A2 vs CPM 3V
The classic versus its modern successor. CPM 3V was engineered to do what A2 does – tough, hard-use tool steel – with powder-metallurgy refinement. On paper 3V wins nearly everything; in the shop and at the register, A2 keeps making its case.
Quick Verdict
CPM 3V outperforms A2 on paper: substantially tougher AND more wear-resistant, thanks to powder metallurgy and vanadium carbides. A2 answers with price, availability, easier grinding and finishing, and decades of proof. Budget-no-object hard use: 3V. Value, tradition, and workshop friendliness: A2 remains a completely honest choice.
Toughness
3V wins - it is among the toughest knife steels made, exceeding even A2's strong showing. Both survive hard use; 3V survives harder use.
Edge Retention
3V wins again: vanadium carbides give it wear resistance near D2 territory while staying tougher than A2. A2 holds a working edge; 3V holds it longer.
Corrosion Resistance
Close to a wash - both are ~5-7.5% chromium tool steels that patina and rust without care. 3V is marginally better; neither forgives neglect.
Heat Treat
Both are kiln steels with high soaks and plate-quench-friendly air hardening. 3V runs hotter (~1950F class) with stricter process control - another point where A2 is the forgiving elder.
Grinding
A2 wins the shop experience: it grinds and hand-finishes easily, while 3V's vanadium carbides eat belts and demand diamond abrasives for fine sharpening.
Best-Use Scenarios
A2: hard-use blades on a budget, makers who value easy finishing, traditional builds. 3V: maximum-abuse choppers, competition cutters, and hard-use blades where the premium is worth never worrying.