CPM S110V vs CPM S45VN Knife Steel Comparison

CPM S110V vs. CPM S45VN: Which High-Performance Knife Steel Is Right for You?

For knife enthusiasts and collectors, steel selection is one of the most important considerations when choosing a blade. The right steel can significantly influence edge retention, toughness, corrosion resistance, and overall maintenance. Two modern powder-metallurgy steels that often come up in conversation are CPM S110V and CPM S45VN. Produced by Crucible Industries using the Crucible Particle Metallurgy (CPM) process, these steels combine carefully balanced chemical compositions with advanced manufacturing methods to deliver high performance.

In this article, we’ll explore CPM S110V and CPM S45VN individually, compare their real-world performance, and help you determine which steel best suits your needs.

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1. Overview of CPM S110V

Chemical Composition & Powder Metallurgy

CPM S110V’s composition features high carbon (about 2.8–3.0%), high chromium (up to about 15.25%), and significant quantities of vanadium (8.0–9.0%) and niobium (3.0–3.5%). It also contains cobalt (2.5–3.0%) and molybdenum (2.25%). The powder-metallurgy process refines the grain structure and carbide distribution, leading to improved wear resistance and hardness compared to conventional steels.

Typical Hardness Range & Heat Treatment

Blades made from CPM S110V are typically hardened to around 59–62 HRC. Achieving the right hardness can be challenging because of the steel’s complex alloy matrix. Knife makers must use precise heat-treat protocols—often including multiple preheats, soak times, and carefully controlled quenching—to minimize the risk of distortion or cracking.

Key Performance Characteristics

• Corrosion Resistance: Excellent. CPM S110V resists rust impressively well, making it a great choice for humid environments or marine applications.
• Toughness: Fair. While not overly brittle, it is less forgiving than some other steels under repeated impact, prying, or twisting.
• Edge Retention: Very good. One of the chief appeals of CPM S110V is its ability to hold a keen edge for an extended period—even under heavy use.
• Ease of Sharpening: Fair. Because of its substantial carbide volume, it can be more difficult to sharpen than simpler steels. Diamond stones or high-end sharpening systems are often recommended.

Ideal Uses of CPM S110V

CPM S110V excels in precision-cutting tasks where long-lasting sharpness and corrosion resistance are paramount. You’ll frequently see it in:

• Everyday Carry Folders: Ideal for users who want a knife that retains its edge through daily tasks—from opening packages to light food prep.
• Kitchen Knives: The excellent corrosion resistance comes in handy with wet or acidic foods, while the high edge retention saves time on maintenance.
• Tactical/Survival Knives: Although the toughness is fair, some users prioritize edge longevity in survival situations, especially if they don’t want to sharpen often.

Why Choose It Over Other Steels?

If you prioritize maximum wear resistance and corrosion protection, CPM S110V may be your top choice. For users who value razor-sharp performance over the ease of regular maintenance, it offers an outstanding balance of edge retention and rust resistance.

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2. Overview of CPM S45VN

Chemical Composition & Powder Metallurgy

CPM S45VN is a newer steel in Crucible’s “S” series. Its approximate composition includes 1.46–1.48% carbon, 15–16% chromium, 3% vanadium, 0.5% niobium, 2% molybdenum, and up to 0.5% tungsten (though tungsten content can vary). There’s also a small amount of nitrogen (0.15%). These tweaks in composition compared to S35VN and S30V aim to offer a better balance of corrosion resistance, toughness, and edge retention.

Typical Hardness Range & Heat Treatment

Most knife makers target around 59–61 HRC for CPM S45VN blades, though some may push it slightly higher depending on the application. Heat treatment focuses on balancing hardness and toughness. While not as temperamental as ultra-high-vanadium steels, it still requires a carefully controlled soak, quench, and tempering schedule to achieve the characteristic blend of properties.

