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    • D2 Tool Steel

    D2 Steel Knives: The High-Carbon Tool Steel That Punches Above Its Price on Edge Retention

    D2 is a high-carbon, high-chromium tool steel with approximately 1.5% carbon and 12% chromium — enough chromium to slow corrosion significantly compared to plain carbon steels, but not enough to qualify as stainless. It sits in a category knife buyers call "semi-stainless": better rust resistance than 1095 or 5160, worse than CPM-S35VN or CPM MagnaCut, and edge retention that rivals premium stainless steels at a fraction of the production cost. That combination is why D2 has remained one of the most widely specified blade steels in mid-range and value-tier production knives for decades.

    At Knifeworks, you are buying from an authorized dealer: every D2 knife on this page ships with full manufacturer warranty coverage — CRKT's lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects, Kershaw's limited lifetime warranty, and Cold Steel's lifetime guarantee. No gray-market sourcing, no voided warranties.

    D2 is a conventionally produced steel, not a powder metallurgy steel, which means its carbide structure is larger and less uniform than M390, CPM-S35VN, or CPM MagnaCut. That shows up in two ways: it is harder to sharpen than most stainless steels, and it can feel "toothy" rather than truly refined at the apex. What it delivers in return is outstanding wear resistance and edge-holding for its price point — a D2 knife will outcut a 154CM or AUS-8 knife on most tasks before needing to be resharpened.

    Why D2 is not technically stainless — and why it mattersStainless steel requires at least 13% chromium in the steel matrix to form a continuous passive oxide layer. D2's 12% chromium is partially tied up in large chromium carbides rather than free in the matrix, so the effective chromium available for corrosion protection falls below the stainless threshold. D2 will develop a patina with use and will rust if left wet, particularly at the carbide boundaries visible under magnification. A quick wipe and light oil after use keeps it in good condition.

    Call 888-225-9775 — our team can help you choose the right D2 knife for your use.

    Steel type
    Tool Steel
    Carbon content
    ~1.5%
    Chromium
    ~12%
    Typical hardness
    58–62 HRC
    Corrosion resist.
    Low–avg
    Production method
    Conventional
    • CMB Lurker Folding Knife (CMB10W) 3.38 in Black D2, Black Micarta Handle CMB Lurker Folding Knife (CMB10W) 3.38 in Black D2, Black Micarta Handle

      CMB Lurker Micarta (3.38" Black D2) CMB10B

      CMB Lurker Folding Knife (CMB10W) 3.38 in Black D2, Black Micarta Handle This CMB Lurker has a black blade of D2 steel and a black micarta handle. This tough flipper knife has a thumb hole for a secondary option in fast, seamless deployment. The grippy...

      $65.95 $49.95
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    • CMB Lurker Folding Knife (CMB10A) 3.38 in Black D2, Coyote Brown Micarta Handle CMB Lurker Folding Knife (CMB10A) 3.38 in Black D2, Coyote Brown Micarta Handle

      CMB Lurker Micarta (3.38" Black D2) CMB10A

      CMB Lurker Folding Knife (CMB10A) 3.38 in Black D2, Coyote Brown Micarta Handle This CMB Lurker has a black blade of D2 steel and a Coyote Brown micarta handle. This tough flipper knife has a thumb hole for a secondary option in fast, seamless deployment...

      $65.95 $49.95
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    • CMB Blaze Folding Knife (CMP06G) 3.22 in Blackwash D2, Green Micarta Handle CMB Blaze Folding Knife (CMP06G) 3.22 in Blackwash D2, Green Micarta Handle

      CMB Blaze Micarta (3.22" Blackwash D2) CMB06G

      CMB Blaze Folding Knife (CMP06G) 3.22 in Blackwash D2, Green Micarta Handle The Blaze by CMB Made Knives is a flipper knife that is both excellent in quality and style. And CMB Made Knives has every right to be proud of their high-end manufacturing! They...

