D2 Steel Knives (Folding & Pocket Knives)

Powered by a relatively high carbon content (1.55%), D2 leads the budget steel category in edge retention. In fact, depending on the heat treatment and edge geometry, it can outlast most—if not all—of the mid-range steels! So, why is it here? Well, it’s generic: many steel companies make it, some with more quality control than others. And even at its best, it makes a couple of compromises to deliver that long-lived sharpness. Despite the significant amount of chromium in the mix (and with it, a reasonable amount of stain resistance) D2 is technically not a “stainless” steel, so care should be taken to keep it clean and dry. It doesn’t easily discolor the way a simple carbon steel does, but it can and will rust on you. D2 is also not the toughest steel and has a reputation for being more challenging to sharpen. If you’re looking for a highly wear-resistant knife, explore our D2 steel options below!

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