Key Performance Characteristics

• Corrosion Resistance: Excellent. The higher chromium content (≈16%) and niobium refinement enhance its ability to resist rust.
• Toughness: Good. CPM S45VN performs well when subjected to moderate impacts or twisting forces—more so than the “fair” toughness of CPM S110V.
• Edge Retention: Good. Although not as high as S110V’s “very good,” it still outperforms many mainstream steels by maintaining a sharp edge longer.
• Ease of Sharpening: Good. While it’s not “beginner friendly” like simple carbon steels, it’s less intimidating to sharpen than S110V or extremely high carbide steels.

Ideal Uses of CPM S45VN

• Bushcraft & Outdoor Blades: The good toughness combined with excellent stain resistance ensures reliability in varied outdoor conditions.
• Everyday Carry & General Utility: Between good edge retention, easier sharpening, and excellent rust resistance, CPM S45VN is a well-rounded choice.
• Kitchen Knives: Like S110V, its stainless properties are beneficial in food prep, though it may need slightly more frequent touch-ups compared to S110V.

Why Choose It Over Other Steels?

CPM S45VN is selected by those who want a balanced steel that is easier to sharpen and tougher than some of the ultra wear-resistant steels. It’s a refinement of proven designs like S30V and S35VN, aiming for a sweet spot of high performance without the drawbacks of very high carbide steels.

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3. Side-by-Side Comparison

Below is a quick comparison of CPM S110V and CPM S45VN in key categories:

	CPM S110V	CPM S45VN
Corrosion Resistance	Excellent	Excellent
Toughness	Fair	Good
Edge Retention	Very good	Good
Ease of Sharpening	Fair	Good
Ideal HRC Range	~59–62	~59–61
Notable Traits	Superior wear resistance, high carbide<br>volume, best for edge longevity	Balanced performance, improved<br>toughness vs. older S-series steels

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4. Detailed Alloy Element Effects

• Carbon (C): Boosts hardness and edge retention. S110V has significantly higher carbon, contributing to its pronounced wear resistance, though making it more challenging to sharpen.
• Chromium (Cr): Responsible for stainless properties. Both steels have enough chromium to qualify as stainless, offering excellent corrosion resistance.
• Vanadium (V): Increases wear resistance and contributes to grain refinement. S110V’s higher vanadium content is a key factor in its impressive edge retention. S45VN, with slightly less vanadium, is still highly wear resistant but remains easier to sharpen.
• Niobium (Nb): A powerful carbide former that refines grain structure and further improves toughness and wear resistance.
• Molybdenum (Mo): Enhances hardenability, strength, and corrosion resistance.
• Cobalt (Co in S110V): Helps increase red hardness (resistance to softening at high temperatures during heat treatment) and can improve overall wear resistance.
• Tungsten (W in S45VN): Present in small amounts (up to ~0.5%), can also help refine carbides and contribute to wear resistance.

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5. Heat-Treatment Nuances & Forging

Both CPM S110V and CPM S45VN are typically not forged in the way simpler carbon steels might be. Instead, they are most often stock-removal steels because achieving uniform temperatures in forging can be challenging due to their high alloy content.

• CPM S110V: Known to require careful handling during heat treatment. The steel’s high carbide volume can lead to issues such as warping or cracking if temperatures and soak times are not strictly controlled. Multiple preheating steps and a rigorous quenching process are common.
• CPM S45VN: Generally less finicky than S110V but still benefits from carefully managed heat-treatment protocols. It is less prone to warping compared to S110V but can still be difficult for less-experienced makers.

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6. Patina Formation & Protective Coatings

Since both CPM S110V and CPM S45VN contain high levels of chromium, they are considered stainless steels that do not typically form a patina under normal use. Their corrosion resistance is excellent, so patina formation—commonly seen in carbon steels like 1095 or W2—is rare or practically nonexistent. Knife owners looking for a classic patina look may be disappointed with these steels. In most cases, surface coloration from acidic foods will wipe away without leaving a patina.

Protective coatings are not usually necessary for these steels due to their high resistance to rust. However, some manufacturers may still apply coatings or stonewash finishes for aesthetic reasons or to minimize glare and scratches.

