CPM-S90V and CPM-S110V are ultra-premium stainless steels from Crucible Industries designed for maximum wear resistance. While S110V is the more "extreme" alloy on paper, S90V is often preferred by enthusiasts for its slightly better balance of properties.
Wear Resistance Comparison
CPM S110V (The King of Longevity): This steel is packed with massive amounts of Vanadium and Niobium, creating an incredibly high volume of hard carbides. It is widely considered one of the longest-lasting edges available in a production stainless steel. It stays sharp through extreme amounts of abrasive cutting.
CPM S90V (Exceptional): S90V is also a marathon performer. While S110V technically outlasts it in pure CATRA lab testing, the difference in real-world EDC use is marginal. S90V is often considered more "stable," as its edge is slightly less prone to micro-chipping than the highly-saturated S110V.
Corrosion Resistance Comparison
CPM S110V (Superior): S110V contains significantly more Chromium (~15%) and Niobium, which enhances its ability to resist rust. It is one of the most corrosion-resistant high-wear steels on the market.
CPM S90V (Excellent): S90V is very stainless and reliable for daily use. However, because so much of its Chromium is tied up in carbides to provide wear resistance, it is technically slightly less rust-resistant than S110V in harsh environments like salt spray.
Quick Comparison Table
Feature | CPM S90V | CPM S110V |
|---|---|---|
Wear Resistance | Exceptional | Highest (Production) |
Corrosion Resistance | Excellent | Exceptional |
Sharpenability | Very Difficult | Extremely Difficult |
Toughness | Low | Very Low (Brittle) |
Edge Feel | Toothy / Aggressive | Very Toothy |
Summary
Choose CPM S90V if you want elite edge retention but still want a blade that is (relatively) manageable to sharpen and slightly more resistant to chipping.
Choose CPM S110V if you want the absolute maximum "working edge" life and top-tier rust resistance, and you have high-quality diamond sharpening equipment to maintain it.