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When it comes to what the best steel is for an EDC knives, everyone will have a different answer to this question because a lot depends on the individual activities being pursued in the
bush, on the work site, or on the home front, getting it done.
An everyday carry knife is many things to many people, so singling out one steel as “best” is a subjective thing. Everyone’s got an opinion because everyone’s got a different use for their EDC!
Let’s take a walk through some of the knife steel types we stock here and how each of them excels at being the ideal EDC in its own special way.
What is CPM?
If you’re looking into the best steel for building your custom EDC knife with us, you’ll probably want to understand what CPM steel is. Three of the steel types we’ll cover here meet that description.
The acronym stands for “Crucible Particle Metallurgy.” This process creates alloy tool steels of superior quality, going beyond the usual parameters of the steelmaking process. Invented by Crucible Industries, CPM steel is a US-made product and one Architect Knives is proud to offer our customers.
Metal Types
CPM Magnacut Steel
Of all the knife steel types, this one is a low-maintenance option. This material is newer to the knife game, but it features great edge retention and corrosion resistance that’s second to none. These low-maintenance features are, needless to say, pretty attractive to bushcraft enthusiasts looking for easy care and ready service in an EDC blade.
So, for those who are too busy enjoying their craft to slow down for a quick sharpening or to focus on keeping their blade dry to prevent rust, CPM Magnacut steel is a tough, rough, and ready stainless choice and one of the best steels you can name for a fuss-free EDC knife in the bush and everywhere else.
1095 Carbon
The high carbon content of this steel makes it a cost-effective choice for hunting knives. If you’re in the market for an affordable custom knife, the 1095 is one of the best steels for an EDC knife used primarily for dressing and slicing.
Blended with Manganese, 1095 carbon is one of the knife steel types that fare well in edge retention! It is an economical, durable choice for camping, bushcraft food prep, and hunting.
CPM S35VN
A winning combination of chromium, niobium, and vanadium makes this evolution of CPM S30V a winner. It resists corrosion and holds its edge. When you’re on a work site, this is one of the best steels for your EDC, making your personal knife a superstar that’s always ready.
CPM S35VN is a true stainless steel option that has been around for a while. It’s a tried-and-true option that will not disappoint.
CPM 3V
Made to withstand impact and extended, demanding wear, this knife steel type stands up to all kinds of punishment with fine grain size and small carbides resulting from the CPM production process. It’s also easy to sharpen due to its content purity. That makes it perfect for extended trips into the bush for bushcraft and survivalism when heavy use is projected.
Take your CPM 3V into wet conditions and you may get a little surface rust. What you won’t get is a knife that is easy to break. For this reason, CPM 3V is one of the best steels for an EDC knife.
Freedom of Choice to Build Your Knife, Your Way
Architect Knives brings EDC enthusiasts the freedom of choice they demand to create their ideal companion knives. We carry a quality range of steels made in the USA, all of them best in class for specific activities, and the creation of the EDC knife you need. With the freedom of choice you’ll find here your vision comes to life, sheathed at your side to pursue all your bushcraft, survival, work site, and DIY needs.
These steel types were made for camping, dressing game, collecting materials for a shelter, cooking, and more. Choose your blade metal, then build your blade by choosing from handle scales, sheaths, attachments, and a wealth of quality accessories. We ship all over the USA free of charge, bringing people who know what they want and what they need. Shop our freedom of choice today!
Daniel Wilder is a dedicated team member at Architect Knives. With a passion for high-quality craftsmanship and innovative design, Architect Knives ensures every knife will exceed your expectations. Outside of work, you’ll often find Daniel putting the latest knife designs to the test while camping, hunting, and exploring the great outdoors. Follow his insights and adventures in the world of precision blades at Architect Knives.