20cv Vs S90v: The Ultimate High-end Steel Showdown!?

When it comes to the world of high-end steel, two of the most popular choices are the CPM-20CV and the S90V. Both are premium steels that offer superior performance and edge retention, making them a popular choice among knife enthusiasts and professionals alike. In this article, we will examine the differences between the two steels and determine which one is the best for your needs. We will also discuss the various factors to consider when choosing the right steel for your knife, such as wear resistance, corrosion resistance, and sharpening ease. So read on to learn more about the ultimate high-end steel showdown between the CPM-20CV and the S90V.

Background of s90v and 20cv steel

S90V and 20CV are two of the most sought-after steel types in the world of high-end knives. Both steels have their own unique properties and characteristics, making them ideal for different applications. S90V is a high-vanadium stainless steel that offers superior wear resistance and corrosion resistance. It has excellent edge retention and toughness, making it an ideal choice for cutting and slicing tasks. 20CV is a high-carbon, high-vanadium stainless steel that offers excellent edge retention and wear resistance. It also has excellent corrosion resistance and good toughness, making it ideal for a variety of applications.

The two steels have different levels of hardness and toughness. S90V has a hardness of 64-65 HRC, making it harder than the normal stainless steel. This makes it ideal for applications where a longer edge life is desired. 20CV has a hardness of 60-62 HRC, making it softer than S90V. This makes it a great choice for applications where a more forgiving blade is desired.

In terms of corrosion resistance, both steels are excellent. S90V has a very high resistance to corrosion, making it ideal for knives that are used in wet environments. 20CV has a slightly lower level of corrosion resistance, making it better suited for applications where the knife won’t be exposed to a lot of moisture.

When it comes to sharpening, S90V is a bit easier to sharpen than 20CV. This is due to its higher hardness, which makes it more resistant to deformation and wear. 20CV, on the other hand, is slightly more difficult to sharpen due to its lower hardness.

In terms of edge retention, both steels have excellent edge retention. S90V has an excellent edge retention, making it ideal for applications where a longer edge life is desired. 20CV also has excellent edge retention, but it is slightly less than S90V.

Overall, both steels are excellent choices for high-end knives. S90V is a great choice for applications where a longer edge life is desired, while 20CV is a great choice for applications where a more forgiving blade is desired. Both steels offer excellent corrosion resistance and edge retention, making them ideal for a variety of applications.

Composition and properties of s90v and 20cv steel

S90V and 20CV are two of the most popular high-end steels used in the knife industry today. Both steels have their unique properties and composition, which have earned them their respective positions as top-tier knife steels.

20CV is a high-end, high-performance powdered steel produced by Crucible Industries. It has excellent edge retention and wear resistance, as well as excellent corrosion resistance. 20CV is composed of 1.9% carbon, 0.7% vanadium, 0.4% chromium, and 0.3% molybdenum, with traces of niobium. It has a hardness range of 59-61 HRC.

S90V is also a high-end steel produced by Crucible Industries. It has excellent edge retention and wear resistance, as well as excellent corrosion resistance. S90V is composed of 1.8% carbon, 8.3% vanadium, 0.9% chromium, and 0.6% molybdenum, with traces of niobium. It has a hardness range of 59-62 HRC.

When compared to other steels, 20CV and S90V offer exceptional edge retention and wear resistance. Both steels also have excellent corrosion resistance, which makes them ideal for outdoor use. 20CV is slightly harder than S90V, but both steels can be hardened to a Rockwell hardness of up to 62 HRC.

Overall, both 20CV and S90V offer a great combination of edge retention, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance, making them excellent choices for high-end knives. Both steels are difficult to work with due to their hard nature, so they are best suited for experienced knife makers. The ultimate decision between the two steels will come down to personal preference and how the steel will be used.

Heat treatment and hardness of s90v and 20cv steel

When it comes to choosing the right steel for a high-end knife, two of the most popular choices are S90V and 20CV steel. Both of these steels are known for their superior hardness and edge retention, making them ideal for use in higher-end knives. However, the heat treatment and hardness of these two types of steel vary significantly.

