If making a great knife was as simple as sharpening a piece of metal, we’d all be walking around with repurposed lawn mower blades strapped to our belts. But the truth is, the difference between an ordinary blade and a superior one comes down to metallurgy—the science of transforming raw metal into something that holds an edge, resists corrosion, and doesn’t snap in half when you actually need it. It’s not just about picking a fancy-sounding steel; it’s about understanding what happens at a microscopic level—how carbon, chromium, and a cocktail of other elements come together to create a blade that’s truly engineered to prevail.
When it comes to knife steel, not all stainless steels are created equal. Two of the most well-known options in the industry—VG10 and 440C—both carry the “super steel” label, but they perform differently based on their unique compositions. Choosing between them isn’t just about price or marketing hype; it’s about understanding how each steel behaves in real-world use. From edge retention and toughness to corrosion resistance and sharpening ease, these steels bring different strengths to the table. Brian Hoffner understands this balance intimately by selecting steel like 440C, because they hold up where it counts—in the hands of professionals who rely on them daily.
Composition and Metallurgy
| Element | VG10 | 440C |
| Carbon (C) | 0.95-1.05% | 0.95-1.07% |
| Chromium (Cr) | 14.5-15.5% | 16-18% |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | 0.9-1.2% | 0.75% |
| Vanadium (V) | 0.1-0.3% | None |
| Cobalt (Co) | 1.3-1.5% | None |
| Manganese (Mn) | 0.5% | 1.0% |
| Silicon (Si) | 0.6% | 1.0% |
While the chemical composition of a steel tells us what’s inside, it’s the way those elements interact that determines how a blade performs in the real world. Metallurgy isn’t just about listing ingredients—it’s about understanding how carbon affects hardness, how chromium influences corrosion resistance, and how vanadium fine-tunes edge retention. These factors directly impact sharpness, durability, and maintenance, making steel selection a crucial decision for any knife maker. Now, let’s break down how VG10 and 440C translate their compositions into real-world performance.
Key Differences and Performance Factors
| Property | VG10 | 440C |
| Edge Retention | Better – Added vanadium and cobalt to increase durability. Less prone to chipping. | Good, but not as fine-grained as VG10. |
| Toughness | Higher due to higher chromium content, but can still pit in extreme environments. | Still tough but more prone to chipping under stress. |
| Corrosion Resistance | Very High – Balanced chromium, molybdenum, and vanadium content. | Easier to sharpen but it loses its edge faster. |
| Ease of Sharpening | Moderate – Harder steel means it takes longer to sharpen but holds an edge well. | Easier to sharpen, but it loses its edge faster. |
| Wear Resistance | Higher – Better for long-term use in demanding conditions. | Good, but slightly less than VG10. |
| Price | Typically, more expensive due to better properties and Japanese origin. | More affordable and widely available. |
Which is Better?
- VG10 is generally considered a higher-end steel due to its superior edge retention, toughness, and corrosion resistance. It’s commonly found in premium Japanese knives, EDC (Everyday Carry) knives, and high-end tactical blades.
- 440C is a solid, affordable alternative that still performs well but lacks the refinements of VG10. It’s used in many production knives, survival knives, and even medical tools.
Best Use Cases
- VG10 – Ideal for high-performance EDC knives, tactical knives, and high-end kitchen knives where edge retention and durability are key.
- 440C – Great for budget-friendly tactical knives, survival knives, and heavy-use outdoor tools due to its balance of hardness and corrosion resistance.
I hope this breakdown helps you see why metallurgy matters when it comes to knife performance. Understanding the differences between VG10 and 440C isn’t just about technical specs—it’s about knowing what kind of blade best suits your needs. Whether you’re looking for elite edge retention or a reliable, budget-friendly workhorse, Hoffner Knives are engineered to prevail in any situation. Armed with this knowledge, you can confidently choose the steel that’s right for you.
Stay tuned for our next blog, where we dive into the mechanics of a bearing-driven D2 blade hardened to 58-60 HRC.
Stay Sharp
About the Author: Alan “Chase” Chiasson is a knife enthusiast with a deep appreciation for craftsmanship and precision. He is also the co-author of the award-winning book “Postcards Through Hell,” The true story of the most remarkable US mail delivery service in Afghanistan. Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Kindle. His relationship with Brian Hoffner has fueled a passion for exploring the art and science behind knife design, which he shares through ‘Chasing Steel.“.
