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Cutting steel SK-5 characteristics
SK-5 steel is Japanese tool steel equivalent to American 1084 steel and German W.Nr 1.1269 used for the production of folding and camping knives.
This knife-making steel can have a hardness of up to 65 HRc, and contains a mixture of carbon in martensite with some dissolved cementite (iron carbite, very hard but brittle). An increase in the cementite content in steel increases its abrasion resistance and makes it possible to achieve an ideal balance between high strength characteristics of the blade and a high degree of bluntness of the cutting edge. Due to these characteristics, steels of this class are traditionally used for the manufacture of various hand tools, as well as for the manufacture of chisels and power saws in the woodworking industry. This steel has stood the test of time and has been used for many years in many countries.
In general, SK5 steel is not expensive and of very high quality. Its disadvantage is its susceptibility to corrosion. The SK-5 knife can become your faithful companion in the most difficult conditions.
I myself am the owner of probably one of the most famous knives from Cold Steel - Recon Tanto. I can say that this is a knife of excellent characteristics, it keeps sharpening for a long time, is not afraid of shock loads, it can really chop bones. I have a lot of knives, but this SK-5 steel knife is one of the few that I would "trust" my life to.
Analogue of SK-5 steel - steel 1084 (USA), steel W.Nr 1.1269 (Germany)
Composition of SK-5 grade steel:
Carbon (C) 0.80 - 0.90%,
Manganese (Mn) 0.5%,
Chromium (Cr) 0.3%,
Silicon (Si) 0.35%,
Nickel (Ni) 0.25%.
Steel manufacturer for SK-5 knives: JFE Steel Japan.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of SK-5 steel: SOG, Cold Steel.
4 173Dug dug and dug. In general, I found an interesting article, in my opinion. I think here she will be in place. For there was no such review. If you missed something and this has already happened, well, .. either pair or demolish. :)
Types and grades of popular steels
I Types and grades of popular steels
Manufacturing and arts knife-making is constantly evolving and brings its own adjustments to our lives. Already no one is surprised with a stainless steel knife. At that time, when, as a little bully, I could not imagine a knife that would not rust from an apple cut by him. But life goes on, science develops, and some types and brands of steel on knives are replaced by others. Depending on the purpose, the complexity of production and the pricing policy of the steel manufacturer, it can be divided into three type with reference to the price of knives made from them:
Inexpensive become, popular steel, and premium steels used mainly for top-end and limited edition knives.
Here I must make a reservation for sophisticated readers who will certainly be ready to start a dispute with me about the pricing of specific grades of steel. The types of materials are divided by me very conditionally to indicate certain price boundaries for knives, and are rather informative in nature for the convenience of orienting an inexperienced buyer.
Before starting a review of the steels themselves, one should understand the chemical composition and the effect of individual elements on the physical characteristics.
Carbon(C) is the most important element in steel, it increases its strength, without a sufficient amount of carbon, it is very difficult to obtain a suitable hardness.
Chromium ( Cr) - gives the alloy increased anti-corrosion properties, chromium carbides increase wear resistance and hardenability. Excessive chromium content in the alloy increases its brittleness. Contained in any grade of stainless steel.
Manganese(Mn) - its content has a positive effect on the grain structure of the alloy, and also contributes to better hardenability. Increases wear resistance and strength. Contained in almost all modern steel grades.
Molybdenum(Mo) - forms carbides that prevent steel brittleness, allows maintaining strength at high temperatures. Also increases corrosion resistance, strength, hardness, hardenability, toughness and contributes to better machinability,
Nickel(Ni) - Increases strength, toughness and corrosion resistance.
Silicon(Si) - increases the strength and wear resistance of steel. Like manganese, it makes steel more stable and reliable.
Vanadium(V) - forms the structure of carbides in such a way as to increase wear resistance, vitality and hardenability.
The composition may also include nitrogen(N), niobium(N), tungsten(W) and sulfur(S)
TO inexpensive steels include the following stamps:
420 The low carbon content (less than half a percent) makes this steel too soft and poorly holding sharpening. Due to its high corrosion resistance, it is often used in the manufacture of diving knives. Often used for very inexpensive knives; except for use in salt water conditions, too soft for a functional blade. Almost all Chinese "noname" knives are made from it, which brought it a bad name. Indeed, in the "oriental" version it is a low-quality material, in terms of characteristics it is closer to our "kitchen" 40X12. In the "western" version, 420 steel is considered a normal inexpensive knife material. Spanish knives made of 420 steel are also very soft, almost like Chinese ones. But Swiss ("Victorinox", "Wenger") and Austrian ("Fortuna"), as well as some other knives from good manufacturers from 420 steel are more hard and accurate. Especially noteworthy is the American quality of the knives made of 420 steel. Along with almost souvenir products from United Cuttlery, SOG and Buck make excellent knives from 420 steel with a blade hardness of up to 57 HRc, and at the same time the blade is often quite thin and resilient. This once again confirms the position that high-quality hardening and processing is often more important than the grade (chemical composition) of steel. 420 steel knives are not always marked accordingly. If there is no inscription on a knife from an unknown manufacturer or it simply says “Inox” “Stainless”, “Stainless Steel”, “Rostfrei” (actually the word “stainless steel” in various languages), “Super-steel” and so on, then most likely it is namely the 420th steel with all the ensuing consequences.
420HC(High Carbone) One of the popular alloys used for mass production of knives in recent years. Many well-known manufacturers prefer this steel because of its low cost, ease of processing, strength sufficient for an average knife and good anti-corrosion vitality. Steel 420HC holds the cutting edge well, but from time to time it needs sharpening, yielding to steels of a higher class, the knife from it is easy to resharpen.
420J2 Japanese steel, which has been used for a long time in the manufacture of knives by various companies. Due to its availability, ease of processing and significant distribution, knife manufacturers use it both independently and as part of composite alloys, where 420J2 plays the role of a lining, enclosing a harder steel inside.
440A - 440B - 440C The carbon content (and hardness, respectively) of this type of stainless steel increases from A (0.75%) to B (0.9%) to C (up to 1.2%).
All three types of 440 steel are good at resisting corrosion, with 440A being the best and 440C being the least of the three. SOG Seal 2000 knives use 440A steel, Randell uses 440B steel for their stainless knives. The 440C brand is ubiquitous as it is the best of the three! If your knife is marked "440", it is most likely the least expensive 440A steel - if the manufacturer used the more expensive 440C, he will certainly indicate this. By general feeling, 440A steel (and others like it) is good enough for everyday use, especially when it is qualitatively hardened (there are many good reviews about the hardening of 440A steel by SOG). The 440B version can be called an intermediate version, and the 440C steel is the hardest of the 440s.
12S27(composition: C - 0.6%, Mn - 0.35%, Cr - 14.0%.) It is considered traditional Scandinavian and is used to make Finnish knives "Puukko", Swedish knives "Mora Of Sweden", as well as Norwegian knives ... It is also traditionally known for its "pure composition" - i.e. the absence of any foreign impurities - sulfur and phosphorus.
Sandvik14C28N Medium carbon high chromium stainless steel with added molybdenum, phosphorus, silicon and sulfur, with exceptional corrosion resistance, excellent strength and wear resistance. Quite widespread in the production of Swedish knives "Mora Of Sweden".
1095 Most often used for fixed knives (fixed knives). If we line up the grades from 1095 to 1050, in general, we can say that as the number decreases, the amount of carbon in steel decreases, it keeps the edge sharpened worse and becomes more viscous. Therefore, the 1060 and 1050 marks are most often used for the manufacture of swords. For knives, 1095 is considered the "standard" grade of carbon steel, not the most expensive and yet with good qualities. Also, this brand has sufficient rigidity and keeps sharpening very well, but at the same time it easily rusts. This is a simple grade of steel containing, in addition to iron, one or two elements - about 0.95 carbon and sometimes about 0.4% manganese.
9Cr13CoMoV China-made stainless steel with a higher cobalt content added for a stronger cutting edge. It has high corrosion resistance at a low price. High-speed steels alloyed with vanadium and cobalt have improved cutting properties. Cobalt increases heat resistance, magnetic properties, and increases impact resistance. The more cobalt in the alloy, the higher the bending strength and the better the mechanical properties, but with a large amount of it, the hardness and wear resistance of the alloy decreases. Of those used in knives, cobalt contains VG-10 and N690 steels in an amount of about 1.5%.
8Cr13MoV Chinese steel typical of Spyderco's Byrd range of knives. It is a steel with a fairly high content of carbon, chromium, vanadium and molybdenum, it holds sharpened well and at the same time can be easily sharpened.
8Cr14MoV Chinese steel, similar to the previous one, including the chemical composition. The presence of more chromium in it than in 8Cr13MoV allows it to combine the same cutting and strength properties with improved corrosion protection.
TO popular steels, middle price category, include the following stamps:
3Cr13 Chinese stainless steel, which is a modified 440A steel hardened to a hardness of approximately 57 HRC. Due to the increased carbon content, its cutting properties are superior to 420J2, but inferior to 420HC. It is used on knives of the middle price category from different manufacturers, however, quite rarely.
