Choosing the right steel for your knife can feel overwhelming. If you're stuck between 80CRV2 and MagnaCut, you're comparing two very different materials that each have passionate fans. Let me break down everything you need to know so you can make the right choice for your needs.
Key Takeaways
- 80CRV2 is a tough, affordable carbon steel that's great for outdoor knives and choppers
- MagnaCut is a premium stainless steel with incredible edge retention and corrosion resistance
- 80CRV2 costs less but requires more maintenence to prevent rust
- MagnaCut stays sharp longer and handles moisture without worry
- Your choice depends on your budget and how you plan to use the knife
What is 80CRV2 Steel?
80CRV2 is a carbon steel that's been around since the 1950s. It was originally developed for automotive springs, but knife makers discovered it makes excellent blades. The "80" tells you it has about 0.8% carbon content.
This steel contains chromium and vanadium, which give it decent wear resistance and toughness. Unlike most carbon steels, 80CRV2 has a bit of chromium (though not enough to be called stainless). This helps it resist corrosion slightly better than pure carbon steel.
Many custom knife makers love working with 80CRV2 because it's forgiving during heat treatment. You can achieve good results without expensive equipment, which is why you'll find it in many hand-forged knives.
Composition of 80CRV2
- Carbon: 0.75-0.85%
- Chromium: 0.40-0.60%
- Vanadium: 0.15-0.30%
- Manganese: 0.70-1.00%
- Silicon: 0.15-0.35%
What is MagnaCut Steel?
MagnaCut is the new kid on the block, introduced in 2021 by metallurgist Larrin Thomas. He designed it specifically to overcome the traditional trade-off between edge retention and toughness in stainless steel.
This steel uses a special combination of elements that create tiny carbides distributed evenly throughout the material. The result is a stainless steel that holds an edge like a super steel but doesn't chip easily like they often do.
MagnaCut has gained serious popularity quickly. Major knife companies like Spyderco, Benchmade, and Hogue now use it in their premium models. It's become the go-to choice for people who want the absolute best performance without compromise.
Composition of MagnaCut
- Carbon: 1.15%
- Chromium: 10.70%
- Vanadium: 2.50%
- Niobium: 1.50%
- Molybdenum: 1.50%
- Nitrogen: 0.30%
80CRV2 vs MagnaCut: Detailed Comparison Table
| Feature | 80CRV2 | MagnaCut |
| Steel Type | Carbon Steel | Stainless Steel |
| Hardness | 58-60 HRC | 62-64 HRC |
| Edge Retention | Good | Excellent |
| Toughness | Excellent | Very Good |
| Corrosion Resistance | Poor | Excellent |
| Ease of Sharpening | Very Easy | Moderate |
| Price Range | Budget-Friendly ($50-150) | Premium ($150-400+) |
| Best For | Outdoor/Camping Knives | EDC/All-Purpose |
| Maintenance | High (needs oiling) | Low |
| Availability | Common | Growing |
Edge Retention: How Long They Stay Sharp
When it comes to holding an edge, MagnaCut wins by a significant margin. The high carbon content and special carbide structure mean it can go much longer between sharpenings.
80CRV2 offers respectable edge retention for a carbon steel. It'll handle normal cutting tasks well, but you'll need to touch it up more frequently. For camp knives and outdoor use, this isn't usually a big problem since most people carry a sharpening stone anyway.
If you're using your knife every day for tasks like opening packages or food prep, MagnaCut's superior edge retention becomes more valuable. You might sharpen an 80CRV2 knife once a week with heavy use, while MagnaCut could go several weeks or even months.
According to research from knife experts at Big Write Hook, MagnaCut scores approximately 2-3 times higher in edge retention tests compared to 80CRV2.
Toughness and Durability
Here's where 80CRV2 really shines. This steel is incredibly tough, meaning it resists chipping and breaking even under hard use. You can baton with it, chop wood, and generally beat on it without worry.
MagnaCut is also tough for a stainless steel, actually exceeding many other premium steels in this category. However, it doesn't quite match 80CRV2's ability to absorb impacts and lateral stress.
