CPM-M4 and CPM-20CV are both high-performance tool steels that are commonly used in the production of knives. While both steels are known for their excellent toughness and wear resistance, they each have their own unique properties that make them ideal for different types of knives.
Here’s the short answer:
CPM-M4 and CPM-20CV are both excellent choices for high-performance knives, but they each have different strengths. CPM-M4 is known for its exceptional toughness and wear resistance, while CPM-20CV has excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance.
With the short answer out of the way, let’s take a closer look at each steel and which one is better.
Deep Dive on CPM-M4
CPM-M4 is a high-speed tool steel that was developed by Crucible Industries. It is known for its exceptional toughness, wear resistance, and edge retention. CPM-M4 is a carbon steel that also contains molybdenum, tungsten, and vanadium. This unique combination of elements results in a steel that is capable of maintaining a razor-sharp edge even under heavy use.
The steel composition of CPM-M4 is as follows:
- 1.42% carbon
- 4.0% chromium
- 5.25% molybdenum
- 5.5% tungsten
- 4.0% vanadium
The high amounts of molybdenum, tungsten, and vanadium make CPM-M4 an extremely tough and wear-resistant steel. However, it is not a stainless steel and can be prone to rust and corrosion if not properly cared for.
Deep Dive on CPM-20CV
CPM-20CV is a high-performance stainless steel that was developed by Crucible Industries in collaboration with knife maker Chris Reeve. It is known for its exceptional edge retention, corrosion resistance, and toughness. CPM-20CV is a complex steel that contains a high amount of chromium, as well as molybdenum, vanadium, and tungsten.
The steel composition of CPM-20CV is as follows:
- 1.9% carbon
- 20% chromium
- 1% molybdenum
- 4% vanadium
- 1% tungsten
The high amounts of chromium, molybdenum, vanadium, and tungsten in CPM-20CV make it an extremely corrosion-resistant and wear-resistant steel. It is also capable of holding a razor-sharp edge for an extended period of time, making it an excellent choice for knives that will be used for cutting and slicing.
CPM-M4 versus CPM-20CV
When it comes to toughness and wear resistance, CPM-M4 is the clear winner. Its high carbon content and unique combination of elements make it an extremely tough and wear-resistant steel that is capable of withstanding heavy use without chipping or cracking. However, it is not as corrosion-resistant as CPM-20CV and can be prone to rust and corrosion if not properly cared for.
On the other hand, CPM-20CV is a stainless steel that is highly resistant to rust and corrosion. Its high chromium content makes it an excellent choice for knives that will be used in wet or humid environments. It is also capable of holding a razor-sharp edge for an extended period of time, making it an excellent choice for knives that will be used for cutting and slicing. However, it is not as tough or wear-resistant as CPM-M4.
Recommended Knives
Here’s our list of recommended knives for each steel.
Benchmade Bailout – CPM-M4
The Benchmade Bailout has Benchmade’s signature AXIS lock (which makes for super smooth opening and closing), an aluminum handle, a CPM-M4 tanto-shaped blade, and weighs just 2.72 ounces. Overall, this is a high-end knife that will serve you well.
Check it out here (link to Amazon).
Zero Tolerance 0308 – CPM-20CV
Zero Tolerance is made by the same parent company that makes Kershaw knives, so you might see some similarities there if you’re familiar with Kershaw. The 0308 has a G10 handle scale with a titanium back, 20CV steel, a reversible pocket clip, a flipper for opening, and a ball bearing pivot that makes for smooth opening.
Check it out here (link to Amazon).
Conclusion
Both CPM-M4 and CPM-20CV are excellent choices for high-performance knives. The choice between the two will depend on the specific needs and preferences of the user. If toughness and wear resistance are the most important factors, then CPM-M4 is the better choice. However, if corrosion resistance and edge retention are the most important factors, then CPM-20CV is the better choice. It is important to note that both of these steels are considered premium, high-performance steels and are typically used in high-end knives that are designed for heavy use.
Ultimately, the choice between CPM-M4 and CPM-20CV will come down to personal preference and the intended use of the knife. If you need a knife that is extremely tough and wear-resistant and don’t mind the extra maintenance required to keep it from rusting, then CPM-M4 is the way to go. If you need a knife that is highly resistant to rust and corrosion and has excellent edge retention, then CPM-20CV is the better choice.