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7. Real-World Applications & User Preferences

Bushcraft & Survival

• CPM S110V: Its “fair” toughness might be a concern for heavy batoning or prying, although the steel’s high wear resistance is advantageous for repeated cutting in the field with minimal sharpening.
• CPM S45VN: With “good” toughness, it fares better if you anticipate heavier impact tasks. Although it may not hold an edge quite as long as S110V, it’s still high-performing and more forgiving.

Everyday Carry (EDC)

• CPM S110V: Excellent choice if you insist on infrequent sharpening. Just remember that sharpening once it becomes dull is more labor-intensive.
• CPM S45VN: A balanced approach—plenty of edge retention for daily tasks and easier to touch up.

Kitchen Use

• CPM S110V: Because of its outstanding corrosion resistance, it’s less susceptible to staining from acidic foods and offers extremely long cutting performance before needing a hone or strop.
• CPM S45VN: Also excellent corrosion resistance, plus easier maintenance. If you don’t mind slightly more frequent touch-ups, this is a highly reliable option.

Tactical or Military

• CPM S110V: The extremely long-lasting edge can be beneficial in extended operations. However, potential brittleness under lateral stress is a consideration.
• CPM S45VN: Good all-around performance, including better toughness.

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8. Cost, Availability & Maintenance

• Cost: CPM S110V blades can be more expensive, reflecting the cost of raw materials and the challenges in manufacturing and heat treatment. CPM S45VN, while also a premium steel, is sometimes slightly less expensive.
• Availability: Both steels can be found from major knife manufacturers and custom makers, though S45VN is relatively newer on the market. S110V models are often offered as high-end variants in popular knife lines.
• Maintenance: Neither steel requires as much care as carbon steels (minimal oiling is needed). However, S110V’s “fair” ease of sharpening means you might need specialized diamond equipment or extra patience. S45VN is “good” to sharpen with modern ceramic or diamond systems and simpler to maintain overall.

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9. Pros & Cons

CPM S110V

Pros

• Extremely long edge retention
• Excellent resistance to rust
• Premium aesthetic and performance appeal

Cons

• Limited toughness (fair)
• More challenging to sharpen
• Often priced higher

CPM S45VN

Pros

• Good balance of edge retention, toughness, and corrosion resistance
• Easier to sharpen than S110V
• Generally slightly more affordable

Cons

• Edge retention, while still good, is not as extreme as S110V
• May not be quite as ubiquitous yet as older steels (like S30V)

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10. Summary & Recommendations

Choosing between CPM S110V and CPM S45VN ultimately depends on your primary objectives:

• For those who prioritize the absolute longest edge life and have proper sharpening equipment on hand, CPM S110V stands out. Its excellent corrosion resistance makes it a dependable option for environments where moisture or saltwater exposure is a concern. However, expect reduced toughness and a more demanding sharpening experience.

• If you’re looking for a well-balanced steel that still offers excellent corrosion resistance, good toughness for more abusive tasks, and greater ease of sharpening, CPM S45VN is an outstanding choice. It is a natural evolution of the S-series steels, aiming to refine rather than push extremes.

Whether you prefer a high-performance folder for EDC, a reliable outdoors knife for bushcraft, or a kitchen blade that excels at resisting stains and wear, both steels will serve you well. The final decision may come down to how often you plan on sharpening your knife and how intensely you plan on using—or potentially abusing—it.

In short:

• CPM S110V → Best for those seeking top-tier wear resistance and who don’t mind a steeper sharpening curve.
• CPM S45VN → Better all-around performer with good toughness and easier maintenance, suitable for more varied or demanding applications.

By understanding the typical hardness ranges, alloy composition, heat-treatment nuances, and practical implications of both steels, you can select the one that fits your usage style and maintenance preferences. Whichever you choose, you’ll have a high-quality CPM steel that stands at the forefront of modern knife metallurgy—ready to provide excellent performance for years to come.

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