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.”
At A Glance
CPM S35VN is a martensitic stainless steel recognized for its superior toughness, excellent edge retention, corrosion resistance, and relatively simple sharpening process. It is an ideal choice for general-purpose knives. CPM S90V is known for its extreme wear resistance and exceptional edge retention, attributed to its high carbon and vanadium content. However, it’s slightly more brittle and challenging to sharpen than CPM S35VN. The final decision between CPM S35VN and CPM S90V largely depends on the knife’s intended use and individual preferences.
Top Rated Knives
S35VN
S90V
Knife blade material is a critical element to consider when selecting the ideal knife for your needs. CPM S35VN and CPM S90V are two frequently contrasted blade steels. This article will examine CPM S35VN and CPM S90V in relation to their composition, hardness, toughness, corrosion resistance, edge retention, and sharpening ease to deduce which is the superior knife steel.
The arena of knife-making materials can seem intricate and daunting, both for the experienced aficionado and the newcomer.
To assist in navigating this intricate topic, this article will embark on a comprehensive comparison between two prevalent knife steel types: Crucible Industries’ CPM S35VN and CPM S90V.
We will explore their composition and scrutinize their performance in hardness, toughness, corrosion resistance, edge retention, and sharpening ease to deduce which is the superior knife steel.
Steel Background
Understanding the nature of each steel type and their creation process is vital before proceeding with the comparison.
CPM S35VN
This is a martensitic stainless steel formulated to offer enhanced toughness over CPM S30V. This steel is co-developed by Chris Reeve, a renowned knife maker, and is considered a premium grade knife steel. The term “CPM” denotes Crucible Industries’ proprietary Crucible Particle Metallurgy process, which generates a highly homogeneous, superior-quality steel.
➤ Read More: S35VN Knife Steel Review
CPM S90V
CPM S90V is a martensitic stainless steel known for exceptional wear resistance and corrosion resistance due to high levels of carbon and chromium. This steel is used by custom makers and high-end production knives and is considered one of the superior steels for any cutting tool.
Steel Composition
The chemical composition of each steel is the first point of comparison.
CPM S35VN
- Carbon: 1.4%
- Chromium: 14%
- Molybdenum: 2%
- Vanadium: 3%
- Niobium: .5%
- Manganese: .5%
- Silicon: .5%
- Phosphorus: .02%
- Sulfur: .02%
CPM S90V
- Carbon: 2.3%
- Chromium: 14%
- Vanadium: 9%
- Molybdenum: 1%
It’s clear from the composition that CPM S90V has significantly more carbon and vanadium than CPM S35VN, contributing to its exceptional wear resistance and edge retention.
CPM S35VN vs CPM S90V – Complete Comparison
Hardness
Hardness is a paramount aspect of knife steel as it directly impacts edge retention and wear resistance.
CPM S35VN possesses a Rockwell hardness (HRC) of 58-61, providing a sound equilibrium between edge retention and toughness. It’s a sturdy steel that can endure intensive use without chipping or cracking.
CPM S90V possesses a Rockwell hardness (HRC) of 59-61, although it can be heat treated to higher hardnesses. It offers extraordinary wear resistance and retains its edge excellently but can be somewhat brittle compared to CPM S35VN.
Toughness
Toughness pertains to a steel’s ability to resist chipping and cracking.
CPM S35VN is a tough steel capable of enduring heavy usage. It’s an excellent choice for knives expected to perform in rigorous conditions. The fine grain structure it obtains from the Crucible Particle Metallurgy process gives it excellent resistance against chipping and breaking.
CPM S90V, while a hard and durable steel, is less tough than CPM S35VN, and under heavy use can be prone to chipping due to its higher hardness.
Corrosion Resistance
Corrosion resistance indicates how well a steel resists rust and oxidation.
As a stainless steel with 14% chromium, CPM S35VN offers excellent corrosion resistance.
CPM S90V also demonstrates superb corrosion resistance due to its high chromium content.
Ease of Sharpening
Sharpening ease reflects the difficulty level of sharpening the steel using conventional methods. This generally inversely correlates with hardness and edge retention.
CPM S35VN is quite easy to sharpen compared to other high-hardness steels, and can achieve a razor-sharp edge.
In contrast, CPM S90V, due to its high hardness and wear resistance, is notoriously difficult to sharpen, but once sharpened, it maintains its edge exceptionally well.
Edge Retention
Edge retention reflects how well a steel maintains its sharpness during use.
CPM S35VN demonstrates excellent edge retention, making it suitable for knives used for slicing or cutting tasks.
CPM S90V showcases superior edge retention due to its high carbon and vanadium content, but it can be more difficult to sharpen than CPM S35VN.
Price
As a high-end knife steel, CPM S90V is typically more expensive than CPM S35VN. The price is justified by its exceptional properties and the high-quality manufacturing process.
CPM S35VN, while still a premium knife steel, is generally more affordable than CPM S90V.
Conclusion
Both CPM S35VN and CPM S90V are exceptional blade steels, each with their respective strengths and weaknesses. CPM S35VN is a hard, corrosion-resistant steel with superb toughness, edge retention, and relative ease of sharpening. It is a good choice for knives that will be used for general-purpose tasks. CPM S90V offers superior wear resistance and edge retention, but it can be quite challenging to sharpen and may not be as tough as CPM S35VN.
The choice between CPM S35VN and CPM S90V will ultimately depend on the knife’s intended use and the individual’s preference. Both steels are excellent choices for high-quality knives and are popular among knife makers. When purchasing a knife, it is important to select a reputable brand and manufacturer to fully realize the potential of the steel.
Do Sheepsfoot Blades Have A Purpose? (Cuz They’re Ugly…)
Spetsnaz Machetes – Blades Of The Russian Special Forces
What Is The Actual Purpose Of A Spear Point Knife Blade?
CRKT CEO Review – Coolest, Most Worthless Knife Ever?
How Sharp Is A Scalpel? (Is It Sharper Than A Razor?)
Can You Shave With A Knife? (Yes, Here’s How)
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.”