7Cr17MoV and 1095 are both steels that often compete with each other and are found in the same price range of knives. Which begs the question, which steel is better? In this article, we will explore both steels in-depth, looking at their composition, properties, and how they stack up against each other.

Here is the short answer:

7Cr17Mov is a more corrosion resistant steel than 1095. However, 1095 has better edge retention, is harder steel, and is tougher.

Now that we have looked at the short answer, we can look closer at each steel, what their composition is, what their best uses are, how they compare in-depth, and the best knives in each steel.

Deep dive on 7Cr17MoV (including steel composition)

7Cr17MoV is a popular Chinese-made stainless steel, which is extremely similar to 440A stainless steel. 7Cr17MoV is a budget steel so it is lacking in toughness and edge retention. Its steel composition is as follows:

0.75% carbon

17% chromium

1.3% molybdenum

0.1% vanadium

0.2% nickel

0.02% phosphorus

0.03% sulfur

The carbon content of 7Cr17MoV steel is comparable to that of 440C steel. The chromium content provides enhanced resistance to corrosion and wear, while the presence of molybdenum and vanadium improves its strength and toughness.

Deep dive on 1095 (including steel composition)

1095 steel is a type of high-carbon steel that is known for its durability and toughness. The main application of 1095 is bushcrafting as it is a very tough steel that is good at taking a hit and not being phased. Its steel composition is as follows:

0.95% – 1.03% carbon

0.40% manganese

0.15% – 0.30% silicon

0.25% – 0.50% phosphorus

0.05% sulfur

The high carbon content of 1095 steel makes it extremely hard and strong, but also brittle. The manganese content improves its toughness, while the silicon content acts as a deoxidizer, making the steel easier to forge.

Deeper answer on 7Cr17MoV versus 1095 

When it comes to 7Cr17MoV versus 1095 steel, the main difference between the two is in their properties. 7Cr17MoV steel is a stainless steel, which makes it more resistant to corrosion than 1095 steel. This makes it a great choice for knives that will be used in damp or wet environments. 

On the other hand, 1095 steel is a high-carbon steel, which means that it is harder and holds an edge better than 7Cr17MoV steel. This makes it an excellent choice for knives that will be used for heavy-duty cutting tasks. However, because of its high carbon content, 1095 steel is more brittle and can chip or crack more easily.

Our favorite knives in each steel

Now that we have looked closer at each steel and how they compare in-depth we can look at what we at Bladefun have found to be the best knives in each steel.

ESEE-4P (1095)

The ESEE-4 is a tough versatile fixed blade knife perfect for bushcraft and survival. This knife has a 4.5-inch blade, a 3.5-inch G-10 handle, an ambidextrous polymer sheath, a textured powder coat finish, and weighs 8 ounces. If you want a tough sleek knife that is versatile and reliable, this is the fixed blade for you. 

Check out this knife here (link to Amazon)

Gerber EXO-MOD Drop Point (7cr17MoV)

The Gerber EXO-MOD Drop Point is a fixed-blade hunting knife that can handle any hunting task. This knife has an orange skeletonized handle to ensure you never lose it in the field and to shave weight, has a 3.75-inch blade, has an overall length of 8.5 inches, and weighs a mere 2.6 ounces. If you want an affordable lightweight hunting knife, this might be the knife for you.

Check out this knife here (link to Amazon)

Conclusion

The choice between 7Cr17MoV and 1095 steel will depend on what you plan to use the knife for. If you need a knife that will be resistant to corrosion, 7Cr17MoV steel is the way to go. But if you are looking for a highly durable, hard knife that can hold an edge, 1095 steel is the better choice.