CPM 20CV steel pocket knife

What is CPM?

CPM is a type of powder steel. Powder steel, like CPM 20CV, is produced by atomizing molten steel into fine powder particles which are pressed together under high pressure and sintered into a solid block. This process leaves you with a finer, more uniform microstructure than traditional forged steel. The result is better sharpness retention, wear resistance and toughness. As such powder steel is popular for use in top-quality knives that retain their sharpness well but are also still relatively easy to sharpen.

How good is CPM 20CV steel?

When it comes down to a steel type 'good' is of course relative term. A steel type is as good as it adheres to the demands of the user. So how does that pan out for CPM 20CV? Because CPM 20CV has a high vanadium content it is wear resistant and retains its sharpness well. With a 20% chrome content it is also resistant to rust and stains. CPM 20CV has a fine grain structure thanks to the CPM process. The result is a stable, sharp edge.

What are the disadvantages of CPM 20CV steel?

With so many steel types out there it can be quite the task to determine which is the best choice for you. That is why it is also important to keep the 'disadvantages' of CPM 20CV in mind. CPM 20CV is a hard type of steel and wear resistant. The disadvantage of this is that sharpening it can be challenging. Use diamond-coated or ceramic sharpening stones for the best results. Finally, CPM 20CV is a premium type of steel that is produced via a specialized process. It is therefore more expensive than common stainless steel.

Which is better? CPM 20CV compared to...?

Many types of steel are used to produce pocket knives. But which steel type is better? First and foremost, this depends on what you are looking for. However, if you do want to make a comparison: CPM 20CV is similar to Böhler M390 and CTS-204P. These steel types are often considered equal and offer similar advantages when it comes to wear and corrosion resistance.

CPM 20CV fans: which brands use CPM 20CV steel?

You have never been more sure: you are looking for a pocket knife with a blade made from CPM 20CV steel. But which brand uses this type of steel for their pocket knives and appeals to you most? Different high-end knife manufacturers use CPM 20CV for their products Brands such as Benchmade, Grailer and Reate appreciate CPM 20CV because of the superior performance qualities and therefore like to use it for high-end (pocket)knives.

CPM 20CV maintenance

CPM 20CV, like any type of steel, needs to maintained to make the most of it. Make sure the blade of your 20CV steel pocket knife stays clean and dry to prevent corrosion. Despite the fact that it is highly corrosion resistant it is not rustproof and can therefore still be affected by corrosion.

A sharp edge ensures that your pocket knife will function as it should. CPM 20CV is a hard type of steel and therefore more difficult to sharpen. We recommend diamond-coated or ceramic sharpening stones for the best results.