For years, CPM S90V was the ultimate “prestige” choice for brands wanting to market extreme edge longevity to collectors. It set a high bar for what a premium stainless folder could achieve in terms of cutting endurance.
However, the arrival of CPM MagnaCut has forced a shift in B2B strategy. Brand owners no longer have to choose between a blade that stays sharp and one that won’t chip. The dilemma now is whether to stick with the specialized performance of S90V or adopt the versatile, “all-rounder” appeal of MagnaCut.
Steel Overview: S90V vs. MagnaCut
CPM S90V (The Edge King): Introduced by Crucible Industries as an evolution of S60V, S90V was the original “super steel.” It utilizes a staggering 9% Vanadium content to create a high volume of hard carbides, designed for users who prioritize cutting longevity above all else. It has long been the standard for premium, low-impact folding knives.
CPM MagnaCut (The Modern Disruptor): Released in 2021 by Dr. Larrin Thomas, MagnaCut was engineered specifically for cutlery. By eliminating large chromium carbides, it achieves tool-steel toughness with the corrosion resistance of a marine-grade alloy. It has effectively redefined the “premium” tier by offering a balanced performance profile that previously required non-stainless steels.
Chemical Composition & Interpretation
| Element | CPM S90V | CPM MagnaCut | Business Significance |
| Carbon (C) | 2.30% | 1.15% | Hardness Base: S90V’s high carbon drives its extreme wear resistance. |
| Vanadium (V) | 8.75%–9.00% | 4.00% | Wear Resistance: S90V’s 9% Vanadium makes it a “cutting machine.” |
| Chromium (Cr) | 14.00% | 10.70% | Corrosion Logic: MagnaCut’s structure makes it more rust-proof despite lower Cr. |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | 1.00% | 2.00% | Pitting Resistance: Higher Mo in MagnaCut boosts stability in saltwater. |
| Niobium (Nb) | – | 2.00% | Toughness: MagnaCut’s secret to preventing edge chipping. |
| Nitrogen (N) | – | 0.20% | Stability: Boosts MagnaCut’s performance without adding brittleness. |
Data Source: zknives.com
Manufacturer’s Interpretation:
- S90V is a “maximalist” steel—it uses high Carbon and Vanadium to force performance through carbide volume.
- MagnaCut is “structural”—it uses Niobium, Nitrogen, and increased Molybdenum to create a finer, tougher grain that resists corrosion and damage better than S90V.
Start Working with a Professional Now
Performance Scorecard: S90V vs. MagnaCut
| Performance Indicator | CPM S90V | CPM MagnaCut | Winner |
| Edge Retention | 9.0/10 ★★★ | 5.0/10 ★★★ | S90V |
| Toughness | 3.5/10 ★ | 7.0/10 ★★★ | MagnaCut |
| Corrosion Resistance | 7.5/10 ★★★ | 9.5/10 ★★★★★ | MagnaCut |
| Ease of Sharpening | 3.0/10 ★ | 6.5/10 ★★★★ | MagnaCut |
| Hardness (HRC) | 59–61 | 61–64 | MagnaCut |
Data Source: Knife Steel Nerds
Detailed Performance Breakdown
Edge Retention
In standardized CATRA wear tests, S90V ranks at the very top of the stainless category—trailing only extreme high-alloy steels like S125V and S110V. At similar hardness levels, S90V provides a significantly longer “working edge life” during repetitive cutting of cardboard or fiber compared to the mid-to-high wear range occupied by MagnaCut.
Toughness
This is where MagnaCut shines. According to the data from Knife Steel Nerds, at a high hardness of 62.5 HRC, MagnaCut maintains a toughness of approximately 17 ft-lbs. In stark contrast, S90V drops to a mere 5 ft-lbs even at a lower hardness of 61 HRC.
Manufacturer’s Note: From a production standpoint, this translates to a blade that is significantly more resilient against the "micro-chipping" issues that plague high-carbide steels like S90V. By adopting MagnaCut, you are effectively providing premium edge retention while drastically lowering your brand's warranty risk and post-sale maintenance costs.
Corrosion Resistance
MagnaCut’s performance exceeds traditional expectations; salt spray and pitting tests show it outperforms classic stainless grades like 20CV and S45VN. This is because it avoids forming chromium carbides, keeping the chromium “in solution” to fight rust. In contrast, a significant portion of S90V’s chromium is “locked” in carbides, making it more prone to staining in humid or coastal environments.
Sharpening & Machinability
S90V’s massive volume of vanadium carbides makes it highly resistant to traditional alumina or natural stone abrasives, often requiring diamond or CBN tools for efficient sharpening.
For the factory, MagnaCut’s carbide distribution offers a “machining-friendly” profile. It results in significantly lower abrasive belt wear and higher grinding efficiency compared to S90V, allowing for a cleaner, burr-free edge during mass production.
Cost Analysis & Market Pricing
CPM S90V: The “Performance Specialist”
- Target Price: $180 – $300 MSRP.
- Strategy: Ideal for limited-run collector pieces where “maximum edge retention” is the primary selling point.
CPM MagnaCut: The “Modern Flagship”
- Target Price: $200 – $400+ MSRP.
- Strategy: The best choice for premium flagship models that need to perform flawlessly in any environment.
Start Working with a Professional Now
Application Guide: Best Use Cases
1. Hard-Use Tactical & Outdoor Knives
Verdict: CPM MagnaCut is the only choice.
S90V’s low toughness makes it prone to snapping under lateral stress or impact. For a fixed blade knife meant for heavy duty, MagnaCut offers tool-steel durability with zero rust maintenance.
2. Ultra-Premium EDC Folders
Verdict: S90V for the “Steel Snob,” MagnaCut for the “Daily User.”
If your consumer is a collector who enjoys the prestige of high-vanadium s90v steel, it remains a top-tier choice. However, for a user who wants an easy-to-sharpen, chip-resistant blade, MagnaCut is the better business investment.
3. High-End Culinary Knives
Verdict: CPM MagnaCut.
High-end kitchen knives require thin, acute angles. S90V at 15 degrees per side can be quite chippy on a cutting board. MagnaCut’s fine grain structure supports ultra-thin geometry without the fragility.
Partner with Keganico
Based in Yangjiang, the world’s knife-manufacturing capital, Keganico combines elite metallurgy with the cost advantages of direct-to-factory production.
Our Services & Advantages:
- Private Label (OEM/ODM): Full-service manufacturing. From your technical drawings to custom logos and packaging, we build your brand.
- Wholesale: Access our inventory of high-performance designs, ready for immediate bulk shipping.
- Direct Factory Pricing: Located in the heart of the industry, we eliminate middlemen to ensure you get the most competitive margins.
- Scalable Capacity: Whether you need a boutique small-batch run or mass production of 10,000+ units, we deliver on time.
- Technical Mastery: We specialize in the precision heat treatment required for “Super Steels” like S90V and MagnaCut, ensuring premium performance in every blade.
Ready to launch your next flagship? Contact Keganico Today to request a quote and leverage our Yangjiang production power.
Related Reading:
