W1 vs W2

[Carcara]

For those who have used both types of steel, have you noticed a difference
in the cutting edge between the two types of steel? Does the added
vanadium in W2 lead to a coarser carbide structure? W2 feel harder on the
sharpening stones etc. Thanks.

 

[jdm61]

Everything that I have seen, heard and read says that the vanadium not only binds up to form carbides, but also keeps the grain size smaller. My expereicne has been that my W2 knives have the best edge of any steel I have used.

 

[Don Hanson III]

Joe's right on!

I've used both, quite a bit. W1 is a good blade steel but I like W2 much better

That little bit of vanadium in W2 makes a Huge difference!

W2 can produce a finer grain, more wear resistance and a tougher blade.

 

[mete]

The small amount of Vanadium is there for smaller grain size. Typically amounts up to .30 % are there for grain reduction while higher amounts also add very wear resistant carbides.