CPM-S35VN is a high-end powder metallurgy stainless steel produced by Crucible Industries. Released in 2009, it was designed specifically as an improved version of the legendary CPM-S30V.
It was developed in collaboration with master knifemaker Chris Reeve, who wanted to fix two minor complaints about S30V: its tendency to chip and the difficulty of polishing and sharpening it.
Key Characteristics
Enhanced Toughness: The "N" in S35VN stands for Niobium. Adding niobium makes the grain structure much finer, which significantly increases toughness (by about 15–20% over S30V). This makes the edge much less likely to chip under hard use.
Superior Sharpness and Ease of Sharpening: Because of the finer grain, it is noticeably easier to sharpen than S30V. It also takes a "keener" (sharper) edge and is easier for custom makers to polish to a mirror finish.
Excellent Edge Retention: It maintains nearly the same high-level edge holding as S30V, typically hardened to 58–61 HRC.
Great Corrosion Resistance: With 14% Chromium, it is very rust-resistant and reliable for everyday carry in various climates.
Chemical Composition
Crucible kept the S30V "base" but adjusted the recipe for better stability:
Carbon (C): 1.40%
Chromium (Cr): 14.00%
Vanadium (V): 3.00% (Slightly reduced from S30V to balance the Niobium)
Molybdenum (Mo): 2.00%
Niobium (Nb): 0.50% (The key addition for toughness and grain refinement)
Common Applications
High-End EDC Knives: It is the "standard" premium steel for Chris Reeve Knives (Sebenza, Inkosi), and is used extensively by Spyderco, Zero Tolerance, and Kizer.
Premium Fixed Blades: Its improved toughness makes it a great choice for hunting and light survival knives that need to stay stainless.
Summary: S30V vs. S35VN vs. S45VN
S30V: The classic original; great edge holding but can be "chippy."
S35VN: The "sweet spot" upgrade; tougher and easier to maintain.
S45VN: The newest evolution; offers even better corrosion resistance and slightly better edge holding than S35VN.