Knife Steels

S35VN steel is arguably the most popular knife steel today -- but why? Take a look at how it performs, and how it's made to defeat conventional alloys.

7Cr17MoV is a Chinese steel meant to mimic 440 series stainless. But this alloy simply isn't a good knife steel. I explain exactly why that is, and what steels I recommend instead.

Developed in 2001, S30V is one of the first CPM steels to see widespread adoption by knifemakers. We're reviewing why this powdered steel is still one of the best blade steels today.

D2 steel is unique: It's a tool steel, but it has enough chromium to be considered stainless. Is it a good knife steel? Find out with our in-depth review and edge testing.

12C27 is the budget version of 14C28N. Is it any good? We're breaking down this stainless Swiss alloy and discussing why it might've been given an unfair shake in my review of the CJRB Ria.

You've probably seen Sandvik 14C28N steel listed alongside the specifications for a cheap folding knife or pocket knife. Is it a good knife steel? Let's break down its chemical composition, strengths and weaknesses, and compare it to other, popular blade steels. What is Sandvik 14C28N Steel? This stainless steel is made by the Swiss company of the same name. They...

Elmax is a high-end stainless CPM (Crucible Particle Metallurgy) steel developed by the Austrian steel company Böhler-Uddeholm. Böhler makes specialized alloys for aerospace companies and infrastructure "megaprojects." So, it's little surprise that even Böhler's "simple" knife steel -- the company officially calls it Uddeholm Elmax SuperClean -- would be a high performer. Let's take a look at its chemical...

The 8Cr13MoV alloy has been called "cheap" -- it is, after all, a Chinese stainless alloy -- but that doesn't meant it isn't a good knife steel. Let's review its composition, popular knife blades that use it, and its pros and cons.

The 9Cr18MoV alloy is found in budget pocket knives. Is it any good? Yes. I reviewed the CIVIVI Praxis, which has a flat-ground 9Cr18MoV steel blade. It performed well in our sharpness and edge retention test.