S90V Stainless Steel
S90V is a type of high-performance stainless steel that is known for its exceptional edge retention, corrosion resistance, and toughness. It is considered premium steel due to its excellent performance and rare availability. In this article, we will take a closer look at the properties, advantages, and disadvantages of S90V steel, as well as the best use cases and average retail cost range for knives made with this type of steel.
Properties: S90V steel is a type of high-performance stainless steel that contains 1.9% carbon, 18% chromium, 7% vanadium, and 4% molybdenum. It has a Rockwell hardness of 62-64, which makes it a relatively hard and durable steel. It is also known for its exceptional edge retention, corrosion resistance, and toughness.
Advantages:
- Exceptional edge retention: S90V steel is known for its exceptional edge retention, making it a great choice for knives that will be used for heavy cutting tasks.
- Good corrosion resistance: S90V steel is known for its good corrosion resistance, making it a great choice for knives that will be exposed to moisture.
- High level of toughness: S90V steel is relatively tough, making it more resistant to breaking or chipping under heavy use.
Disadvantages:
- Limited availability: S90V steel is a relatively new steel alloy and it is not widely available on the market, making it hard to find.
- Price: S90V steel is considered premium steel, it is generally more expensive than other types of steel, making it less budget-friendly for some consumers.
- Ease of sharpening: S90V steel is not as easy to sharpen as some other types of steel, making it less suitable for those who do not have access to professional sharpening services.
Best use cases:
- High-end knives: S90V steel’s exceptional edge retention, good corrosion resistance, and high level of toughness make it a great choice for high-end knives that will be used for heavy cutting tasks and exposed to high levels of wear and tear.
- Tactical knives: S90V steel’s exceptional edge retention, good corrosion resistance, and high level of toughness make it a great choice for tactical knives that will be used for heavy cutting tasks and exposed to rough conditions.
- Collectible knives: S90V steel’s exceptional performance and limited availability make it a great choice for collectible knives that will be used for display or occasional use.
Average retail cost range: The average retail cost range for knives made with S90V steel can vary widely depending on factors such as the design, the quality of the craftsmanship, and the brand. However, generally, knives made with S90V steel can be found for an average retail cost range between $300 to $1000, due to its premium steel status and limited availability.
In conclusion, S90V steel is a type of high-performance stainless steel that is known for its exceptional edge retention, corrosion resistance, and toughness. It is considered premium steel due to its excellent performance and rare availability. However, it is not widely available on the market, it is more expensive than other types of steel and it may be harder to sharpen. The average retail cost range for knives made with S90V steel is relatively high. As with any knife steel, it is important to consider the intended use and personal preference when choosing the right alloy for a specific knife. It’s also essential to keep in mind that S90V steel requires proper heat treatment to achieve its optimal properties and performance. It is a great choice for high-end knives, tactical knives, and collectible knives that will be used for heavy cutting tasks and exposed to high levels of wear and tear, but it may not be a suitable option for those on a budget or those who lack access to professional sharpening services. Overall, S90V steel is a rare and premium steel that offers exceptional performance for the right user.