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CTS XHP has a modest abrasive edge-retention advantage over MagnaCut, while MagnaCut has substantially higher toughness and corrosion resistance. The half-point wear gap is much smaller than the other differences. For mixed everyday use, MagnaCut offers the more appealing balance when the knives suit you equally well.
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.
| Property | CPM MagnaCut | CTS XHP |
|---|---|---|
| Abrasive edge retention | ||
| Toughness | ||
| Corrosion resistance |
Heat treatment, hardness and geometry affect actual knives.
CTS XHP Offers More Abrasive Wear Resistance
CTS XHP rates 5.5 for abrasive edge retention against MagnaCut at 5. This is a small advantage, not a reason to promise dramatically longer cutting life.
This is Carpenter CTS XHP, not another CTS grade. Confirm the full designation on the maker’s specification.
Our MAGNACUT steel profile explains its properties and care in more detail.
MagnaCut Has the Toughness Advantage
Original MagnaCut rates 7 for toughness against CTS XHP at 5. That two-point difference favors MagnaCut when resistance to chipping matters.
The Erasteel MagnaCut update is kept separate in the rating note. Neither rating excuses using a cutting edge for prying or twisting.
Our XHP steel profile explains its properties and care in more detail.
MagnaCut Has Much More Corrosion Margin
MagnaCut rates 9.5 for corrosion resistance against CTS XHP at 6.5. That is a much larger separation than the wear gap. A general stainless label does not make every grade equally corrosion resistant.
CTS XHP benefits from attentive cleaning and drying, particularly after damp use. We would prefer MagnaCut when lower rust maintenance is important.
Wear or a Broader Practical Balance?
We would favor MagnaCut between equally suitable knives for its greater toughness and corrosion resistance. CTS XHP’s small wear lead can be a secondary consideration, especially if its knife has the better grind or grip for your work.
A favorite CTS XHP knife does not need replacing if it suits your routine. The choice should improve something you need, not just change the material name.
Composition
Our steel composition guide explains the elements and the differences between reported values, ranges and limits.
CPM MagnaCut: Niagara typical composition, mass %; selected elements, not a batch analysis. Niagara Specialty Metals: CPM MagnaCut.
CTS XHP: Carpenter CTS XHP nominal composition, mass %; iron is the balance, not a finished-blade assay. Carpenter Technology: CTS XHP alloy data sheet.
| Element | CPM MagnaCut | CTS XHP |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon (C) | 1.15% | 1.6% |
| Chromium (Cr) | 10.7% | 16% |
| Vanadium (V) | 4% | 0.45% |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | 2% | 0.8% |
| Niobium (Nb) | 2% | Not listed |
| Nitrogen (N) | 0.2% | Not listed |
| Nickel (Ni) | Not listed | 0.35% |
| Manganese (Mn) | Not listed | 0.5% |
| Silicon (Si) | Not listed | 0.4% |
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.
- Niagara Specialty Metals: CPM MagnaCut
- Carpenter Technology: CTS XHP alloy data sheet
