A selection of blades for the Veritas Low Angle Jack and Bevel Up planes in either A2 and PM-V11 tool steels. A2 steel is a little more difficult to sharpen but retains its edge for longer. The downside being, because of the different grain structure the A2 won’t be quite as sharp as the O1. What does this mean in practice? If you’re roughing something to size or planing abrasive exotics then A2 is probably the better choice. The toothed blade is ideal for working with difficult grain, especially knots. The small, square teeth leave a textured surface that can be smoothed with a finely set plane or a scraper. The PM-V11 blade is the result of two years of research and testing by Veritas. The PM refers to a process known as powder metallurgy. It involves atomising molten metals, cooling and hardening the powder, finally heating it under pressure to form an ingot. PM-V11 is a specific mixture of metals combined into a unique alloy. The resulting steel has a very fine, uniform grain structure. It is inherently more durable than steels produced using ordinary manufacturing processes. Blades made from PM-V11 are highly resistant to dulling or damage from wear and impact. These blades can take a keen edge and hold it through extended use. PM-V11 is as easy to sharpen as A2 tool steel using water stones or other common sharpening methods. Testing showed that a PM-V11 blade edge lasts at least twice as long in use as an A2 blade. Made in Canada.