D2

D2 is a punching tool steel that has become legendary in the knife world for its amazing wear resistance and aggressive cutting ability.

There are not many knifemakers who would ignore it - D2 is very good at its job.

It's worth thinking about: D2 was developed during the Great Patriotic War, but has lost none of its relevance to this day.

Today, D2 is used for knives in the medium and high price segment, because it has a really excellent cut and very long retention of edge sharpness.

10-12% chromium gives D2 steel some corrosion resistance, but it is not absolutely stainless. In knife circles, it is referred to as semi-rust free. In practice, after contact with acids, if the knife is not washed and wiped or if it is stored in a humid environment for a long time, rust streaks or small dark spots may appear on the blade. It is usually sufficient to wipe the knife dry after use and lubricate the blade every two months.

The hardness of D2 products can vary between 57 and 64 HRC, but for knives we consider 60-62 HRC to be the optimal hardness. Wear resistance is excellent, but at this hardness we maintain the maximum plasticity, because the blade should not be brittle.

D2 is quite demanding for sharpening tools. Its high carbon content gives it excellent working properties, but also makes it a tough nut to crack for the sharpener. The problem is solved by a high-quality abrasive: good diamond stones, ceramics, water stones, high-quality modern artificial stones - and the problem of sharpening is solved by itself.

As we can see, D2 knives require a prudent approach: It is important to take care of the blade and remember that D2 does not like impact loads. But all that is forgiven once you start cutting. A sharply honed blade of D2 steel simply does not perceive any obstacles: it effortlessly penetrates any food, very aggressively gnaws wood and, most importantly, it does not lose its razor sharpness for a very long time. With such a knife you want to cut and cut and cut...

Popularity comes at its own price. D2 marking is often applied to Chinese knives, which are clones of famous brands. In this case, the blade is at best a Chinese analog and at worst an incomprehensible alloy. Therefore, you should buy D2 knives only in trusted stores and from trusted manufacturers.

This steel is excellent for small and medium-sized fixed knives, but also for folding knives.

We recommend D2 to those who value above all a clear, aggressive edge and the preservation of sharpness.

ADVANTAGES:
Long retention of edge sharpness
Aggressive cut

DISADVANTAGES:
The anti-corrosion properties are average
Demanding for tool sharpening