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S35VN offers more abrasive edge retention, while 14C28N has higher toughness and corrosion ratings. That makes 14C28N a meaningful alternative rather than merely the less expensive name on a specification sheet.
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 | CPM S35VN |
|---|---|---|
| Abrasive edge retention | ||
| Toughness | ||
| Corrosion resistance |
Heat treatment, hardness and geometry affect actual knives.
S35VN for Wear-Heavy Cutting
S35VN rates 5 for abrasive edge retention against 14C28N at 3. We would favor S35VN for repeated abrasive slicing when the knives have comparable geometry.
For short, occasional cuts, the extra wear resistance may not change much about your day. A comfortable handle and useful blade shape can matter more.
Our 14C28N steel profile explains its properties and care in more detail.
14C28N Gives More Toughness Margin
14C28N rates 9 for toughness and S35VN 5. That makes 14C28N attractive when avoiding edge damage is a stronger priority than abrasive wear.
The finished edge still has to suit the work. A very thin bevel should not be treated as damage-proof because the underlying steel is tough.
Our S35VN steel profile explains its properties and care in more detail.
14C28N Rates Higher for Corrosion Too
The corrosion scores are 8.5 for 14C28N and 7.5 for S35VN. Both are stainless options; 14C28N leads this property in the comparison.
If the knife is for damp carry and modest cutting volume, that combination of toughness and corrosion resistance may be more useful than S35VN’s wear advantage.
Compare Designs Before Paying for Steel
We would choose S35VN when abrasive dulling is the main limitation and 14C28N when toughness is more important. Neither choice requires treating price as a material ranking.
Check the actual model, grind and asking price. A good 14C28N knife can fit your work better even when you can afford the S35VN alternative.
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.
CPM S35VN: Selected nominal/typical values, mass %; not a batch certificate or complete analysis. Niagara Specialty Metals: CPM S35VN.
| Element | 14C28N | CPM S35VN |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon (C) | 0.62% | 1.4% |
| Silicon (Si) | 0.2% | Not listed |
| Manganese (Mn) | 0.6% | Not listed |
| Chromium (Cr) | 14% | 14% |
| Nitrogen (N) | 0.11% | 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.
- Alleima: 14C28N datasheet
- Niagara Specialty Metals: CPM S35VN
