KnifeSteelDBknife steels, by spec

CPM-S30V vs Böhler M390

A side-by-side of two stainless knife steels on the specs that decide a purchase. CPM-S30V is a powder-metallurgy stainless steel; Böhler M390 is a powder-metallurgy stainless steel.

Last verified 2026-06-11

PropertyCPM-S30VBöhler M390Edge
Hardness (HRC)58-6160-62
Edge retentionhighvery highBöhler M390 leads
Corrosion resistancehighvery highBöhler M390 leads
Toughnessmediummediumabout the same
Ease of sharpeninghardhard
Price tierPremiumSuper / high-end

CPM-S30V 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-S30V · Böhler M390 · best steel by purpose