Edge Retention: The ability of a knife’s edge to maintain its sharpness during use. Higher numbers tend to hold an edge longer.
Toughness: A knife steel's resistance to chipping or breaking. Higher numbers are more resistant to chipping/breaking and are considered "tougher."
Corrosion Resistance: The ability of a knife steel to resist rust, staining and other forms of corrosion, Higher numbers are more resistant to corrosion.
Ease Of Sharpening: How easy or diificult a knife is to sharpen. Higher numbers are harder to sharpen.
| 20CV | S45VN | VG10 | 8Cr13MoV |
| Edge Retention | 6.5 | 6 | 4.5 | 3 |
| Toughness | 3.5 | 4.5 | 4 | 6 |
| Corrosion Resistance | 9 | 8 | 7.5 | 7 |
| Ease Of Sharpening | 4.5 | 5 | 6.5 | 8 |
Data and definitions have been sourced from BladeHQ's Knife Steel Guide. BladeHQ has not officially rated S45VN, so those specific figures are estimates based on other research from reputable sources.