52100 vs 80CrV2
Both steels sit a step above plain carbon steel in alloy content, and both have loyal followings among makers who want more than 1084 or 1095 without jumping to a fully modern powder-metallurgy steel. The choice mostly comes down to what you value more: wear resistance or toughness.
Quick Verdict
52100's higher chromium content, originally developed as a bearing steel, gives it better edge retention than 80CrV2, at a very slight cost in ease of grinding. 80CrV2 remains marginally easier to work and slightly more forgiving overall, with toughness essentially tied between the two.
Toughness
Essentially tied. Both are well-regarded for toughness among simple-to-mid-alloy steels, and the small compositional differences between them don't produce a meaningful real-world gap.
Edge Retention
52100 wins here. Its higher chromium carbide content, a legacy of its bearing-steel origins, gives it a real, noticeable edge-retention advantage over 80CrV2's simpler alloy makeup.
Corrosion Resistance
Tied, neither has meaningful corrosion resistance despite 52100's chromium content, which isn't high enough to reach stainless-level protection. Both need regular care to avoid rust.
Heat Treat
Both are achievable in a home shop, though 52100 is somewhat less forgiving of quench-speed mistakes than 80CrV2 and benefits from more careful temperature control to reach its full potential.
Grinding
80CrV2 grinds slightly more easily thanks to its lower carbide content; 52100's added chromium carbides make it marginally slower to grind and sharpen, though the difference is modest, not dramatic.
Best-Use Scenarios
52100 is the better pick when edge retention is the priority within this simpler-alloy tier, hunting or utility knives that see extended cutting sessions. 80CrV2 remains an excellent, slightly more forgiving choice for choppers and hard-use knives where toughness and ease of grinding matter more.