BM 710- M390 vs D2

E

everydaycarry

Joined
Nov 4, 2005
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I am looking at getting a Benchmade 710 for my collection.

I was all set to order the coated D2 model, but ran across the special edition M390 versions.

I have alot of experience with D2 and like it alot, but no experience with M390.Although I've never had an issue with my coated D2 blades rusting I think might be interested in the M390 version for more corrosion resistance while fishing or hunting in the rain.

This would be an EDC blade used for light food prep,daily cutting tasks in an office environment, and hunting/fishing/outdoors use.

How would you compare M390 to D2 regarding edge retention and ease of sharpening?
 
The D2 normally used in the 710 is not CPM-D2 from what I understand. It has large carbides that can hold an edge well. M390 is a much better steel (3rd generation particle metal if I remember correctly). It has excellent wear resistance and gets insanely sharp and keeps that edge for a long time. It's almost like S90V in performance I'd say, but not quite. D2 is great steel, but in my opinion M390 is leaps and bound ahead.
 
+1 on M390 getting insanely sharp and holding an edge for a long time. I use my BM 581 to shave my face...as an edge retention test for myself.

Get the M390, I'm not sure if there are any disadvantages EXCEPT MAYBE toughness...but that may not even be true either...
 
I could be wrong, but at the edge of M390 fewer small breakages
Sorry, my English is terrible.
 
Benchmade's d2 is great. Their m390 is even better. And according to ankerson, m390 at a couple points above what bench made runs it at, out performs s90v at 60. Very very good stuff. Seems to take a beating too without issues of chipping etc in my experience.

My benchmade m390 blades will be getting a ffg and retreatment to 62 :thumbup:

Either way you can't go wrong. The list price at knife works are similar, but since the d2 version is a standard catalog item, the coupon code does apply so don't forget that. I think the m390 ends up being something like a $35 upgrade. Worth it in my opinion, but its not like d2 will disappoint either. There's a reason the stuff has been used since wwII
 
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