- Joined
- May 9, 2000
- Messages
- 29,205
Yes, CPM 420V and CPM S90V are the same steel and this steel under either name is not a 400 series steel. It is not made using the same metallurical process and it not made from the same basic blend of ferrite, carbon and alloys that the 400 series are.
As far as carbon versus the lesser stainless steels is conserned; no contest in my view. I have always enjoyed taking care of my knives. Where I live is not a problem as far as corrosion is concerned. I will take the added toughness, ease of sharpening and better edge holding of the basic 10 series steels over any lesser stainless steels. In fact, when properly forged and heat treated, I prefer the 10 series steels over any stainless steel. In my personal experience, non-stainless carbon steel when the most has been attained from it, has outperformed stainless in every way except staining and on a working knife, I really don't care if the blade stains. In fact, I think many knives look better with a blade that has a nice patina.
If I used my knives in a way that rust or chemical corrosion could be a problem, then my opinion would likely be different.