For bushcraft, survival knives, or heavy duty cutting, 80CRV2's toughness makes it a smart choice. If you're more concerned with slicing performance and everyday tasks, MagnaCut's combination of toughness and edge retention is hard to beat.
Real-World Toughness Comparison
- 80CRV2: Can handle batoning, prying, and heavy chopping without issue
- MagnaCut: Excellent for all normal knife tasks but not ideal for extreme abuse
Corrosion Resistance: The Rust Factor
This is MagnaCut's biggest advantage. With over 10% chromium content, it's a true stainless steel that resists rust and corrosion excellently. You can use it in wet environments, near salt water, or while processing food without constantly worrying about rust.
80CRV2 will rust if you don't take care of it. After use, you need to clean and oil the blade. If you live in a humid climate or use your knife around water, maintainence becomes crucial.
Many people actually appreciate the patina that develops on 80CRV2 over time. This darkened layer actually provides some protection against further corrosion. But if you want a knife you can simply use and put away without special care, MagnaCut is the better option.
Sharpening: Which is Easier?
80CRV2 is much easier to sharpen. A few strokes on a basic sharpening stone will restore the edge quickly. This makes it great for people who enjoy the ritual of knife maintainence or who might be sharpening in the field.
MagnaCut can be sharpened to an incredibly keen edge, but it takes more effort. The high hardness means you'll need quality sharpening stones and a bit more patience. Once you get it sharp though, you won't need to do it nearly as often.
For beginners or those who don't want to invest in premium sharpening equipment, 80CRV2 is more forgiving.
Price Comparison
Budget plays a big role in the 80crv2 vs magnacut decision.
80CRV2 knives typically range from $50 to $150, with custom pieces going higher. Popular production knives include:
- Condor Bushlore: $65-75
- L.T. Wright Genesis: $120-140
- Various custom makers: $150-300
MagnaCut knives start around $150 and quickly climb past $300 for premium models:
- Spyderco Native Chief: $180-200
- Hogue Deka: $150-170
- Benchmade models: $200-400+
- Custom pieces: $400-1000+
The price difference reflects both the cost of the raw material and the demand for this new premium steel.
Best Use Cases for Each Steel
When to Choose 80CRV2
- Camping and bushcraft knives where toughness matters most
- Budget builds when you want quality without breaking the bank
- Outdoor adventures where you can maintain the knife properly
- Fixed blade knives that will see hard use
- Learning to sharpen since it's very forgiving
When to Choose MagnaCut
- Everyday carry knives that need to perform in any condition
- Kitchen and food prep where stainless is preferable
- Marine environments with salt water exposure
- Low maintenance needs for busy professionals
- Maximum performance when budget isn't the primary concern
Heat Treatment Matters
Both steels can perform very differently depending on how they're heat treated. A poorly treated MagnaCut knife might not outperform a well-treated 80CRV2.
80CRV2 is forgiving during heat treatment, which is why it's popular with beginner bladesmiths. It's hard to completely mess up if you follow basic procedures.
MagnaCut requires more precise heat treatment to achieve its full potential. Reputable manufacturers using proper protocols will deliver the performance this steel is known for.
Pros and Cons Breakdown
80CRV2 Advantages
- Extremely tough and impact resistant
- Affordable pricing on most knives
- Easy to sharpen with basic equipment
- Good availability from many makers
- Develops attractive patina over time
- Excellent for hard use outdoor applications
80CRV2 Disadvantages
- Requires regular maintainence to prevent rust
- Lower edge retention compared to premium steels
- Not suitable for wet or humid conditions without care
- Carbon steel staining may occur with acidic foods
MagnaCut Advantages
- Outstanding edge retention that reduces sharpening frequency
- Excellent corrosion resistance works in any environment
- Very tough for a stainless steel
- Low maintenance can be used and stored without special care
- Versatile performance handles all knife tasks well
- Takes a razor edge with proper sharpening
MagnaCut Disadvantages
- Significantly more expensive than 80CRV2
- Harder to sharpen requires good equipment and technique
- Limited availability though growing
- Newer steel with less long-term field data
- Overkill for some applications where cheaper steel would work fine
Which One is Better?
