Why CPM MagnaCut Steel Is the Future of Knives

The Steel That Changed the Game

CPM MagnaCut steel is making waves in the knife world and for good reason. Designed to bring together edge retention, toughness, and corrosion resistance, this stainless steel gives knife makers a rare combination of qualities in one material. Whether you’re making survival blades or high-end kitchen knives, CPM MagnaCut steel is up for the job.

At Niagara Specialty Metals, every sheet of MagnaCut is hot rolled in the USA and handled by a team that takes pride in delivering top-tier results. Their work ensures knife makers get a steel that is not only high-performing but consistent from piece to piece.

How Niagara Processes CPM MagnaCut Steel

Niagara starts with large steel slabs, up to 1,700 pounds, and rolls them into precision sheet and plate. That process begins in their rolling mill, where slabs are heated, reduced, and reshaped. From there, the steel is annealed to relieve stress and make it workable. Then it’s flattened, de-scaled, and cut to final dimensions.

According to Bob Shabala, president of Niagara, “It takes three to five years to train someone on all the jobs we have here.” The people who process CPM MagnaCut steel aren’t just employees, they’re owners. Niagara is 100% employee-owned, and that shows in their attention to quality.

Custom Cuts for Knife Makers

One standout feature of Niagara’s operation is their ability to cut CPM MagnaCut steel to spec. With a fiber optic laser, they can cut detailed knife blanks directly from customer DXF files. That means knife makers can order sheet steel and get blanks cut in one step—saving time and handling.

They also use high-powered roller levelers to relieve stress and make the sheets panel flat. These systems make sure that every piece of CPM MagnaCut steel coming out of production is ready for grinding, heat-treating, and finishing.

Built by a Team That Cares

Niagara’s success comes from its people. Many employees have been with the company for decades. Shabala, who started on the shop floor in 1993, now leads the business and credits its growth to long-term commitment and investment. From their first rolling mill in 1982 to their latest expansion—including new furnaces, lasers, and grinding equipment—Niagara continues to lead in specialty knife steel.

Why It Matters

CPM MagnaCut steel gives knife makers what they’ve always wanted: a steel that’s tough, stainless, and holds a razor-sharp edge. And with Niagara Specialty Metals behind it, they’re getting a product that’s made with skill, care, and consistency.