7Cr17MoV is a budget Chinese stainless steel used in inexpensive folders and kitchen knives.
7Cr17MoV Steel at a Glance
| Type | Stainless steel |
|---|---|
| Made by | Chinese mills |
| Typical hardness | 55-57 HRC |
| Key elements | Carbon about 0.6 to 0.75%, chromium 16 to 18%, plus molybdenum and vanadium |
| Edge retention | 3/10 (modest) |
| Toughness | 5/10 (good) |
| Rust resistance | 7/10 (very good) |
| Ease of sharpening | 8/10 (easy) |
| Best for | Budget folders and kitchen |
Ratings are relative 1 to 10 scores for typical factory heat treatments. See how 7Cr17MoV ranks against 46 other steels in our Knife Steel Chart.
What Is 7Cr17MoV Steel?
7Cr17MoV is roughly a Chinese version of 440A with small additions of molybdenum and vanadium.
7Cr17MoV Steel Properties
- Edge retention: Modest.
- Toughness: Good.
- Rust resistance: Very good.
- Ease of sharpening: Easy.
7Cr17MoV Equivalents and Alternatives
Close to 440A. 8Cr13MoV is a small step up.
7Cr17MoV vs Other Steels
7Cr17MoV vs 440A
Compared with 440A, 7Cr17MoV holds an edge slightly longer. 440A resists rust slightly better. Read our 440A guide.
7Cr17MoV vs 8Cr13MoV
7Cr17MoV and 8Cr13MoV perform very similarly. Choose based on price, the knife design and the maker’s heat treatment. Read our 8Cr13MoV guide.
7Cr17MoV vs 9Cr18MoV
Compared with 9Cr18MoV, 7Cr17MoV is slightly tougher and is slightly easier to sharpen. 9Cr18MoV holds an edge slightly longer. Read our 9Cr18MoV guide.
Is 7Cr17MoV Steel Good for Knives?
For budget knives, yes. For a little more money, 8Cr13MoV or 14C28N gives better edge holding.
Pros:
- Cheap
- Easy to sharpen
- Good rust resistance
Cons:
- Modest edge retention
Knives That Use 7Cr17MoV Steel
Makers sometimes change blade steels between versions, so check the listing to confirm the steel before you buy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 7Cr17MoV steel stainless?
Yes. 7Cr17MoV is a stainless steel, though no knife steel is completely rust proof. Wipe it dry after use.
How hard is 7Cr17MoV steel?
Knives in 7Cr17MoV are usually heat treated to around 55-57 HRC.
Is 7Cr17MoV easy to sharpen?
Easy. Most standard stones and pull-through sharpeners work.