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S35VN offers more abrasive edge retention than 420HC, but 420HC has the higher toughness rating. Both are stainless steels with close corrosion scores. This is a comparison of different strengths rather than a simple move from cheap steel to good steel.
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 | 420HC | CPM S35VN |
|---|---|---|
| Abrasive edge retention | ||
| Toughness | ||
| Corrosion resistance |
Heat treatment, hardness and geometry affect actual knives.
S35VN Has More Wear Resistance
S35VN rates 5 for abrasive edge retention and 420HC 2.5. For repeated abrasive slicing, we would favor S35VN when the knife designs are comparable.
The difference does not translate directly into twice the cutting time. The rating is not a physical measurement of how many cuts your particular knife will make.
Our 420HC steel profile explains its properties and care in more detail.
420HC Keeps the Toughness Advantage
420HC rates 9 for toughness against S35VN at 5. If you value resistance to chipping, that is a substantial part of 420HC’s appeal.
A maker still needs to match treatment and edge geometry to the intended job. Neither score is a guarantee about a thin tip, a poorly formed edge or improper use.
Our S35VN steel profile explains its properties and care in more detail.
Both Are Stainless Options
The corrosion scores are 8 for 420HC and 7.5 for S35VN. The half-point difference is small, so the larger toughness and wear differences deserve more attention.
Confirm the exact 420HC designation when shopping. Broad 420 labels and unclear listings do not establish the material represented here.
What Is Worth Paying For?
We would choose S35VN when additional wear resistance would be useful and 420HC when toughness and the knife’s design fit the work better. Compare the actual prices rather than assuming the steel sets the value.
A comfortable 420HC knife is not automatically a worse purchase. The upgrade should give you a benefit you will use, not just a different name on the blade.
Composition
Our steel composition guide explains the elements and the differences between reported values, ranges and limits.
420HC: Cleveland-Cliffs typical 420HC composition, mass %. P, S and Ni are labeled Max in the table; its footnote says these typical values are not specification limits or a universal grade certificate. Cleveland-Cliffs: Martensitic Stainless Steel Comparator.
CPM S35VN: Selected nominal/typical values, mass %; not a batch certificate or complete analysis. Niagara Specialty Metals: CPM S35VN.
| Element | 420HC | CPM S35VN |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon (C) | 0.42% | 1.4% |
| Manganese (Mn) | 0.4% | Not listed |
| Phosphorus (P) | ≤0.04% | Not listed |
| Sulfur (S) | ≤0.01% | Not listed |
| Silicon (Si) | 0.5% | Not listed |
| Chromium (Cr) | 12.8% | 14% |
| Nickel (Ni) | ≤0.5% | Not listed |
| Niobium (Nb) | Not listed | 0.5% |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | Not listed | 2% |
| Vanadium (V) | Not listed | 3% |
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.
- Cleveland-Cliffs: Martensitic Stainless Steel Comparator
- Niagara Specialty Metals: CPM S35VN