      $58.95 $47.95
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    • CMB Hippo Folding Knife (CMB05S) 2.99 in Stonewash D2, Blue G-10 Handle CMB Hippo Folding Knife (CMB05S) 2.99 in Stonewash D2, Blue G-10 Handle

      CMB Hippo G-10 (2.99" Stonewash D2) CMB05S

      CMB Hippo Folding Knife (CMB05S) 2.99 in Stonewash D2, Blue G-10 Handle Hippos may not be everyone's favorite animal, but there's no denying how formidable they are. The CMB Made Knives Hippo pocket knife is inspired by its namesake: it's super tough,...

      $55.95 $45.95
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    • CMB Hippo Folding Knife (CMB05J) 2.99 in Blackwash D2, Jade G-10 Handle CMB Hippo Folding Knife (CMB05J) 2.99 in Blackwash D2, Jade G-10 Handle

      CMB Hippo G-10 (2.99" Blackwash D2) CMB05J

      CMB Hippo Folding Knife (CMB05J) 2.99 in Blackwash D2, Jade G-10 Handle Hippos may not be everyone's favorite animal, but there's no denying how formidable they are. The CMB Made Knives Hippo pocket knife is inspired by its namesake: it's super tough,...

      $55.95 $45.95
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    • CMB Hippo Folding Knife (CMB05R) 2.99 in Black D2, Red G-10 Handle CMB Hippo Folding Knife (CMB05R) 2.99 in Black D2, Red G-10 Handle

      CMB Hippo G-10 (2.99" Black D2) CMB05R

      CMB Hippo Folding Knife (CMB05R) 2.99 in Black D2, Red G-10 Handle Hippos may not be everyone's favorite animal, but there's no denying how formidable they are. The CMB Made Knives Hippo pocket knife is inspired by its namesake: it's super tough,...

      $55.95 $45.95
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    • CMB Blaze Folding Knife (CMP06T) 3.22 in Blackwash D2, Jade G-10 Handle CMB Blaze Folding Knife (CMP06T) 3.22 in Blackwash D2, Jade G-10 Handle

      CMB Blaze G-10 (3.22" Blackwash D2) CMB06T

      CMB Blaze Folding Knife (CMP06T) 3.22 in Blackwash D2, Jade G-10 Handle The Blaze by CMB Made Knives is a flipper knife that is both excellent in quality and style. And CMB Made Knives has every right to be proud of their high-end manufacturing! They did...

      $55.95 $45.95
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    • CMB Hippo Folding Knife (CMB05B) 2.99 in Blackwash D2, Black G-10 Handle CMB Hippo Folding Knife (CMB05B) 2.99 in Blackwash D2, Black G-10 Handle

      CMB Hippo G-10 (2.99" Blackwash D2) CMB05B

      CMB Hippo Folding Knife (CMB05B) 2.99 in Blackwash D2, Black G-10 Handle Hippos may not be everyone's favorite animal, but there's no denying how formidable they are. The CMB Made Knives Hippo pocket knife is inspired by its namesake: it's super tough,...

      $55.95 $45.95
      Choose Options
    • CMB Lurker Folding Knife (CMB10W) 3.38 in Satin D2, Black Micarta Handle CMB Lurker Folding Knife (CMB10W) 3.38 in Satin D2, Black Micarta Handle

      CMB Lurker Micarta (3.38" Satin D2) CMB10W

      CMB Lurker Folding Knife (CMB10W) 3.38 in Satin D2, Black Micarta Handle This CMB Lurker has a satin blade of D2 steel and a black micarta handle. This tough flipper knife has a thumb hole for a secondary option in fast, seamless deployment. The grippy...

      $65.95 $49.95
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    • CMB Blaze Folding Knife (CMP06S) 3.22 in Sandblast D2, White G-10 Handle CMB Blaze Folding Knife (CMP06S) 3.22 in Sandblast D2, White G-10 Handle

      CMB Blaze G-10 (3.22" Sandblast D2) CMB06S

      CMB Blaze Folding Knife (CMP06S) 3.22 in Sandblast D2, White G-10 Handle The Blaze by CMB Made Knives is a flipper knife that is both excellent in quality and style. And CMB Made Knives has every right to be proud of their high-end manufacturing! They...