In terms of heat treatment, S90V is typically hardened to a Rockwell Hardness (RC) of 60-62 while 20CV is hardened to a RC of 61-63. It is important to note that the heat treatment process for both of these steels can have an effect on the ultimate hardness of the blade. For example, a blade made from S90V that has been heat treated at a higher temperature may have a higher hardness than one made from 20CV.

In terms of edge retention, S90V is generally considered to be superior to 20CV. This is because S90V has a higher amount of carbon and vanadium in the steel composition, which makes it harder and more resistant to wear. It is also important to note that S90V also has a higher chromium content than 20CV, which makes it more corrosion resistant.

Overall, when it comes to choosing between S90V and 20CV steel for a high-end knife, the decision should depend on the intended use of the knife. For those who require superior edge retention and hardness in their knives, S90V is an excellent choice. However, 20CV may be a better choice for those looking for a blade that is highly corrosion resistant.

Edge retention and corrosion resistance of s90v and 20cv steel

Steel is the backbone of the knife and tool industry, and when it comes to high-end steel, there are two clear choices: S90V and 20CV. These two stainless steels offer superior edge retention and corrosion resistance, making them the ideal choice for those looking for a durable blade. When deciding between the two, it’s important to understand how they compare in terms of their properties.

S90V is a martensitic stainless steel, and is often seen as the most superior steel in terms of its edge retention capabilities. It is made up of a combination of carbon, chromium, molybdenum, vanadium, and tungsten, which give it its high-end properties. This steel is often used in high-end knives, as it can take and hold a very sharp edge. It is also highly resistant to corrosion, making it the perfect choice for those who are looking for a long-lasting knife.

20CV is also a martensitic stainless steel, and it is quickly becoming a popular choice in the knife industry. It is made up of a combination of carbon, chromium, molybdenum, vanadium, and niobium, which give it similar high-end properties to S90V. 20CV is known for its superior edge retention capabilities, as it can take and hold a very sharp edge for a long time. It is also highly resistant to corrosion, making it a great choice for those who are looking for a durable blade.

When it comes to edge retention and corrosion resistance, both S90V and 20CV are excellent choices. Both steels can take and hold a very sharp edge, while also being highly resistant to corrosion. Ultimately, the decision between the two steels comes down to personal preference. Those who are looking for a long-lasting knife should choose S90V, while those who are looking for a durable blade should choose 20CV.

Applications of s90v and 20cv steel

When it comes to choosing the right steel for your knife or tool, there are a number of factors to consider. Two of the most popular high-end steel options among knife makers and tool users are S90V and 20CV, both of which offer excellent performance. So, what applications are best suited for S90V and 20CV?

S90V is generally considered the best steel for hard use applications that require a high degree of wear resistance. It is often used for pocket knives and fixed blade knives, as it is designed to hold an edge for a very long time. It is also a popular choice for tools such as saws and chisels, since its wear resistance can help prolong the life of the tool.

20CV, on the other hand, is a great choice for applications that require a combination of wear and corrosion resistance. It is often used for EDC knives, as it offers excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance, making it a great choice for everyday carry. It is also an excellent choice for outdoor knives, as it will hold up to the elements.

Both S90V and 20CV offer excellent performance for a variety of applications, so it really comes down to personal preference. S90V is generally considered the better choice for hard use applications, while 20CV is often preferred for EDC and outdoor knives. Ultimately, the choice between S90V and 20CV is up to the user, depending on their specific needs.

Cost comparison of s90v and 20cv steel

The battle between S90V and 20CV steel is a never-ending one. Both steels are considered to be among the best in the high-end steel market, and they both have a lot to offer. So, how do they compare when it comes to cost?

When it comes to price, S90V steel is usually slightly more expensive than 20CV steel. This is because S90V steel is made from Vanadium, which is a rarer and more expensive material than the steel that makes up 20CV. However, the cost difference is usually only a few dollars, so it doesn’t really make much of a difference in terms of overall cost.

