14C28N vs D2 steel. Which 1 is the best?

Seeing that our article comparing 8C13MOV and D2 was so popular it made sense now to do one on 14C28N vs D2.

14C28N and D2 are both types of steel commonly used in knife making. They have distinct properties and characteristics that make them suitable for various applications. Let’s compare the two:

D2 Steel:

• Composition: D2 is a high-carbon, high-chromium tool steel. It typically contains around 1.5% carbon and 12% chromium, along with other alloying elements such as vanadium and molybdenum.
• Hardness: D2 steel is known for its exceptional hardness and wear resistance. It can achieve high levels of hardness after heat treatment, making it well-suited for tasks that require edge retention.
• Edge Retention: D2 steel holds its edge well and is capable of maintaining sharpness over extended periods of use.
• Corrosion Resistance: While D2 steel has good corrosion resistance due to its chromium content, it is not as stainless as some other steels. Proper maintenance is required to prevent rusting.
• Toughness: D2 is known for its relatively high toughness, which means it can withstand impacts and lateral forces without chipping or breaking easily.
• Ease of Sharpening: D2 steel can be more challenging to sharpen compared to some other steels due to its high hardness. However, with the right tools and techniques, it can be sharpened effectively.

14C28N Steel:

• Composition: 14C28N is a stainless steel that contains around 0.62% carbon and 14% chromium, along with nitrogen, which contributes to its name. It’s designed to provide a good balance between corrosion resistance, hardness, and edge performance.
• Hardness: 14C28N steel can achieve a good level of hardness through heat treatment, though it might not reach the same extreme hardness levels as D2 steel.
• Edge Retention: This steel is known for its excellent edge retention and can maintain sharpness well over time, making it suitable for tasks that require frequent cutting.
• Corrosion Resistance: 14C28N offers better corrosion resistance compared to D2 steel, which makes it particularly well-suited for outdoor and humid environments.
• Toughness: While not as tough as D2 steel, 14C28N still offers a reasonable level of toughness for most general-purpose applications.
• Ease of Sharpening: 14C28N is generally easier to sharpen compared to D2 steel due to its composition and lower hardness.

14C28N vs D2

In summary, the choice between D2 and 14C28N steel depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize extreme hardness and wear resistance and edge retention then D2 might be a better choice. On the other hand, if you value a good all around steel with great corrosion resistance and easier sharpening then 14C28N could be a more suitable option. Keep in mind that the heat treatment and manufacturing quality also play a significant role in the overall performance of a knife blade. Our factory producing the Honey Badger brand has been making knives for many years. The quality of their heat treat is exceptional born out by the many thousands of happy customers that we have,

If you want good edge retention, then you will want D2. But if you want a good all-around steel that is stainless, you will want 14C28N. Either steel will work for 90 percent of all knife uses, so whichever one you choose, you’ll probably be happy with it.