AUS-6 - AUS-8 - AUS-10 Japanese stainless steels are roughly comparable to 440A (AUS-6.65% carbon), 440B (AUS-8.75% carbon) and 440C (AUS-10, 1.1% carbon), respectively. The widespread use of AUS-8 steel has made it very popular and, although it does not hold up to ATS-34's strength, many have noted its outstanding durability. Some manufacturers also mark AUS-8 as AUS-8A, but there are no real differences. Steel AUS-10 has a slightly higher carbon content, but contains less chromium, therefore it is slightly less corrosion-resistant, but harder. All of these steels contain up to a quarter of a percent of vanadium, which improves wear resistance. The composition of the most popular AUS-8 is as follows: C = 0.75%, Mn = 0.5%, Mo = 0.2%, Cr = 14%, Ni = 0.5%; Si = 1%, V = 0.2%
95X18 Quite good domestic stainless steel, but there is a silver lining - it is quite capricious in hardening and processing. When properly heat treated, it has high hardness, good flexibility and sufficient strength. A knife made of this material is not as easy to sharpen as a regular kitchen knife, but it will be good to keep the blade sharp. With prolonged contact with moisture, and even more so with salt, corrosion can occur. With all this, it is one of the best steels of domestic production, with which both large manufacturers and respected private craftsmen work. The imported analogue is steel 440C. Composition: C = 1%; Cr = 18%; Mn≤0.8%; Si≤0.8%; S≤0.025%; P≤0.03%
4116 High quality stainless steel made in Germany by Thyssen Krupp. This steel is used in industries with high hygienic requirements (for the manufacture of medical equipment, this steel is an excellent choice of material for the manufacture of kitchen knives. The optimal percentage of carbon and chromium in this steel provides it with a high degree of corrosion resistance, as well as excellent mechanical strength and cutting resistance. Edge resistance in cutting tests exceeded that of blades made of 420 and 440 series stainless steels Other alloying elements used in the manufacture of 4116 Krupp increase the strength of the blades and allow them to be made thinner without loss of strength properties. C = 0.45-0.55% Si<1%, Mn<%1, P<0,04%, S<0,015% Cr=15%, V=0.1-02%, Mo=0.5-0.8%
1055 The chemical composition and physical properties of carbon steel 1055 are on the border between medium and high carbon steels, with a carbon content between 0.50% -0.60%, and a manganese content between 0.60% -0.90%. This content of carbon and manganese allows the hardness of the alloy to be achieved between Rc 60-64, depending on the exact carbon content. The combination of a number of factors in the production made it possible to make one of the most difficult steels, while it contains enough martensite, without an excessive content of carbides. This steel is especially suitable for those works where strength and toughness are appreciated above all other qualities.
SK5 Japanese tool steel, which is the equivalent of American 1080 steel, with a carbon content between 0.75% -0.85% and a manganese content between 0.60% -0.90%. This steel can have a hardness of up to 65 Rc, and contains a mixture of carbon in martensite with some dissolved cementite. An increase in the cementite content in steel increases its abrasion resistance and makes it possible to achieve an ideal balance between high strength characteristics of the blade and a high degree of bluntness of the cutting edge. Due to these characteristics, steels of this class are traditionally used for the manufacture of various hand tools, as well as for the manufacture of chisels and power saws in the woodworking industry. This steel has stood the test of time and has been used for many years in many countries.
Smoothly we approach the steels used on more expensive knives and limited editions.
Premium (top) steel:
VG-1 San Mai III San Mai means three layers. This term is used to describe the traditional laminated blades used for Japanese swords and daggers. The laminated structure of the blade is important because it allows strips of different steel grades to be combined into a single blade. A simple way to imagine this type of design is to imagine a sandwich: meat in the center, high-content solid steel, and slices of bread on either side - lower carbon steel strips. The cutting edge of the blade must be as hard as possible in order to keep the sharpening longer and effectively cut and chop, but if the entire blade were that hard, it could be damaged during combat or working under side loads. To give the blade additional strength, flexibility and corrosion resistance, additional, "softer" steel plates are welded to it. Composition: C = 0.95-1.05%; Cr = 13-15%; Mo = 0.2-0.4%; Ni = 0.25%. Usually hardened to 58 - 61 HRC.
VG-10 It was specially designed by Takefu Special Steel Co., Ltd. (Japan) for the needs of the knife industry. It is used in the production of knives of such Japanese brands as Tojiro, Kasumi, Mcusta, as well as in the production of some models of non-Japanese brands Spyderco, Cold Steel, Camillus, FALLKNIVEN, Browning ... But the blades for them, and even the whole knives, are usually made in Japan. The toughness of this steel is sufficient to maintain a cutting edge even when hardened to a hardness of 60-63 Rc. Composition: C = 0.95-1.05%; Cr = 14.5-15.5%; Co = 1.3-1.5%; Mn = 0.5%; Mo = 0.9-1.2%.
A-2(AISI Type A2, UNS T30102 American tool steel for rolls, dies and punches, used in the manufacture of blades. Non-toxic, non-magnetic, non-hardening, corrosion-resistant steel. Easily weldable and does not become brittle. Composition: C = 1%, Mn = 0.8%, Si = 0.3%, Cr = 5.25%, Mo = 1.1%, V = 0.2%.
ATS-34 and 154CM One of the most modern high-tech stainless steels. 154CM is the original American steel, its outstanding performance makes it also quite expensive, it is not used in every knife. ATS-34 is a product of the Japanese corporation "Hitachi" and is very close to 154CM in terms of its performance. Steels of these grades are usually hardened to 60 HRc and at this hardness they behave stably, maintaining high rigidity, but they are not as resistant to rust as steels of the 440 series. These steels can rightfully be considered one of the best steels available today. Composition: C = 1.05%, Cr = 14%, Mn = 0.5%, Mo = 4%, Si = 0.3%
S60V(440V) and S90V(420V) These two steels have excellent edge retention (better than the ATS-34). Both steels have a high vanadium content, which makes them incredibly wear-resistant, but they are difficult to sharpen blades. Spyderco produced limited edition S60V knives. At the same time, they heated it up to only 55-56 Rc, so that, with sufficient hardness, the blade could be sharpened more easily. S90V is CPM's steel, similar to S60V, with less chromium and twice the vanadium content, more wear-resistant and stronger than S60V. S60V composition: C = 2.15%, Cr = 17%, Va = 5.5%, Mn = 0.4%, Mo = 1%, Si = 0.4%. S90V: C = 2.3%, Cr = 14%, Va = 9%, Mn = 0.4%, Mo = 1%, Si = 0.4%.
H-1 Stainless steel typical of Spyderco knives. Due to its unusual chemical composition, it has increased corrosion resistance, also in the sea, where the amount of salt is increased. It also boasts high cutting performance and the ability to hold sharpening for a long time. However, it is slightly softer than AUS8 or 154CM steels. Steel is quite difficult to process, therefore it is used relatively rarely, most often - in the production of professional knives for yachtsmen, sailors, divers, etc. Composition: C = 0.15%, Cr = 14-16%, Mn = 2%, Mo = 0.5- 1.5%, Ni = 6-8%, P = 0.4%, Si = 3-4.5%, S = 0.03%. 3G Swedish always laminated (3-layer) powder steel of the latest generation, one of the best in its class. The high carbon content (1.4%) gives it the hardness and rigidity necessary for a "knife" alloy, and additional impurities contribute to high corrosion resistance, good impact strength and wear resistance. Developed and used by Fallkniven. Central core composition (SGPS steel): C = 1.4%, Cr = 15%, V = 2%, Mn = 0.4%, Mo = 2.8%, Si = 0.5%, P = 0.03%, S = 0.03%. The covers are usually made of VG2 steel, its composition is almost the same as that of the core, but the hardness is much lower.
S30V(full name - CPM S30V) is a stainless martensitic powder steel that was developed by Dick Barber in collaboration with renowned knife maker Chris Reeve. In the manufacture of this steel, vanadium carbides are formed, the properties of which give the steel greater strength than the use of chromium carbides. In addition, vanadium carbides make it possible to achieve more perfect steel grains. This steel quickly gained popularity and is now widely used in the manufacture of knives by many companies. C = 1.45%; Cr = 14%; Mo = 2%; V = 4%
CTS-BD30P manufactured by "Carpenter Inc". Equivalent to S30V, the gold standard for the powder steel industry. It is recommended to harden CTS-BD30P to 58–61 units. on the Rockwell scale. Despite its considerable hardness, the CTS-BD30P blade is easy to edit. The cutting edge of the blade made of CTS-BD30P steel in terms of wear resistance (that is, the ability to keep sharpening) exceeds 440C by 45%, and 154 CM by 30%, which is confirmed by an independent examination conducted by CATRA. In terms of impact strength, CTS-BD30P steel is four times stronger in fracture than the well-known 440C steel, and 3.5 times stronger than 154CM. According to user reports, steel still differs from the standard S30V for the better. C = 1.45%; Cr = 14%; Mo = 2%; V = 4%
CPM D2 Modern tool steel sometimes referred to as "semi-stainless". It has a fairly high chromium content (12%), but still not enough to classify this steel as stainless. Despite this, in terms of "corrosion resistance", it far surpasses any carbon steel. It also has high strength, which allows you to keep the cutting edge for a long time. Steels M4 and D2 can both be called CPM, which means "powder". Initially, they are "rolled" steels, but in the knife industry only powder is used to obtain a more uniform steel composition. Typical composition: C = 1.45-1.65%; Si = 0.1-0.4% Cr = 11-12.5%; Mo = 0.4-0.6%; V = 0.15-0.3%.
