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14C28N and 8Cr13MoV have equal abrasive edge-retention ratings, but 14C28N brings greater toughness and corrosion resistance. For everyday knives, that is a more useful distinction than treating both as interchangeable budget steels.
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 | 8Cr13MoV |
|---|---|---|
| Abrasive edge retention | ||
| Toughness | ||
| Corrosion resistance |
Heat treatment, hardness and geometry affect actual knives.
Equal Wear Does Not Mean Equal Value
Both steels rate 3 for abrasive edge retention. We would not pay more for 14C28N expecting this chart to promise longer cutting through abrasive material.
A well-ground 8Cr13MoV knife can still slice effectively. The wear score does not judge a knife’s handle, blade shape or edge geometry.
Our 14C28N steel profile explains its properties and care in more detail.
14C28N Has More Toughness
14C28N rates 9 for toughness against 8Cr13MoV at 6. That favors 14C28N when resistance to edge damage is important, while leaving room for the actual heat treatment and grind.
A higher score is not permission to pry with a folding knife. The material should support the intended cutting task, not excuse misuse.
Our 8Cr13MoV steel profile explains its properties and care in more detail.
14C28N Also Leads for Corrosion Resistance
The corrosion ratings are 8.5 for 14C28N and 7 for 8Cr13MoV. Both are stainless steels, but 14C28N provides more rated corrosion margin.
This comparison is specifically 8Cr13MoV. Similar-looking names such as 8Cr14MoV should not silently inherit these exact ratings or composition values.
When the Upgrade Makes Sense
For two equally suitable knives at similar prices, we would choose 14C28N for its toughness and corrosion balance. An inexpensive 8Cr13MoV knife can still be a sound choice when its design and price fit the task.
If your current knife mainly needs a better edge, sharpening may be more useful than replacing it. This pair does not offer a rated abrasive-wear upgrade.
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.
8Cr13MoV: Spyderco reported 8Cr13MoV chemistry; values are not individually labeled nominal or typical; not a finished-blade assay. Spyderco: 2026 Steel Chart, 8Cr13MoV.
| Element | 14C28N | 8Cr13MoV |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon (C) | 0.62% | 0.8% |
| Silicon (Si) | 0.2% | 0.5% |
| Manganese (Mn) | 0.6% | 0.4% |
| Chromium (Cr) | 14% | 13% |
| Nitrogen (N) | 0.11% | Not listed |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | Not listed | 0.15% |
| Vanadium (V) | Not listed | 0.1% |
| Nickel (Ni) | Not listed | 0.2% |
| Phosphorus (P) | Not listed | 0.02% |
| Sulfur (S) | Not listed | 0.01% |
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
- Spyderco: 2026 Steel Chart, 8Cr13MoV
