S90V vs M390: Comparing High-End Knife Steels

The arena of high-end knife steels is a battlefield where aficionados argue over the minuscule but crucial differences that can make or break the blades’ performance. Leading the charge in this debate are two exceptional candidates: CPM-S90V and Bohler M390. Both members of this elite category are celebrated for their edge retention, corrosion resistance, and overall toughness. Below, a comparative glance provides a starting point for appreciating these two metallurgical marvels at a more detailed level.

Delving into the World of Premium Steels

Both CPM-S90V and M390 are often mentioned in the same breath among connoisseurs of fine cutlery and premium knives, as both steels cater to the high demands of advanced usage.

Composition and Characteristics of CPM-S90V

When one speaks of CPM-S90V, it conjures up images of a steel with remarkable edge retention. The chemical composition of CPM-S90V includes a substantial amount of vanadium, which contributes to the formation of hard vanadium carbides, and lesser amounts of molybdenum and tungsten. In my personal experience wielding a knife with a CPM-S90V blade, the edge retention has been nothing short of impressive; it retains its sharpness even after the most taxing cutting tasks.

However, it is worth noting that this hardness and edge holding ability comes with a trade-off. When it comes time to sharpen the blade, one must have a considerable amount of skill and patience, as well as the right tools. In my case, using diamond stones was a necessity to touch up the edge, and even then, it required a considerable amount of time and effort.

Bohler M390—The Balance between Toughness and Wear Resistance

Bohler’s M390, on the other hand, is often praised for striking a balance between toughness and wear resistance. Featuring high levels of chromium, molybdenum, and vanadium, it is resistant to corrosion and wear while being tough enough to withstand the occasional abuse without chipping. My personal time with an M390 blade was a testament to its balanced nature. The blade was less needy, tolerating less attention while still performing at levels that would appease most knife enthusiasts.

One unexpected but pleasant aspect of the M390 was how it sharpened more easily compared to the S90V. Although still requiring a diamond stone or ceramic sharpener for best results, the sharpening sessions were notably shorter and the blade was back to its razor-sharp edge quicker.

Performance Comparison and Usage

Edge Retention: Both steels perform exceptionally well in edge retention, which is a vital trait for anyone looking to reduce the frequency of sharpening sessions.
Toughness: M390 shows a slight advantage in this department. This isn’t to say that S90V is significantly less tough, but M390 can take a bit more of a beating which might be useful in more demanding tasks.
Corrosion Resistance: M390 takes the crown with its higher chromium content providing excellent resistance to rust and corrosion – a crucial aspect for any knife that might come into close contact with moisture or acidic substances.
Sharpenability: M390 is the clear winner here. The ease of sharpening M390 is appreciated by both seasoned professionals and those newer to knife maintenance.

Pros and Cons of CPM-S90V

Pros:
- Superb edge retention
- Very good corrosion resistance
- Good toughness
- Wear resistance that prolongs the life of the blade
Cons:
- Can be difficult to sharpen without proper tools and experience
- Often more expensive due to the complex manufacturing process

Pros and Cons of Bohler M390

Pros:
- Excellent combination of wear resistance and toughness
- Superior corrosion resistance
- Easier to sharpen than S90V
- Keeps a sharp edge for a prolonged period
Cons:
- Still challenging to sharpen for the average user
- Can be more costly than other knife steels on the market

In the end, the choice between CPM-S90V and Bohler M390 might come down to specific user preferences and the intended application of the blade. Those seeking the utmost in edge retention and who don’t mind the extra elbow grease when sharpening may find CPM-S90V their steel of choice. Conversely, users looking for a more balanced approach to toughness and maintenance while still retaining excellent edge performance may decree that M390 is the supreme option. Whatever the choice, both steels represent the pinnacle of modern metallurgy and are sure to deliver satisfaction to those who wield them.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which is better, M390 or S90V?

M390 and S90V are both high-performance stainless steels, but each has its own strengths. M390 offers excellent edge retention, corrosion resistance, and toughness, making it a great choice for hard-use knives. On the other hand, S90V has even higher wear resistance and edge retention, making it ideal for applications where prolonged edge retention is critical. Ultimately, the choice between M390 and S90V depends on your specific needs and preferences.

2. What steel is better than S90V?

One steel that is considered to be better than S90V is M390. M390 steel offers similar attributes to S90V, such as exceptional edge retention and corrosion resistance, but some users find M390 easier to sharpen. Additionally, M390 tends to be slightly tougher than S90V, making it better suited for demanding tasks that require more durability.

3. What is M390 steel comparable to?

M390 steel is often compared to other high-end stainless steels such as CPM 20CV and CTS-204P. These steels possess similar characteristics, including extremely high wear resistance, exceptional corrosion resistance, and great edge retention. However, slight differences in their composition and heat treatment may result in nuanced variations in performance.

4. Is M390 better than S30V?

Yes, M390 is generally considered to be better than S30V. While both steels are known for their high wear resistance and edge retention, M390 outperforms S30V in both categories. M390 steel also tends to exhibit superior corrosion resistance and toughness compared to S30V. However, it’s worth noting that both steels are still exceptional choices for knife blades, and the selection depends on specific needs and preferences.

5. How does M390 steel compare to S90V in terms of edge retention?

Both M390 and S90V offer excellent edge retention, but S90V is known to have superior edge-holding capabilities. S90V contains a higher percentage of vanadium, which contributes to its exceptional wear resistance and long-lasting sharpness. However, it’s important to note that M390 still provides outstanding edge retention and can maintain a sharp edge for extended periods of use.

6. Which steel is more resistant to corrosion, M390 or S90V?

M390 and S90V are both highly corrosion-resistant steels. However, M390 generally offers slightly better corrosion resistance compared to S90V. This is due to the presence of a higher chromium content in M390, which enhances its ability to resist rust and oxidation. Both steels are excellent choices for applications where corrosion resistance is a priority.

7. Can knives made with M390 or S90V be easily sharpened?

Knives made with M390 and S90V can be somewhat challenging to sharpen due to their high hardness levels. However, with the appropriate sharpening tools and techniques, it is still possible to sharpen these steels effectively. Some users find M390 to be slightly easier to sharpen than S90V due to its slightly lower hardness. Proper sharpening equipment and maintaining the correct angle are key to successfully sharpening knives made with these steels.

8. Are there any significant differences in toughness between M390 and S90V?

While both M390 and S90V are considered tough steels, M390 tends to have slightly better toughness compared to S90V. The higher chromium content in M390 contributes to its increased toughness, making it more resistant to chipping and breakage during impact. However, it’s important to note that both steels exhibit excellent toughness overall and can withstand demanding tasks.

9. Which steel is more commonly used in high-end production knives, M390 or S90V?

Both M390 and S90V are popular choices for high-end production knives. However, M390 is generally more commonly used in production knives due to its excellent combination of edge retention, corrosion resistance, and ease of machining. S90V, on the other hand, is often utilized in custom and limited-edition knives catering to enthusiasts who prioritize extreme wear resistance and edge retention.

10. Can M390 or S90V be used for outdoor or survival knives?

Both M390 and S90V are suitable for outdoor and survival knives. These steels’ exceptional edge retention, corrosion resistance, and toughness make them well-suited for demanding outdoor tasks. However, it’s important to consider the intended usage and requirements of the specific knife to ensure the best steel choice for your needs.