Choosing the right steel can make all the difference in performance and longevity when it comes to knives. Two steel types that are commonly used in knives are 7CR17MOV and X50CRMOV15. But what’s the difference between the two? In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the properties of each steel and what sets them apart.
What is 7CR17MOV Steel?
7CR17MOV steel is a type of stainless steel commonly used in producing knives, scissors, and other cutting tools. It is magnetic and contains 17% chromium for corrosion resistance and increased hardness. It has excellent properties for edge retention, providing good sharpness while being durable enough to be re-sharpened multiple times.
What is X50CRMOV15 Steel?
X50CRMOV15 Steel is a high chromium stainless steel alloy with 15% chrome content. It offers outstanding resistance to wear and corrosion, excellent hardness and toughness properties, and good ductility and formability. This material is ideal for blades due to its strong edge retention, making it a favourite choice for chef’s knives and woodworking tools.
Difference Between 7CR17MOV and X50CRMOV15 Steel
Composition:
7CR17MOV and X50CRMOV15 are both stainless steels, but their composition differs slightly. 7CR17MOV comprises 0.7% carbon, 17% chromium, 1.3% molybdenum, 0.6% nickel, and 0.1% vanadium. X50CRMOV15, on the other hand, contains 0.5% carbon, 15% chromium, 1% molybdenum, 0.5% vanadium, and 0.5% manganese. The higher nickel content in 7CR17MOV makes it more corrosion-resistant than X50CRMOV15, but X50CRMOV15 is a harder steel.
Hardness:
As mentioned, X50CRMOV15 is a harder steel than 7CR17MOV. The Rockwell hardness of X50CRMOV15 is typically around 58-60, while 7CR17MOV is around 55-57. While harder steel may sound like a better choice, it’s important to note that it can also be more brittle and prone to chipping.
Edge retention:
Because X50CRMOV15 is a harder and more wear-resistant steel, its edge retention is also better than 7CR17MOV. This means that knives made with X50CRMOV15 will generally hold their edge longer than those made with 7CR17MOV. However, harder steel can take longer to sharpen and may require a finer grit abrasive.
Cost:
When it comes to cost, 7CR17MOV is usually the less expensive option. This is because it contains a higher percentage of cheaper materials like nickel and vanadium. X50CRMOV15, which contains more expensive materials like molybdenum and manganese, is typically more expensive.
Uses:
7CR17MOV and X50CRMOV15 are popular steel choices for knife blades, but they may be better suited for different applications. 7CR17MOV is a versatile steel used in various knives and generally performs well. X50CRMOV15, with its higher hardness and better edge retention, may be better suited for knives that will see heavy use, like hunting or tactical knives.
Conclusion:
Now that you know the differences between 7CR17MOV and X50CRMOV15, you’ll be better equipped to choose the right knife. While each steel type has pros and cons, both have their place in the knife world and can produce excellent blades. Whether you are a professional chef or an outdoor enthusiast, a good knife can make all the difference in your work or activities.
Meet Bhavesh, a seasoned blogger with a wealth of knowledge and experience. From metal products manufacturing to retail, Bhavesh has a diverse background in various industries and is dedicated to sharing his insights and expertise with readers.
