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joe9838
Oct 26, 20245 min read

Choosing the Right Knife Blade Steel: What You Need to Know

Updated: Nov 13, 2024


When it comes to picking the perfect EDC (Everyday Carry) knife, the steel in the blade is one of the most critical factors to consider. Blade steel affects everything from how sharp the knife gets to how long it stays sharp, how resistant it is to rust, and how easy it is to maintain. Whether you're a seasoned knife enthusiast or relatively new to the world of blades, understanding the different types of steel used in knives can help you make the best decision for your needs.

In this guide, we’ll break down the various types of blade steels, explain what makes each one unique, and offer some recommendations based on your lifestyle and how you plan to use your knife.


Stainless Steel vs. High-Carbon Steel: What’s the Difference?

Let’s start with the basics: stainless steel and high-carbon steel. These are two broad categories that most blade steels fall into, and understanding the difference between them is key.

  • Stainless Steel: As the name suggests, stainless steel is designed to resist corrosion and rust, making it an ideal choice for people who use their knives in wet or humid environments. It contains at least 10.5% chromium, which gives it that anti-rust property. The downside? Stainless steels generally don’t hold an edge as long as high-carbon steels, but they’re easier to maintain.

  • High-Carbon Steel: High-carbon steels, on the other hand, are known for their exceptional hardness and edge retention. They don’t have as much chromium, so they’re more prone to rust and corrosion, but their edge lasts longer and they’re tougher overall. If you don’t mind a little maintenance, high-carbon steel can give you the long-lasting performance you need.

For EDC knives, a balance between corrosion resistance and edge retention is often ideal. Many knife makers, including Spyderco and Kershaw, have developed blade steels that offer the best of both worlds—good resistance to rust while still holding a great edge.


Common Blade Steels You’ll Encounter

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s dive into some specific steels you’ll encounter when shopping for an EDC knife. Each has its strengths, so the right one for you depends on how you’ll use your knife.

  • VG-10 (Stainless Steel):VG-10 is a popular stainless steel that offers an excellent balance between corrosion resistance and edge retention. It’s used in many Spyderco knives, such as the Spyderco Endura 4. VG-10 is easy to sharpen, holds a fine edge, and resists rust well, making it a great choice for an everyday carry knife, especially if you’ll be using it outdoors or in humid environments.

  • D2 (High-Carbon Steel):D2 is a semi-stainless tool steel that’s highly regarded for its toughness and edge retention. You’ll find it in knives like the Kershaw Emerson CQC-6K and several models from CRKT. While it’s technically not a full stainless steel due to its lower chromium content, D2 offers excellent durability and keeps an edge for a long time. Just be prepared to oil it occasionally to prevent rust.

  • CPM-S30V (Stainless Steel):CPM-S30V is one of the gold standards for premium stainless steel, offering fantastic edge retention, toughness, and corrosion resistance. You’ll see it in many high-end knives, including the Spyderco Para Military 2 and the Kershaw Blur. S30V is perfect for those who want a high-performance blade that doesn’t require much maintenance.

  • 8Cr13MoV (Stainless Steel):If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, 8Cr13MoV is a solid choice. While not as high-end as S30V or VG-10, this steel offers good corrosion resistance and decent edge retention, making it a common choice for more affordable knives like the Spyderco Tenacious and Kershaw Cryo. It’s easy to sharpen, too, which is great for beginners who are just getting into the habit of knife maintenance.

  • 154CM (Stainless Steel):154CM is another great stainless steel used in many SOG and Gerber knives. It’s often considered a step up from 8Cr13MoV, offering better edge retention and wear resistance. It strikes a good balance between toughness and corrosion resistance, making it a popular choice for both EDC and tactical knives.

  • CPM-S35VN (Stainless Steel):A slight upgrade from S30V, CPM-S35VN has enhanced toughness and wear resistance. It’s more refined and offers even better corrosion resistance, making it ideal for those who want a premium blade. Spartan Blades frequently uses S35VN, and it’s a popular choice in higher-end EDC knives for those who demand top-notch performance.


How Steel Affects Knife Maintenance

Blade steel doesn’t just affect performance—it also determines how much time you’ll spend maintaining your knife.

  • Easy to Maintain: If you don’t want to worry too much about cleaning or sharpening your knife frequently, stainless steels like VG-10 or CPM-S30V are great choices. These steels resist rust and don’t dull quickly, so they’re ideal for low-maintenance users.

  • More Maintenance Required: High-carbon steels like D2 and some tool steels require a bit more care. They’re more prone to rust if you don’t keep them clean and oiled, but they reward you with incredible edge retention and toughness. If you’re the type who enjoys maintaining their gear, these steels will give you high-end performance in exchange for a little extra upkeep.


Best Blade Steels for EDC Use: What Should You Choose?

Now that you have a better understanding of different blade steels, let’s help you figure out which one is best for you. Here are a few recommendations based on common needs:

  • For Everyday Tasks:If you’re using your knife for basic tasks like opening packages, cutting cord, or slicing through food, a versatile and easy-to-maintain steel like VG-10 or 8Cr13MoV will suit you well. For budget-conscious buyers, the Spyderco Tenacious or Kershaw Cryo are excellent picks.

  • For Tougher Jobs:If you need a knife that can handle tougher tasks like prying, cutting through heavy materials, or general outdoor use, consider a steel like D2 or CPM-S30V. Both are tough, long-lasting steels that will keep performing even after heavy use. Check out the Kershaw Emerson CQC-6K or the Spyderco Para Military 2 for these steels.

  • For Low Maintenance:Want something that holds up without a lot of maintenance? Look at CPM-S30V or VG-10. These stainless steels provide excellent corrosion resistance and hold an edge well, making them great for those who prefer a no-fuss EDC knife.

  • For Premium Performance:If you’re after top-tier performance, CPM-S35VN is hard to beat. It’s tough, sharp, and resists rust exceptionally well. The Spartan Blades Astor and Spyderco Native 5 are both excellent choices for users who demand the best.


Choosing the right blade steel comes down to how you plan to use your knife and how much maintenance you’re willing to do. Whether you need a low-maintenance, rust-resistant steel for everyday tasks or a tough, high-performance steel for harder use, there’s a blade out there for you. Brands like Spyderco, Kershaw, and CRKT offer a range of options, so you can find the perfect knife with the steel that fits your lifestyle.


Ready to upgrade your EDC knife? Check out our full range of knives from Spyderco, Kershaw, CRKT, and more. Explore our knife offerings here.





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