S30V and CPM-20CV are two steels that are considered to be among the best and most well-rounded of all the steels out there. However, they have differences that should be compared so you know which steel is better and why. 

Short Answer: Comparing S30V to CPM-20CV

S30V is a more well-rounded steel that is good in all aspects a knife can be good at with no downsides. CPM-20CV, on the other hand, is a steel with better edge retention, better corrosion resistance, and is a harder steel. However, CPM-20CV is a less tough steel than S30V. 

Now that we have looked at the short answer, we can look at each steel individually, each steels composition, how they compare to each other, and the best knives in each steel. 

In-Depth Look at S30V

S30V is a powdered metallurgy stainless steel, specifically designed for high-performance knives.

Here is the composition of S30V:

1.45% carbon

14% chromium

2% molybdenum

4% vanadium

Edge Retention: Because of the mix of high carbon and chromium, S30V is a very good at keeping its edge. 

Corrosion Resistance: S30V exhibits good resistance to corrosion, making it suitable for knives used in various environments.

Sharpening: While it holds an edge well, some users find it a bit challenging to sharpen compared to simpler less tough steels.

Toughness: This is another area where S30V shines as it has a good mix of elements to stay tough and not roll or chip when under heavy use. 

In-Depth Look at CPM-20CV

CPM-20CV is a high-end stainless steel known for its excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance. 

The steel composition of CPM-20CV is as follows:

1.9% carbon

20% chromium

1% molybdenum

4% vanadium

1% tungsten

Edge Retention: CPM-20CV is considered to be one of the best steels at holding an edge.

Corrosion Resistance: CPM-20CV exhibits good corrosion resistance due to its high chromium content.

Sharpening: Because of how well CPM-20CV holds an edge, it is going to be harder to resharpen. 

Toughness: This is the one area where CPM-20CV is lacking as it does not have the ability to hold up to heavy use on hard objects without chipping. 

In-Depth Comparison of S30V and CPM-20CV

When it comes to which steel can hold a better edge, CPM-20CV wins. CPM-20CV has a higher carbon content, is a harder steel, and has more chromium which will all help it to hold an edge better than S30V. 

Corrosion resistance wise, CPM-20CV again beats S30V. Due to its higher Chromium content, it will be more resistant to rust and stains. So, if you plan to use your knife in humid or wet environments then CPM-20CV is the better choice. 

Sharpening: When looking at knife steels, if a steel holds an edge better it will be harder to achieve a sharp edge. For that reason S30V is going to be easier to resharpen and get super sharp when compared to CPM-20CV

S30V is often considered tougher and more impact-resistant than CPM-20CV. So for cutting through hard objects or when you need a knife you can chop without having to worry about your edge, S30V will be the better steel. 

Best knives in each steel

Now that we know the ins and outs of each steel and how they compare we can look at what the best knives in each steel are.

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 a smooth opening.

Check it out here (link to Amazon).

Spyderco Para Military 2 – S30V

The Para Military 2 is perhaps Spyderco’s most well-known knife. They’ve got a couple of different versions with different handle scales, colors, and blade materials, but the one linked has S30V. The Para Military 2 has G10 handle scales, a 4-position pocket clip, a thumb-hole opening, and Spyderco’s compression lock. It’s a knife that will last you a long time and will be able to withstand some punishment. 

Benchmade Steep Country – S30V

Benchmade’s Steep Country is a fixed blade survival/hunting knife. It has a 3.5-inch S30V steel blade with a full-tang design. It has a grippy Santoprene handle that won’t stay in your hands even in wet conditions. Additionally, this knife is a mere 3 ounces making it deal for backpacking.

You can check this knife out here (link to Amazon)

Conclusion

In the realm of premium knife steels, the choice between S30V and CPM-20CV ultimately boils down to individual preferences and specific use cases. S30V offers a balanced performance that caters to a broad audience, while CPM-20CV excels in situations demanding extreme corrosion resistance or edge retention.