S30V vs. D2

flatgrinder

flatgrinder

Joined
Dec 20, 2005
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Don't mean to open a can of worms, but which steel do you prefer and why?

I'm trying to decide between the two. The cost of material is about the same and both take a crappy finish -but hold their edges for a while.

I'll be making a skinner, with a 3.75" blade, 3/16" stock, hollow ground. Any recommendations?

Thanks!
 
I would use S30V.D-2 is good steel,but I never got into using it much.
They say D-2 takes a poor edge and holds it forever.That is not fair,though, because the edge is good for some types of knives and cutters.For a skinner,you might get a slightly sharper edge with S30V.Corrosion resistance would be better.too.
Just my take on it.You will hear others,I'm sure.
Stacy
 
Both are good choices. I only have experience making knives with D2 but I have factory knives in S30V. My opinion is that they are pretty equal for your intended purpose.
Scott
 
I have a customer in PA that has been discussing which of the same two to have his knife made of. I believe we are going with S30, my and his preferred choice for his needs.
 
I use both. I tend to use D2 most of the time for several reasons.

D2 is slightly cheaper.
D2 grinds easier, about 2/3 of the belt wear that S30V takes, in my estimation.
S30V will take a slightly finer edge, but I polish both and the difference is minor. I have shaved with warncliffe blades mede from each steel and the S30V is smoother.
I have no doubt that S30V is a better steel in all the ways that are claimed, but I don't think that from the perspective of a using knife that the average user can really tell much difference.
D2 is easier to heat treat.

S30V is enough more trouble to work with that I mostly use it when requested or at will, but for everyday stock removal knives I use D2.

I also suggest trying A2, if rust resistance is not a great concern. It makes a very fine knife steel.
 
I love steel talk which goes from bad to terrible most of the time. But , having said that, I would choose D2 and that is because I have used it for so long. The cute saying of taking a poor edge and holding it forever was at a Guild show many years ago and was really said to talk someone into buying their 440C knife. It is a great edge holder. I think both steels are far above the average user, but my choice is D2. And A2 was mentioned, a great steel by the way.
 
D2 over S30V for me. I'm just not crazy about S30V for some reason.
 
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