ZPD-189 Japanese powder steel of the highest grade. Developed by Hitachi Metals in 1996. It combines an extremely high hardness, almost unparalleled at the moment among other steel grades, is corrosion-resistant, but at the same time, it is afraid of lateral loads on the edge, as it can crumble. Such steel is used by only a few companies on the best models of knives from the assortment, and it also surpasses all analogues in cost. Composition: C = 2.9-3%; Si = 0.35%; Cr = 19-20.5%; Mo = 0.9-1%; V = 0.25-0.35%.
ZDP-247 High-carbon tool steel manufactured by Hitachi Metals Corporation (Japan), developed on the basis of amorphous metal alloy technology, used in the manufacture of knives. The composition of the steel is a trade secret of Hitachi Metals Corporation.
CPM-125V One of the hardest and most durable stainless steels. Contains a lot of vanadium carbides. In fact, this is the American answer to the Japanese ZDP-189, but not as fragile and not as rusty as the M4. It is very difficult to process, so very little is produced from it. 25-50% more wear-resistant than S90V. For milling, grinder and sharpening of this steel, special machines are used that consume a large amount of abrasive. Composition: С = 3.30% Mn = 5% Cr = 14% Ni = 0.4% V = 12% Mo = 2.5% W = 0.5% Si = 0.5%.
CPM M4 Special high-speed tool steel containing a large amount of vanadium. This steel shows itself to be stronger and more wear-resistant than M2 and M3 in operations requiring an easy and fast cut. CPM M4 is also available in several grades, such as steel with a high carbon content, which makes it better hardenable during heat treatment, and steel with a high sulfur content, for improved machinability on machine tools. Like all CPM steels, the CPM M4 was created by Crucible Materials Corporation using the patented Crucible Particle Metallurgy technology, which achieves uniformity, strength and good machinability compared to steels obtained in conventional metallurgy. Composition: C = 1.42%; Cr = 4%; Mo = 5.25%; V = 4%; W = 5.5%; Mn = 0.3-0.7%; S = 0.06-0.22%. This steel corrodes strongly in a humid environment, therefore it requires careful maintenance, or the blade must have an anti-corrosion coating.
CTS-BD1 Steel manufactured by Carpenter. Very similar in properties to the popular 154CM, ATS-34 and GIN-1. It is not a powder. Chemical composition: C = 0.9% Mn = 0.6% Si = 0.37% Cr = 15.75% Mo = 0.3%, V = 0.1%. The high chromium content provides good hardness and rust resistance.
S35VN Full title CPM-S35VN Martensitic stainless steel produced by the concern "Crucible Inc.", which is a recognized leader in powder metallurgy. In terms of strength, this steel surpasses CPM-S30V steel by 15-20%, but it lends itself better to mechanical processing. CPM-S35VN features niobium in its composition, which makes steel stronger, more wear-resistant and able to sharpen longer than most chrome-containing alloys such as 440C and D2. Like the CPM-S30V, it has excellent corrosion resistance. It achieves the best properties when quenched to a hardness of 58-61 HRc. Composition: C = 1.4%, Cr = 14%, V = 3%, Mo = 2%, Nb = 0.5%.
CPM-S110V High-alloy martensitic stainless tool steel produced by Crucible Industries (USA). CPM-S110V contains fairly large amounts of vanadium and niobium, which increase the strength, wear resistance and corrosion resistance of the steel. Due to this composition, CPM-S110V steel has better corrosion resistance than 440C or CPM-S90V steel. The steel production technology gives an even distribution of carbon in CPM-S110V steel compared to other tool steels, which gives relatively good machinability and strength characteristics. It is used for the production of parts and tools with increased wear resistance and corrosion resistance. 3% niobium is added to the steel composition: C = 2.80% Co = 2.50% Mo = 2.25%; Cr = 15.25%; Nb = 3%; V = 9%. Hardness from 58 to 61 HRc.
M390 If M390 steel is used for the manufacture of a knife, the blade will definitely have increased corrosion resistance, since the steel contains a very high concentration of chromium. It is also worth noting that this steel is widely used in industry for the production of various drilling rigs and machines that perform the complex process of drilling in hard materials. The blade of this steel has super high performance, excellent cutting ability and wear resistance due to its structure with a high concentration of vanadium and chromium carbides. The unique powder metallurgical manufacturing process contributes to an even distribution of carbide in the rest of the balancing elements of the steel, which makes M390 steel very popular among users and knife makers. M390 steel is used in surgical cutting tools, scalpels, files, knives and devices that fundamentally require high performance and properties. Composition: С = 1.9% Si = 0.7% Mn = 0.3% CR = 20% Mo = 1.10% V = 4% W = 0.6%.
CPM3V Powder steel developed by Crucible Materials Corporation is one of the strongest steels. Crucible's CPM 3V steel is designed to provide the ultimate fracture and chipping resistance among high wear tool steels. CPM 3V impact strength is greater than A2, D2, Cru-Wear or CPM M4 and approaches the level of S7 and other impact resistant steels. At the same time, it provides excellent wear resistance, high hardness and heat resistance. With a hardness of 58-60 HRC, CPM 3V can replace tool steels where there are persistent problems with breakage and chipping. Composition: C - 0.83%, Mn - 0.39%, P - 0.17%, S - 0.005%, Si - 0.90%, Ni - 0.065%, Cr - 7.49%, V - 2 , 61%, W-0.038%, Mo- 1.45%, Co- 0.045%, Cu- 0.053%. Hardness 60-61 HRc.
BG42 Bearing corrosion-resistant steel Lescalloy BG42 (AMS 5749), developed by the American company "Timken Latrobe". More recently, a popular material in the manufacture of knife blades of a number of author's and serial models. It can be called without a doubt the best non-powder steel, but now it is becoming a rarity. Composition: C = 1.15%, Mn = 0.5%, Cr = 4.5%, Si = 0.3%, Mo = 4%, V = 1.2%. Hardness 59-60HRc.
Cronidur 30 Highly nitrided, corrosion-resistant bearing steel developed by FAG (Germany). It is noted for its high plasticity. Composition: C = 0.3%, N = 0.42%, Cr = 14.5%, Mo = 1%, V = 0.1%. Hardness 59-60 HRc.
Vanax This type of steel was originally produced by Bohler-Uddeholm for industrial needs, in conditions where it becomes necessary to come into contact with an aggressive medium - salt water. Now this steel is used for the manufacture of knives. Vanax is a low carbon, high nitrogen powder. There are two types of Vanax - 35 and 75. Vanax 75 has a very unusual composition: C = 0.2%, N = 4.2%, Si = 0.3%, Mn = 0.2%, Cr = 21.2%, Mo = 1.3%, V = 9% ... Nitrogen with vanadium forms hard nitrides, which provide high resistance and resistance to corrosion. Vanax is two and a half times stronger than 440C steel and absolutely does not rust.
Elmax is a universal stainless steel with a composition similar to M390: C = 1.7% Si = 0.8% Mn = 0.3% CR = 18% Mo = 1.10% V = 3%). It is one of the newest powder materials and has the best value for money. With a composition somewhat similar to S35VN and M390, it benefits from a variety of evenly distributed carbides. It practically does not rust (17-18% chromium). It is quite difficult to sharpen, but holds the sharpening very well. Currently used in Kershaw, Zero Tolerance and Microtech knives. Sal Glesser reports that this steel has performed very well in the Spyderco lab.
CTS-XHP Stainless steel produced by "Carpenter". Has a high content of carbon and chromium (composition: C = 1.6% Cr = 16% V = 0.45% Mo = 0.8% Ni = 0.35% Mn = 0.5% Si = 0.4%). Very recently, it began to be used in the knife industry, mainly in limited versions. Hardness is in the range of 62-64HRc, apart from hardness, it is distinguished by high wear resistance and good corrosion resistance. It is several times superior to S30V in durability, is at the level of D2 or ZDP-189 in hardness, but does not have negative characteristics of the latter.
CTS-204P Also steel produced by "Carpenter", as indicated by the prefix CTS. Has a much higher carbon and vanadium content than CTS-XHP (composition: C = 2.2% Cr = 13% V = 9% Mo = 1.3% Mn = 0.5% Si = 0.3%), which theoretically should make this steel better. but is practically at about the same level in real tests. Both CTS-XHP and CTS-204P are some of the best steels available today, but the prices of these steels are quite high.
Hitachi blue super steel(Aogami Super Steel) Japanese high-purity alloy steel produced by Hitachi (Japan), popular in the production of professional chef knives, saws, braids. Composition: C = 1.40-1.50%, Si = 0.10-0.20%, Mn = 0.20-0.30%, Cr = 0.30-0.50%, W = 2.00-2.50%, Mo = 0.30-0.50%, V = 0.30-0.50% ...
