80CRV2 steel vs 1095 | Which is better and why?

In the knife world, there are myriad options to choose from when it comes to blade steel. But what are the differences between these steels? In this article, we’ll be discussing two similar but ultimately different types of steel: 80CRV2 and 1095.

Which steel Is better? 80CRV2 or 1095

First up, we have 80CRV2. This high-carbon steel tool is often used in knives and other cutting tools. It has a good balance of hardness and toughness, making it a great option for many different applications. One of the main benefits of 80CRV2 is that it is relatively easy to sharpen, even when compared to other high-carbon steels.

Next, we have 1095. This is also high-carbon steel, but it is not as commonly used in knives due to its lower levels of chromium. 1095 Steel is considered a bit more difficult to sharpen than 80CRV2, but it has better edge retention.

So, which one is better? we prefer 80CRV2 for its ease of sharpening and overall versatility. However, 1095 is still a great option for those who are looking for better edge retention.

Comparison chart

Key Differences

Built Quality

When it comes to built quality, there is really not much difference between these two steels. They are both high-quality, durable options that will withstand a lot of wear and tear. 80CrV2 steel is a type of carbon tool steel that gets its name from the chromium and vanadium content. It’s also known as Swedish saw steel. 1095 is a high-carbon steel that gets its name from its carbon content.

Hardness

One of the key differences between these two steels is their hardness. 80CRV2 has a Rockwell hardness of 57-58, while 1095 has a Rockwell hardness of 55-57. This means that 1095 is a bit softer than 80CRV2. Although both steels aren’t hard enough like other steels 80CRV2 still gets a slight edge because of Vanadium and Molybdenum.

Wear Resistance

80CRV2 is considered to be more wear-resistant than 1095. This means that it will resist chipping and breaking better than 1095. However, both steels are still susceptible to wear and tear over time.

Edge Retention

When it comes to edge retention, 1095 takes the win. This steel is able to hold its edge better than 80CRV2. However, 1095 is also considered to be more difficult to sharpen than 80CRV2. So, if you are looking for steel that is easy to sharpen but still has good edge retention, then 80CRV2 is the way to go.

Corrosion Resistance

Finally, we have corrosion resistance. Both of these steels are thought to have poor corrosion resistance. However, 1095 is slightly more resistant to corrosion than 80CRV2. This means that it will withstand rust and tarnishing better than 80CRV2.

Maintenance

The angle you choose when sharpening your new blade will be determined by the steel’s particular properties. To accommodate the higher yield strength of tougher steel, you’ll use narrower angles. Sharpening at steeper angles is required for soft steels to increase stress tolerance.

The sharpening angle is also determined by the thickness of the blade. Sharpening a narrow blade edge to a lower angle is easier than sharpening a broad blade edge. For bigger blades, more material must be removed for a sharper edge, requiring more time and effort.

Conclusion

So, there you have it! These are the key differences between 80CRV2 and 1095 steel. As you can see, these two steels have both pros and cons. Finally, the decision comes down to what you intend to use the steel for. In some cases, 80crv2 is better and in other cases, 1095 is better.

Read More:

• 5160 Steel vs 1095 Steel | Which steel is better for knife making?
• Stainless Steel Knives Pros and Cons
• 80crv2 vs 5160 steel | Which is better and why?

Favorite Knife from Each Section

80CRV2

This wk001 belt knife is made with 80CRV2 steel and has a Rockwell hardness of 58. A WK001 belt knife is a great option for those looking for a durable and reliable knife. It features a 4.5-inch blade and an overall length of 12.5 inches. This knife also has a black oxide finish that helps to protect it from corrosion.

1095

This Ontario 8668 rat 7 knife is a great option for those who are looking for a durable and reliable knife. It features a 7-inch blade and an overall length of 12.75 inches. Its nylon handle is comfortable and easy to grip, making it a great choice for many different applications.