      $55.95 $45.95
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    • Shieldon Bazoucan (9050G) 3.19" Grey Titanium Coated D2 Sheepsfoot Plain Blade, Black G10 Handle

      Shieldon Bazoucan G-10 (3.19" Grey D2) 9050G

      Shieldon Bazoucan (9050G) 3.19" Grey Titanium Coated D2 Sheepsfoot Plain Blade, Black G10 Handle Shieldon signifies a shield on your body with the knives and protects you against any obstruction outdoors. Sheildon concentrates on outdoor tools solution,...

      $72.48 $50.78
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    • Shieldon Barraskewda Folding Knife (604S1-G) 3.74 in Grey D2 Reverse Tanto Point Blade, Gray Stainless Steel with Carbon Fiber Inlay Handle

      Shieldon Barraskewda SS, CF (3.74" D2) 9042S1G

      Shieldon Barraskewda Folding Knife (604S1-G) 3.74 in Grey D2 Reverse Tanto Point Blade, Gray Stainless Steel with Carbon Fiber Inlay Handle The Shieldon Barraskewda features a D2 steel, reverse tanto blade, with a grey finish. The handle is made of 3Cr14...

      $118.99 $83.99
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    • Shieldon Empoleon (SHI9049G1B) 3.5" Drop Point D2 Black Titanium Coated Plain Blade, Black G10 Handle

      Shieldon Empoleon - Blk G-10 (3.5" D2) 9049G1B

      Shieldon Empoleon (9049G1B) 3.5" Drop Point D2 Black Titanium Coated Plain Blade, Black G10 Handle Shieldon signifies a shield on your body with the knives and protects you against any obstruction outdoors. Sheildon concentrates on outdoor tools...

      $61.99 $43.99
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    • Shieldon Barraskewda Folding Knife (604S1-B) 3.74 in Black D2 Reverse Tanto Point Blade, Gray Stainless Steel with Carbon Fiber Inlay Handle

      Shieldon Barraskewda SS, CF (3.74" Black D2) 9042S1-B

      Shieldon Barraskewda Folding Knife (604S1-B) 3.74 in Black D2 Reverse Tanto Point Blade, Gray Stainless Steel with Carbon Fiber Inlay Handle The Shieldon Barraskewda features a D2 steel, reverse tanto blade, with a black finish. The handle is made of...

      $118.98 $83.28
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    • Shieldon Empoleon (SHI9049G1G) 3.5" Drop Point D2 Grey Titanium Coated Plain Blade, Black G10 Handle

      Shieldon Empoleon - Blk G-10 (3.5" D2) 9049G1G

      Shieldon Empoleon (9049G1G) 3.5" Drop Point D2 Grey Titanium Coated Plain Blade, Black G10 Handle Shieldon signifies a shield on your body with the knives and protects you against any obstruction outdoors. Sheildon concentrates on outdoor tools solution,...

      $71.38 $49.98
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    • Shieldon Relicanth (SHI7070G) 3.11" Drop Point D2 Grey Titanium Coated Plain Blade, Black G10 Handle

      Shieldon Relicanth - Blk G-10 (3.11" D2) 7070G

      Shieldon Relicanth (7070G) 3.11" Drop Point D2 Grey Titanium Coated Plain Blade, Black G10 Handle Shieldon signifies a shield on your body with the knives and protects you against any obstruction outdoors. Sheildon concentrates on outdoor tools solution,...

      $63.99 $41.99
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    • Shieldon Relicanth (SHI7070G1) 3.11" Drop Point D2 Grey Titanium Coated Plain Blade, Tan G10 Handle Shieldon Relicanth (SHI7070G1) 3.11" Drop Point D2 Grey Titanium Coated Plain Blade, Tan G10 Handle

      Shieldon Relicanth - Tan G-10 (3.11" D2) 7070G1

      Shieldon Relicanth (7070G1) 3.11" Drop Point D2 Grey Titanium Coated Plain Blade, Tan G10 Handle Shieldon signifies a shield on your body with the knives and protects you against any obstruction outdoors. Sheildon concentrates on outdoor tools solution,...