An important aspect in the manufacture of a knife blade is the heat treatment of steel. Correct heat treatment, as mentioned above, can give sufficient hardness to inexpensive 420 steel and bring it to a higher level and, conversely, turn expensive premium steel into plasticine, which will quickly become dull when cutting vegetables into a salad.
Materials taken from the site: http://x-gear.com.ua/pages/nozhevie-stali/
Good day, comrades.
On my computer for a long time I have already compiled a guide to knife steels in the version "For a teapot" ... Today I deleted it, because I came across this very good site (you will find this very good site using the links from the text) - a lot of work has been done by knife lovers: infa reliable, relevant and easily digestible ... In the section on materials for sharpening http://sharpknife.ru/?p=6168 I just discovered Arkansas (I heard it before, but it's simple and accessible) and realized that I don't need it, just as natural Japanese water stones, however, as many of you.
And since the knife is chosen literally according to 4 parameters (purpose, ease of placement in a particular hand, price, appearance), then in order not to be deceived, taking into account the first parameter, and not to buy gogno, given the third, you definitely need to know what we are from " we take a spicy shellfish. Moreover, this is what constitutes your last line of defense, and this is what is always with you!
I think that all of the following will come in handy (I saw one article in blogs, but there (forgive the author) there is too much water and not enough grades of knife steel).
Cowry x- Ductile powder steel specially developed by Diado Steel Company for cutting tools. It contains 3% carbon, 20% chromium, 1% molybdenum, 0.3% vanadium and can be hardened to 63 -66 HRC without increasing brittleness.
Cowry Y (CP-4)- Japanese corrosion-resistant steel produced by Daido Steel Co., LTD with 1.2% carbon, 14% Cr; 3% Mo; 1% V. Used in the manufacture of knives.
ZDP-189(Has the same composition as Cowry X) is a high-carbon powder tool steel produced by Hitachi Metals Corporation (Japan), developed on the basis of amorphous metal alloy technology, used in the manufacture of knives. Composition: C: 2.90-3.00%; Si: 0.35; Cr: 19.00-20.50%; Mo: 0.90-1.00%; V: 0.25-0.35%
ZDP-247- high-carbon tool steel produced by Hitachi Metals Corporation (Japan), developed on the basis of amorphous metal alloy technology, used in the manufacture of knives. The composition of the steel is a trade secret of Hitachi Metals Corporation.
VG-1(V Gold 1) stainless steel manufactured by Takefu Special Steel Co., Ltd. Composition: C 0.95-1.05%; Cr 13.00-15.00; Mo 0.20-0.40%; Ni 0.25%. Usually hardened to 58 - 61 HRC. Cold Steel claims the VG-1 has better sharpening, edge retention and toughness than 440C, VG-10 and ATS-34 steels, others say the VG-1 is simply cheaper. The VG-1 is often used to make kitchen knives, hairdressing scissors and blades for food processing machine tools.
VG-2 is a Japanese corrosion-resistant steel developed by Takefu Special Steel Co., Ltd. (Japan) for the covers of multi-layer kitchen knives.
VG-10 is a Japanese corrosion-resistant steel developed by Takefu Special Steel Co., Ltd. (Japan) for cutting tools. Known as V-Gold # 10. Composition: C 0.95-1.05%; Cr 14.50-15.50; Co 1.30-1.50%; Mn 0.50%; Mo 0.90-1.20%. Hardened to 60 - 61 HRC (Rockwell units).
CPM S30V Powdered, martensitic (high carbon) stainless steel developed by Dick Barber of Crucible Materials Corporation in collaboration with renowned knife maker Chris Reeve. The chemical composition of the steel contributes to the formation of a larger amount of vanadium carbides (in the composition of vanadium steel - 4.00%), which are more efficient in cutting than chromium carbides. Vanadium carbides give the grain of the steel structure a more uniform appearance, which improves cutting and strength properties. Despite the difficulty of hardening CPM S30V steel, knifemakers use it because it is easier to grinder than other powder steels. Composition: C-1.45%, Cr-14.00%, V-4.00%, Mo-2.00%. Steel is often used by almost all leading knife manufacturers: BUCK; EMERSON; CHRIS REEVE; STRIDER KNIVES; SPYDERCO and others.
ZA-18- Japanese steel produced by "Aichi Steel". The company recently developed this steel to improve upon the well-known VG-10 steel. The steel is hardened and then cryogenically treated (cryogenic hardened) to convert the remaining austenite to martensite. Hardness of steel 60-61 HRC. The chemical composition of ZA-18 is similar to that of VG-10 steel, but contains more carbon (1.20% versus 1.05% for VG-10), Chromium (18.0 versus 15.5), Molybdenum (1.50 versus 1.20) and Cobalt (1.8 versus 1.5) for greater hardness, strength and corrosion resistance.
AISI 301
AISI 304 (1.4301 08Х18Н10)- Corrosion-resistant hardenable chromium-nickel steel used on chef's and kitchen knives. Properties - high corrosion resistance.
AISI 420- martensitic, nickel-free, low-carbon stainless steel. When heated to 1000-1060 ° C and subsequent quenching, it forms martensite, the hardness of which is directly proportional to the carbon content, and the resulting chromium carbides strengthen the steel structure, increasing cutting ability and hardness. AISI 420 composition: C 0.15%, Mn 1.0%, Cr 12.0-14.0%, Mn 0.00-1.00%, Si 0-1.00%, P 0.00-0.04%
AISI 420 MoV- Steel AISI 420 with additional additions of vanadium and molybdenum for increased wear resistance and corrosion resistance. Composition of AISI 420 MoV: C 0.45-0.55%, Mn 1.0%, Cr 14.0-15.0%, Mn 0.00-1.00%, Si 0-1.00%, P 0.00-0.04%, Mo 0.5-0.8%, V 0.10-0.20%
ATS-34- Japanese-made high-carbon chromium bearing steel (Hitachi Metals), which has enjoyed wide popularity since the late 1980s. Of the twentieth century in the manufacture of blades of expensive serial and original models. The composition of the American 154-CM and the Swedish RWL-34 is very close. Composition: C 1.05%, Mn 0.4%, Cr 14.0%, Mo 4.0%.
ATS-55- Japanese-made high-carbon chromium steel, used in the manufacture of blades of serial models. Composition: C 1.00%, Mn 0.5%, Cr 14.0%, Mo 0.60%, Co 0.40%, Cu 0.20%, Si 0.40%.
AUS-4
Composition: C 0.40 ... 0.45%, Mn 1.0%, Cr 13 ... 14.5%, Ni 0.50%; Si 1.0%.
AUS-41- Japanese-made corrosion-resistant steel (Aichi Steel Works), which is popular in the manufacture of blades for inexpensive serial models of folding and kitchen knives.
AUS-43- Japanese-made corrosion-resistant steel (Aichi Steel Works), which is popular in the manufacture of blades of inexpensive serial models of folding and kitchen knives.
AUS-6- Japanese-made corrosion-resistant steel (Aichi Steel Works), which is popular in the manufacture of blades for inexpensive serial models of folding and kitchen knives. There is a high purity version of AUS-6M. Comparable to 440A steel. Composition: C 0.55 ... 0.65%, Mn 1.0%, Cr 13 ... 14.5%, Ni 0.50%; Si 1.0%, V 0.10 ... 0.25%.
AUS-8- Japanese-made corrosion-resistant steel (Aichi Steel Works), which has long been popular in the manufacture of blades of serial models of folding and kitchen knives, is usually hardened to 57-59 HRC. Comparable to 440B steel. Composition: C 0.70 ... 0.75%, Mn 0.50%, Mo 0.10 ... 0.30%, Cr 13 ... 14.5%, Ni 0.50%; Si 1.0%, V 0.10 ... 0.26%. Used by SOG, KERSHAW KNIVES
AUS-10- Corrosion-resistant steel of Japanese production (Aichi Steel Works), which is popular in the manufacture of blades of serial models of various knives. There is a high purity version of AUS-10M. Comparable to 440C steel but slightly stiffer. Composition: C 0.95 ... 1.10%, Mn 0.50%, Mo 0.10 ... 0.31%, Cr 13 ... 14.5%, Ni 0.50%; Si 1.0%, V 0.10 ... 0.27%.
AUS-118- Corrosion-resistant steel of Japanese production (Aichi Steel Works), which is popular in the manufacture of blades of serial models of various knives. Composition: C 0.90 ... 0.95%, Mn 0.50%, Mo 1.30 ... 1.50%, Cr 17 ... 18%, Si 1.0%, V 0.10 ... 0.25%.
Blue Paper # 1 (AoGami # 1)- Japanese alloy steel ("blue paper", "aogami") of high purity produced by Hitachi (Japan), popular in the production of professional chef knives, saws, braids. Upon oxidation, a blue tint appears on the surface of the steel. Composition: C - 1.20 ... 1.40%, Si - 0.10 ... 0.20%, Mn - 0.20 ... 0.30%, Cr - 0.30 ... 0.50%, W - 1.50 ... 2.00%.
