Experts and enthusiasts frequently mention M390 and S35VN when discussing high-performance knife steels. Both are well-regarded for their exceptional qualities, which make them great choices for premium knives.
In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll look at the differences between M390 vs. S35VN and address any questions you may have regarding their compositions and performance attributes.
Understanding the Compositions
M390 Composition:
M390 is a powder metallurgy stainless steel well-known for its remarkable combination of wear resistance, corrosion resistance, and edge retention. The composition contains high levels of chromium (20%), vanadium (9%), and molybdenum (1%). These elements explain why the M390 is so incredibly hard and maintains a sharp edge for a long time.
S35VN Composition:
S35VN, an advancement above S30V, also utilizes powder metallurgy. Compared to M390, its composition has less carbon (1.40%) and higher concentrations of chromium (14%), vanadium (3%), and niobium (2%). Niobium improves toughness and helps mitigate some of previous steel iterations’ chipping and cracking problems.
Performance Differences
Edge Retention:
The M390 and S35VN are preferred options for high-end knives because of superior edge retention. However, because of its greater carbon and vanadium content, M390 is sometimes seen to have a modest advantage. Those who value cutting capability will find the steel especially intriguing because of its capacity to hold a sharp edge for extended periods.
Corrosion resistance:
Both steels have strong corrosion resistance due to their high chromium content. M390’s increased chromium content may offer a modest advantage in corrosive settings, making it an ideal alternative for consumers who demand improved oxidation resistance.
Toughness:
S35VN offers a significant edge in terms of hardness. Adding niobium to S35VN improves its capacity to endure impact and lateral stress, alleviating some of the worries about chipping and brittleness associated with previous steel variants. This makes S35VN a good choice for knives subjected to heavy wear.
Easy Sharpening:
While both steels are believed to be quite difficult to sharpen due to their extreme hardness, S35VN is frequently seen to be slightly more forgiving in this respect. S35VN’s greater machinability over M390 may make it a more accessible alternative for individuals who wish to maintain their knives easily.
M390 vs. S35VN
| Aspect | M390 | S35VN |
| Composition | High Carbon (1.90%), Chromium (20%), Vanadium (9%), Molybdenum (1%) | Lower Carbon (1.40%), Chromium (14%), Vanadium (3%), Niobium (2%) |
| Edge Retention | Excellent | Excellent |
| Corrosion Resistance | Excellent | Excellent |
| Toughness | Good (for a high hardness steel) | Excellent |
| Wear Resistance | Outstanding | Excellent |
| Sharpness | Excellent | Excellent |
| Ease of Sharpening | Moderate | Moderate |
| Machinability | Moderate | Easier than M390 |
| Price | Higher | Generally Lower |
| Availability | Widely available | Widely available |
| Blade Sharpness Retention | Prolonged | Prolonged |
| Impact Resistance | Moderate | High |
| Edge Stability | Excellent | Excellent |
| Heat Treatability | Critical; requires precise heat treatment | Easier to heat treat |
| Cutting Performance | Superior | Excellent |
| Resilience | Moderate | High |
| Maintenance Requirements | Regular sharpening, moderate maintenance | Regular sharpening, high maintenance |
| Flexibility | Low | Moderate |
| Edge Chipping Resistance | Good | Excellent |
| Blade Strength | High | Very High |
| Edge Retention Under Stress | Maintains well | Maintains well |
| Resistance to Pitting | High | High |
| Edge Stability During Heavy Use | Good | Excellent |
| Wear Resistance Under Load | Excellent | Excellent |
| Resistance to Acids and Bases | High | High |
| Resistance to Abrasion | Excellent | Excellent |
| Edge Stability During Abrasive Use | Excellent | Excellent |
| Edge Stability During High Heat | Excellent | Excellent |
| Resistance to Rust and Stains | High | High |
| Edge Stability During Freezing | Excellent | Excellent |
| Resistance to Impact Forces | Moderate | High |
| Blade Sharpness After Heavy Use | Retains well | Retains well |
| Resistance to Microchipping | Moderate | Excellent |
| Edge Stability in Extreme Cold | Excellent | Excellent |
| Resistance to Wear and Tear | High | High |
| Sharpening Difficulty | Moderate to Difficult | Moderate |
| Resistance to Environmental Factors | Excellent | Excellent |
| Edge Retention Under Abrasive Use | Excellent | Excellent |
| Edge Stability During Twisting | Good | Excellent |
| Resistance to Saltwater | High | High |
| Edge Stability During Moisture | Excellent | Excellent |
| Resistance to Chemical Exposure | High | High |
| Edge Stability During Slicing | Excellent | Excellent |
| Resistance to Oxidation | High | High |
| Overall Performance | Superior | Excellent |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Which Steel is Better for EDC Knives?
M390 and S35VN are great candidates for daily carry (EDC) knives, with superior edge holding and corrosion resistance. The selection may come down to personal taste, with those who value edge retention favoring M390 and those who value ruggedness preferring S35VN.
Q2: Are these steels prone to chipping?
While both steel sheets are noted for their great hardness, S35VN’s toughness makes it more resistant to chipping than M390. And adding niobium to S35VN improves its capacity to endure impact and lateral stress, making it a durable alternative for situations where the knife may be subjected to severe stress.
Q3: Which Steel Is More Cost Effective?
M390 is commonly regarded as a higher-end steel, and knives manufactured from it are priced accordingly. S35VN, while still a high-performance steel, may be found in a wider spectrum of knives, appealing to consumers with different budgets.
Conclusion
Both steels have remarkable characteristics in the M390 vs. S35VN matchup, making them popular selections for premium knives. Understanding the differences between these steels may help you make an informed selection based on your unique needs and preferences, whether you value edge retention, corrosion resistance, toughness, or ease of sharpening. Finally, M390 and S35VN are the pinnacles of knife steel technology, providing discriminating users with cutting-edge performance and durability.
