CPM-20CV vs Böhler M390
A side-by-side of two stainless knife steels on the specs that decide a purchase. CPM-20CV is a powder-metallurgy stainless steel; Böhler M390 is a powder-metallurgy stainless steel.
| Property | CPM-20CV | Böhler M390 | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hardness (HRC) | 59-62 | 60-62 | — |
| Edge retention | very high | very high | about the same |
| Corrosion resistance | very high | very high | about the same |
| Toughness | medium | medium | about the same |
| Ease of sharpening | hard | hard | — |
| Price tier | Super / high-end | Super / high-end | — |
CPM-20CV suits edc / folders, kitchen; Böhler M390 suits edc / folders, kitchen. Neither is universally "better" — match the steel to the job, and remember heat treat matters as much as the alloy.
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Full profiles: CPM-20CV · Böhler M390 · best steel by purpose