CPM-3V is the steel serious fixed blade makers reach for when toughness comes first. Produced by Crucible Industries using the CPM process, it was engineered for impact resistance — exceptionally difficult to chip or break even under severe lateral stress. Edge retention is strong, sharpening is straightforward on conventional abrasives, and while corrosion resistance requires some maintenance in wet environments, for hard-use knives that need to survive anything you put them through, CPM-3V has few peers. It's a particular favorite among custom makers building tactical and field knives where performance under pressure is non-negotiable.