Why Leathercraft Professionals Are Turning to M390 Steel for Their Cutting Knives

The Craftsperson's Dilemma: Why Knife Steel Matters

Every leatherworker knows this: a good cut can make or break a piece. Whether you’re tracing the outline of a wallet pattern or shaping a full-grain strap, the precision and control of your knife directly influence the quality of your work. But what many overlook is how much the steel of the blade impacts that control.

Enter M390 powder metallurgy steel. Once the domain of high-end tactical and chef knives, M390 has quickly earned a loyal following among serious leathercraft professionals. But why? And what makes a knife like the Yorkshine 30mm Straight Edge Leather Cutting Knife a standout in the workshop?

What Is M390 Powder Steel and Why Should You Care?

M390, produced by Böhler-Uddeholm, is a third-generation powder metallurgy stainless steel that balances hardness, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance at an exceptional level. Here’s what it means for you as a leatherworker:

• Edge retention: The high carbon and vanadium content mean your knife stays sharper for much longer. No more stopping mid-project to hone your blade.

• Corrosion resistance: Even in humid workshops or when working with waxed or oiled leather, your blade resists rust.

• Micro-fine cutting: M390 has an extremely fine grain structure, allowing for a razor-sharp edge and smooth slicing through all kinds of leather.

This isn’t marketing fluff — it’s what makes the difference between a tool you constantly adjust, and one you reach for without thinking.

Real Use Cases: How the Yorkshine 30mm Knife Performs in the Workshop

The Yorkshine M390 Straight Edge Knife is built specifically for leathercraft, and every detail shows that it was made by people who know the craft:

• 30mm wide blade: It’s perfect for both broad cuts (like shaping a bag panel) and detail work (like trimming around a gusset or edge creases).

• Stable control: The weight and balance of the handle give you just the right amount of pressure without hand fatigue. Even long sessions stay comfortable.

• No drag, no fray: Cuts through thick vegetable-tanned leather cleanly, even at tight curves or diagonals. No pulling, no feathered edges.

Real Talk from Leatherworkers

In Reddit’s leathercraft forums, users praise M390 for its "clean glide" and "almost zero resistance on veg-tan". One maker shared:

"I used to rely on SK5 steel knives, but ever since switching to an M390 blade, I don’t want to go back. The edge retention and clean cuts make it a dream for veg-tan."
(@leatherhandtools, Reddit)

Cutting Techniques to Maximize Your M390 Knife

1. Use the full length of the blade — especially with a 30mm wide edge, this gives you straighter cuts and better control.

2. Pair with a good steel ruler for clean, straight pattern tracing.

3. Angle your wrist slightly when making tight turns — the blade responds smoothly due to its edge geometry.

4. Maintain with a ceramic rod or strop — M390 doesn’t need frequent sharpening, but a quick touch-up keeps it performing like new.

Why M390 Isn’t Just for Knives — It's for Commitment

Choosing a premium steel like M390 isn’t about luxury. It’s about trusting your tools to work as hard as you do. It’s about:

• Fewer interruptions

• More confidence in your hand

• A clean, precise edge that brings out the best in your craftsmanship

Whether you're cutting natural veg-tan or oiled bridle leather, the Yorkshine M390 knife gives you full control, every single time.

Why Choose CÍ?

At CÍ, we’re more than a leathercraft supply shop. We’re a boutique store for people who take the craft seriously.

• We design and manufacture many of our own tools in our factory

• We also collaborate with top-tier independent tool designers across the industry

• We offer global shipping with no extra fees, and long-term aftersales support

From hot foil stamping machines and pricking irons to stitching ponies, skiving machines, and precision leather knives like the Yorkshine M390 — CÍ is here to support your work at every level.

🛠️ Discover the knife: Yorkshine M390 Leather Cutting Knife →

References

Larrin, T. (2020). M390 Steel: History and Properties (and 20CV and 204P). Knife Steel Nerds. Available at: https://knifesteelnerds.com/2020/06/01/m390-steel-history-and-properties-and-20cv-and-204p/
Reddit. (2023). Leathercraft Tools Discussion. Reddit r/Leathercraft. Available at: https://www.reddit.com/r/Leathercraft/