CPM S30V steel pocket knife

What is CPM?

CPM is a type of powder steel. Powder steel, like CPM S30V, is produced by atomizing molten steel into fine powder particles which are pressed together under high pressure and sintered into a solid block. This process leaves you with a finer, more uniform microstructure than traditional forged steel. The result is better sharpness retention, wear resistance and toughness. As such powder steel is popular for use in top-quality knives that retain their sharpness well but are also still relatively easy to sharpen.

How good is CPM S30V steel?

When it comes down to a steel type 'good' is of course relative term. A steel type is as good as it adheres to the demands of the user. So how does that pan out for CPM S30V? CPM S30V offers a good balance between wear resistance, toughness and corrosion resistance. The addition of vanadium carbides, for example, ensures that the blade retains its sharpness during long term use. Thanks to the good balance between hardness and toughness it is also better equipped to handle chipping. Finally, the chrome content protects the steel from rust and stains.

What are the disadvantages of CPM S30V steel?

With so many steel types out there it can be quite the task to determine which is the best choice for you. That is why it is also important to keep the 'disadvantages' of CPM S30V in mind. For CPM S30V heat treatment is key if you want to make the most of it. The wrong treatment can affect the toughness and sharpness retention. S30V is also a relatively hard type of steel. Combined with the toughness this makes it a little more difficult to sharpen.

Which is better? CPM S30V compared to...?

Many types of steel are used to produce pocket knives. But which steel type is better? First and foremost, this depends on what you are looking for. However, if you do want to make a comparison: CPM S30V is similar to CPM S35VN and CPM S45VN.

CPM S35VN

CPM S35VN is an upgrade of S30V steel. It contains niobium and is therefore tougher and easier to sharpen. It is similar in terms of wear and corrosion resistance.

CPM S45VN

CPM S45VN is a top-quality stainless steel. The goal for CPM S45VN was to produce a steel type with a better corrosion resistance. The good balance between toughness and sharpness retention, however, had to remain. It is an upgrade for its predecessor CPM S35VN.

CPM S30V fans: which brands use CPM S30V steel?

You have never been more sure: you are looking for a pocket knife with a blade made from CPM S30V steel. But which brand uses this type of steel for their pocket knives and appeals to you most? CPM S30V is used by many knife manufacturers due to its properly balanced qualities. Think of brands such as Spyderco and Benchmade. The Benchmade Bugout series, for instance, contains many models made from CPM S30V.

CPM S30V maintenance

CPM S30V, like any type of steel, needs to maintained to make the most of it. For CPM S30V it is important you keep the blade clean and dry to prevent corrosion. Despite its corrosion resistant features it can namely still be affected by rust.

A sharp edge ensures that your pocket knife will function as it should. S30V is a relatively hard type of steel. That is why we recommend diamond-coated or ceramic sharpening stones when sharpening this type of steel. Also frequently use a strop. To maintain the sharpness of the blade, but also to postpone extensive maintenance.