S35VN vs MagnaCut Steel Comparison

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S35VN vs MagnaCut Steel Comparison over a blurred abstract steel background

MagnaCut has the stronger overall set of ratings in this pairing: the same abrasive edge-retention score as S35VN, with higher toughness and corrosion resistance. That makes it an appealing choice for a new knife, but it does not mean an S35VN knife you already enjoy needs replacing.

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.

The toughness score of 7 is for original Crucible MagnaCut. In written feedback to KnifeInformer, Dr. Thomas provided a toughness rating of 8.5 for Erasteel MagnaCut; his January 2026 testing explains the differences between the two versions. This table uses the original version.

Dr. Thomas’s property ratings. Separate scales, not physical percentages or an overall score.
Property	CPM S35VN	CPM MagnaCut
Abrasive edge retention	5	5
Toughness	5	7
Corrosion resistance	7.5	9.5

Heat treatment, hardness and geometry affect actual knives.

The Edge-Retention Scores Are Tied

S35VN and MagnaCut both rate 5 for abrasive edge retention. We would not sell the move to MagnaCut as a guaranteed increase in time between sharpenings. The useful gains in this comparison lie elsewhere.

When choosing between versions of the same knife, look at the maker’s hardness and blade specifications as well as the steel. Equal ratings do not make every S35VN and MagnaCut blade cut identically. A change in edge thickness can be more noticeable in daily slicing than the name on the blade.

For more on S35VN, see our S35VN steel profile.

What the Upgrade Actually Buys

Original MagnaCut rates 7 for toughness versus S35VN at 5, and 9.5 for corrosion resistance versus 7.5. We would lean toward MagnaCut for a new knife that will see frequent wet carry or where resistance to chipping matters.

MagnaCut matches S35VN for abrasive edge retention and leads in toughness and corrosion resistance. Price, design and the quality of the particular knife are the reasons you might still choose S35VN.

For more on MagnaCut, see our MagnaCut steel profile.

Living With Either Steel

Both are stainless steels, but stainless does not mean rust-proof. Rinse off salt or food residue and dry the blade before storage. MagnaCut’s corrosion advantage is useful if damp conditions are routine; occasional dry office carry may give you little reason to notice it.

For sharpening, diamond or cubic boron nitride (CBN) abrasives are practical choices for either steel. Do not read the equal wear ratings as a guarantee of equal sharpening time. The bevel size, damage and how cleanly the burr comes off all affect the job.

Should You Replace an S35VN Knife?

If your S35VN knife cuts well, stays free of rust and holds up at the edge, we would keep using it. Buying MagnaCut solely to obtain a newer steel name is unlikely to be as satisfying as buying a knife that solves a particular problem.

For a fresh purchase with comparable design and price, MagnaCut would be our preference. If the S35VN model has the better ergonomics or costs substantially less, it remains a reasonable choice. Our knife steel guide explains the broader factors to consider.