S110V vs S45VN | Which Is Better?

S110v and s35vn are the most popular steels among knife lovers. S110V, a special stainless steel crafted exclusively for knives, offers unparalleled edge retention and toughness. However, it needs to improve in areas such as corrosion resistance, wear resistance, and ease of sharpening. On the other hand, S45Vn boasts superior performance across the board, excelling in edge retention, toughness, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance. Let’s take a closer look at the two materials and discuss their features in more detail.

S11OV: Overview

S110V is a true gem, a custom steel born out of the collaboration between Crucible Industries and knifemaker Sal Glesser of Spyderco. With its exceptional edge retention, remarkable toughness, and decent hardness (59-60 HRC), this all-purpose stainless steel is a force to be reckoned with.

During heat treatment, an abundance of vanadium carbides is formed, giving the steel its robust and enduring properties. Its impressive resistance to rust makes it the perfect choice for outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers for hunting or camping.

However, steel also has its drawbacks due to its high carbide content. This makes sharpening difficult and may require a professional sharpener with specialized tools. Despite these shortcomings, the S110V remains one of the most popular knife materials among knife makers.

Advantage of S110V

• Impressive edge retention
• Exceptional toughness
• Good hardness

Disadvantage of S110V

• Difficult to sharpen
• Brittle nature
• Kind of pricy

S45VN: Overview

Crucible Industries and knifemaker Chris Reeve collaborated to develop S45VN, a stainless steel. This steel was designed to offer superior performance across multiple categories, such as edge retention, toughness, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance. It has a proper hardness of 59-61 HRC and contains enough chromium to be considered stainless.

Mainly it has niobium (Nb), vanadium (V), and increased chromium (Cr) content, which helps in forming carbides during heat treatment, thus making it an excellent choice for those who don’t want to compromise the performance. In addition, its corrosion resistance allows you to use it in wet conditions without worrying about rusting. Even 440C has similar qualities, but the added Nb helps increase the toughness and wear resistance.

Advantage of S45VN

• Exceptional hardness and wear resistance.
• Good edge retention and corrosion resistance.
• Easier to sharpen.

Disadvantage of S45VN

• Requires proper heat treatment for optimal performance.

Quick Comparison chart

S110V vs. S45VN | What’s the Differences

There are multiple parameters to test the difference given below,

Hardness & Toughness

S110V and S45VN are both exceptional performers in terms of hardness and toughness. S110V exhibits a slightly higher hardness, ranging from 59-62 HRC, compared to S45VN, which falls within the 59-61 HRC range. In terms of toughness, they provide similar performance levels; however, the S110V stands out in this aspect. Its considerable carbide content endows it with remarkable toughness, enabling it to withstand significant impacts.

Edge Retention

Both steels offer decent edge retention capabilities, but S110V takes the lead in this category. Its superior edge retention ensures that you don’t have to sharpen your knife too often, but it is important to note that sharpening SV can be quite difficult. On the other hand, S45VN offers good edge retention and is relatively easier to sharpen than its counterpart.

Corrosion Resistance

S45VN takes the lead with its higher chromium content (16%) compared to its predecessor, S35VN (14%). This makes it the perfect choice for wet environments, as its exceptional corrosion resistance shields against rusting. While S110V performs admirably, its lower chromium content hinders it from reaching the same level of performance as S45VN. Let S45VN be your go-to for unrivaled durability!

Ease of Sharpening

S110V, with its high carbide content, can be challenging to sharpen. It’s like taming a wild beast that requires the finesse of a professional sharpener with specialized tools. So, achieving the desired results might call for some expert help. On the flip side, sharpening S45VN is a breeze! It’s like a friendly stroll in the park, where you can safely use regular sharpening products to bring out its full potential.

Purpose

You can use s110v steel for EDC, slicing, piercing, or outdoor use. However, it is important to note that S110V may not be ideal for heavy-duty tasks or those requiring a significant amount of force due to its brittle nature.

With its exceptional properties, S45VN is a versatile superstar ready to tackle any task. This steel shines whether it’s everyday carry, precise slicing, or kitchen use. And the icing on the cake? It’s easier to sharpen than the S110V, making it a top choice for those without access to professional sharpening services.

We Got a Clear Winner!

No need for further ado; S45VN takes the crown in this battle of steels! Its superior corrosion resistance and ease of sharpening make it the perfect material for anyone looking for an all-purpose steel that won’t require professional help to sharpen. At the end of the day, your choice should depend on your unique needs and preferences. But, if you’re looking for a steel that’ll do it all, S45VN should be on your radar.