S30V vs N690 cobalt

B

ballenagris

Joined
Jan 24, 2006
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I'm trying to make up my mind between a Harsey tactical tanto (S30V) and a ExtremeRatio Fulcrum IID Folder (N690 Cobalt steel). Which stell holds a sharper edge? Which is tougher? I want to keep the knife for a long time, so the price isn't relevant, but the quality of the steel is. Does anyone have any comment? Any experiences with either, good or bad? Thanks!
 
N690 is modified 440C made by Bohler foundry and used by Extrema Ratio, Benchmade(Red Class) and severel south african knifemakers( Chris Booysen http://www.cbknives.com/knives_page.htm) It has added Cobalt and it gives better wear resistance, other properties are similar. It good stainless steel if the heat treatment is done right, but S30V is very popular steel nowadays and used even in large fixed blades :thumbdn:
C 1,07%
Si 0,4%
Mn 0,4%
Cr 17,3%
Mo 1,1%
V 0,1%
Co 1,5%

If you want to keep the knife for a long time? Blade made of M2 is good idea.
 
I think the Vanadium content of the S30V is the tell all difference between the two. That and the carbon content of it. Cobalt has its benefits for sure and would step up the steel in strength and perhaps toughness as well as, allow it to take more temp. abuses without hurting the hardness or temper but I think the S30V will cut better. The Carbon and Vanadium content of the S30V make it pretty tough to compete with when it comes to bite and edge keeping. I haven't read a lot of the N690 info but I do know that the S30V has a high wear resistance that contributes to its edge keeping. Personally I'd go for it over the N690.

There may be a reason Fulcrum is using that steel though. It could be that it is a pretty tough steel that is a good choice for those wanting a 'sharpened pry bar'. Maybe one of the other guys will be able to add something more on that. I can't believe looking at it on paper that it will out perform S30V in the cutting and edge holding though.


STR
 
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