154CM steel pocket knife

How good is 154CM steel?

When it comes down to a steel type 'good' is of course relative term. A steel type is as good as it adheres to the demands of the user. So how does that pan out for 154CM? 154CM retains its sharpness well thanks to the high carbon and molybdenum content. It also contains enough chrome and is therefore highly resistant to rust and stains. These qualities ensure that 154CM can be used for many different types of knives. From small folding knives to larger fixed knives.

What are the disadvantages of 154CM steel?

With so many steel types out there it can be quite the task to determine which is the best choice for you. That is why it is also important to keep the 'disadvantages' of 154CM in mind. 154CM is a hard type of steel. It can, however, become brittle at higher hardness levels. The result is that this steel type is less suited for the more demanding tasks.

Which is better? 154CM compared to...?

Many types of steel are used to produce pocket knives. But which steel type is better? First and foremost, this depends on what you are looking for. However, if you do want to make a comparison: 154CM is similar to, for instance, CPM 154.

CPM 154

CPM 154 steel is the Crucible Particle Metallurgy (CPM) version of 154CM. Sounds complex, but it comes down to this: CPM 154 steel is a version of 154CM that was modified with the help of a CPM process.

CPM

CPM is a type of powder steel. Powder steel, like CPM 154, is produced by atomizing molten steel into fine powder particles which are pressed together under high pressure and sintered into a solid block. This process leaves you with a finer, more uniform microstructure than traditional forged steel. The result is better sharpness retention, wear resistance and toughness. As such powder steel is popular for use in top-quality knives that retain their sharpness well but are also still relatively easy to sharpen. Even though the chemical composition remained the same after the process, it did lead to a more uniform distribution of the carbides. The result is a tougher type of steel that can be sharpened razor-sharp thanks to the microstructure. A sharpness that also lasts longer. The fine grain structure of CPM 154 also ensures that it can handle blows better, without breaking. Finally, the process ensured that CPM 154 steel is better equipped to handle corrosion.

154CM fans: which brands use 154CM steel?

You have never been more sure: you are looking for a pocket knife with a blade made from 154CM steel. But which brand uses this type of steel for their pocket knives and appeals to you most? Different knife brands use 154CM. A good example is Kansept. They use this type of steel because of the good combination between corrosion resistance and sharpness retention.

154CM maintenance

154CM, like any type of steel, needs to maintained to make the most of it. For 154CM it is important to properly clean and dry the blade of your pocket knife to prevent corrosion. Especially if it was exposed to acidic or salty substances. Also make sure you store the knife in a dry place. Avoid humid environments to prevent rust and check to see if your sheath is also dry on the inside before you store your pocket knife.

A sharp edge ensures that your pocket knife will function as it should. But how do you make sure the blade of your 154CM steel blade stays sharp? Use top-quality sharpening stones to sharpen 154CM for the best results. It will take a little bit of effort, but you get a lot of sharpness in return!