Choosing the right knife steel can make all the difference, whether you’re a seasoned knife enthusiast or a professional seller. Today, we compare two popular choices: 14C28N and D2.
14C28N excels in corrosion resistance and toughness. It’s ideal for EDC knives, kitchen use, or humid environments.
D2 boasts superior edge retention and high hardness, perfect for demanding cutting.
At Keganico.com, with decades of OEM/ODM knife manufacturing experience, we test these steels daily. This guide breaks down their composition and performance, helping you pick the best knife steel.
14C28N vs D2: steel overview
14C28N
Developed by Sandvik in Sweden, 14C28N is a martensitic stainless steel tailored for knives. Introduced in 2008-2009 as an upgrade to 13C26, it features added nitrogen to boost corrosion resistance while retaining solid toughness and edge stability. With 0.62% carbon and 14% chromium, it shines in EDC, kitchen, and outdoor knives—especially in scenarios requiring minimal maintenance.
D2
D2 is a high-carbon, high-chromium tool steel with a legacy dating back to the 1920s. Originally crafted for industrial cutting tools, it became a staple in World War II for production line dies. Renowned for its outstanding hardness and wear resistance, D2 boasts approximately 1.55% carbon and 12% chromium, enhanced by molybdenum and vanadium. Though not fully stainless, it offers moderate corrosion resistance and excels in industrial and hunting knives needing long-lasting sharpness.
14C28N vs D2: core composition
14C28N and D2’s chemical makeup drives their performance.
| Element | 14C28N | D2 | Role |
| Carbon (C) | 0.62% | 1.55% | Boosts hardness, wear resistance. |
| Chromium (Cr) | 14.00% | 12.00% | Enhances corrosion/wear resistance. |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | – | 0.80% | Improves toughness, hardenability. |
| Vanadium (V) | – | 0.90% | Boosts wear resistance, refines grain. |
| Nitrogen (N) | 0.11% | – | Improves corrosion/hardness. |
Key: 14C28N’s lower carbon, higher chromium, and nitrogen give it stainless properties. D2’s high carbon, molybdenum, and vanadium provide superior hardness and abrasion resistance.
14C28N vs D2: performance battle
Here’s how 14C28N and D2 steel compare:
| Attribute | 14C28N | D2 |
| Corrosion Resistance | Excellent (8/10) | Moderate (4/10) |
| Hardness | 58-60 HRC (6/10) | 60-62 HRC (7/10) |
| Toughness | High (9/10) | Low (3/10) |
| Edge Retention | Good (4/10) | Excellent (8/10) |
| Sharpening Ease | Easy (8/10) | Difficult (4/10) |
| Price | Similar | Similar |
Corrosion resistance
With 14% chromium and 0.11% nitrogen, 14C28N delivers excellent corrosion resistance (8/10), thriving in humid or coastal settings. D2, with 12% chromium—some bound in carbides—offers moderate resistance (4/10). Users note D2 knives may rust in high humidity without regular oiling, while 14C28N requires little upkeep.
You can learn how blade coatings influence further corrosion and wear behavior in our full Blade Coating Guide.
Hardness
Both steels achieve high hardness with proper heat treatment. 14C28N ranges from 55-62 HRC, typically 58-60 HRC in knives (6/10). D2 spans 55-64 HRC, often 60-62 HRC, with its carbon content edging out slightly in wear resistance (7/10). However, D2’s brittleness contrasts with 14C28N’s balanced toughness. Learn more in our Blade Coating Guide.
Toughness
Toughness measures resistance to cracking or chipping under impact. 14C28N excels with high toughness (9/10), ideal for tasks like chopping or prying. D2, with lower toughness (3/10), is prone to chipping under stress, making 14C28N the sturdier option.
Edge retention
D2 surpasses 14C28N in edge retention, thanks to its high carbon and vanadium carbides (8/10). Studies suggest it holds an edge 20% longer. 14C28N, rated 4/10, suits everyday tasks but needs more frequent sharpening under heavy use.
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Ease of sharpening
14C28N’s fine carbide structure and moderate hardness make it easy to sharpen with standard tools like aluminum oxide stones (8/10). D2’s higher hardness and larger carbides demand diamond stones or pro tools (4/10), though pros can mitigate this with practice.
Price
Both steels are budget-friendly, common in mid-to-low-end knives. Prices vary more by brand and design than steel type. D2’s widespread use may lower costs slightly, while 14C28N’s rarity in the U.S. might nudge it higher. Performance trumps price here.
14C28N vs D2: usage recommendations
Choosing between 14C28N vs D2 depends on your needs.
Choose 14C28N for:
- Humid/Coastal Environments: Superior corrosion resistance prevents rust, simplifying maintenance.
- Everyday Carry (EDC) Knives: Balanced toughness, good edge retention, and easy sharpening make it versatile and reliable for daily utility tasks. Its low maintenance is a huge plus. Explore EDC options in our [Types of Pocket Knives Guide].
- Kitchen Knives: Excellent corrosion resistance (for food acids), toughness, and easy sharpening make it ideal.
- Easy Sharpening Preference: If you like frequent, simple sharpening.
Explore more pocket knives with 14C28N for day-to-day versatility.
Choose D2 for:
- Heavy-Duty Cutting: Exceptional edge retention for extensive use in industrial tools, hunting knives (field dressing), or bushcraft.
- Tactical/Survival Knives: Long-lasting sharpness is critical here.
- Edge Longevity Priority: If you need a knife that stays sharp longest between sharpenings, even if sharpening is harder.
- Blade Maintenance Willingness: D2 needs cleaning/oiling, especially in humidity, to prevent rust.
For more insights into EDC vs Tactical function, visit our guide: Fixed Blade vs Folding Knife.
Conclusion
The choice between 14C28N and D2 steel depends on your priorities.
- Choose 14C28N for a low-maintenance knife with superior corrosion resistance and high toughness. Ideal for daily/humid use. It’s also easier to sharpen.
- Opt for D2 for unrivaled edge retention and high hardness in demanding tasks. Be prepared for more challenging sharpening and consistent rust prevention.
At Keganico.com, we understand knife steel performance. We offer a wide range of knives with both 14C28N and D2. As a top OEM/ODM knife manufacturer, we meticulously craft each blade. Our expertise ensures premium quality for an affordable EDC knife or a high-performance Tactical blade.
Ready to discuss your custom knife project? Contact us today for a custom quote. Discover why Keganico.com is your trusted partner.
