KnifeSteelDBknife steels, by spec

Most corrosion-resistant knife steels

Resists rust and staining best — for kitchens, salt water, humid climates and low-maintenance carry.

Last verified 2026-06-11 · 10 steels

SteelTypeHRCEdgeCorrosionToughnessTierBuy
LC200N (Z-FiNit)Stainless57-60highextremehighPremiumKnives →
H1Stainless57-60lowextremehighPremiumKnives →
Böhler Vanax PMStainless60-62highextremehighSuper / high-endKnives →
Böhler Elmax PMStainless59-62highvery highmediumPremiumKnives →
CPM-S45VN PMStainless59-62very highvery highmediumPremiumKnives →
CPM MagnaCut PMStainless60-64very highvery highvery highPremiumKnives →
Böhler M390 PMStainless60-62very highvery highmediumSuper / high-endKnives →
CPM-20CV PMStainless59-62very highvery highmediumSuper / high-endKnives →
CTS-204P PMStainless59-62very highvery highmediumSuper / high-endKnives →
CPM-S110V PMStainless60-63extremevery highlowSuper / high-endKnives →

Other priorities: Best edge retention · Toughest · Best value · by use: EDC / folders · Kitchen · Outdoor / bushcraft · Hard-use / survival · Budget