a knife, guaranteeing that the chosen steel’s full potential is harnessed.
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When you visit a merchant by clicking a link on this site we may make a commission on anything you buy (at no additional cost to you). Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to Amazon Associates and the eBay Partner Network.”