AUS8 Steel vs D2 | Which makes a better knife?

Mid-budget steel blades are now in demand in the market. In this category, you can’t ignore the popular steel AUS8 and D2! Well, they both have almost similar reviews from users. However, you can make it easier by observing the difference between AUS 8 vs D2.

The main difference between AUS 8 Vs D2 is the corrosion resistance and cost.

Aus 8 has excellent corrosion resistance and toughness than D2. D2 is a comparatively more expensive steel with high hardness and excellent corrosion resistance. However, it’s harder to sharpen the D2 than AUS 8.

I know you still didn’t get an exact answer with this short comparison. Therefore, you need to dive into a detailed comparison. Let’s find out the best steel for you with this entire article.

Quick comparison chart table

Key differences

As you can see, both AUS8 and D2 have different chemical compositions. So, obviously, they share different performances with knives. Before selecting, dive into more details about the key differences between them.

1. Hardness:

The first thing we notice about any knife is how hard it is! Here, D2 makes its first goal with better hardness than AUS8. The presence of high chromium and vanadium makes D2 harder!

The Rockwell report said that the hardness of D2 is between 52-62HRC, whereas the hardness for AUS8 is 58-59 HRC.

Besides these, dimensional stability is one of the core features that can give D2 an extra point to win the trophy.

2. Toughness

D2 offers slightly better toughness than AUS 8 due to its chemical composition. Yes, the presence of high chromium, molybdenum vanadium alloy, and carbon gives it a true toughness than its counterpart. So, it performs cutting tasks without breaking or chipping better than  AUS8.

3. Corrosion resistance

D2 has average corrosion resistance that can’t beat the corrosion resistance of AUS8. AUS8 is more water resistant, whereas D2 always needs to keep dry.

Because AUS8 is stainless steel with a high amount of chromium. Whereas, D2 is an air-hardening tool,  not stainless steel.

AUS8 has a high percentage of chromium at 14.50% whereas D2 has only 12% chromium. So, it’s a clear answer why D2 can’t build much resistance to rust or corrosion as AUS8.

4. Edge retention

The harder the steel, the better it holds the edge longer. So, obviously, D2 has better edge retention than AUS8.

The presence of high carbon in D2 allows it to retain its sharpness for a long period. The presence of 1.5% carbon really helps the steel hold edge sharper without frequent sharpening.

 Again, AUS8 does not have as much edge retention as d2. As it has only 0.75% carbon which is less than D2.

5. Ease of sharpening

Aus8 is much easier to sharpen. Whereas it’s hard to sharpen the D2 but still, it does not require frequent sharpening. So, you need to sharpen the AUS8 frequently for a sharpened edge.

D2 is difficult to sharpen as it’s much harder steel. D2 shows a high hardness with 1.5% carbon, which affects when you try to sharpen it. It requires a diamond stone to sharpen it.  Again, the sharpening technique is more difficult than AUS8.

In contrast, the sharpening technique is much easier for sharpening AUS8 for its low hardness.

6. Cost

Mentioning the price, we can say that AUS8 is more affordable than D2. AUS8 is much softer and doesn’t hold the edge longer. So, it is a bit inexpensive compared to D2. D2 is a high-end steel knife at an expensive price.

Short Overview

Aus 8 is Japanese steel that offers excellent corrosion resistance and toughness at a budget-friendly cost. This one is a versatile tool for mid-level knife users and industries.

As it is easy to sharpen with a little effort and has extreme water resistance capability thus makes it is preferable to other mid-range steel. If you’re a knife maker, the machinability of AUS 8 will impress you!

Besides, the AUS8 steel blade is best for people who are going to buy their first knife for any cutting task.

Short Overview

D2 is stainless steel great for hardness, toughness, and excellent edge retention. It contains high carbon & chromium with the perfect blend of vanadium and molybdenum. Mid-level knife users prefer this steel for better corrosion resistance, high wear resistance, and less maintenance. 

Though, D2 steel isn’t stainless steel but still the air hardening property and better machinability make it better than other premium steel. So, yeah! It’s a great option for kitchen tasks.

Pros and Cons

My opinion (Which I Recommend)

No more confusion! Just pick the right steel blade according to your needs. You can pick the AUS 8 without any doubt because it gives you extreme durability, corrosion and wears resistance, right edge retention, and sharp performance at a reasonable price. You can also select D2 for better edge retention, toughness, and low maintenance!

Read More Comparison

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My favorite knives in each category

You’ve already taken the chance of getting better steel, but what about a suitable knife? I think you may miss the review of the preferable knife with this quality steel! No worries! I suggest two of my best knives which will help you out.

1. ONTARIO RAT-2 | (AUS 8 steel)

This excellent EDC knife makes my tough task easier. That’s why is still my favorite over my premium knives!

The secure gripping of the handle eases my daily slicing and cutting tasks. Its zero-play lockup and super smooth deployment allow it to be more comfortable.

So, I think this affordable perfect folding knife should be your best choice with a sharp blade AUS 8!

2. Crkt pillar 3 | ( D2 steel)

Nothing more to explain because the features make it exceptional over other steel. This mid-budget knife offers secure gripping with a low-profile pocket clip which I like most.

You can easily use this with the hand-opening formula. You can do any task with this comfortable and smooth handle. Better buy it and then see how its performance serves you the best!