Knife Steel Comparison Chart

This is a comparison chart that compares the toughness, wear resistance and corrosion resistance of 8 grades of steel suitable for knifemaking. The grades compared are: CPM S30V, CPM 154, 440C, 420HC, M390, CPM S35VN, D-2 and CPM S90V. The comparison is made with the hardness of all of the grades at RC 58-60.

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Data sheets contain specific information regarding the physical properties, heat treating procedures and typical applications for each grade. View the data sheets for each of these grades here.

Z-Wear PM Data Sheet

 CPM S30V Stainless Steel Data Sheet

 420HC Stainless Steel Data Sheet

 440C Stainless Steel Data Sheet

 M390 Stainless Steel Data Sheet

 D-2 Tool Steel Data Sheet

 CPM 154 Stainless Steel Data Sheet

 CPM S35VN Stainless Steel Data Sheet

 CPM S90V Stainless Steel Data Sheet