Two popular steels that are in the same knife class are 7Cr17MoV and VG-10. Because these two steels are in the same class it is only fair that we compare them to see which steel is better and why. So in this article, we will compare both steels to see which one is better.
Short Answer:
7Cr17MoV is more corrosion resistant and is easier to sharpen when compared to VG-10. However, VG-10 has better edge retention and is tougher, but is more expensive.
Since we have seen the short answer, we can look in-depth at each steel, how they compare, and the best knives in each steel.
Deep Dive on 7Cr17MoV
7Cr17MoV is a popular stainless steel that is often used in budget-friendly knives. The steel is a modified form of 440A stainless steel, with added vanadium and molybdenum to improve its performance. The steel’s composition is as follows:
– 0.7% carbon
– 17% chromium
– 1.3% molybdenum
– 0.1% vanadium
– 0.12% silicon
– 0.05% manganese
While 7Cr17MoV offers good corrosion resistance and hardness, it may not hold an edge as well as higher-end steels due to its lower carbon content. However, it is an affordable option for those on a budget.
Deep Dive on VG-10
VG-10 is a high-quality steel that is often used in high-end cutlery. It was developed in Japan specifically for kitchen knives and offers excellent edge retention, corrosion resistance, and hardness. VG-10’s steel composition is as follows:
– 1.0% carbon
– 15% chromium
– 1.5% cobalt
– 0.5% molybdenum
– 0.2% vanadium
– 1.5% nickel
VG-10’s high carbon content and the addition of cobalt give it excellent edge retention, while the high nickel content provides good corrosion resistance. This makes VG-10 a top choice for those who want a high-quality steel that can hold up under heavy use.
7Cr17MoV versus VG-10
When comparing 7Cr17MoV and VG-10, there are some key differences to consider.
Price is going to be a big difference between the two steels. VG-10 is going to be more expensive than 7Cr17MoV due to its use of better materials. Because VG-10 has better materials depending on what you use your knife for it may bt the better choice.
VG-10 has better edge retention due to its better use of materials and is also going to be able to take more of a beating when compare to 7Cr17MoV. So if you need a steel that is going to be able to hold up pretty well VG-10 is the better choice.
Overall, the choice between 7Cr17MoV and VG-10 will depend on your specific needs and budget. If you are looking for an affordable option with good corrosion resistance and hardness, 7Cr17MoV may be a good choice. However, if you want a high-quality steel that offers excellent performance and can withstand heavy use, VG-10 is the way to go.
Best knives in each steel
Now that we have looked at each steel and how the steels compare, we can look at the best knives in each steel from our research at Bladefun.
Gerber EXO-MOD Drop Point (7cr17MoV)
The Gerber EXO-MOD Drop Point is a skeletonized fixed-blade knife that is very versatile. This knife has an orange handle to ensure you never lose it in the field, has a 3.7-inch, overall length of 8.5 inches, and weighs a mere 2.6 ounces. If you want an affordable lightweight fixed blade, this might be the knife for you.
Check out this knife here (link to Amazon)
Spyderco Leafjumper (VG-10)
This knife is a high-quality knife that delivers in all ways for a hunting knife. The Leafjumper has a 3-inch blade, an FRN (fiberglass reinforced) handle, a back lock for extra locking strength, and a thumb hole so it won’t get snagged on your pocket when you draw it. If you want a high quality EDC knife this is a knife you should look at.