N690 steel is a remarkable all-around performer, making it a favorite among many knife makers and users. This steel, produced by Bohler-Uddeholm, is known for its versatility and well-rounded properties. N690 is a stainless steel that has become a favorite among knifemakers due to its well-rounded performance. With chromium for stain resistance and molybdenum for hardenability, it's easy to sharpen, holds an edge well, and boasts excellent corrosion resistance, making it a great all-around blade steel. Many companies, including Kizer and MKM Knives, have embraced N690 for their collaborations and exclusive models.

Composition

Carbon- 1.07%

Chromium- 17-17.3%

Molybdenum- 1.1%

Vanadium- 0.1%

Cobalt- 1.5%

Silicon- 0.4%

Manganese- 0.4%

Developed by Sandvik, 14C28N is another excellent mid-range steel known for its balance of properties, making it suitable for a wide range of applications. With a composition of carbon, chromium, manganese, silicon, and nitrogen, 14C28N's high chromium content gives it exceptional resistance to rust and staining. This steel maintains a sharp edge well, even after extensive use. Like N690, 14C28N is easy to sharpen, ensuring it remains a favorite among knife enthusiasts. While 14C28N is typically found in mid-range knives, some budget-friendly models like the B’yond EDC Nighthorse have managed to incorporate this steel at an impressively low price point.

Composition

Carbon- 0.62%

Chromium- 14%

Nitrogen- 0.11%

Silicon- 0.2%

Manganese- 0.6%

Moving away from stainless steel, D2 is a semi-stainless tool steel that has gained a cult following among knife enthusiasts. With 1.5% carbon and additional chromium, vanadium, and molybdenum, it's known for its toughness and outstanding edge retention, making it a favorite choice for hard-use knives, bushcraft blades, and smaller fixed blades. While it may lack the corrosion resistance of stainless steel, D2 makes up for it with its strength and ability to hold an edge for an extended period. The Kershaw Dividend in D2 is an excellent example of this steel's capabilities.

Composition

Carbon- 1.5-1.6%

Chromium- 11.5-12%

Molybdenum- 0.6-0.9%

Vanadium- 0.9-1.1%

Silicon- 0.1-0.4%

Manganese- 0.15-0.45%

154CM is a stainless steel developed by Crucible Industries, widely regarded for its balanced properties and versatility. With a composition of carbon, chromium, molybdenum, manganese, and silicon, 154CM offers good edge retention, making it suitable for prolonged use. Its high chromium content provides excellent resistance to rust and corrosion. 154CM is relatively easy to sharpen, ensuring it remains a practical choice for various applications. The Kizer Brat is a notable example of a knife featuring 154CM steel. This knife exemplifies the durability and reliability of 154CM, with many high-end manufacturers like Benchmade, ProTech, and Hogue also using this steel in their premium offerings.

Composition

Carbon- 1.05%

Chromium- 13.5-14%

Molybdenum- 4%

Vanadium- 0-0.4%

Tungsten- 0-0.4%

Silicon- 0.3-0.8%

Manganese- 0.5%

While 1095 may seem like an odd choice for a mid-range blade steel, this non-stainless high-carbon steel has been around for centuries and continues to be used in high-quality knives, especially in the realm of bushcraft and hard-use fixed blades. The carbon content gives 1095 excellent edge retention capabilities, while the manganese contributes to its toughness. Unlike more modern stainless steels, 1095 is not stain-resistant, but many users appreciate its easy maintenance and ability to develop a protective patina over time. While 1095 is often associated with basic or inexpensive blades, it is increasingly finding its way into more premium folding knife models as well. The Remington 2023 Silver Bullet with its 1095 steel blade, showcases how this classic carbon steel can shine in a dressier pocketknife design.

Composition

Carbon- 0.9-1.03%

Manganese- 0.3-0.5%

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.