ZDP-189 and CPM-S30V are two high-end steels. So, which one is better? Well, that’s what we’re going to be taking a look at here.
Here’s the short answer:
ZDP-189 is harder and holds a better edge, but CPM-S30V is more corrosion-resistant and easier to sharpen. If you need a knife that can hold an edge for a long time, ZDP-189 is the better choice. If you need more corrosion-resistance and ease of sharpening, CPM-S30V is the better choice.
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 ZDP-189 Steel
ZDP-189 is a high-performance steel that was developed by Hitachi Metals Ltd. It’s a powdered steel that is made using a process known as “Spray Forming,” which produces a very fine and uniform grain structure. Here’s the composition of ZDP-189:
- 3.0% carbon
- 20.0% chromium
- 1.5% molybdenum
- 1.0% vanadium
- 3.0% tungsten
The carbon helps with edge retention and steel strength. The high chromium helps make ZDP-189 pretty corrosion-resistant, though the high carbon content counteracts this somewhat. Molybdenum, vanadium, and tungsten help to improve the toughness and wear resistance of the steel.
Knives made from ZDP-189 steel are capable of holding a razor-sharp edge for a long time and are known for their exceptional hardness and wear resistance. However, ZDP-189 is relatively difficult to sharpen, and its high hardness can make it more susceptible to chipping.
Deep Dive on CPM-S30V Steel
CPM-S30V is a high-end steel made by Crucible Industries. It’s built using Crucible Powder Metallurgy (CPM), which is a technique that results in a very fine and uniform grain structure (which means a stronger steel). Here’s what S30V is made of:
- 1.45% carbon
- 14.0% chromium
- 4.0% molybdenum
- 2.0% vanadium
S30V is a very balanced steel in terms of edge retention, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance. It’s like the high-end jack of all trades for knife steel. It usually handle a pretty wide range of tasks given to it.
ZDP-189 versus CPM-S30V
ZDP-189 is a harder steel than CPM-S30V and is capable of holding an edge for a longer period of time. So, it’s great for doing lots of cutting tasks (things like fileting fish). But a higher hardness can also mean that it can be more brittle. Thus, it’s more likely to chip than S30V.
CPM-S30V, on the other hand, is a softer steel than ZDP-189, which means it’s less likely to chip or crack. It is still an excellent choice for knives that require a sharp edge, but it may not hold an edge for quite as long as ZDP-189.
While S30V has less chromium, it’s actually more corrosion resistant than ZDP-189. So, if you need to use your knife in a humid environment, it might be better to go with S30V.
In terms of ease of sharpening, ZDP-189 is known for being more difficult to sharpen than CPM-S30V due to its high hardness. Luckily, it balances out by holding an edge for longer.
In terms of price, ZDP-189 is generally more expensive than CPM-S30V due to its complex manufacturing process and its reputation as a high-performance steel.
Recommended Knives
Now that we’ve looked at each one, here are our favorite knives for each steel.
Spyderco Endura 4 – ZDP-189
Spyderco is known for having knives that are consistent workhorses. They’re not always flashy, but they always show up and do the work you need. The Endura 4 is no different. It’s got a thumbhole opening that won’t snag on your pocket, a back lock, ZDP-189 steel, and a fiberglass reinforced (FRN) handle.
Check it out here (link to Amazon).
Spyderco Caly Prestige – ZDP-189
The Caly Prestige is pretty similar to the Endura 4: It’s got a back lock, thumbhole opening, and isn’t the flashiest. Where it differs is the handle material, which is carbon fiber, and the blade, which has a core of ZDP-189, but outside layers of 420J2. The layering of steels in the blade make for a tougher blade that’s less likely to chip or crack.
Check it out here (link to Amazon).
Spyderco Native 5 (S30V)
The Native 5 is an EDC knife that is great for anything you could use an EDC knife for. The Native 5 had lightweight FRN handle scales, a back lock, and a thumbhole for opening to ensure that you don’t snag the knife when you draw it. Overall you can’t go wrong with this knife if you are looking for a new folding knife.
Check out this knife here (link to Amazon).
Kershaw Blur (S30V)
The Kershaw Blur is an EDC (EveryDay Carry) knife that is completely ambidextrous. The Blur has assisted opening so there is no worry of your knife not opening when you need it. Overall, if you are looking for a great EDC knife then this is a great knife to look at.
Check out this knife here (link to Amazon).
Conclusion
ZDP-189 and CPM-S30V are both excellent high-performance steels that offer exceptional edge retention and wear resistance. If you need a knife that can hold a razor-sharp edge for a long time and don’t mind spending the extra money, ZDP-189 is the way to go. However, if you need a knife that is more forgiving when it comes to chipping and cracking and easier to sharpen, then CPM-S30V is the better choice.
Ultimately, they’re both great knife steels and it’s hard to go wrong with either of them. It just depends on your needs for the knife which one you might prefer.
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