In the realm of knife steels, two steels you will find often in the more premium side of knives are S90V and Magnacut. But these are two steels that, while they are found in similar price ranges, have their differences that make them better for different applications. So in this article, we will look at each steel, how these two steel compare to see which is better, and the best knives in each steel. 

Short Answer:

S90V offers better edge retention and better wear resistance when compared to Magnacut. Magnacut, however, will be tougher, easier to sharpen, and will be harder

In-Depth Look at Magnacut

Magnacut is a premium steel that is great in just about every regard a knife steel can be good at. If you were to choose a steel to use for just about everything on earth, this would not be a bad steel to consider. 

Composition is approximately: 

• 10.8% Chromium
• 4% Vanadium
• 2% Molybdenum
• 2% Niobium
• 1.15% Carbon

Edge Retention: Magnacut has decent edge retention but not the best. It will still be better than most steels, but not as good as steels such as S90V or S110V. 

Toughness: Magnacut exhibits exceptional toughness. It is going to be best not just resistant to rolling and bending, but also chipping. 

Corrosion Resistance: Magnacut provides nearly unmatched corrosion resistance. It is an ideal steel for any possible corrosion-inducing environment and especially saltwater. 

Downsides: Magnacut is an expensive steel which makes it less appealing to most. Unless you have unlimited funds, you will most likely only be able to buy a few high quality knives in Magnacut. 

In-Depth Look at S90V

S90V is, technically, a premium powdered metallurgy steel developed by Crucible Industries, but it is really more of a specialty steel great at keeping an edge.

Composition is approximately: 

• 2.3% carbon
• 14% chromium
• 9% vanadium
• 1% molybdenum 

Edge Retention: S90V offers exceptional edge retention, unlike any other steel. This is among one of, if not, the most edge-retentive steels out there.

Corrosion Resistance: With a moderate chromium content, S90V exhibits okay corrosion resistance. There are certainly better steels out there, and there are certainly worse. 

Toughness: While not as tough as some other steels, S90V maintains a balanced toughness but can easily chip due to the lack of elements to balance out the carbon. 

Downsides: S90V is also an expensive steel. Additionally, S90V is a specialty steel that is best for applications needing maximum edge retention. 

In-Depth Comparison of Magnacut and S90V

Edge Retention: S90V is nearly impossible to beat in terms of edge retention. So it is no surprise that it holds an edge better than Magnacut. This would come in handy if you are doing a lot of cutting, not chopping, on tough objects.

Toughness: Magnacut has exceptional toughness, far better than S90V. Toughness is best for when you need a steel that can chop such as chopping wood, tin, or other tough materials. The tougher the steel, the less likely it is to chip or roll with use. 

Corrosion Resistance: Magnacut has more chromium so it is going to be better at resisting corrosion. Therefore, Magnacut is better for saltwater or humid environments. So if you need to use your knife in or around water, go with Magnacut. 

Sharpenability: Both steels are relatively difficult to sharpen but Magnacut will be easier to resharpen. So if you want to keep your knife super sharp and don’t mind having to touch up the edge occasionally, then Magnacut is the better choice. 

Benchmade Bugout – S90V

The Bugout is one of Benchmade’s most famous folding knives and for good reason. It boasts being only 2.2 ounces and while maintaining a buttery smooth opening. It has Benchmade’s deep-carry pocket clip, a carbon fiber handle, and a 3.24-inch CPM-S90V steel blade.

See this knife for yourself here (link to Amazon).

Benchmade Hidden Canyon Hunter – S90V

The Hidden Canyon Hunter is a full-tang fixed-blade knife that is lightweight and small yet durable. It weighs only 3.1 ounces, has a 2.7-inch blade, and is 6.7-inches long. Although it is a small knife, it can still handle anything a big knife can while being lighter.

Check out this knife here (link to Amazon)

Kershaw Launch – Magnacut

The Launch is an OTF knife that remains flashy while still being able to get things done. It looks clean but is built tough with aluminum scales with canvas micarta inlays. The blade is 3.5 inches long with a stonewash finish. So if you want a knife that looks flashy while remaining reliable, check out this one.

Benchmade Taggedout (Magnacut)

The Benchmade Taggedout is a knife that is made for lightweight backcountry hunters who want a knife they can use for anything. The Taggedout has a 3.5-inch Magnacut blade, orange Grivory handles, a deep carry pocket clip, and best of all, this knife weighs only 2 ounces. For backcountry hunting, this knife is about as good as it gets.

Check out this knife here (link to Amazon)

Conclusion

In conclusion, both S90V and Magnacut are two premium steels that are among the best money can buy. But they have their differences. S90V is more edge retentive and has better wear resistance so it is better for cutting tough materials or repeated slicing. Magnacut is better for those who want the best overall performance and better corrosion resistance and toughness than what S90V offers.