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S90V has far more abrasive edge retention than S35VN, while S35VN is tougher. Their corrosion-resistance ratings are equal. This is a clear choice between a wear-focused blade and more resistance to edge damage.
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 S35VN | CPM S90V |
|---|---|---|
| Abrasive edge retention | ||
| Toughness | ||
| Corrosion resistance |
Heat treatment, hardness and geometry affect actual knives.
S90V Has the Larger Wear Reserve
S90V rates 9 for abrasive edge retention and S35VN 5. We would favor S90V when sustained abrasive cutting is a large part of the job.
The difference is not a proportional cutting-time promise. The maker’s treatment and the edge geometry remain important.
Our S35VN steel profile explains its properties and care in more detail.
S35VN Offers More Toughness
S35VN rates 5 for toughness against S90V at 3.5. That matters when you value resistance to chipping more than maximum abrasive wear.
Neither steel makes a thin edge immune to damage. Match the design to the intended work rather than choosing by one property alone.
Our S90V steel profile explains its properties and care in more detail.
No Corrosion Advantage in These Ratings
Both steels rate 7.5 for corrosion resistance. Choosing S90V does not buy a higher corrosion score here.
Both are stainless and benefit from routine cleaning and drying. Let the wear/toughness tradeoff carry more weight than an assumed difference in rust care.
How Much Abrasive Cutting Will You Do?
We would take S90V for a suitable slicing knife that sees frequent abrasive work. We would favor S35VN when toughness and a more appealing knife design are the stronger priorities.
For light everyday use, S90V’s extra wear capability may not be the benefit you notice most. Buy for your actual workload.
Composition
Our steel composition guide explains the elements and the differences between reported values, ranges and limits.
CPM S35VN: Selected nominal/typical values, mass %; not a batch certificate or complete analysis. Niagara Specialty Metals: CPM S35VN.
CPM S90V: Niagara typical composition, mass %; selected elements, not a batch analysis. Niagara Specialty Metals: CPM S90V.
| Element | CPM S35VN | CPM S90V |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon (C) | 1.4% | 2.3% |
| Niobium (Nb) | 0.5% | Not listed |
| Chromium (Cr) | 14% | 14% |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | 2% | 1% |
| Vanadium (V) | 3% | 9% |
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 S35VN
- Niagara Specialty Metals: CPM S90V