      $63.99 $41.99
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    • Kansept Warrior (KT1005Y4) 3.47" D2 Blackwashed Tanto Point Blade, Jade G-10 Handle w/ Black Anodized Aluminum Bolster, Designed By Kim Ning Kansept Warrior (KT1005Y4) 3.47" D2 Blackwashed Tanto Point Blade, Jade G-10 Handle w/ Black Anodized Aluminum Bolster, Designed By Kim Ning

      Kansept Warrior - Jade G-10 (3.47" D2) KT1005T4

      Kansept Warrior (KT1005Y4) 3.47" D2 Blackwashed Tanto Point Blade, Jade G-10 Handle w/ Black Anodized Aluminum Bolster, Designed By Kim Ning The Warrior 1005 represents our designer's embodiment of "Concept". It is built with different materials,blade...

      $117.99 $77.99
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    • Sencut Actium Flipper (SA02C) 3.46" Black Stonewashed D2 Drop Point Plain Blade, Black G-10 Handle Sencut Actium Flipper (SA02C) 3.46" Black Stonewashed D2 Drop Point Plain Blade, Black G-10 Handle

      Sencut Actium -Blk G10 (3.46" D2) SA02C

      Sencut Actium Flipper (SA02C) 3.46" Black Stonewashed D2 Drop Point Plain Blade, Black G-10 Handle The Sencut Actium is a knife that blends the looks and size of a stylish EDC with the specs and materials of a real workhorse. The durable D2 hollow ground...

      $46.99 $39.99
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    • Sencut Actium Flipper (SA02B) 3.46" Satin D2 Drop Point Plain Blade, Black G-10 Handle Sencut Actium Flipper (SA02B) 3.46" Satin D2 Drop Point Plain Blade, Black G-10 Handle

      Sencut Actium -Blk G10 (3.46" D2) SA02B

      Sencut Actium Flipper (SA02B) 3.46" Satin D2 Drop Point Plain Blade, Black G-10 Handle The Sencut Actium is a knife that blends the looks and size of a stylish EDC with the specs and materials of a real workhorse. The durable D2 hollow ground blade is an...

      $46.99 $39.99
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    • Sencut Brazoria Flipper (SA12B) 3.46" Bead Blasted D2 Clip Point Plain Blade, Natural G-10 Handle Sencut Brazoria Flipper (SA12B) 3.46" Bead Blasted D2 Clip Point Plain Blade, Natural G-10 Handle

      Sencut Brazoria Flipper- Natural G10 (3.46" D2) SA12B

      Sencut Brazoria Flipper (SA12B) 3.46" Bead Blasted D2 Clip Point Plain Blade, Natural G-10 Handle D2 steel clip point blade with a bead blast finish. Flipper opener or nail nick option for ease of deployment. Texturized Natural G-10 scales with black...

      $53.99 $34.99
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    • Sencut Brazoria Flipper (SA12A) 3.46" Black Coated D2 Clip point Plain Blade, Black G-10 Handle Sencut Brazoria Flipper (SA12A) 3.46" Black Coated D2 Clip point Plain Blade, Black G-10 Handle

      Sencut Brazoria Flipper- Blk G10 (3.46" D2) SA12A

      Sencut Brazoria Flipper (SA12A) 3.46" Black Coated D2 Clip point Plain Blade, Black G-10 Handle D2 steel clip point blade with a black stonewash finish. Flipper opener or nail nick option for ease of deployment. Texturized black G-10 scales with black...

      $53.99 $34.99
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    • Boker Plus Papillon (06EX111) 4.57" D2 Stonewashed Clip Point Plain Blade, Stainless Steel Handle Boker Plus Papillon (06EX111) 4.57" D2 Stonewashed Clip Point Plain Blade, Stainless Steel Handle

      Boker Plus Papillon - Stainless Steel (4.57" D2 ) 06EX111

      Boker Plus Papillon (06EX111) 4.57" D2 Stonewashed Clip Point Plain Blade, Stainless Steel Handle The Boker Plus Papillon is a fully grown Balisong supplied with skeletonised stainless steel handle halves with a matt beadblast finish. Also known as a...

