D2 vs. 8Cr13MoV: Battle of the Budget Steels
The Budget Knife Debate
If you are looking for a knife under $60, you will inevitably face a choice: D2 or 8Cr13MoV. For years, 8Cr13MoV was the standard for affordable knives from brands like Kershaw and CRKT. It was cheap, easy to sharpen, and “good enough.”
But recently, manufacturing in China has evolved, and D2—a high-hardness tool steel once reserved for custom knives—has flooded the budget market. Now you can get a D2 knife for the same price as an 8Cr one.
So, is D2 an automatic upgrade? Or does the classic 8Cr still have a place in your everyday carry (EDC)? Let’s break down the metallurgy.
What is D2 Steel?
D2 is an old-school “Tool Steel” originally used to cut other steels in factories. It is characterized by high carbon (1.5%) and high chromium (11-12%).
Because it has almost enough chromium to be stainless (13% is the usual threshold), it is often called “Semi-Stainless.” It holds an edge aggressively well but can be brittle and hard to sharpen.
For a deeper understanding of where D2 sits in the hierarchy, check out our comparison of stainless steel vs. carbon steel knives.
What is 8Cr13MoV?
8Cr13MoV is a Chinese stainless steel, often compared to the Japanese AUS-8. It has 0.8% Carbon and 13% Chromium.
It is the definition of “adequate.” It takes a razor-sharp edge very quickly, resists rust decently, and is very inexpensive. However, it is soft. You will likely need to sharpen it after a day or two of heavy cardboard cutting. It serves as the baseline for many comparisons, such as AUS-10 vs. VG10 where higher-end steels are measured against it.
Head-to-Head Comparison
Here is how they stack up in the real world.
| Category | D2 Tool Steel | 8Cr13MoV | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Edge Retention | 8/10 (Excellent) | 4/10 (Low) | D2 |
| Toughness | 4/10 (Brittle) | 6/10 (Moderate) | 8Cr13MoV |
| Corrosion Resistance | 4/10 (Semi-Stainless) | 6/10 (Decent) | 8Cr13MoV |
| Ease of Sharpening | 3/10 (Hard) | 9/10 (Very Easy) | 8Cr13MoV |
Edge Retention: The D2 Dominance
This is the main reason people choose D2. Because of its large chromium carbides and high hardness (typically 60-62 HRC), D2 cuts for a very long time. In standard rope-cutting tests (CATRA), D2 can often make double or triple the number of cuts compared to 8Cr13MoV before losing its working edge.
If you hate sharpening your knife, D2 is the clear winner here. A great example of a high-performance D2 folder is the Ontario Rat 1 (D2 version), which is legendary for its workhorse capability.
Corrosion Resistance: The Rust Risk
8Cr13MoV is fully stainless. While it isn’t rust-proof like H1 or Vanax, it can handle being wet or dirty much better than D2. If you are lazy about cleaning your gear, 8Cr is safer.
The Civivi Elementum took the knife world by storm because it offers a perfectly heat-treated D2 blade, ceramic ball bearings, and G10 scales for under $50. It represents the modern standard for budget D2.
Check Price on AmazonFinal Verdict: Which Should You Buy?
Choose D2 If:
- You want maximum cutting performance per dollar.
- You cut abrasive materials like cardboard or rope often.
- You don’t mind oiling your blade occasionally.
- You have diamond sharpening stones.
Choose 8Cr13MoV If:
- You are on a super strict budget (under $30).
- You are a beginner at sharpening and want to practice.
- You work in wet environments or around food.
- You tend to abuse your knives (8Cr rolls instead of chipping).
Expert FAQs
Generally, no. S30V is a true powder metallurgy steel that offers better corrosion resistance and toughness than D2 while matching or beating its edge retention. However, D2 is significantly cheaper.
Yes, it can rust if neglected, but it is much more resistant than D2. It is a standard stainless steel, meaning it resists staining but isn’t immune to saltwater or acids.
Improvements in manufacturing, particularly in China (Civivi, CJRB, Artisan), have made D2 affordable to mass-produce. It allows budget buyers to get “premium” edge retention without the premium price tag.
You can, but be careful. Acidic foods like lemons or tomatoes will patina the blade quickly, and D2 can leave a metallic taste if it reacts with the food. Wash and dry immediately after use.
