D2 vs VG-10
A side-by-side of two knife steels on the specs that decide a purchase. D2 is a tool & high-speed steel; VG-10 is a stainless steel.
| Property | D2 | VG-10 | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hardness (HRC) | 58-62 | 59-61 | — |
| Edge retention | high | high | about the same |
| Corrosion resistance | medium | high | VG-10 leads |
| Toughness | medium | medium | about the same |
| Ease of sharpening | hard | moderate | — |
| Price tier | Mid | Mid | — |
D2 suits edc / folders, hard-use / survival; VG-10 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: D2 · VG-10 · best steel by purpose