      $142.95 $59.99
    • Kansept Warrior (T1005T3) 3.47" D2 Stonewashed Tanto Plain Blade, Orange G-10 Handle w/ Plain Aluminum Bolster Kansept Warrior (T1005T3) 3.47" D2 Stonewashed Tanto Plain Blade, Orange G-10 Handle w/ Plain Aluminum Bolster

      Kansept Warrior - Orange G-10/Alum (3.47" D2) T1005T3

      Kansept Warrior (T1005T3) 3.47" D2 Stonewashed Tanto Plain Blade, Orange G-10 Handle w/ Plain Aluminum Bolster The Warrior 1005 represents our designer's embodiment of "Concept". It is built with different materials,blade shapes and style variations for...

      $117.99 $77.99
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    Compare Selected

    D2 Steel: Frequently Asked Questions

    What is D2 steel?＋

    D2 is a high-carbon, high-chromium tool steel originally developed for cold-work tooling applications — dies, punches, and cutting tools — where wear resistance under pressure is the primary requirement. Its composition runs approximately 1.5% carbon and 12% chromium, along with molybdenum and vanadium in smaller amounts. The high carbon content produces a dense carbide structure responsible for D2's strong wear resistance, while the chromium level provides partial corrosion protection without reaching the stainless threshold.

    D2 is a conventionally produced steel, not a powder metallurgy steel. That means its carbides are larger and less uniformly distributed than PM steels like CPM-S35VN or CPM MagnaCut — which limits the refinement of the edge apex but does not compromise its wear resistance in typical cutting tasks.

    Is D2 stainless steel?＋

    No — D2 is not stainless steel. Stainless classification requires at least 13% chromium freely available in the steel matrix. D2 has approximately 12% chromium, but a significant portion of it is tied up in large chromium carbides rather than free in the matrix. The effective chromium available for corrosion protection falls below the stainless threshold, which is why D2 will develop a patina and can rust in wet or humid conditions without maintenance.

    D2 is sometimes called "semi-stainless" because it corrodes more slowly than plain carbon steels like 1095, but it requires more rust maintenance than any true stainless knife steel. A wipe after use and occasional light oil before storage is sufficient for most carry conditions.

    How does D2 compare to CPM-S35VN?＋

    D2 and CPM-S35VN are close on edge retention in practical cutting tasks, but CPM-S35VN is the better all-around steel. CPM-S35VN is produced via powder metallurgy, which gives it smaller, more uniformly distributed carbides — producing a tougher steel that takes a more refined edge apex and is significantly easier to sharpen. CPM-S35VN also has meaningfully better corrosion resistance: its 14% chromium is largely free in the matrix rather than tied up in carbides, giving it proper stainless behavior that D2 cannot match.

    The practical case for D2 over CPM-S35VN is price. D2 is cheaper to produce, which means a D2 knife at the same price point as a CPM-S35VN knife typically offers more handle material, better fit and finish, or more features. For buyers focused on value, D2 delivers competitive edge retention at a lower cost.

    How does D2 compare to 1095?＋

    D2 holds an edge longer than 1095 in wear-resistance testing and offers better corrosion resistance due to its higher chromium content. However, 1095 is significantly tougher — it absorbs lateral impact and shock without the chipping risk that D2's higher hardness and larger carbides introduce. For survival, batoning, and hard-impact tasks, 1095 is the safer choice. For precision cutting tasks where edge life matters more than impact resistance, D2 has the advantage.

    D2 is also harder to sharpen than 1095. Its large carbides resist abrasion from standard stones; quality diamond abrasives are recommended. 1095 sharpens on almost anything in minutes. For buyers who prioritize field repairability over edge life, 1095 remains the better tool steel.

    Is D2 hard to sharpen?＋

    D2 is one of the more challenging blade steels to sharpen well. Its large chromium carbides resist standard aluminum oxide whetstones and most ceramic rods effectively. Diamond abrasives are the recommended choice — a medium diamond stone followed by a fine diamond or ceramic rod will produce a working edge, but expect to spend more time at the bench than with CPM-S35VN, 154CM, or AUS-8.

