Two of the most popular steels out there for bushcraft, EDC, and just overall knife use are D2 and 1095. These are two steels that are often used in the same type of knives and can even be found in the same price range. So you can imagine, it would only make sense to compare these two steels to see which is better.
Short Answer:
D2 is slightly cheaper and has better resistance to corrosion than 1095. However, D2 is not as tough, does not have as much wear resistance, nor will D2 hold an edge as well as 1095.
Now that we have looked at the short answer, we can look at each steel in-depth, each steel composition, how the steels compare in-depth, and the best knives in each steel.
In-Depth Look at D2
D2 is a high-carbon, semi-stainless tool steel that is known for its excellent wear resistance and edge retention for its price point.
The full composition of D2 is:
Carbon: 1.5%
Chromium: 12.00%
Vanadium: 0.90%
Molybdenum: 0.80%
Magnesium: 0.45%
Silicon: 0.40%
Sulfur: 0.02%
Wear Resistance: D2 excels in wear resistance and is actually one of the more wear resistant knife steels out there even when compared to higher price range steels.
Edge Retention: When compared to other steels, D2 is a middle-of-the-road steel. It doesn’t quite have the edge retention of some more expensive steels, but it does certainly outperform less expensive steels such as 8Cr13MoV.
Corrosion Resistance: Even though D2 does have the chromium content of a stainless steel, D2 is not a very corrosion resistant steel and will require more maintenance.
In-Depth Look at 1095
1095 is a simple steel that is extremely tough and can take a lot of abuse without chipping or rolling.
Here is what 1095 is made of:
– 0.95% carbon
– 0.4% manganese
– very small traces of phosphorus and sulfur
Toughness: 1095 is known for its exceptional toughness, and, is in fact, one of the, if not the toughest knife steel out there.
Edge Retention: If you were to compare 1095 to steels like M390 or S110V, its edge retention would be lacking. However, if you were to compare it to steels like 8Cr13MoV it would outperform it. So it can be considered the middle of the road.
Corrosion Resistance: Because of the fact that there is no chromium in 1095, it is very susceptible to rust and staining. So you will need to maintain your knife often.
In-Depth Comparison of D2 and 1095
Wear Resistance: D2 outperforms 1095 in wear resistance due to its higher chromium and vanadium content, of which, neither are present in 1095.
Edge Retention: Both these steels will hold a sharp edge for about the same amount of time. However, because 1095 is a tougher steel, it is less likely to have the edge roll or chip (keep in mind this also means that 1095 is harder to resharpen than D2).
Corrosion Resistance: D2 has better corrosion resistance than 1095, although neither is fully stainless. So you can get away with not oiling your D2 blade, but you wouldn’t want to put up your 1095 blade without oil.
Toughness: 1095 is a much tougher steel than D2. So if you are using your knife for bushcraft or cutting through hard objects, 1095 is the way to go.
Best knives in each steel
Now that we have looked at each steel and compared the two steels, we can look at what we have found to be the best knives in each steel.
The SOG Terminus XR – D2
The SOG Terminus XR also has a cryo D2 blade, SOG’s deep carry pocket clip, G10 handle scales, a thumb stud, and a flicker. The Terminus XR is more of an EDC knife, as it’s only 4 inches, closed, in length. The opening is also really smooth–made with the same technology as Benchmade’s previously patented AXIS lock technology.
Click here to see the knife for yourself (Amazon).
Buck Knives Skinner – D2
The Buck knives Skinner is a knife that works great for not only hunting but all kinds of fixed blade tasks. I have used the Skinner for not just hunting but also bushcraft and woodworking. If you want a good all-around fixed-blade knife this is the knife for you.
Check out this knife here (link to Amazon)
ESEE-4P (1095)
The ESEE-4 is a tough versatile fixed blade knife that is 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)
Conclusion
If you prefer a steel that requires a little less matinee and are willing to sacrifice wear resistance and toughness, then D2 is the best option. If you want supreme toughness and good edge retention in return for more maintenance, then you should go with 1095.