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S90V has the higher abrasive edge-retention rating, despite the larger number in S110V’s name. S110V instead offers greater corrosion resistance. Both are stainless steels focused on wear resistance, with a small toughness difference.
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 | CPM S110V | CPM S90V |
|---|---|---|
| Abrasive edge retention | ||
| Toughness | ||
| Corrosion resistance |
Heat treatment, hardness and geometry affect actual knives.
S90V Leads Abrasive Edge Retention
S90V rates 9 for abrasive edge retention and S110V 8. Do not read the grade numbers as a performance ranking.
For prolonged abrasive slicing, we would favor S90V when the actual knives are comparable. The one-point difference does not set a fixed sharpening interval.
Our S110V steel profile explains its properties and care in more detail.
A Small Toughness Difference
S90V rates 3.5 for toughness and S110V 3. Neither is a toughness-focused choice in this framework.
We would avoid making that half-point gap the main buying argument. More importantly, choose a sensible edge and a knife suited to the work.
Our S90V steel profile explains its properties and care in more detail.
S110V Has More Corrosion Resistance
S110V rates 9 for corrosion resistance against S90V at 7.5. That is its clearer advantage in this comparison.
For damp carry with a wear-resistant blade, S110V can be attractive. Both still need cleaning and appropriate storage.
Do Not Buy by the Larger Number
We would choose S90V for the stronger wear rating and S110V when extra corrosion margin is more useful. Compare the grind, handle and actual price before deciding.
If you already like one of these steels, the other is not a universal step up. They distribute their strengths differently.
Composition
Our steel composition guide explains the elements and the differences between reported values, ranges and limits.
CPM S110V: Niagara typical composition for the later S110V formulation, selected elements. Niagara Specialty Metals: CPM S110V.
CPM S90V: Niagara typical composition, mass %; selected elements, not a batch analysis. Niagara Specialty Metals: CPM S90V.
| Element | CPM S110V | CPM S90V |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon (C) | 2.8% | 2.3% |
| Chromium (Cr) | 15.25% | 14% |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | 2.25% | 1% |
| Vanadium (V) | 9% | 9% |
| Niobium (Nb) | 3% | Not listed |
| Cobalt (Co) | 2.5% | Not listed |
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 S110V
- Niagara Specialty Metals: CPM S90V
