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Elmax and S45VN have identical ratings for abrasive edge retention, toughness and corrosion resistance in the framework used here. That makes this a particularly clear case for comparing the knives, not trying to manufacture a steel winner.
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 | Elmax | CPM S45VN |
|---|---|---|
| Abrasive edge retention | ||
| Toughness | ||
| Corrosion resistance |
Heat treatment, hardness and geometry affect actual knives.
All Three Scores Are Equal
Both rate 5.5 for abrasive edge retention, 4 for toughness and 8 for corrosion resistance. There is no rated advantage to assign to either steel.
Equal scores are not proof that every heat treatment or blade performs identically. They simply give no basis for a broad material winner here.
Our ELMAX steel profile explains its properties and care in more detail.
Look Closely at the Grind
Blade thickness and edge geometry can change cutting effort and damage tolerance. Those differences can be more noticeable than the steel choice between these two.
For slicing, compare the actual edge and blade shape. For a larger outdoor knife, consider whether the design is appropriate for the intended work.
Our S45VN steel profile explains its properties and care in more detail.
Both Are Stainless Choices
Both steels share the same corrosion rating. Normal cleaning and drying apply to each, especially after corrosive exposure.
A coating, finish or different handle construction can change ownership details without changing the steel-level scores shown here.
Choose the Better Fit
We would buy the knife with the better grip, grind, dimensions and value for your needs. Either steel can be a sensible choice in a well-executed design.
There is no need to replace a satisfactory Elmax knife with S45VN, or the reverse, just to improve these ratings: they do not change.
Composition
Our steel composition guide explains the elements and the differences between reported values, ranges and limits.
Elmax: Producer-listed typical chemistry, mass %. Uddeholm: Elmax SuperClean.
CPM S45VN: Selected nominal/typical values, mass %; not a batch certificate or complete analysis. Niagara Specialty Metals: CPM S45VN.
| Element | Elmax | CPM S45VN |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon (C) | 1.7% | 1.48% |
| Silicon (Si) | 0.8% | Not listed |
| Manganese (Mn) | 0.3% | Not listed |
| Chromium (Cr) | 18% | 16% |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | 1% | 2% |
| Vanadium (V) | 3% | 3% |
| Niobium (Nb) | Not listed | 0.5% |
| Nitrogen (N) | Not listed | 0.15% |
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.
- Uddeholm: Elmax SuperClean
- Niagara Specialty Metals: CPM S45VN
