CTS BD1 is a Carpenter stainless steel used in mid-range folders, notably by Spyderco and Cold Steel. A nitrogen-boosted version, BD1N, offers a bit more hardness.
CTS BD1 Steel at a Glance
| Type | Stainless steel |
|---|---|
| Made by | Carpenter Technology (USA) |
| Typical hardness | 58-61 HRC |
| Key elements | Carbon about 0.9%, chromium about 15.5%, molybdenum about 0.3%, vanadium about 0.1% |
| Edge retention | 3/10 (modest) |
| Toughness | 6/10 (good) |
| Rust resistance | 8/10 (very good) |
| Ease of sharpening | 8/10 (easy) |
| Best for | Mid-range folders |
Ratings are relative 1 to 10 scores for typical factory heat treatments. See how CTS BD1 ranks against 46 other steels in our Knife Steel Chart.
What Is CTS BD1 Steel?
BD1 is a vacuum-melted Carpenter alloy similar to Hitachi’s Gin-1 (GIN-1). It has fine carbides and strong corrosion resistance.
CTS BD1 Steel Properties
- Edge retention: Modest.
- Toughness: Good.
- Rust resistance: Very good.
- Ease of sharpening: Easy.
CTS BD1 Equivalents and Alternatives
Gin-1 is a close Japanese equivalent. BD1N is the improved, higher-hardness version.
CTS BD1 vs Other Steels
CTS BD1 vs 8Cr13MoV
Compared with 8Cr13MoV, CTS BD1 is slightly tougher and resists rust slightly better. Read our 8Cr13MoV guide.
CTS BD1 vs VG10
Compared with VG10, CTS BD1 is slightly tougher and is easier to sharpen. VG10 holds an edge slightly longer. Read our VG10 guide.
CTS BD1 vs Sandvik 14C28N
Compared with CTS BD1, Sandvik 14C28N holds an edge slightly longer and is slightly tougher. Read our Sandvik 14C28N guide.
Is CTS BD1 Steel Good for Knives?
Yes, for low-maintenance EDC knives. If you want longer edge life, step up to BD1N or VG10.
Pros:
- Very good rust resistance
- Easy to sharpen
Cons:
- Modest edge retention
Knives That Use CTS BD1 Steel
Makers sometimes change blade steels between versions, so check the listing to confirm the steel before you buy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is CTS BD1 steel stainless?
Yes. CTS BD1 is a stainless steel, though no knife steel is completely rust proof. Wipe it dry after use.
How hard is CTS BD1 steel?
Knives in CTS BD1 are usually heat treated to around 58-61 HRC.
Is CTS BD1 easy to sharpen?
Easy. Most standard stones and pull-through sharpeners work.