D2 vs 1095 Steel | Which is Better and why ?

It is well known that steel is a versatile material that has many different applications. However, when it comes to knife making, there are two types of steel that are most commonly used: D2 and 1095. So, what is the difference between D2 and 1095 steel?

Which One to choose?

D2 steel is a tool steel with high carbon content and is often used for making knives. It is also a very hard steel, which makes it ideal for applications where wear resistance is important. 1095 steel, on the other hand, is a type of carbon steel that contains high levels of carbon. This makes it a very tough steel & easy to sharpen that is often used for making knives that need to withstand heavy use.

But we prefer d2 because of its corrosion resistance ability which isn’t an option for 1095 steel.

Quick Comparison Chart

Key Differences

If you’re looking to make a knife, then both D2 and 1095 steel are excellent choices. But between the two, there are some vital distinctions.

Built Quality

D2 is an air-hardened semi-stainless steel that contains 1.5% carbon and 12% chromium. The chromium content gives it excellent corrosion resistance properties, making it a popular choice for knives that will see heavy use. 1095 steel, on the other hand, is a high-carbon steel that contains only 0.95% carbon. This makes it a tough steel that is also prone to rusting if not properly cared for.

Edge Retention

In terms of edge retention, D2 outperforms 1095 steel. This is due to the higher carbon content of 1095 steel, which gives it a harder edge but also makes it more prone to chipping and breaking. D2 steel, with its lower carbon content, is not as hard but is less likely to suffer from these problems.

Corrosion Resistance

As previously mentioned, the chromium content in D2 steel gives it excellent corrosion resistance properties. This makes it a good choice for knives that will see heavy use and are likely to get wet frequently. 1095 steel, on the other hand, is not stainless and will rust if not properly cared for.

Toughness

Toughness wise 1095 edges over D2, as D2 is hard steel than 1095 which means it’s less likely tough and can chip or break easily. Also, D2 can be brittle in sub-zero temperatures.

Price

The price of D2 and 1095 steel, will vary depending on the manufacturer and the specific knife you are looking at. In general, however, D2 steel is more expensive than 1095 steel. This is due to the fact that D2 steel is a tool steel and is thus more difficult to manufacture.

Ease of Sharpening

In terms of ease of sharpening, 1095 steel is the winner. This is because it is high-carbon steel and, therefore, can be sharpened to an excellent edge. D2 steel, while still capable of being sharpened to a fine edge, is not as easy to sharpen as 1095 steel.

Bottom Line

So, there you have it – a quick comparison between D2 and 1095 steel. As you can see, both of these steels have their own unique benefits and drawbacks. Ultimately, your best choice will depend on your specific needs and preferences. So, make sure to do your research before making a purchase!

Read More if you like steel comparison:

• 5160 Steel vs 1095 Steel | which steel is better for knife making?
• 440c Steel vs d2: Which steel should you pick?

Favorite Knife In Each Category

So, now that we’ve gone over the key differences between D2 and 1095 steel, let’s take a look at some of our favorite knives in each category.

BIGCAT ROAR Handmade Hunting Knife This knife is made with D2 steel and has excellent corrosion resistance properties. It also comes with a black leather sheath for easy carrying. Also, this knife provides a lifetime warranty.

schrade sch36 frontier is a full tang fixed blade knife – This knife is made with 1095 high carbon steel and is an excellent choice for those looking for a tough and durable knife. It also comes with TPE handle for easy carrying.