Different Blade Steels

[KnottyEagle]

I was wondering how you can tell what blade steel is better then the other? I can't tell the difference between one and the other. For example, S30V and 14C28N. Do the numbers mean anything and what can we tell from them? What do the letters mean? I'm just drawing blanks on what the numbers and and letters mean. I know what composite is and damascus, but I want to be able to know the difference between the steels. I guess I'm trying to ask whether or not the numbers and letters mean something like C=Composite and S=Sandvik. Any help is greatly appreciated.

 

[Fanglekai]

Often they stand for elements.

 

[solidorange]

Good info here:

http://zknives.com/knives/steels/index.shtml

 

[KnottyEagle]

Good info here:

http://zknives.com/knives/steels/index.shtml

Thank-You solidorange.

 

[Insipid Moniker]

Better is very subjective. Decide what qualities you want, edge retention, toughness, stain resistance, ease of sharpening and cost. From there, you can look into steels that interest you.