There's no universal answer to the 80crv2 vs magnacut debate because "better" depends on your specific needs.
Choose 80CRV2 if you:
- Want a tough outdoor knife that can take a beating
- Have a limited budget but still want quality
- Don't mind performing regular knife maintenance
- Primarily use your knife in dry conditions
- Appreciate the character of carbon steel
Choose MagnaCut if you:
- Need maximum edge retention and low maintenance
- Use your knife in various environments including wet conditions
- Want the best overall performance regardless of cost
- Prefer stainless steel's convenience
- Carry your knife daily in diverse situations
For a survival or bushcraft knife, 80CRV2 makes tremendous sense. Its toughness and easy sharpening in the field are valuable assets.
For an everyday carry folder or kitchen knife, MagnaCut's combination of edge retention and stainless properties make it worth the investment.
Popular Knives in Each Steel
Top 80CRV2 Knives
- Condor Bushlore - Affordable and reliable bushcraft knife
- L.T. Wright Knives - Various models with excellent quality
- Tops Knives - Several tactical and outdoor designs
- Custom makers - Many independent bladesmiths work with this steel
Top MagnaCut Knives
- Spyderco Native Chief - Large folder with excellent ergonomics
- Hogue Deka - Mid-sized EDC with great action
- Benchmade 535-4 Bugout - Ultra-light with premium performance
- Bradford Guardian - Fixed blade in various sizes
Long-Term Ownership Experience
Living with these steels day-to-day reveals their true character.
80CRV2 owners typically develop a routine of cleaning and oiling after use. Many find this ritual satisfying and enjoy watching their knife develop personality through use and patina. The ease of touch-ups means you're never far from a sharp edge.
MagnaCut owners appreciate the grab-and-go convenience. There's freedom in knowing your knife won't rust if you forget to oil it. The longer time between sharpenings means less overall maintainence, though when you do sharpen, it requires more attention.
Final Verdict
Both 80CRV2 and MagnaCut are excellent knife steels that serve different purposes well.
80CRV2 represents traditional carbon steel virtues: toughness, affordability, and simple maintainence. It's a working person's steel that delivers reliable performance without demanding a premium price. If you're building a collection of outdoor knives or want something trustworthy without overthinking it, 80CRV2 won't let you down.
MagnaCut is the modern answer to "what if we could have everything?" It combines edge retention, toughness, and corrosion resistance at levels previously thought impossible in a single steel. Yes, you pay more, but you get a knife that excels in virtually every measurable way. For someone who wants one knife that does everything well, MagnaCut justifies its cost.
The 80crv2 vs magnacut comparison really comes down to philosophy. Do you value traditional proven performance at a fair price, or cutting-edge engineering that pushes boundaries? Both approaches are valid, and both steels have earned their reputations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is MagnaCut worth the extra cost over 80CRV2?
If you use your knife frequently and value convenience, yes. The reduced maintenence and superior edge retention save time over the knife's lifetime. For occasional use or on a tight budget, 80CRV2 delivers plenty of performance.
Can 80CRV2 be used in wet conditions?
Yes, but you must clean and oil it afterward. It's not ideal for marine environments or constant moisture exposure. MagnaCut handles wet conditions without any special care.
Which steel is better for food preparation?
MagnaCut is far better for kitchen use. Stainless steel won't react with acidic foods or rust from moisture. 80CRV2 will stain and potentially affect food flavor.
How often will I need to sharpen each steel?
With regular use, 80CRV2 might need sharpening every 1-2 weeks, while MagnaCut could go 1-2 months. Actual frequency depends on use intensity and cutting tasks.
Is MagnaCut really tougher than other stainless steels?
Yes. Testing shows MagnaCut exceeds steels like S30V, S35VN, and 20CV in toughness while matching or beating their edge retention. This combination was the main goal of its development.
Want more knife steel comparisons and blade knowledge? Check out the comprehensive guides at Big Write Hook for expert insights on choosing the right steel for your needs.