Blue Paper # 2 (AoGami # 2)- Japanese high-purity alloy steel produced by Hitachi (Japan), popular in the production of professional chef knives, saws, braids. Composition: C - 1.00 ... 1.20%, Si - 0.10 ... 0.20%, Mn - 0.20 ... 0.30%, Cr - 0.20 ... 0.50%, W - 1.00 ... 1.50%.
Blue Paper Super (AoGami Super)- Japanese high-purity alloy steel produced by Hitachi (Japan), popular in the production of professional chef knives, saws, braids. Composition: C - 1.40 ... 1.50%, Si - 0.10 ... 0.20%, Mn - 0.20 ... 0.30%, Cr - 0.30 ... 0.50%, W - 2.00 ... 2.50%, Mo - 0.30 ... 0.50%, V - 0.30 ... 0.50%
White Paper # 1 (Shiro Gami # 1)- high-carbon tool steel ("White paper") produced by Hitachi Metals Corporation (Japan), a popular material in the manufacture of blades for high-quality chef's and industrial knives. Composition: 1.20-1.40% C; 0.20 - 0.30% Mn; 0.10-0.20% Si.
White Paper # 2 (Shiro Gami # 2)- high-carbon tool steel produced by the corporation Hitachi Metals (Japan), a popular material in the manufacture of blades for chef's knives, braids, axes, chisels. Composition: 1.00-1.20% C; 0.20 - 0.30% Mn; 0.10-0.20% Si.
White Paper # 3 (Shiro Gami # 3)- high-carbon tool steel produced by Hitachi Metals Corporation (Japan), a popular material in the manufacture of blades, braids, axes, chisels, chef's knives, industrial knives. Composition: 0.80-0.90% C; 0.20 - 0.30% Mn; 0.10-0.20% Si.
Yellow Paper (Kigami)- "yellow paper", high-carbon tool steel produced by Hitachi Metals Corporation (Japan), a popular material in the manufacture of chef's knife blades. Composition: C: 1.0 ... 1.10%; Cr: 0.20 ... 0.50%; Mn:
FAX18- popular in the production of blades powder "high speed (HSS)" steel of increased wear resistance and strength, produced by the corporation NACHI-FUJIKOSHI. Analogues: DEX-M1 (Diado steel) HAP5R (Hitachi metals). Hardness 58-62 HRC
| steel grade | C | Mo | W | Cr | V | Co |
| FAX18 | 1.1 | 9.5 | 1.5 | 4 | 1.2 | 8 |
| FAX31 | 1.3 | 5.5 | 6 | 4 | 3 | |
| FAX38 | 1.3 | 5 | 6 | 4 | 3 | 8 |
| FAX55 | 1.6 | 12 | 4 | 5 | 5 | |
| FAX90 | 2.6 | 3.5 | 10 | 4 | 8.5 | 10 |
G-2- the old name of the Japanese corrosion-resistant steel GIN-1 (Gingami 1), popular for making blades. The name change was made in the late 90s due to the availability of plastic with the same name on the North American market. Composition: C 0.90%; Cr 15.50%; Mn 0.60%; Mo 0.30%; Si 0.37%.
KK- Japanese alloy steel produced by Hitachi (Japan), popular in the production of professional chef's knives and razors. Composition: C - 1.20 ... 1.30%, Si - 0.15 ... 0.20%, Mn - 0.10 ... 0.30%, Cr - 0.15 ... 0.30%.
LAK41- Corrosion-resistant steel manufactured by Daido Steel Co., LTD, used in the manufacture of inexpensive kitchen and chef knives. Composition 0.50% C; 15.5% Cr; 1.0% Mo.
LAK42- Corrosion-resistant steel manufactured by Daido Steel Co., LTD, used in the manufacture of inexpensive kitchen and chef knives. Composition 0.58% C; 13.0% Cr; Mo.
MoV- a class of high-carbon corrosion-resistant steels used in the manufacture of blades of Japanese chef's knives, incl. see AUS-6, AUS-8, AUS-10, VG-10, etc.
Sandvic 12C27- tool steel from Sandvic AB (Sweden), a popular material for making blades for chef models. It has a low content of impurities - sulfur and phosphorus. Composition: C - 0.6%, Mn - 0.35%, Cr -14.0%.
SGPS (Super Gold Powder Steel) is a Japanese corrosion-resistant steel developed by Takefu Special Steel Co., Ltd. (Japan) for high quality cutting tools. Composition: C: 1.40%; Cr: 15%; Mn: 0.4%; Mo: 2.8%; Si: 0.50%; V: 2.0%
Silver 1- "Silver 1" steel is a trademark of Hitachi Metals Corporation, a popular material in the manufacture of corrosion-resistant blades for chef's knives and household scissors. Composition: 0.80-0.90% C; 0.35 - 0.75% Mn; 0.35% Si; 15.0-17.0% Cr; 0.30 - 0.50% Mo.
Silver 3- "Silver 3" steel is a trademark of the Hitachi Metals corporation, a popular material in the manufacture of corrosion-resistant blades for chef's knives and household scissors. Composition: 0.95-1.10% C; 0.60 - 1.00% Mn; 0.35% Si; 13.0 - 14.5% Cr.
Silver 5- "Silver 5" steel is a trademark of Hitachi Metals Corporation (Japan), a popular material in the manufacture of corrosion-resistant blades for chef's knives and household scissors. Composition: 0.60-0.70% C; 0.60-080% Mn; 0.35% Si; 12.5 - 13.5% Cr.
SLD- a popular grade of corrosion-resistant steel on Japanese chef's knives. Composition: C: 1.40 ... 1.60%; Cr: 11.0 ... 13.0%; Mn: 0.30..0.60%; Si: 0.15 ... 0.35%; V 0.2 ... 0.5%.
S-STAR- corrosion-resistant steel manufactured by Daido Steel Co., LTD, used in the manufacture of inexpensive kitchen and chef knives, close in composition to 420J2.
SK4- carbon steel used in the manufacture of inexpensive chef models. Analogue of American AISI 1095, German W.Nr 1.1274. Composition: C: 0.9-1.1%; Si
SK5- carbon steel used in the manufacture of inexpensive chef models. Analogue of American AISI 1084, German W.Nr 1.1269. Composition: C: 0.8-0.9%; Si
SRK-8 is a popular brand of tool steel on Japanese knives, chopping and agricultural tools. Composition: C: 0.95 ... 1.10%; Cr: 0.20 ... 0.50%; Mn: 0.25%; Si: 0.30%.
SRS15- a popular grade of corrosion-resistant steel on Japanese chef's knives. Composition: C: 1.50%; Cr: 13%; Mn: 0.3%; Mo: 2.8%; Si: 0.30%; V: 1.5%; W: 1.25%.
440A / 440B / 440C- Carbon content 440A (0.75%), 440V (0.9%), 440C(0.95-1.20%; (Cr 16.00-18.00; Mo 0.75).
All three steel grades have high corrosion resistance, good sharpening properties and high hardness (56-60 HRC). 440C is considered one of the most successful and balanced in its properties knife steel.
N690 the steel is produced by the Bohler Edelstahl plant in Austria. In composition, it is similar to 440C, but contains additives of vanadium and cobalt (C 0.95-1.20%; Cr 16.00-18.00; Mo 0.75; V - 0.1; Co - 1.5), which gives additional corrosion resistance and allows the steel to be hardened a little more (more 2 points on the Rockwell scale).
1K6(Daido High-carbon stainless steel) - Japanese-made high-quality carbon knife steel, having more than 0.5% carbon in its composition, perfectly “holds” sharpening;
Instrumental domestic steels:
HVG (9HVG) refers to non-heat-resistant steels of high hardness for cutting tools. Blades made from it are relatively easy to manufacture (due to low deformability during quenching), are easily sharpened and have a significant margin of cutting edge durability. Strong. Corrosion resistance is weak, so they are chrome plated or blued.
X6VF in Russia they are used for stamps and hand saws. Blades made of such steel have very good strength properties in combination with the resistance of the cutting edge. Satisfactory corrosion resistance If you are interested in a short hunting blade or a combat knife, this is the steel for you.
5ХНМ... Even stronger than H6VF, and with good cutting properties. This steel is used for band saws. Technologically advanced. Strong even at low temperatures. Anti-corrosion properties are weak. Optimal for a knife of survival and extreme tourism - with a minimum of care, a blade made of such steel can be relied upon in all life conflicts.
U10, U11, U10A, U11A and high viscosity U7A, U8A, U7, U8... non-heat-resistant tool steels of high hardness. These steels are used for hand tools, stamps, measuring tools and files, which are usually forged into blades. The notch marks left on the blade from the file give them a special charm. These grades provide sufficient strength combined with good cutting performance. Corrosion resistance is weak.
R6M5 Tool heat-resistant steel of high hardness, capable of "holding" hardening even in ultra-high temperatures and is used in mechanical engineering for high-performance cutting tools. Cutting edge retention is very good. Strong enough, but not strong enough to compete with the brands above. Little spouse. It is badly polished - it is important to keep this in mind, since individual cutters polish knives by hand, and polishing a blade made of such steel can cost 50-60% of the cost of a knife. Corrosion resistance is weak.
