While 8Cr13MoV and 80CrV2 are two similar-sounding steels, and they have similar compositions, they still have some important differences. They also have different uses as well as how they behave under conditions which should be considered before you buy one of these two steels. So in this article, we will go over each steel to see which is better and why.

Here is the short answer:

8Cr13MoV is less expensive and is better for EDC as it is easier to sharpen and is more corrosion resistant. 80CrV2 is an overall better steel that is tougher and has better edge retention.

Now that we have looked at the short answer, we can look in-depth at each steel, how the steels compare, and the best knives in each steel.

Deep dive on 8Cr13MoV

8Cr13MoV is a budget-friendly stainless steel that is widely used in the knife industry. Its composition includes:

– 0.8% carbon

– 13% chromium

– 0.2% manganese

– 0.3% molybdenum

– 0.1% vanadium

8Cr13MoV is relatively easy to sharpen with good corrosion resistance. However, it is not as hard as some other steels and may wear down faster with frequent use. In general, 8Cr13MoV is suitable for knives that will be used for light to moderate tasks, such as slicing and general utility tasks but is not ideal for heavy use.

Deep dive on 80CrV2

80CrV2 is a very well-balanced steel that is known for its toughness and durability. Its composition includes:

– 0.8% carbon

– 0.4% silicon

– 0.6% manganese

– 2% chromium

– 0.2% vanadium

This steel is heat-treated to a high hardness level and is popular among machinists and bladesmiths for its excellent edge retention as well as being able to handle tougher tasks. However, because of its lower chromium content, it won’t hold up as well to corrosive environments.

8Cr13MoV versus 80CrV2

80CrV2 is a tougher steel than 8Cr13MoV due to its higher heat treatment temperature and greater presence of balancing and hardening elements. This makes it a better steel for tasks such as bushcraft or camping where you will need to have a tough knife that can withstand a lot of punishment.

Because 80CrV2 is tougher than 8Cr13MoV is it only natural that it would have better edge retention. While there are many factors to edge retention such as heat treatment, angle of the bevel, and composition of the steel, the tougher the steel, the harder it is for it to lose it edge

8Cr13MoV does have the advantage of being easier to sharpen but it will lose its edge faster. Additionally, it is easier to get a razor-sharp edge on an 8Cr13MoV blade.

Because of the higher chromium content, 8Cr13MoV is going to hold up far better to corrosion. So if you are dealing with humid environments or have to use your knife in or near water, go for 8Cr13MoV.

Best knives in each steel

Because we have looked at each steel and how they compare, we can see what the best knives in each steel are from our research.

Kershaw Outright (8Cr13MoV)

The outright is an inexpensive EDC knife that is ideal for everyday tasks. This knife has a 3-inch blade, is 4 inches when closed, has a flicker and thumb studs on both sides with assisted opening, and a deep carry pocket clip. If you want a knife that is high quality and doesn’t break the bank, this is the carry knife for you. 

Check out this knife here (link to Amazon)

Winkler Knives II Woodsman Black Micarta (80CrV2)

This is an all-around tough knife that is made for everything outdoors from batoning wood to skinning game. This knife has a 4.25-inch blade, a black micarta handle, a skeletonized tang, and a black oxide finish to minimize glare and repel rust. If you want a tough blade with a sleek look and good finish, you should look at this knife.

Check out this knife here (link to Amazon)

Conclusion

8Cr13MoV and 80CrV2 are both popular steels that offer different strengths and weaknesses. 8Cr13MoV is a budget-friendly option that is easy to sharpen and has good corrosion resistance. 80CrV2, on the other hand, is a higher-quality steel that is better suited for heavy-duty tasks.