Benchmade was among the first large-scale producers to use CPM-M4 in folding knives, often treating it to high hardness ranges for superior edge holding. Spyderco followed with several notable sprint runs and exclusives featuring CPM-M4 blades, helping to elevate the steel’s reputation among knife enthusiasts. The steel has also remained in steady use by companies like Toor Knives, Suprlativ, and even still Benchmade, where it continues to serve as a core material across much of their lineup.

As a blade steel, CPM-M4 is known for its outstanding edge retention and abrasion resistance. In practical terms, this allows blades to maintain a sharp cutting edge for extended periods, even with frequent use. However, its performance comes with trade-offs. The steel is not stainless, containing only around 4% chromium, which is far below the threshold required to resist corrosion in humid or wet environments. As such, users must take care to clean and oil CPM-M4 blades to prevent rust and discoloration. Additionally, the steel’s hardness and wear resistance can make sharpening more time-consuming than with softer, less wear-resistant steels.

Despite these challenges, CPM-M4 remains a preferred choice for users who value high cutting performance over corrosion resistance. Its toughness, especially for a steel that can reach Rockwell hardness ratings above 64 HRC, makes it well-suited to applications where chipping or edge deformation must be avoided. Fixed blades and hard-use folders in CPM-M4 can take advantage of this balance between edge holding and durability, particularly in dry or controlled environments.

Because of its tool steel origins, CPM-M4 continues to appeal to performance-focused knife makers who want to offer users a material capable of exceptional results in real-world cutting tasks. Though not as widely used as stainless steels in general-purpose knives, its role in the cutlery world is well established. Today, CPM-M4 remains one of the premier non-stainless high-performance steels used in knives, trusted by professionals and enthusiasts alike for its ability to deliver consistent, long-lasting sharpness under heavy use.