In terms of performance, S90V steel is often considered to be a better choice than 20CV. S90V steel has superior edge retention and is more resistant to wear and tear, making it a better choice for applications where durability is important. 20CV steel, on the other hand, has excellent corrosion resistance, making it a great choice for kitchen knives and other applications where corrosion could be a problem.

When it comes to ease of sharpening, 20CV steel is considered to be easier to sharpen than S90V steel. This is because 20CV steel has a lower hardness, meaning it’s easier to work with when sharpening. However, S90V steel can still be sharpened, although it does require more effort and time than 20CV steel.

Overall, both S90V and 20CV steel offer excellent performance and are both great choices for high-end steel. The deciding factor really comes down to cost, with S90V steel being slightly more expensive than 20CV steel. However, the difference in cost is usually only a few dollars, so it’s really up to the consumer to decide which steel is the best choice for them.

Popularity of s90v and 20cv steel

The high-end steel showdown between S90V and 20CV has been a highly contentious topic among knife enthusiasts for some time. Both S90V and 20CV have become incredibly popular choices for knife makers in recent years, thanks to their exceptional hardness, wear-resistance, and edge retention. In many ways, S90V and 20CV are two of the most sought-after steels on the market.

S90V is a steel alloy made by the renowned American manufacturer, Crucible Industries. S90V is a “super steel” that is composed of vanadium, carbon, chromium, molybdenum, and tungsten. It has very high levels of wear-resistance and hardness, which make it an excellent choice for making knives that will be exposed to extreme wear and tear. It is also highly corrosion-resistant, making it a great choice for use in any wet environment.

20CV is a steel alloy made by Bohler-Uddeholm, an Austrian steel manufacturer. It is a stainless steel that is composed of chromium, vanadium, carbon, molybdenum, and tungsten. 20CV is also incredibly wear-resistant and has a higher hardness than S90V. Like S90V, it is highly corrosion-resistant and can stand up to even the harshest of conditions.

Both S90V and 20CV steels are incredibly popular among knife makers for their superior hardness, wear-resistance, and edge retention. When it comes to the ultimate high-end steel showdown, there is no clear winner between the two steels. Both steels have their own unique advantages and disadvantages, and the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference. In the end, both S90V and 20CV are excellent options for any knife maker looking for a high-end steel.

Pros and cons of s90v and 20cv steel

The debate between S90V and 20CV steel is one of the most heated topics in the knife industry. Both steels offer excellent performance, making them popular among knife makers and knife enthusiasts alike. This article will compare and contrast the pros and cons of both steels in order to help you decide which is the right choice for you.

S90V steel is a martensitic stainless steel developed by the extremely well-regarded American steel company Crucible Industries. With a high level of carbon, chromium, vanadium, and molybdenum, S90V is an incredibly hard steel, boasting a Rockwell Hardness of up to 61 HRC. This means that it is very resistant to wear and corrosion, making it a great choice for knives that will be used in outdoor activities such as hunting and fishing. Additionally, S90V is known for its incredible edge retention, allowing it to be sharpened to a razor-like edge and maintain it for much longer than other steels.

The downside of S90V is that it is notoriously difficult to sharpen. Due to its high hardness, it requires a diamond sharpener or specialized tool to get a good edge. Additionally, it is quite expensive, so it may not be a great choice if you are on a tight budget.

20CV steel is another high-end steel developed by Crucible Industries. It has a slightly lower carbon content than S90V, but still offers excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance. It is a bit softer than S90V, with a Rockwell Hardness of 58-60 HRC, but it still offers excellent performance. 20CV is also much easier to sharpen than S90V, making it a great choice for those who don’t want to invest in a specialized sharpening tool. Additionally, 20CV is a bit cheaper than S90V, so it is a great option for budget-minded knife enthusiasts.

