S35VN and D2 are two of the most discussed steels in the knife markets. S35VN is a staple in premium knives, while D2 is known for its durability and value. Many buyers and sellers ask: Is S35VN really worth two or three times the price of D2?
If you’re sourcing for OEM or choosing retail products, this comparison will help you make an informed decision with up-to-date data and real user feedback.
S35VN vs D2 steel overview
S35VN was co-developed by Crucible Industries and Chris Reeve Knives, officially launched in 2009 using powder metallurgy. It builds on S30V by adding 0.5% niobium (Nb), which improves toughness and makes sharpening easier. Today, S35VN is a go-to steel for high-end EDC, outdoor, and custom knives.
D2 is a high-carbon, high-chromium tool steel originally used for industrial dies and molds. Its high hardness and wear resistance made it popular for knives. While D2 contains about 12% chromium, much of it forms carbides, so its corrosion resistance is limited. D2 remains a favorite for mid-range and industrial knives due to its excellent edge retention and value.
S35VN vs D2: Composition
The performance differences are rooted in the recipe. S35VN is a balanced formula, while D2 is a specialist focused on hardness and abrasion resistance.
| Element | S35VN | D2 | Function/Effect |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carbon (C) | 1.40% | 1.50% | Increases hardness and wear resistance |
| Chromium (Cr) | 14.00% | 12.00% | Improves corrosion resistance |
| Vanadium (V) | 3.00% | 0.90% | Boosts wear resistance and edge retention |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | 2.00% | 0.75–0.80% | Adds corrosion and red hardness |
| Niobium (Nb) | 0.50% | – | Increases toughness |
S35VN, with higher chromium (14% vs 12%) and niobium, is a stainless steel designed for better corrosion resistance and toughness.
D2, with higher carbon (1.50% vs 1.40%) and lower chromium, excels in wear resistance and edge retention but is less corrosion-resistant, requiring maintenance.
The powder metallurgy process in S35VN results in finer carbides, enhancing toughness compared to D2’s larger carbides, which can affect performance in real-world use.
These compositional choices set the foundation for their distinct performance profiles, which we’ll explore in detail below.
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S35VN vs D2: Performance comparison and ratings
| Property | S35VN | D2 |
|---|---|---|
| Corrosion Resistance | Excellent (true stainless) | Moderate (“semi-stainless”; better than carbon steel, far below 440C) |
| Hardness | 58–61 | 55–62 |
| Toughness | Very Good (Rating: 5/10) | Fair (Rating: 4/10) |
| Edge Retention | Very Good (Rating: 5/10) | Very Good (Rating: 5/10) |
| Ease of Sharpening | Easier | More difficult |
| Price (2025 US market) | High ($120–200) | Low–Mid ($40–70) |
Hardness
S35VN typically hardens to 58–61 HRC; D2 is usually 60–62 HRC but can be as low as 55 HRC depending on heat treatment.
D2 is great for heavy-duty cutting but is more brittle. S35VN balances hardness and toughness, making it suitable for a wider range of uses.
Testing shows S35VN at 60 HRC has noticeably better chipping resistance than D2.
Edge retention
Both S35VN and D2 offer impressive, above-average edge retention that makes them highly capable for daily use. According to Knife Steel Nerds data, their performance is directly comparable to other widely respected steels like VG10, 440C, and ZDP-189. For perspective, while very good, their wear resistance is a clear step below premium, high-vanadium steels like M390 and the ultra-wear-resistant “super steels” like S90V.
How they achieve this strong performance is what sets them apart. D2’s large chromium carbides create a rugged, long-lasting “working edge” that excels at slicing abrasive materials. S35VN, with its finer vanadium and niobium carbides, offers a similar level of endurance but with less risk of the micro-chipping that can occur as an edge dulls.
Corrosion resistance
S35VN, with 14% chromium, is a true stainless steel and resists rust in daily use.
D2, despite its high chromium, forms large carbides, so its free chromium is insufficient for true stainless performance. Its corrosion resistance is better than plain carbon steel but much lower than 440C or AEB-L.
On Reddit and BladeForums, many users report D2 knives rust easily in humid or kitchen environments and require regular oiling. S35VN users rarely worry about rust, making maintenance much easier.
Toughness
Thanks to niobium, S35VN is significantly tougher than D2 and can handle more impact and flex. D2 is more prone to chipping under heavy use.
Some users report S35VN blades surviving batoning and branch chopping with no edge damage, while D2 blades in similar use may chip.
Ease of sharpening
S35VN’s fine carbides make it easier to sharpen, suitable for both factory processing and end users. D2’s large carbides make it slow to sharpen, best with ceramic or diamond stones. Many DIY users say D2 takes much longer to sharpen, especially with basic stones, while S35VN is more beginner-friendly.
If you’re looking for a steel that balances toughness and ease of sharpening, S35VN is generally preferred by both EDC enthusiasts and OEM knife manufacturers.
Price comparison
As of mid-2025, major US brands (Benchmade, Spyderco, etc.) price S35VN folding knives at $120–200, while D2 models are typically $40–70. For OEM, S35VN costs more in both material and heat treatment, but supports higher-end positioning and margins.
S35VN vs D2 : for Private label, OEM and wholesale
For EDC and outdoor knives, S35VN offers a premium experience with less maintenance, making it a top choice for private label and OEM knife manufacturing. D2, on the other hand, is ideal for high-volume wholesale orders where cost and edge retention are key.
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S35VN vs D2: Recommended use cases
Who is S35VN For?
- The “One-and-Done” User: Someone who wants a single knife to handle everything from opening packages to weekend camping, without worrying about rust or chipping.
- High-End EDC & Outdoor Enthusiasts: Users who value reliability in all weather conditions and need a tough blade that can withstand unexpected impacts in the field.
- The Quality-Conscious Buyer: Someone who sees the higher price as a long-term investment in “peace of mind” and lower maintenance.
For sellers aiming for brand value and user experience, S35VN is a strong choice for upgrading your product line.
Who is D2 For?
- The Heavy-Duty Work User: For tasks where the knife is a pure tool for continuous, abrasive cutting (e.g., a warehouse worker cutting cardboard, an electrician stripping wire).
- The Value-Focused Pragmatist: Users who need maximum edge retention for their dollar and are willing to perform routine maintenance to get it.
- The “Toolbox” or “Truck” Knife: A tough, affordable, and high-performance blade that you can use hard without worrying about damaging a high-dollar investment.
For value-focused, high-volume orders, D2 is a reliable and proven option.
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Looking to Source High-Quality Knives for Your Brand?
Choosing between S35VN and D2 is just one of many critical decisions in bringing a successful knife to market. At Keganico.com, we are more than just an OEM knife manufacturer; we are your strategic sourcing partner, guiding you through every step of the process.
Why Choose Keganico?
- Expert Steel Consultation: We help you navigate the complexities of OEM knife steel options—from D2 and S35VN to other popular choices like VG10 steel—to ensure your product perfectly matches your brand’s performance and price targets.
- Precision Manufacturing & Heat Treatment: Our expertise in the manufacturing process ensures that whichever steel you choose, its full potential for hardness, toughness, and edge retention is unlocked.
- Full Customization (Private Label): Build your brand from scratch. Beyond the blade, we offer extensive customization for G10 handles, micarta, carbon fiber, and a wide array of knife lock types.
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