ar-rpm9 vs d2 | An in-depth Comparison of steels
You already know about the most popular budget steel ar-rpm9 and d2. But can’t yet decide which actually goes with your needs and budget. Let’s make it easier with a comparison between ar-rpm9 vs d2.
There are a few differences between ar-rpm9 & d2. But in general, ar-rpm is stainless steel, whereas d2 is non-stainless steel. D2 is harder steel, great for edge retention. And, ar-rpm9 has less hardness but better toughness and corrosion resistance. Ar-rpm is easy to sharpen, but d2 is quite hard to sharpen.
There’s already something missing with a short comparison. Let’s make a detailed comparison to pick up the right steel throughout the article.
Table of Contents
Quick comparison chart table
| Basis for comparison | ar-rpm9 | d2 |
| Chemical compounds | Carbon 0.9%; Chromium 18%; Molybdenum 1%; Manganese 0.45%; Vanadium 0.1%; Cobalt 0.3%; Silicon 0.2-0.8%; Nickel 0.4%; | Carbon 1.5%; Chromium 12%; Molybdenum 0.9%; Vanadium 1.10%; Nitrogen 0.03%; Manganese 0.6%; Silicon 0.6%; Phosphorus 0.03%; Sulfur 0.03%; Cobalt 1.0%. |
| Hardness | 58-60 HRC | 52-62 HRC |
| Toughness | Better | Good |
| Corrosion resistance | Excellent | Better |
| Edge retention | Good | Excellent |
| Ease of Sharpening | Easy | Hard |
| Maintenance | Require more maintenance | Require less maintenance |
| Cost | Costly | Affordable |
Key differences
Well, ensuring the desired features on your chosen steel before purchasing is very important. Let’s know more details comparison to pick up the right steel-
1. Hardness
Hardness- is the first thing that helps you to understand what type of steel it is! D2 wins the first round with high hardness over ar-rpm9.
According to the Rockwell report, D2 shows a hardness of 52-62 HRC whereas ar-rpm9 shows 58-60 HRC.
2. Toughness
The harder steel always shows less toughness. And, maintaining the rule ar-rpm9 defeats the toughness of d2. That means ar-rpm9 shows less chipping & cracking compared to d2.
3. Corrosion resistance
With a high percentage of chromium, ar-rpm9 shows great corrosion and rust resistance over d2.
Comparing the chemical composition, ar-rpm9 has 18% of chromium whereas d2 has only 12%. So, ar-rpm9 easily resists any corrosion caused by water or moisture.
4. Edge retention
The high hardness on d2 steel offers great edge retention over ar-rpm9.
D2 holds the edge longer, so it doesn’t require frequent sharpening. Again, ar-rpm9 has less edge retention than D2 steel.
5. Ease of sharpening
As d2 is harder steel, it’s quite difficult to sharpen than ar-rpm9. Again, ar-rpm is easy to sharpen and the less required tool is needed for the sharpening.
6. Applications
Ar-rpm9 Steel is usually used to make EDC knives, It is also used to make knives for cutting skills. It is an excellent choice for people for outdoor activities like hunting, and camping activities.
D2 Steel is one of the most popular steel for making kitchen knives. It is popular for its hardness.
About Ar-rpm9: Overview
Ar-rpm9 is stainless steel manufactured by Artisan Cutlery. This high-end steel is very popular for quality knives.
The perfect combination of chromium, carbon, manganese, and vanadium provides enough hardness & toughness. It’s very popular for its superior corrosion resistance, wear resistance, and ease of sharpening.
About d2: Overview
D2 is non-stainless steel but compared to other stainless steel, it already competes in different categories. This steel shows better hardness,& superior edge retention. It doesn’t require frequent sharpening.
Most knives that are made of D2 steel are more popular than other top brands. It’s a budget-friendly steel blade that satisfies most knife users.
My opinion (Which I Recommend)
You’d better know which steel is perfect for you! If you still can’t decide then I can give you some hints.
In my opinion, ar-rpm9 is great as it is stainless steel. It would be perfect for better hardness, toughness, and corrosion resistance.
Again, d2 is a budget-friendly knife great for high hardness, good toughness, and superior edge retention. If your budget is low, you can pick it for average performance.
Now, what should you pick up now? Waiting to hear from you!!
Want to Read More Comparison :
- 440c Steel vs d2: Which steel should you pick?
- AEB-L Vs D2 Steel: Which Steel Is Better?
- ar-rpm9 vs d2 | An in-depth Comparison of steels
- 9cr18mov vs d2 steel: Which Steel Cuts the Longest?
My favorite knives in each category
Still, you’ve not purchased a knife with a new steel blade? Oops! Don’t be late!
Check two of my favorite knives which can help you to choose the best knife for next!
1. CJRB Tactical Knife | (Ar-rpm9 steel)
Picking up the CJRB knife, you’ll own the most stylish and durable EDC pocket knife. It’s very lightweight to hold with a G-10 handle.
The knife provides the best durability with a non-reflective PVD protective layer that resists corrosion or rust.
Moreover, it has an extremely sharp edge for better-cutting tasks. Undoubtedly, it’s a better option to have this affordable knife with quality performance.
2. OKC-Rat 2 | (D2 steel)
Let’s introduce a fantastic EDC knife that is great for an effective cutting task! The OKC-Rat 2 knife has a great ergonomic and nylon handle for better comfort made of D2 steel.
It holds the sharp edge for a longer period. You can relax with smooth cutting up to years with this budget-friendly cost.
