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14C28N is much tougher than N690 in Larrin Thomas’s ratings, while N690 offers higher abrasive edge retention. Their corrosion ratings are close. This gives a clear starting point for choosing between stainless blades with different edge priorities.
Performance Ratings
For the science, we turn to Dr. Larrin Thomas of Knife Steel Nerds, who has kindly allowed us to share his ratings here.
| Property | 14C28N | Böhler N690 |
|---|---|---|
| Abrasive edge retention | ||
| Toughness | ||
| Corrosion resistance |
Heat treatment, hardness and geometry affect actual knives.
14C28N Has the Larger Toughness Margin
14C28N rates 9 for toughness against N690 at 3.5. We would strongly favor 14C28N on this property when resistance to chipping is important.
That does not remove the limits of a thin tip or edge. Match the knife’s geometry to the job rather than treating toughness as permission for lateral force.
Our 14C28N steel profile explains its properties and care in more detail.
N690 Favors Abrasive Wear
N690 rates 4.5 for abrasive edge retention and 14C28N 3. For repeated abrasive slicing, N690 has the advantage in this framework.
The score does not measure initial sharpness. Either steel needs a properly formed edge, and the grind can influence cutting effort more than the material name.
Our N690 steel profile explains its properties and care in more detail.
Both Offer Stainless Corrosion Resistance
The corrosion scores are 8.5 for 14C28N and 8 for N690. That is a small gap between stainless steels; we would not make it a major buying distinction on its own.
Cleaning and drying after use remain sensible for both. If saltwater exposure is expected, evaluate the entire knife and the maker’s intended use.
Which Tradeoff Fits Your Knife?
We would choose 14C28N when toughness is central and N690 when abrasive wear is the more pressing concern. The corrosion difference is too small to carry the decision by itself.
If one model has a better handle or blade shape, give that proper weight. A steel comparison works best after you have chosen the kind of knife you actually need.
Composition
Our steel composition guide explains the elements and the differences between reported values, ranges and limits.
14C28N: Alleima nominal composition, mass %; selected elements, not a batch analysis. Alleima: 14C28N datasheet.
Böhler N690: Böhler N690 average composition, mass %; not a finished-blade assay. Böhler: N690.
| Element | 14C28N | Böhler N690 |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon (C) | 0.62% | 1.08% |
| Silicon (Si) | 0.2% | 0.4% |
| Manganese (Mn) | 0.6% | 0.4% |
| Chromium (Cr) | 14% | 17.3% |
| Nitrogen (N) | 0.11% | Not listed |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | Not listed | 1.1% |
| Vanadium (V) | Not listed | 0.1% |
| Cobalt (Co) | Not listed | 1.5% |
Compare Two Knife Steels
Sources and Update Notes
- Dr. Larrin Thomas: knife steel ratings · Property ratings; the scores describe steels rather than individual finished knives.
- Alleima: 14C28N datasheet
- Böhler: N690