50HGA- high-quality alloyed chromium-manganese spring steel - very popular among blacksmiths. Very viscous. Good cutting edge resistance combined with strength properties comparable to 5XHM make it an ideal material for long-bladed weapons and knives that require increased strength, including combat ones. Corrosion resistance is not too high, slightly higher than that of 5XHM.
SHX15 Ball bearing steel is quite similar to 50HGA in properties, except that it is chosen by those who have to slightly sacrifice strength in favor of better cutting edge resistance. This steel is mainly forged as it is difficult to find straight strips from it.
X12M Tool alloy chromium steel is corrosion resistant. Of course, not to the same extent as 4X13, but far superior to the brands listed above. Insufficiently high chromium content (11 - 12.5%) does not allow attributing it to the category called "stainless steels". But on the other hand, in terms of cutting ability, it has no equal among ordinary and stainless steels. The strength is slightly lower than that of other steels of this class, but good cutting ability and corrosion resistance easily compensate for this disadvantage. Easy to polish. Technologically advanced.
High alloy stainless steels:
40X13 (45X13) has unique anti-corrosion properties, but the ability to keep sharpening is extremely weak. It can be recommended for the kitchen or for the needs of a diver, but a hunting knife made of such steel will bring a lot of disappointment. Such steel is usually used for inexpensive household knives, cutlery knives, cheap historical replicants on the wall, etc. Composition: C: 0.36-0.45%; Cr: 12.0-14.0%; Mn: ≤ 0.80%; Si: ≤0.8%; P ≤0.03%; S ≤0.025%.
50X14MF- Stainless chromium steel, used for the manufacture of cutting tools (scalpels) in the medical and food industries. The maximum hardness of 57.50 HRC corresponds to a hardening temperature of about 1050 ° C. Composition: C: 0.48-0.55%; Cr: 14.0-15.0%; Mn: 0.45-0.80%; Mo: 0.45-0.80%; Si: 0.20-0.50%; P 0.01-0.03%; S 0.01-0.025%; V: 0.10-0.15%
65X13 It is not a varietal, but is widely used by industrial manufacturers for their models. With proper heat treatment, a blade made of such steel is able to please the owner with a good combination of corrosion resistance (darkens without the formation of rust in an active environment, such as tomatoes, citrus fruits, blood) and decent cutting ability. Material for the blade of a good kitchen, tourist or fishing knife. It can be easily sharpened even in the field "on a pebble". A good thermist can achieve very good results with this steel. Composition: C: 0.48-0.55%; Cr: 14.0-15.0%; Mn: 0.30-0.60%; Si: 0.30-0.60%; S 0.01-0.03%.
9X18 (95X18 and X18) enjoys the greatest respect among stainless steels. Good cutting edge resistance does not seem like a price to pay for the slight degradation compared to 65X13 corrosion resistance. Unfortunately, there is a very wide variation in the quality of the source material. Like any high-alloy steel requires special heat treatment modes, it loses to carbon and tool steels in strength. Road. It remains one of the most popular materials for both folding and conventional knives. Composition: C: 0.9-1.00%; Cr: 17.0-19.0%; Mn: ≤ 0.80%; Si: ≤ 0.80%; S: ≤ 0.025%; P: ≤ 0.03
Imported analogues of domestic steels:
low carbonaceous (up to 0.6% С) - 45X13- steel 18/10, "type 400", AISI 420, 420J2, 420m, 425m, 10C29, X45CrMo14 (1.4116), X55CrMo14 (1.4110)
medium-carbon (0.65-0.95% C) - 65X13- 440A, 440B, AUS6, AUS8, MBS26, NNS-8, 12C27, 13C26, X65CrMo14 (1.4109), X89CrMoV18 (1.4112)
high-carbon (0.95 - 1.2% C) - 95X18- AUS 10, GIN1 (G-2), 154CM, 440C, VG-10, RS-30, CRB-7, X105CrMo17 (1.4125), ATS-34, ATS-55, CPV10M
powder steels with a high carbon content (up to 3% 440XH, BG-42, CPM (T) 440V, CPM 420V, zdp-189, Cowry X) - they have no brand analogues in Russia, only experimental melts and to order.
GRADES OF STEELS FOR THE PRODUCTION OF KITCHEN, TOURIST AND FOLDING KNIVES AND KNIFE ARTICLES
Before choosing a kitchen knife for everyday use, an exclusive blade for a collection, an ax or machete for rough woodwork, or a camping knife for outdoor activities, you should get acquainted with the material for making cutting surfaces of tools. Since ancient times, such a material has been mainly steel of various grades and varieties, the variety of properties of which allows you to choose a high-quality tool with suitable characteristics for your taste, be it a blade, a bonsai tool or a traditional Japanese knife.
Without going into the intricacies of the chemical and physical analysis of the material, we can say that steel is an alloy of iron (at least 45%) and carbon, the amount of which largely determines the properties of the cutting surface of a knife or tool. The presence of an abundant amount of carbon in the composition of steel (more than 2.14%) will turn it into cast iron, while its lack (less than 0.5%) makes it possible to obtain tin. The material between these extremes of manufacturing is the same steel that is used to make kitchen and camping knives, folding knives and multitools, axes and machetes, scissors and collectible blades.
Steel for the production of items of knife art (from scissors to collectible Japanese knives) can be conditionally divided into high-carbon and "stainless".
High carbon steel blade blades for kitchen, camping or folding knives, most commonly forged. At the choice of the knife maker, such steel can be hardened or tempered to give the cutting edge of the blade hardness and elasticity. High-carbon steel blades for camping, kitchen and folding knives are more susceptible to corrosion than stainless steel blades, but when properly hardened, these blades are superior to stainless steel blades.
"Stainless" steel is very rarely forged, but some manufacturers, such as Sean McWilliams, still create knife blades from such steel with the help of titanic labor and incredible effort. "Stainless" steel, in contrast to high-carbon steel, has its pros and cons for making kitchen and outdoor knives, folding knives and multitools.
But the different properties of steel are determined not so much by the different amount of carbon in the alloy composition, but by the presence of alloying impurities and additives, which determine the characteristics of blades and tools.
Carbon, as the main element of the alloy, gives the future kitchen, folding or touring knife hardness and rigidity. The carbon content in the composition of steel for blades for various purposes from 0.6% to 2% gives the name high-carbon steel, which largely characterizes the properties, advantages and disadvantages of knives and blades made from it.
Chromium, which is part of steel, gives the alloy wear resistance, high hardenability and corrosion resistance, which is very important for the user of both a kitchen knife and a tourist tool. Blades made of steel with a content of at least 13% chromium are usually called "stainless", although this name contains a considerable amount of slyness. The fact is that any steel is subject to changes when exposed to an environment or an aggressive environment, and your favorite kitchen, folding or tourist knife (just like scissors, an ax, a machete or a multitool) will save you from corrosion only by strict observance of the Rules for the care of tools of steel.
One of the most important alloy elements is manganese, which gives the material of the blades a grain structure, which, in turn, contributes to the strength of a knife or tool made of steel. It is manganese that gives a tourist or kitchen knife its rigidity and durability. In the production of household and professional blades, it is used to improve steel in the process of rolling and forging. Such steel for future kitchen, folding and tourist knives is called "deoxidized". Manganese is present in almost all blade steel alloys used to make blades.
Molybdenum is a hard-melting element, in the composition of steel it helps it to become less brittle and brittle, and also makes the material of a kitchen, collection or tourist knife resistant to heat. The so-called "air hardened" steels contain at least 1% molybdenum, which makes this type of blade hardening possible for kitchen, tourist and collection knives.
In the manufacture of an alloy of steel for the manufacture of knife art objects (kitchen, tourist, folding knives, axes and machetes, multitools and scissors, bonsai tools) to give them hardness and resistance to corrosion nickel... Nickel also imparts extra toughness to the blade alloy of a kitchen knife or traditional Japanese knife.
Silicon as well as manganese, when forging a blade for a kitchen, folding, collection or tourist knife, it is used to give it strength.
The wear resistance of the blade of a kitchen, folding, collection or tourist knife is largely determined by the presence of steel in the alloy tungsten... When combined in the composition of the alloy of tungsten with additives such as chromium or molybdenum, makes the steel blade for a kitchen, folding, collection or tourist knife "high-speed". This type of blade steel contains the highest amount of tungsten. Steel with a high tungsten content, except for the manufacture of kitchen, folding, collection or tourist knives, is used for the production of armor for military equipment.
Vanadium being a hard-melting element of increased hardness, in the composition of steel for the manufacture of kitchen, folding, collection or tourist knives, it helps to increase the wear resistance and strength of the material. It is also necessary in the production of fine-grained steel for knife blades for various purposes and steel tools.
Below is a detailed description of the popular grades of steel used to make blades for kitchen and outdoor knives, axes and machetes, folding knives and multitool, scissors and bonsai tools.
