8Cr13MoV Steel

Attributes: 8Cr13MoV is a Chinese stainless steel similar to AUS-8. It has a balanced composition that provides good hardness, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening.

Pros: Affordable, easy to sharpen, and good corrosion resistance.

Cons: Moderate edge retention and toughness, not as high-performing as premium steels.

D2 Steel

Attributes: D2 is a high-carbon, high-chromium tool steel known for its excellent wear resistance and edge retention. It has a Rockwell hardness of 55-62 HRC, making it quite hard and durable12.

Pros: Great edge retention, good wear resistance, and decent toughness.

Cons: Not fully stainless, so it can rust if not properly maintained1.

14C28N Steel

Attributes: 14C28N is a stainless steel made by Sandvik. It is known for its excellent corrosion resistance, good edge retention, and ease of sharpening. It has a Rockwell hardness of 55-62 HRC34.

Pros: Excellent corrosion resistance, good edge retention, and easy to sharpen.

Cons: Moderate toughness, not as wear-resistant as some high-end steels3.

M390 Steel

Attributes: M390 is a premium stainless steel made by Böhler-Uddeholm using powder metallurgy. It is known for its exceptional edge retention, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance. It has a Rockwell hardness of around 60-62 HRC56.

Pros: Outstanding edge retention, excellent wear and corrosion resistance, and high toughness.

Cons: Expensive and can be challenging to sharpen.

Summary of Differences

Edge Retention:                   M390 > D2 > 14C28N > 8Cr13MoV

Corrosion Resistance:         M390 > 14C28N > 8Cr13MoV > D2

Ease of Sharpening:                             8Cr13MoV > 14C28N > D2 > M390

Toughness:                                            M390 > 14C28N > D2 > 8Cr13MoV

Each steel has its strengths and weaknesses, so the best choice depends on your specific needs and preferences for a knife blade.

FRN (Fibre Reinforced Nylon)

• Attributes: FRN is a composite material made by reinforcing nylon with glass fibres. It is known for being lightweight, durable, and resistant to impact and chemicals.
• Pros:
  • Lightweight and strong
  • Highly resistant to impact and chemicals
  • Affordable and cost-effective
  • Low maintenance and easy to clean
• Cons:
  • Can feel less premium compared to other materials
  • Less grip compared to textured materials like G10

G10

• Attributes: G10 is a high-pressure fiberglass laminate made by stacking multiple layers of glass cloth soaked in epoxy resin and compressing them under heat. It is known for its strength, durability, and excellent grip.
• Pros:
  • Extremely strong and durable
  • Excellent grip, especially when textured
  • Resistant to moisture, chemicals, and temperature changes
  • Available in various colours and patterns
• Cons:
  • Heavier than FRN
  • More expensive than FRN
  • Can be more difficult to machine and work with

Summary of Differences

• Weight: FRN is lighter than G10.
• Durability: Both materials are highly durable, but G10 is generally considered stronger.
• Grip: G10 offers better grip, especially when textured.
• Cost: FRN is more affordable than G10.
• Aesthetics: G10 is available in more colors and patterns, offering more customization options.

Both materials are excellent choices for knife handles, with FRN being a great option for those looking for a lightweight and cost-effective handle, while G10 is ideal for those who prioritize strength, grip, and aesthetics.