CPM S30V elevated the conversation about stainless performance when it arrived in the early 2000s. Designed by Dick Barber at Crucible in collaboration with Chris Reeve, it was built specifically for cutlery — delivering meaningful step-ups in edge retention and corrosion resistance over earlier stainless options while remaining tough enough for real use. The CPM process produces a fine, uniform carbide distribution that makes it easier to sharpen than its wear resistance numbers might suggest. It became the benchmark production folder steel for over a decade and remains a relevant, proven choice in skilled hands.