    D2 also has a reputation for taking a "toothy" edge rather than a truly polished, refined apex. This is a function of its large carbide structure — at high magnification the edge is rougher than a PM steel edge at the same grit. For most cutting tasks this is irrelevant or even an advantage (toothy edges slice fibrous material well). For push-cutting tasks requiring a mirror-polished apex, D2 falls short of what powder metallurgy steels can achieve.

    Does D2 rust easily?＋

    D2 is more rust-resistant than plain carbon steels like 1095, but will rust without basic maintenance. Surface oxidation typically appears first at the carbide boundaries — dark spots or pitting that develops in humid conditions or after extended contact with moisture, sweat, or acidic food. It will not rust as rapidly as 1095 in normal carry conditions, but it requires more maintenance than any stainless steel.

    Wipe the blade dry after use, apply a thin coat of mineral oil or Ballistol periodically, and avoid extended storage in a leather sheath. Many D2 production knives ship with a satin or stonewash finish that slows oxidation compared to a polished surface — a stonewash D2 blade is more forgiving of light neglect than a mirror-polished one.

    What brands use D2 steel in their knives?＋

    CRKT, Kershaw, Cold Steel, and Zero Tolerance have all produced popular D2 models. D2 is particularly common in value-tier and mid-range production knives where its edge retention per dollar is a strong argument. Knifeworks carries authorized stock from CRKT, Kershaw, and Cold Steel with full manufacturer warranty coverage.

    BrandNotable D2 ModelsWarranty
    CRKTPilar, Drifter, CrossbonesCRKT lifetime warranty against defects
    KershawBlur D2, Launch series, DividendKershaw limited lifetime warranty
    Cold SteelRecon 1, AD-15, VoyagerCold Steel lifetime guarantee
    Which D2 knife should I buy at Knifeworks?＋

    For a compact EDC folder in D2, the CRKT Pilar is the benchmark at the value end — sub-3-inch blade, framelock, and a fit-and-finish level that punches well above its price. For a mid-range tactical folder, the Kershaw Blur in D2 pairs SpeedSafe assisted opening with D2 edge retention at a price point well below comparable CPM-S35VN folders.

    If you are deciding between D2 and CPM-S35VN and budget is not the deciding factor, CPM-S35VN is the better steel. If you want maximum edge retention per dollar and do not mind learning to sharpen on diamond abrasives, D2 delivers. Call 888-225-9775 and our team can help you match the steel to your actual needs.

    D2 tool steel vs. comparable blade steels

    SteelToughnessEdge RetentionCorrosion ResistanceSharpenability
    D2 ★ModerateHighLow–avgDifficult
    CPM MagnaCutExceptionalHighExcellentModerate
    CPM-S35VNHighModerateHighEasy
    154CMMod–HighModerateAbove avgVery easy
    AUS-8ModerateModerateGoodEasy
    1095HighModerateLowVery easy
    Where D2 wins: edge retention per dollarD2 delivers high edge retention at a production cost well below powder metallurgy steels. At the same price point, a D2 knife will typically outcut a 154CM or AUS-8 knife before needing resharpening. For buyers who want strong edge life without the premium cost of CPM-S35VN or CPM MagnaCut — and who sharpen on diamond abrasives — D2 is the value argument.
    ⚔
    CRKT, Kershaw & Cold SteelAuthorized D2 catalog across EDC folders, tactical flippers, and hard-use fixed blades from three of the most prolific D2 producers.
    Authorized Dealer — Full Warranty CoverageCRKT lifetime warranty against defects. Kershaw limited lifetime warranty. Cold Steel lifetime guarantee on every knife sold.
    D2 vs. CPM-S35VN — Know the TradeoffD2 delivers high edge retention at a lower price point. CPM-S35VN adds stainless behavior and easier sharpening. Call 888-225-9775 and our team can help you decide.
    Same or Next Business Day ShippingShips from Columbia, Louisiana. Order by 2 PM CT and your D2 knife is on its way today.