Steel 1095. According to the designation of the system, the articles for making knives with numbers starting with 10 are carbon. These alloys are specially formulated for making kitchen knives, folding knives, collectibles and camping knives, but 1095 is the most commonly used steel. Among the steels of grade 10xx, steel for blades 1095 holds the edge best and is the least tough. For the manufacture of kitchen, folding, collection and tourist knives, steel 1095 is considered "standard", a grade of carbon steel, not the most expensive, but at the same time with decent technical indicators.
The hardness of steel for knives of grade 1095 on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor is a diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load of 150 kgf): 57 - 62.
Analogue of steel for knives of grade 1095 in other countries: C92D (D 95-2) (Germany), SWR-9 (Sweden).
Steel manufacturer for 1095 knives: Precision Steel (USA).
Knife and blade makers in 1095 steel: Ka Bar, Ontario Knife.
Steel 12 C27 Sandvic. This steel is the most balanced knife steel with excellent sharpening characteristics, high strength and corrosion resistance. According to the manufacturer, “It is our flagship steel grade for hand knives, high-end ridge blades and ice drills. For over 45 years, we have been working to improve the quality and performance of the brand. The structure became denser, the degree of purity - above, and the fine microstructure of carbide today is far from that of steel in the sixties. "
Rockwell hardness of steel for 12 C27 Sandvic knives (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load 150 kgf): 55 57.
Knife steel manufacturer 12 C27 Sandvic: Sandvic Sweden.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of 12 C27 Sandvic steel: Brusletto, Opinel, EKA.
Steel 13 C26 Sandvic. In the development of Sandvic 13 C26 steel, a strong emphasis was placed on the field of use as a material for the manufacture of kitchen, folding, collectible and outdoor knives. This means that the main focus in manufacturing has been to improve the hardness of the alloy, the sharpness of the blade and the stability of the cutting edge of the knife. Sandvic 13 C26 has the highest level of hardness while retaining the fine carbide structure found in Sandvic steels in general. With excellent retention of cutting surface properties and high strength, this alloy is an excellent choice for the manufacture of those kitchen, folding, collectible and outdoor knives where the prevalence of cutting properties is much more important than moderate corrosion resistance.
Knife steel manufacturer 13 C26 Sandvic: Sandvic Sweden.
Manufacturers of knives and blades in steel grade 13 C26 Sandvic: Kershaw.
Steel 154 CM. This steel for kitchen, folding, collection and camping knives is a high-carbon American steel originally developed as a material for gas turbine blades. Steel 154 CM is hardened at high temperatures, which allows you to perfectly hold the cutting edge of future kitchen, folding, collectible and outdoor knives on a hard surface. Steel 154CM is a fairly hard steel, blades and knives from it cut perfectly and do not dull for a long time, but at the same time, with prolonged contact with moisture and / or salt, rust may appear. The disadvantage of this type of alloy for the manufacture of kitchen, folding, collection and tourist knives is also the absence of Vannadium, which adds wear resistance to the metal.
The hardness of steel for knives of grade 154 CM on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load 150 kgf): 57 -61.
Analogue of steel for 154 CM knives in other countries: 100X13M (Russia), ATS-34 (Japan), X110CrMoV15 / 1.4111 (Germany), RWL 34 (Sweden).
Steel manufacturer for 154 CM knives: Crusible Metals (USA).
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of 154 CM steel: Benchmade, Spyderco.
Steel 410 High quality cutting tools sometimes require an alloy that combines the properties of hardness and strength with high corrosion resistance. Also, such an alloy for the manufacture of blades for tourist, folding or kitchen knives has a high resistance to wear. This alloy is steel 410 (hardenable, straight chlorinated) with an increased carbon content, which gives this alloy the above characteristics. Alloy 410's hardness is controlled by varying its carbon content. Typically used as covers.
Hardness of steel for knives grade 410 on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load 150 kgf): 45 - 52.
Steel manufacturer for 410 knives: USA, Takefu Japan.
Manufacturers of knives and blades in 410 steel: Kanetsugu.
Steel 420. The low carbon content (less than 0.5%) in the alloy composition of this steel makes it too soft compared to steel, for example, 440 series, which affects the characteristics of kitchen, folding and camping knives, which as a result hold poorly to sharpening. Due to its high corrosion resistance, such steel is often used to make diving knives (for use in fresh water). Steel 420 series is also used for the production of inexpensive kitchen and outdoor knives, mainly produced in Southeast Asia. One of the varieties of 420 steel, namely 420er (the alloy contains special additives), is used by some European and American manufacturers, for example, Magnum, for the manufacture of kitchen and tourist knives of a low price category.
Hardness of steel for knives of grade 420 on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load 150 kgf): 52-56.
Analogue of steel for knives of brand 420 in other countries: 30X13 (Russia), SUS420J1 (Japan), X21Cr13 (Germany), 6C27 (Sweden).
Steel manufacturer for 420 knives: Crusible Metals (USA).
Manufacturers of knives and blades from 420 steel: Magnum, Buck.
Steel 420 HC Crio. Many well-known manufacturers prefer this steel because of its low cost, ease of processing, sufficient for medium-strength kitchen, folding and tourist knives and good anti-corrosion vitality. Steel 420HC holds the cutting edge of the blade well, but from time to time your pet will need sharpening, inferior in this to steels of higher class, but the knife from it is easy to resharpen. The HC symbol stands for High Carbone, indicating it is a higher carbon variety of standard 420 grade martensitic stainless steel.
Hardness of steel for 420 HC Crio knives on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load 150 kgf): 57 - 59.
Analogue of steel for 420 HC Crio knives in other countries: 50X14MF (Russia), SUS420J2 (Japan), X45CrMoV15 / 1.4034 (Germany), 10C29 (Sweden).
Steel manufacturer for 420 HC Crio knives: Crusible Metals (USA).
Manufacturers of knives and blades from 420 HC Crio steel: Cold Steel, Kershaw.
Steel 420J1 is an analogue of alloy 420J2 modified by Japanese steel manufacturers for the production of knives and blades for various purposes, which has the properties of hardness, anti-corrosion and resistance to moisture and corrosive environments to a lesser extent than alloy 420J2. Due to the long-term retention of sharpening and high resistance to external influences of moisture and corrosion, alloy 420J1 is widely used in the manufacture of survival knives, camping, fishing knives and diving blades, and is also used in laminates as soft covers.
Hardness of steel for 420J1 knives on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load 150 kgf): 52 - 55.
Steel manufacturer for 420J1 knives: Crucible Metals USA.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of 420J1 steel: CRKT, Hiromoto.
Steel 420J2 is a mild 420 stainless steel fundamentally improved by Japanese metallurgists for the production of kitchen, folding, collection and tourist knives. A larger amount of carbon introduced into it is balanced by a large volume of alloying elements. Thus, steel, while remaining not subject to corrosion, acquires sufficient hardness to be used independently in some models of kitchen, folding, collection and tourist knives as a material for a blade. 420J2 steel is mainly used in fisherman knives, diving knives and backpacker knives.
Hardness of steel for 420J2 knives on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load 150 kgf): 52 - 55.
Steel manufacturer for 420J2 knives: Crucible Metals (USA), Takefu (Japan)
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of 420J2 steel: CRKT, Hattori and many others.
Steel 420 mod. Due to its high corrosion resistance, it is often used in the medical and food industries for the manufacture of cutting tools and knives. After proper processing, 420 mod steel is highly resistant to pitting corrosion, which makes the blades of kitchen, camping and folding knives difficult to react with aggressive environments. Products made of 420 mod steel are resistant to treatment cycles consisting of disinfection, pre-sterilization cleaning and sterilization. The 420 mod steel blades for kitchen, camping and folding knives can be processed even in water containing chlorine ions.
The hardness of steel for 420 mod knives on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor is a diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load of 150 kgf): 57 - 59.
Analogue of steel for 420 mod knives in other countries: 50X14MF (Russia), SUS420J2 (Japan), X45CrMoV15 / 1.4034 (Germany), 10C29 (Sweden).
Manufacturer of steel for knives brand 420 mod: Crusible Metals (USA).
Manufacturers of knives and blades from 420 mod steel: Cold Steel, Kershaw.
Steel 440 A. This alloy is the steel with the highest corrosion resistance, which is important in the production of blades for kitchen, folding, collection and tourist knives. However, the composition of the chemical elements included in the alloy reduces the mechanical properties of steel and lowers the wear resistance of the blades of blades and tools made from it. 440A steel is an air-hardened stainless steel commonly referred to as surgical steel. To be fair, it should be noted that it has very good corrosion resistance, thanks to which 440A steel is used in scuba diving knives. It is also good enough for the production of blades for kitchen, folding, collectible and tourist knives for everyday use, especially when it is qualitatively hardened.
Hardness of steel for knives grade 440 A on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load 150 kgf): 55 - 57.
Analogue of steel for knives grade 440 A in other countries: 75X18 (Russia), AUS-6 (Japan), X55CrMo14 / 1.4110 (Germany), 12C27, AEB-L (Sweden).
Steel manufacturer for knives grade 440 A: Crusible Metals (USA), Takefu (Japan).
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of 440 A steel: SOG, Gerber.
