M2 Equivalent Steels or Alternative

Let’s compare the M2 steel with other tool steels that you may encounter.

M2 VS A2

Unlike the M2, the A2 is still found in quite a few knives these days, especially in fixed blades. It offers decent edge retention, though it won’t match the edge retention of the M2. The toughness is excellent for the A2, and it’s better than the M2.

The A2 is somewhat difficult to sharpen, but then the M2 is worse. At least the A2 offers some decent corrosion-resistance, unlike the M2.

M2 VS D2

When it comes to tool steels used for knives, the D2 is perhaps the most popular. It’s been used in knives since WWII, and it’s still popular today. The D2 offers good edge retention, though the M2 is better at this. The D2 is also hard to sharpen like the M2, and they both offer good toughness.

The D2 corrosion resistance is low, but then again, the M2 is much lower. All in all, you’re better off with the D2, and it’s even more affordable as well.

M2 VS H13

The H13 is another tool steel, also renowned for its high strength and toughness, great hardenability, and red-hot hardness. It’s very popular for use in hot working dies. Its hardness doesn’t really compare to the M2 steel, especially if used in knives. You go with the M2 if you want high hardness, but you go with H13 if you want high toughness levels.