Deciding between CPM S45VN and CPM MagnaCut comes down to specific performance priorities.
- CPM S45VN focuses on wear resistance. It builds on the industry-standard S35VN platform to offer higher edge retention and slicing ability. It is a mature, stable choice for general-purpose folding knives.
- CPM MagnaCut focuses on structural integrity. It solves the brittleness issue of stainless steel, offering superior toughness and near-total corrosion resistance, though at a higher cost.
For manufacturers, the distinction is clear: Use S45VN for superior edge retention. Use MagnaCut for superior durability.
Steel Overview: S45VN & MagnaCut
CPM S45VN
Released by Crucible Industries in 2019, S45VN is the direct successor to the legendary S35VN Steel. By balancing Chemistry with Nitrogen, Crucible created a steel that improves on S35VN’s corrosion resistance and edge retention while remaining factory-friendly. It is currently the “Gold Standard” for high-volume premium folding knives.
CPM MagnaCut
Launched in 2021, MagnaCut was engineered specifically to solve the “toughness tax” of stainless steel. It eliminates large chromium carbides, allowing it to act like a tough tool steel while being nearly rust-proof. It is currently the most requested material by enthusiasts, but supply chains and processing protocols are still stabilizing compared to the S30V/S45VN family.
Chemical Composition Comparison
| Element | CPM S45VN | CPM MagnaCut |
| Carbon (C) | 1.48% | 1.15% |
| Chromium (Cr) | 16.00% | 10.70% |
| Vanadium (V) | 3.00% | 4.00% |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | 2.00% | 2.00% |
| Niobium (Nb) | 0.50% | 2.00% |
| Nitrogen (N) | 0.15% | 0.20% |
Manufacturer’s Interpretation:
The key metric here is Chromium Efficiency. S45VN relies on high Chromium (16%) for stain resistance. MagnaCut uses less Chromium (10.7%) but keeps it “in solution” rather than tied up in carbides. This makes MagnaCut technically more corrosion-resistant and significantly tougher, though S45VN retains a higher volume of hard carbides for aggressive slicing.
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Performance Comparison Chart
| Performance Indicator | CPM S45VN | CPM MagnaCut | Winner |
| Edge Retention | 6.0/10 ★★★★ | 5.0/10 ★★★ | S45VN (Better slicing aggression) |
| Toughness | 4.5/10 ★★★ | 7.0/10 ★★★★★ | MagnaCut (Impact resistant) |
| Corrosion Resistance | 8.0/10 ★★★★ | 9.5/10 ★★★★★ | MagnaCut (Saltwater grade) |
| Ease of Sharpening | 6.0/10 ★★★★ | 7.0/10 ★★★★★ | MagnaCut (Fine grain structure) |
| Machinability | High | Medium | S45VN (Easier to finish) |
Detailed Performance Analysis
Edge Retention & Cutting Feel
S45VN wins on pure abrasive wear resistance. Its carbide structure creates a “toothy” edge that grabs onto material, excelling at slicing rope, cardboard, and synthetic webbing. MagnaCut holds an edge for a similar duration but feels different—it has a smoother, “razor-like” cut.
Production Note: S45VN is more forgiving with standard sharpening angles (20° per side), whereas MagnaCut performs best when ground thinner (15°-17°), which requires tighter CNC grinding tolerances.
Toughness
This is the main differentiator for B2B clients. S45VN, like S30V, is prone to micro-chipping if the user hits a staple, bone, or hard wood. MagnaCut is roughly 40-50% tougher.
Manufacturer’s Note: Using MagnaCut on hard-use models directly reduces warranty claims related to blade breakage. For standard EDC where impact is rare, S45VN toughness is perfectly adequate.
Corrosion Resistance
S45VN is excellent for 90% of users. However, in humid coastal environments or if neglected with fruit acids, it can develop minor “pepper spots” (pitting). MagnaCut competes with specialized “Salt” steels like LC200N. It is virtually immune to atmospheric corrosion, making it a safer bet for customers who neglect knife maintenance.
Ease of Sharpening & Finishing
Despite being harder (HRC 63+), MagnaCut is actually easier to sharpen than S45VN. S45VN can feel slightly “gummy” on the stones due to the specific vanadium/chromium carbide mix, sometimes leaving a stubborn burr. MagnaCut’s microstructure is extremely fine; it deburrs cleanly and takes a crisp edge with minimal effort.
Factory Insight: MagnaCut also responds better to bead blasting and stonewashing, yielding a cleaner, more uniform visual finish than S45VN.
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Cost & Market Positioning
CPM S45VN: The “Smart Upgrade”
- Target Price: $120 – $180 MSRP.
- Strategy: This is the safest upgrade path for brands currently using S35VN. It utilizes similar supply chains and pricing structures. It allows you to market a “Newer, Better Steel” without drastically increasing your BOM (Bill of Materials) cost.
CPM MagnaCut: The “Flagship Tier”
- Target Price: $200+ MSRP.
- Strategy: Due to higher raw material costs and limited availability, MagnaCut is best reserved for “Limited Editions” or top-tier flagship models. It builds brand prestige, even if margins are tighter.
Product Strategy: Where to Use Which Steel
Instead of asking “Which steel is better?”, product managers should ask: “How thin is the edge, and how hard will the user hit it?”
Scenario A: Thin-Edged Slicers (Gentleman’s Folders)
- Recommended Steel: CPM S45VN
- The Logic: These knives typically feature thin blade stock and are used for “draw cuts” (slicing cardboard, packaging).
- Why S45VN? S45VN’s higher carbide volume gives it a “toothy” edge that bites into synthetic materials better than MagnaCut. Since these users rarely subject the knife to impact, MagnaCut’s extreme toughness is wasted here. Using S45VN keeps your BOM lower while delivering excellent perceived sharpness.
Scenario B: Hard-Use Tactical & Fixed Blades
- Recommended Steel: CPM MagnaCut
- The Logic: These knives are marketed for survival, tactical, or heavy outdoor use. Users will pry, chop, and drop them.
- Why MagnaCut? S45VN is prone to micro-chipping or tip breakage under lateral stress. MagnaCut acts like a shock absorber. Using it here directly reduces your brand’s warranty claims for broken blades. It also allows you to grind the edge thinner for better cutting performance without sacrificing durability.
Scenario C: The “Salt” or Marine Series
- Recommended Steel: CPM MagnaCut
- The Logic: Knives designed for fishing, coastal carry, or sweaty environments.
- Why MagnaCut? It is one of the few steels that offers “Saltwater Knife” corrosion resistance while retaining the edge holding of a premium bushcraft knife. This provides a massive Unique Selling Point (USP) for your marketing team.
Final Verdict: S45VN or MagnaCut?
- Choose S45VN if you want a scalable, proven premium steel that maximizes profit margins and production efficiency.
- Choose MagnaCut if you are building a boutique line where “toughness” and “hype” are the primary selling points.
Partner with Keganico: Manufacturing Solutions
Choosing the right steel is about balancing performance with your target MSRP.
At Keganico, we specialize in helping brands navigate these choices.
- For Scalable Production: We have extensive experience manufacturing CPM S45VN. Our heat treatment protocols are optimized to deliver consistent quality for high-volume orders, making it a reliable choice for your core product line.
- For Specialized Needs: Looking for specific properties found in steels like MagnaCut? Our OEM knife manufacturer team can evaluate your design and help you source the most appropriate material for your budget and lead-time requirements.
Planning your 2026 lineup?
Whether you need the production readiness of S45VN for a private label launch or want to discuss custom material options, we are here to help.
Contact Keganico Today for a consultation and quote.
