Is S90v Better Than M4 Steel?

The incredible effectiveness of S90v and M4 Steel has garnered widespread acclaim. Despite this, there is a wide range in construction quality, hardness, toughness, and other characteristics. S90v and M4 steel will go head to head today, and the winner will be revealed.

Both S90v and M4 steel have the same degree of retaining edge. When compared to S90v steel, however, the M4 steel is inferior in toughness. Once again, the fact that M4 isn’t manufactured from stainless steel means it won’t hold up better to wear. In contrast, M4 has a higher hardness than S90v. Both knives are top-notch in every way.

We are not done yet. You have to know much more to decide which is the best for you. And this article will help you in this regard.

Which One Is Better?

S90v steel is high-end premium steel made from the Crucible Particle Metallurgy process. On the other hand, Crucible Industry manufactures M4 steel, which has improbable edge retention. For best toughness and wear resistance S90v is the winner. However, when it’s to more sharpness and solid hardness, there is the M4 steel.

Quick Comparison Chart

Key Differences

S90v and M4, both are made by the same company and production. But you can see a lot of differences between their chemical compounds, toughness, hardness, and many more. Here I will show you the key differences between S90v and M4 steel and help you to decide easily.

Hardness

Although M4 steel has less carbon, other hardening component like manganese, and molybdenum, make this steel harder than the S90v. By seeing the hardness of S90v, which is HRC 56-59, we can say it is better than any soft steel with less hardness level. 

Toughness

S90v steel has superior toughness when compared to M4 steel. S90v scores higher in toughness than other high-end steels. Here, due to M4 steel’s extreme hardness, it loses its durability and toughness. 

Wear and Corrosion Resistance

S90v’s corrosion level is best because it has Chromium which makes S90v stainless steel. Stainless steel does not require so much maintenance and can be put into the water. However, M4 is not stainless steel which makes it harder to maintain.

Edge Retention

Both S90v and M4 have the same edge retention. S90v has a high hardness level, however, M4 has high toughness level. They have almost the same outcome while retaining the edge of sharpening. However, if you ask which one is best, I will recommend S90v.

Ease of Sharpening

S90v contains higher vanadium carbides, making it hard to sharpen. That’s why S90v requires diamonds to sharpen them. On the other hand, M4 is easy to sharpen because you can use any sharpener to sharpen M4 steel.

check the below video to learn about knife sharpening very quickly.

Conclusion

Although both of the knives have the best quality that’s why you can choose one of the knives from S90v vs M4. The S90v has some good qualities and it is made with stainless steel, which makes it better to maintain with better toughness. However, on the hardness and sharpness, M4 does better.

Read More:

• S90V vs 20 CV: Who Wins the Battle of Best Stainless Steel?
• M4 Steel vs S30V: Who Wins the Battle and Makes Better Knives?

My favorite knives in each category

Spyderco Native 5 Knife (S90v steel)

It has superior quality with a reasonable price point. The size makes it fit perfectly in your pocket without the risk of any injury. In addition to being stronger and smoother, it also has a self-closing function that is improved, and it is more resistant to wear and tear. 

LionSTEEL M4 Bushcraft Fixed Blade Knife, (M4 steel)

It is another favorite knife of mine. The fixed blade is perfect for bush crafting, wilderness survival, camping, and outdoor cooking. The knife is also EDC-friendly which means it ensures safe and convenient to carry.