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Blade Steel: CPM S30V
Published: August 9th, 2024
The inception of S30V dates back to the early 2000s. Crucible Industries, a leader in the production of high-grade steel, aimed to create a new type of steel that would meet the rigorous demands of knife users. Partnering with knife maker Chris Reeve, they embarked on developing a blade steel that could deliver exceptional performance in various conditions.
S30V is a martensitic stainless steel, characterized by its hardness and ability to be heat-treated. Its composition includes elements like carbon, chromium, molybdenum, and vanadium. Carbon enhances hardness and edge retention, while chromium provides excellent corrosion resistance. Molybdenum increases toughness and adds to the steel’s corrosion resistance. Vanadium plays a critical role by forming extremely hard vanadium carbides, which significantly improve wear resistance without compromising toughness.
Composition
Carbon- 1.45-1.48%
Chromium- 14%
Molybdenum- 2%
Tungsten- 0.1-0.4%
Nitrogen- 0.2%
Manganese- 0.5%
Silicon- 0.5%
The performance characteristics of S30V steel are what truly set it apart. The steel's edge retention is one of its standout features. Thanks to the combination of carbon and vanadium carbides, knives made from S30V can maintain a sharp edge for a long time, reducing the need for frequent sharpening. This makes S30V an excellent choice for users who rely on their knives for extended periods.
Corrosion resistance is another key attribute. With a high chromium content, S30V offers outstanding resistance to rust and corrosion. This makes it suitable for environments where moisture and humidity are common, such as outdoor activities and marine settings. The steel’s toughness is also notable. Despite its high hardness, S30V retains a good level of toughness, making it resistant to chipping and cracking, which is crucial for knives subjected to heavy use and impact. Benchmade, Hogue, and Spyderco knives benefit from this toughness, ensuring durability and reliability in demanding conditions.
The versatility of S30V has made it a popular choice for a wide range of applications. High-end folding knives often feature S30V blades due to their need for a reliable, long-lasting edge. Outdoor and survival knives utilize S30V for its durability and corrosion resistance. Even some premium kitchen knives are crafted from S30V to provide chefs with exceptional cutting performance and longevity. Hogue models often incorporate S30V to enhance their durability and cutting efficiency, catering to professional and tactical users.
Since its introduction, S30V has significantly impacted the knife industry. Its performance has been so well received that it has influenced the development of other premium steels, including S35VN and S45VN, which offer slight variations and improvements based on the original S30V formula.
The development of S30V blade steel by Crucible Industries marked a significant advancement in the materials used for knife making. The steel's combination of edge retention, corrosion resistance, and toughness has made it a favorite among knife makers and users alike. S30V continues to symbolize quality and innovation in high-performance knives, proving that the right materials can make all the difference in a knife's performance and longevity.
What to Buy
The Benchmade Barrage, designed by Warren Osborne, blends tactical precision with everyday practicality. Its 3.6-inch drop point blade is crafted from CPM S30V stainless steel, offering outstanding edge retention and strength, while a Cobalt Cerakote finish provides rugged durability with a refined look. Benchmade’s AXIS Assist mechanism ensures fast, one-handed deployment and secure operation with its integrated safety. The milled Redstone Richlite handle delivers a comfortable yet durable grip, accented by a Burnt Copper anodized thumb stud for both style and function. Measuring 4.79 inches closed and weighing 4.45 ounces, it balances portability with performance. A copper PVD split arrow pocket clip and lanyard hole complete this versatile knife, proudly made in the USA.
The Spyderco Canis is a precision-engineered folding knife designed with premium materials and performance in mind. Its 3.43-inch CPM S30V Wharncliffe blade offers excellent edge retention, toughness, and corrosion resistance, finished with a sleek satin polish for a clean, refined look. Spyderco’s round thumb hole allows smooth, ambidextrous one-handed opening, while the compression lock delivers strength and secure operation. The handle, built from lightweight black carbon fiber and G-10 laminate, provides a strong and ergonomic grip in varied conditions. Measuring 4.73 inches closed and 8.12 inches overall, and weighing just 4.1 ounces, the Canis achieves the perfect balance of portability and durability, making it a standout choice for enthusiasts and everyday users alike.
The Hogue SIG K320 AXG Scorpion offers precision and reliability. The 3.5-inch drop point blade, crafted from CPM-S30V stainless steel, features a Flat Dark Earth Cerakote finish for enhanced durability. The blade is secured with the robust ABLE Lock mechanism. The aluminum frame, also in Flat Dark Earth Cerakote, houses G-Mascus green G10 inserts for a secure grip. This knife boasts an ambidextrous thumb stud opener and a reversible, deep-carry pocket clip. Overall length is 8.05 inches, with a closed length of 4.5 inches, and a weight of 4.32 ounces. Ideal for tactical and everyday carry.
Written By
Drew Clifton
Drew is the lead writer for SMKW's Knives 101, crafting informative and engaging content for the world’s largest knife store. With expertise in knife history, design, and functionality, Drew delivers articles and product descriptions that educate and inspire knife enthusiasts at all levels.
Expert Reviewed
T.C. Barnette
T.C. Barnette is a dynamic media personality and the esteemed spokesperson for SMKW (Smoky Mountain Knife Works), where his passion for knives intersects with his captivating on-screen presence. With a magnetic charisma and deep expertise in cutlery, T.C. has become a beloved figure in the knife community.