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Sandvik 14C28N steel is better than D2 steel in corrosion resistance and toughness. 14C28N is thus ideal for use in corrosive environments and challenging applications. D2 steel offers better edge retention and wear resistance than 14C28N.
The difference in properties between 14C28N vs D2 steel is very clear. However, to choose the best knife for you must consider all the properties, including toughness, edge retention, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening.
In this article, we will discuss the characteristics, pros, cons, and differences between 14C28N vs D2 knives to help to make the right choice.
Are 14C28N vs D2 steel the Same?
14C28N vs D2 steel are not the same. There are significant differences between them because 14C28N is stainless steel, while D2 steel is a semi-stainless tool steel. Because of the material difference, the blades differ in toughness, edge retention, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening.
14C28N knives offer excellent corrosion resistance and toughness. It is among the steel knives with exceptional toughness while maintaining excellent corrosion resistance. D2 steel knives, on the other hand, offer great edge retention and wear resistance, which are properties of tool steels.
| 14C28N | D2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Toughness | 9 | 3.5 |
| Edge retention | 3 | 5 |
| Corrosion resistance | 8.5 | 4.5 |
| Ease of sharpening | Easy | Moderately Hard |
If you are a newbie to steel knives and the differences are not yet clear, come with us to the next section as we look into each knife’s characteristics, pros, and cons.
14C28N Knife Characteristics
Sandvik 14C28N steel offers excellent corrosion resistance, exceptional toughness, good edge retention, and is easier to sharpen. 14C28N knife will dull faster, but it is easy to sharpen.
These properties make steel a good choice for making kitchen, fishing, and everyday knives. The knives are ideal for both indoor and outdoor use. In addition, According to Sandvik, 14C28N steel is easy to work on, reducing production costs and hence affordable knives.
Pros
- Excellent corrosion resistance
- Exceptional toughness
- Easy to sharpen
- Suitable for indoor and outdoor use
- Minimal edge retention
- Affordable
Cons
- Dulls faster, Requires frequent sharpening
D2 Knife Characteristics
The D2 knife blade offers high edge retention and wear resistance. The knife does dull faster. Therefore you will use it for a long time without requiring frequent sharpening.
Moreover, the blades will serve you longer because they do not wear out faster with frequent use and sharpening. Sharpening the knives might be challenging, but the D2 knife is high quality and affordable.
Pros
- High edge retention
- High wear resistance
- Affordable
Cons
- Hard to sharpen
- Not tough
- Average corrosion resistance
How To Choose Between The 14C28N And The D2
To choose the best knife for you between the 14C28N and the D2, look at the steel properties and ensure that they suit your knife needs and lifestyle. The best knife for you should meet your needs and fit your budget.
| 14C28N | D2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Toughness | 9 | 3.5 |
| Edge retention | 3 | 5 |
| Corrosion resistance | 8.5 | 4.5 |
| Ease of sharpening | Easy | Moderately Hard |
Toughness
14C28N knives offer better toughness than D2 knives. 14C28N steel is known to offer the highest toughness levels out there. Therefore, if your priority is a knife with the best toughness on the market, you can never go wrong with the varieties of 14C28N.
14C28N knives will handle challenging and demanding applications without chipping, cracking, or breaking. It is among the best steel that will offer exceptional toughness while still maintaining excellent corrosion resistance.
Edge Retention
D2 knives offer higher edge retention than 14C28N knives, which is attributed to the high carbon elements and hardness of D2. If you want a sharp knife for outdoor or indoor use, D2 knives will not disappoint you.
Corrosion Resistance
14C28N knives are better than D2 knives in corrosion resistance. The excellent corrosion resistance properties of 14C28N are attributed to the high amounts of chromium in its composition. The knives can be used in humid and wet environments without rusting.
D2 steel does not contain enough chromium to make it stainless steel. Therefore, you cannot purchase the knife for use in corrosive environments.
However, even steel with the best corrosion resistance can rust without proper care. You cannot leave your 14C28N knives in water overnight and expect them not to rust. Therefore, ensure to wash and dry your knives after use to keep the rust away.
Ease of sharpening
14C28N knives are easier to sharpen than D2 knives. 14C28N steel is not very hard steel which makes it easier to sharpen. You will get an ultra-sharp edge with 14C28N knives. The sharpening makes the knives easy to maintain because they dull faster and require frequent sharpening.
D2 knives, on the other hand, are challenging to sharpen. It will take you more time and energy to get a sharp edge, but your efforts will pay off because the blades hold the edge longer. If you are a newbie, sharpening D2 knives will be a struggle, but it is doable with practice and the right sharpening tools.
Price
14C28N and D2 knives are affordable high-end knives. If you are looking for a high-end knife on a budget, the varieties of both steel will serve you. You do not expect the prices to be as low as those of low-end knives, but you will get high performance at affordable prices with either.
What Makes A Good Quality Knife?
The definition of a quality knife differs among users because of varied needs, but there are basic properties that every quality knife must have.
A good quality knife must have sharpness, great edge retention, and a sturdy handle. It should get an ultra-sharp edge for easy cutting, hold the edge for long for easy maintenance, and have a sturdy and ergonomic handle for comfort and to prevent accidents.
If the properties of a knife meet your knife needs and it has the above characteristics, then it qualifies as a quality knife.
Final Thoughts
14C28N is stainless steel, and its knives offer excellent rust resistance and toughness than D2 steel. D2 steel, on the other hand, is tool steel, and its knives shine on edge retention and wear resistance. Both knives come at an affordable price for high-end knives. The choice between the two depends on your knife needs.
