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S35VN has more toughness, while M390 has higher abrasive edge retention and corrosion resistance. This is a genuine tradeoff between two stainless steels, not a simple ranking by reputation. The better fit depends on whether you are trying to limit edge damage, abrasive wear or rust care.
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 | Böhler M390 |
|---|---|---|
| Abrasive edge retention | ||
| Toughness | ||
| Corrosion resistance |
Heat treatment, hardness and geometry affect actual knives.
M390 for More Abrasive Slicing
M390 rates 6.5 for abrasive edge retention and S35VN 5. For repeated abrasive cuts, we would favor M390 when the blade designs are similarly suitable.
That does not make a thick M390 blade a better slicer by default. Look at the grind as well as the material if ease of cutting is the main concern.
Our S35VN steel profile explains its properties and care in more detail.
S35VN Retains a Toughness Advantage
S35VN rates 5 for toughness against M390 at 3.5. We would give S35VN more weight when resistance to chipping is more useful than a higher wear score.
A sensible edge angle remains important with either material. The toughness rating does not make lateral force or rough handling harmless.
Our M390 steel profile explains its properties and care in more detail.
M390 Has the Higher Corrosion Rating
M390 rates 9 for corrosion resistance and S35VN 7.5. Both are stainless, but M390 has the stronger rating for damp carry.
For light cutting in a humid environment, that difference may be more useful than the wear advantage. Keep both clean and dry rather than treating stainless as maintenance-free.
Pick the Property That Matches the Work
Our preference is S35VN when toughness is the leading concern and M390 when abrasive slicing and corrosion resistance carry more weight. The ratings do not establish a universal everyday-carry winner.
If one knife has a clearly better handle or grind for your use, that can reasonably outweigh the steel preference. Choose the whole knife rather than the most impressive label.
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.
Böhler M390: Böhler average composition, mass %; selected elements, not a batch analysis. Böhler: M390 MICROCLEAN.
| Element | CPM S35VN | Böhler M390 |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon (C) | 1.4% | 1.9% |
| Niobium (Nb) | 0.5% | Not listed |
| Chromium (Cr) | 14% | 20% |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | 2% | 1% |
| Vanadium (V) | 3% | 4% |
| Silicon (Si) | Not listed | 0.7% |
| Manganese (Mn) | Not listed | 0.3% |
| Tungsten (W) | Not listed | 0.6% |
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
- Böhler: M390 MICROCLEAN