In conclusion, S90V and 20CV steel are both excellent choices for high-end knives. While S90V offers superior edge retention and corrosion resistance, it is much more difficult to sharpen and is more expensive. On the other hand, 20CV is easier to sharpen and is cheaper, while still offering great performance. Ultimately, the choice is up to you, but either way, you are sure to get a great knife with either S90V or 20CV steel

Knife making with s90v and 20cv steel

Knife making is a craft that requires a variety of tools and materials, especially when it comes to selecting the right steel. Two of the most popular high-end steels for knife making are S90V and 20CV. Both of these steels offer excellent edge retention, durability, and corrosion resistance. The two steels also offer similar levels of hardness and wear resistance. So how do these two steels compare?

The S90V steel is a unique stainless steel alloy with a high vanadium content. This gives the steel an extremely high wear resistance and edge retention. It also has a very low susceptibility to corrosion. The downside to this steel is that it can be difficult to sharpen due to its hardness.

The 20CV steel is a newer steel alloy developed by Crucible Industries. This steel is slightly softer than S90V, but it has excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance. It is also easier to sharpen than S90V and has a lighter color. The downside to 20CV is that it is slightly more prone to corrosion than S90V.

When it comes to choosing between S90V and 20CV for knife making, it comes down to personal preference. Both steels offer excellent wear resistance and corrosion resistance, but S90V is harder and more difficult to sharpen. On the other hand, 20CV is easier to sharpen and has a lighter color. Ultimately, the best steel for knife making depends on the intended use and the individual’s preferences.

Conclusion: which steel is best for you?

When it comes to choosing the best steel for high-end knives, there are a lot of options available. Two of the most popular and sought-after steels are 20cv and S90V. Both of these steels have their advantages and disadvantages, and it can be difficult to determine which one is better suited for your individual needs.

The 20cv steel is a high-end stainless steel with exceptionally high wear resistance. It is a chromium-vanadium-molybdenum alloy, which accounts for it being an extremely corrosion-resistant steel. It has excellent edge retention and hardness, and is capable of taking a very sharp edge. However, it is also known for being a bit more difficult to sharpen than other stainless steels.

On the other hand, the S90V steel is a powdered stainless steel with exceptional wear resistance and extremely high hardness. It is made up of vanadium, chromium, molybdenum, and carbon, and is known for being one of the hardest and most corrosion-resistant steels available today. It has excellent edge retention, and is relatively easy to sharpen.

When it comes to choosing the best steel for a high-end knife, it really comes down to personal preference. While the 20cv steel has excellent wear resistance and edge retention, it can be a bit more difficult to sharpen than S90V. On the other hand, S90V is a bit easier to sharpen, but it does not have quite the same level of wear resistance as 20cv. Ultimately, the decision between 20cv and S90V comes down to what qualities you value most in a high-end knife. If you want a steel with excellent wear resistance and edge retention, then the 20cv is the better option. However, if you prefer a steel that is easier to sharpen and still has excellent wear resistance, then the S90V is the better choice.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the differences between S20CV and S90V are substantial. While both steels are considered to be the pinnacle of high-end steels, S20CV is the superior choice for everyday use, providing better edge retention and corrosion resistance. On the other hand, S90V is the best choice for those who require maximum performance, as it offers superior wear resistance and edge retention. Ultimately, the decision of which steel to choose depends on the user’s needs and preferences.

Frequently asked questions:

What are the main differences between Crucible CPM S90V and CPM S20CV?

The main differences between Crucible CPM S90V and CPM S20CV are the amount of Vanadium, Chromium, and Carbon present. CPM S90V has a higher amount of both Vanadium and Carbon, giving it a higher wear and corrosion resistance than CPM S20CV. CPM S20CV has a higher amount of Chromium, giving it better edge retention than CPM S90V.

Is Crucible CPM S90V or CPM S20CV better for pocket knives?

It depends on what your needs are. CPM S90V is the better choice for pocket knives if you want maximum wear and corrosion resistance. However, if you are looking for better edge retention, CPM S20CV is the better choice.

What is the Rockwell Hardness of Crucible CPM S90V and CPM S20CV?

The Rockwell Hardness of Crucible CPM S90V is 60-62 HRC, while the Rockwell Hardness of Crucible CPM S20CV is 59-61 HRC.