CPM-S110V is a premier stainless "super steel" produced by Crucible Industries. It represents one of the highest levels of edge retention and corrosion resistance available in the stainless steel world today.
It is widely considered an upgrade over CPM-S90V, packed with even more vanadium and niobium to maximize its cutting lifespan.
Key Characteristics
Insane Edge Retention: This is S110V’s claim to fame. It is saturated with hard vanadium and niobium carbides, allowing it to hold a sharp edge for an incredibly long time. In standard cutting tests, it ranks among the top 1% of all stainless steels.
Extreme Corrosion Resistance: With 15% Chromium and a high amount of Molybdenum, it is exceptionally rust-resistant. It can handle humid environments and acidic materials (like fruit) with almost zero risk of staining.
Very High Wear Resistance: It is designed to resist abrasion. If you cut high volumes of cardboard, rope, or abrasive synthetic materials, S110V will stay sharp long after other steels have failed.
Low Toughness (Brittle): The trade-off for its extreme hardness and edge holding is brittleness. S110V is prone to micro-chipping if it hits a staple, a bone, or is used for prying. It is a dedicated slicer, not a hard-use tool.
Difficult to Sharpen: Like Rex 121 or 15V, S110V is a "stone eater." Because the carbides are harder than standard aluminum oxide stones, you must use diamond abrasives to sharpen it effectively.
Chemical Composition
The "110" in the name roughly refers to the high alloy content:
Carbon (C): 2.80% (Extremely high for a stainless steel)
Chromium (Cr): 15.25% (For top-tier rust resistance)
Vanadium (V): 9.00% (The primary source of its legendary edge retention)
Niobium (Nb): 3.00% (Increases wear resistance and refines grain)
Molybdenum (Mo): 2.25%
Cobalt (Co): 2.50% (Increases overall strength and hardness)
Common Applications
Premium Folding Knives: It is a signature steel for Spyderco, easily identified by their "Blurple" (dark blue/purple) G-10 scales on models like the PM2, Para 3, and Military.
High-End Slicing Tools: Ideal for tasks where a clean, sharp edge must be maintained through repetitive cutting without frequent sharpening.
Comparison: S110V vs. M390
S110V holds an edge longer than M390 but is more brittle and much harder to sharpen.
M390 is more balanced, offering great edge retention with better toughness and a better finish.