Is stainless steel a good knife steel?

There is no one "best" stainless steel for a knife, as the optimal choice will depend on the intended use of the knife and the personal preferences of the user. That being said, some popular choices for stainless steel in knife making include:

1. VG-10: VG-10 is a type of stainless steel known for its excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance. It is a popular choice for kitchen knives, pocket knives, and other high-quality blades.  It is also known for its ability to take a very sharp edge.

   One of the main benefits of VG-10 steel is its ability to hold a sharp edge. It is a relatively hard steel that is able to maintain its edge well even under heavy use. This makes it a good choice for use in a variety of cutting applications, including hunting, outdoor activities, and everyday use.

   VG-10 steel is also known for its corrosion resistance. It is highly resistant to rust and staining, making it a good choice for use in damp or humid environments, or for knives that may be exposed to water or other corrosive substances. It is also resistant to staining, which is an important consideration for kitchen knives and other blades that may come into contact with food.

   In terms of sharpness, VG-10 steel is known for its ability to take a very sharp edge. It can be sharpened to a fine point using a variety of sharpening techniques, making it a good choice for those who are looking for a very sharp knife.

   Overall, VG-10 steel is a high-quality choice for use in knives. Its excellent edge retention, corrosion resistance, and ability to take a very sharp edge make it a versatile and reliable choice for a wide range of applications.

2. S30V: S30V is a type of stainless steel known for its exceptional edge retention and toughness. It is a popular choice for high-end pocket knives and other cutting tools.

3. CPM S35VN: CPM S35VN is a type of stainless steel known for its excellent edge retention and toughness. It is a popular choice for pocket knives, hunting knives, and other high-performance blades. 

   CPM S35VN is a type of stainless steel that is widely considered to be a high-quality choice for use in knives. It is known for its excellent edge retention and toughness, as well as its corrosion resistance.

   One of the main benefits of CPM S35VN steel is its ability to hold a sharp edge. It is a relatively hard steel that is able to maintain its edge well even under heavy use. This makes it a good choice for use in a variety of cutting applications, including hunting, outdoor activities, and everyday use.

   CPM S35VN steel is also known for its toughness. It is able to withstand heavy use and is resistant to chipping and breaking. This makes it a good choice for use in high-performance knives and other cutting tools that may be subject to heavy use or abuse.

   In terms of corrosion resistance, CPM S35VN steel is known to be highly resistant to rust and staining. This makes it a good choice for use in damp or humid environments, or for knives that may be exposed to water or other corrosive substances. It is also resistant to staining, which is an important consideration for kitchen knives and other blades that may come into contact with food.

   Overall, CPM S35VN steel is a high-quality choice for use in knives. Its excellent edge retention, toughness, and corrosion resistance make it a versatile and reliable choice for a wide range of applications.

4. 440C: 440C is a type of stainless steel known for its excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance. It is a popular choice for pocket knives, hunting knives, and other high-quality blades.

   440C steel is a popular choice for use in knives due to its excellent properties and versatility. It is a type of stainless steel known for its high levels of corrosion resistance and ability to hold a sharp edge. It is also relatively easy to sharpen and maintain, making it a good choice for everyday use.

   One of the main benefits of 440C steel is its corrosion resistance. This makes it a good choice for use in damp or humid environments, or for knives that may be subject to exposure to water or other corrosive substances. It is also resistant to staining, which is an important consideration for kitchen knives and other blades that may come into contact with food.

   In terms of edge retention, 440C steel is known for its ability to hold a sharp edge. It is relatively hard and is able to maintain its edge well even under heavy use. This makes it a good choice for use in a variety of cutting applications, including hunting, outdoor activities, and everyday use.

   440C steel is also relatively easy to sharpen and maintain. It can be sharpened to a fine edge using a variety of sharpening techniques, and it holds its edge well even after repeated sharpening. This makes it a good choice for those who are looking for a knife that is easy to maintain and keep in good working condition.

   Overall, 440C steel is a popular choice for use in knives due to its excellent corrosion resistance, ability to hold a sharp edge, and ease of maintenance. It is a versatile steel that is suitable for a wide range of applications, from everyday use to specialized tasks.

Ultimately, the best choice of stainless steel for a particular knife will depend on the intended use of the knife and the specific requirements of the user.