The steel blade is the heart of any knife. It determines the quality and performance of a knife, so it is crucial to know about the different types of steel before making a purchase. Two of the most popular steels used in knife-making are 5CR15 and 8CR13. Although they may sound similar, there are significant differences between the two. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the differences between 5CR15 and 8CR13 steel so you can decide when choosing a knife.
What is 5CR15 Steel?
5CR15 steel is a Chinese stainless steel grade made with 5Cr15MoV, commonly seen in mid-range kitchen knives. It has good corrosion resistance, sharpens easily and can reach an exceptional hardness of 56-58 HRC after heat treatment, making it one of the best values in cutlery steels. It has similar qualities as the Japanese AUS 8 but at a cheaper price point.
What is 8CR13 Steel?
8CR13 Steel is a type of stainless steel containing 0.75-0.95 Carbon, 13 Chrome, and the rest of the Iron. It is known for being highly corrosion-resistant and durable due to its chemical composition. The material is even used in making kitchen knives as it holds an edge well while still having good rust resistance properties.
Difference Between 5CR15 and 8CR13 Steel
Composition & Quality
The composition of steel determines its hardness, toughness, and overall quality. 5CR15 steel has a lower carbon content but higher chromium compared to 8CR13, which makes it softer and easier to sharpen. On the other hand, 8CR13 steel is harder and more durable because of its higher carbon content. However, higher carbon content makes it more brittle than 5CR15, making it more susceptible to chipping and breaking.
Knife-makers prefer to use 5CR15 steel for knives requiring a sharper edge, like chef and fillet knives. 8CR13 is typically used in knives that require more toughness and durability, like folding, survival, and hunting knives.
Corrosion Resistance
5CR15 and 8CR13 are stainless steel types, but 5CR15 has higher chromium content, making it more corrosion-resistant than 8CR13. However, 8CR13 steel can still resist corrosion if properly maintained. Wiping the knife clean and dry immediately after use is recommended, especially in a wet environment. Applying a light coat of oil after use can also help prevent rusting.
Price
One of the biggest differences between these two steels is the price. 5CR15 steel is considered a budget-friendly option, making it ideal for beginners or those who want to spend less on a knife. In contrast, 8CR13 steel is slightly more expensive than 5CR15 because of its durability and robustness. It is still considered affordable compared to other high-end steels but is more expensive than 5CR15.
Sharpening
Both 5CR15 and 8CR13 steel types are easy to sharpen. However, 5CR15 steel requires less effort and time than 8CR13. It can quickly regain its sharpness with a few strokes on a sharpening stone or honing rod. 8CR13 steel, on the other hand, is harder and takes longer to sharpen. It also requires a more precise angle during sharpening to avoid damaging the blade’s edge.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the primary difference between 5CR15 and 8CR13 steel is their composition and quality. 5CR15 steel has higher chromium content but lesser carbon, making it softer and more susceptible to chipping. 8CR13 steel is harder, more durable, and better suited for folding, survival, and hunting knives. Both these types of steel are easy to sharpen and maintain, but they differ in price and corrosion resistance. Make an informed decision while purchasing a knife, and consider the type of steel that suits your usage and budget.
A passionate metal industry expert and blogger. With over 5 years of experience in the field, Palak brings a wealth of knowledge and insight to her writing. Whether discussing the latest trends in the metal industry or sharing tips, she is dedicated to helping others succeed in the metal industry.
