CPM S45VN is the refined successor to Crucible's highly regarded S35VN, offering improved toughness and a finer carbide structure that makes the steel slightly easier to polish and finish while maintaining the excellent corrosion resistance and edge retention the S-series is known for. The additional niobium in the alloy helps refine the grain at the microscopic level, resulting in a blade that takes a cleaner edge and holds it a touch longer under comparable conditions. It's a steel well-suited to both production manufacturers and custom makers who want serious performance in a well-rounded, corrosion-resistant package — and it's found its way into some of the most respected production folders currently being made.