Steel 440 B. Quite good stainless steel for the production of blades for kitchen, folding, collection and tourist knives, but, unfortunately, quite capricious in tempering and processing. Reputable manufacturers have high hardness, while flexible and strong enough. A kitchen, tourist or folding knife made of this material is not so easy to sharpen well, but the blade will keep its sharpness for quite a long time. When overheated, the knife can be brittle, break easily, and discolor portions of the blade. With prolonged contact with the moisture of kitchen, folding, collection and tourist knives, and even more so with salt, corrosion may appear slightly on them. Considering the above, this is one of the best steels for knife making, with which both large manufacturers and respected private craftsmen work.
Hardness of steel for knives of grade 440 B on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load 150 kgf): 57 - 59.
Analogue of steel for knives of grade 440 B in other countries: 95X18SH (Russia), AUS-8 (Japan), X90CrMoV18 / 1L4112 (Germany), 123C26 (Sweden).
Steel manufacturer for knives grade 440 B: Crusible Metals (USA), Takefu (Japan).
Manufacturers of knives and blades in 440 B steel: Randall.
Steel 440 C. A lot of knives are made from 440 C steel both in Europe and in America. For quite a long time, this steel was considered the best for kitchen, tourist and folding knives, until new expensive high-tech alloys came to replace it. But it is still a very popular and worthy knife material for making blades. 440 C is a fairly hard steel, knives from it cut perfectly and do not dull for a long time, but at the same time, with prolonged contact with moisture and / or salt, corrosion may occur. It is a very good material for kitchen, camping and folding knife blades when properly processed. However, it is worth noting that the 440 C steel made by Spanish manufacturers is often softer than even the 440 A steel made by other Europeans.
Hardness of steel for knives of grade 440 C on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load 150 kgf): 58 - 60.
Analogue of steel for knives of grade 440 C in other countries: 110X18 (Russia), SUS440C (Japan), X105CrMo17 / 1.4125 (Germany), 19C27 (Sweden).
Steel manufacturer for 440 C knives: Crusible Metals (USA), Takefu (Japan).
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of 440 C steel: Busse, SOG, Nieto.
Steel 75x14MF. Steel 75x14MF is practically unknown to connoisseurs of knife art. According to the Russian classifier, this steel belongs to "spring-spring steels", which are used to create parts and parts of large mechanisms. Russian trains in most cases have springs made of 75x14MF steel or its closest analogues. A distinctive feature of steel is the ability to experience high mechanical loads for a long time. Thanks to this property, medical cutting tools and professional kitchen knives are made from 75x14MF. Due to its low hardness, the blade made of 75x14MF steel is easily edged with musat or a strip of leather. This quality is especially appreciated by chefs and lovers of haute cuisine. Due to its high mechanical strength and toughness, the cutting edge is less chipped and abraded during the sharpening process. A kitchen knife made of 75x14MF steel will last longer than a knife made of classic 440C stainless steel.
Hardness of steel for 75x14MF knives on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load 150 kgf): 58-59.
Analogue of steel for 75x14MF knives in other countries: AUS-8 (Japan), 445MOD (USA), X55CrMo14 / 1.4110 (Germany), 12C27, 13C26 (Sweden).
Manufacturer of steel for knives grade 75x14MF: Russian metallurgical concerns.
Manufacturers of knives and blades from steel grade 75x14MF: Damir Safarov, Gennady Prokopenkov.
Steel 8Cr13MoV. When properly heat treated, this steel has good corrosion resistance and long edge retention for your kitchen, camping and folding knives. 8Cr13MoV steel is well balanced in terms of strength, cutting and anti-corrosion properties of knife blades. Great for inexpensive tourist and city knives with good average performance. This Chinese high-carbon medium-chromium stainless steel, due to its balanced chemical composition, cuts well and is quickly restored to factory sharpening. It is a widely used steel for the production of kitchen knives, camping knives and folding knives among Western leaders in the art of knife art.
Steel manufacturer for 8Cr13MoV knives: Yangjiang Shibazi China.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of 8Cr13MoV steel: Byrd, Spyderco.
Steel 8Cr14MoV. This steel is recognized by manufacturers as one of the best steels, combining such important quality parameters as excellent corrosion resistance, high strength of the blade of a kitchen, tourist or folding knife, and increased wear resistance. The presence in it of a larger amount of chromium than in 8Cr13MoV allows it to combine the same cutting and strength properties with improved anti-corrosion protection.
The hardness of steel for knives of grade 8Cr14MoV on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load 150 kgf): 57 - 58.
An analogue of steel for knives of the 8Cr14MoV brand in other countries: 75Х14МФ (Russia), 445mod (USA), AUS-8 (Japan), X55CrMo14 (Germany), 12C27, 13C26 (Sweden).
Steel manufacturer for 8Cr14MoV knives: Yangjiang Shibazi China.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of 8Cr14MoV steel: Benchmade.
Steel 9Cr13COMoV. It is a Chinese-made stainless steel with a higher cobalt content added to provide a stronger cutting edge for blades for kitchen, camping or folding knives. Has a high corrosion resistance of a knife blade or blade at a low cost. High-speed steels alloyed with vanadium or cobalt have increased cutting properties of knives for various purposes. Cobalt increases heat resistance, magnetic properties, increases impact resistance, which improves the tactical performance of the blade. The more cobalt in the alloy, the higher the bending strength of the knife or blade and the better the mechanical properties of a kitchen, folding or tourist knife, but with a large amount of it, it reduces the hardness and wear resistance of the alloy.
Hardness of steel for knives of grade 9Cr13COMoV on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load 150 kgf): 57 - 58.
Steel manufacturer for 9Cr13COMoV knives: Yangjiang Shibazi China.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of 9Cr13COMoV steel: Benchmade.
Steel ACUTO440. ACUTO440 is a logical continuation of the work of Japanese craftsmen to find the best stainless steel for kitchen knives. There are two names in the documentation: "ACUTO440" and "ACUTO +". Without going into details, we can say that this is a modified, supplemented and improved version of 440C steel. Until recently, it was widely used only by Japanese craftsmen, in particular, Glestain kitchen knives are made of this steel. According to the masters, it is the use of ACUTO440 that gives the knives their unique properties.
The exact composition of the alloy is kept secret. According to open sources, the composition of ACUTO440 steel includes: Vanadium (V) 0.20, Silicon (Si) 0.50, Manganese (Mn) 0.50, Carbon (C) 1.00, Molybdenum (Mo) 1.40, Chromium (Cr) 17.50.
Rockwell hardness of steel for ACUTO440 knives (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load 150 kgf): 59 - 61.
Steel manufacturer for ACUTO440 knives: Japan.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of ACUTO440 steel: CRKT Ripple series folding knives, Glestain kitchen knives.
Steel AISI A2. This alloy is a low carbon steel with an “A” in its name meaning “austenitic”. This steel for the manufacture of blades and knives for various purposes is non-hardenable, resistant to corrosion, non-magnetic under conditions of weak magnetization (if cold worked). AISI A2 is easy to weld, resists intergranular corrosion and is excellent for making kitchen, folding and camping knives. The high strength of this steel at low temperatures is positively reflected in the tactical characteristics of blades and knives for various purposes. It lends itself to electro-polishing, which is also important in the manufacture of cutlery.
Analogue of steel for knives of the AISI A2 brand in other countries: 95X5GM (Russia).
Steel manufacturer for AISI A2 knives: Paxton Vierling (USA).
Manufacturers of knives and blades in AISI A2 steel: Chris Reeves.
Aogami Super Steel is a material that belongs to the traditional Japanese high-carbon non-corrosion-resistant steels used for the manufacture of camping, folding and kitchen knives and cutting tools. Literally translated, ao gami means "blue paper". However, unlike their "brothers" - steels Shirogami and Kigami, steel for Aogami blades is alloyed. Some elements are added to its composition, such as chromium, tungsten, and sometimes vanadium and molybdenum, which affects the tactical characteristics of knives and blades. These substances add toughness, corrosion resistance and impact resistance to the steel blade, very slightly reducing the cutting properties of folding, camping and kitchen knives. Knives made from such steel are much easier to care for, and they cut just as well as Shiro Gami and Ki Gami steels.
Rockwell hardness of steel for AOGAMI SUPER knives (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load 150 kgf): 63 - 65.
Steel manufacturer for AOGAMI SUPER knives: Hitachi Metals, Ltd. Japan.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of AOGAMI SUPER steel: Moritaka, Takeda, Watanabe, Hiromoto, Masamoto, etc.
Aogami Steel # 2 is a material that belongs to the traditional Japanese high-carbon non-corrosion-resistant steels used for the manufacture of tourist, folding and kitchen knives and various cutting tools, in fact, it is a simplified Aogami Super steel. Literally translated, ao gami means "blue paper". However, unlike their counterparts - Shirogami and Kigami steels, all types of steels for Aogami blades are alloyed. Some elements are added to its composition, such as chromium, tungsten, and sometimes vanadium and molybdenum, which affects the tactical characteristics of knives and blades. These substances add toughness, corrosion resistance and impact resistance to the steel blade, very slightly reducing the cutting properties of folding, camping and kitchen knives. Knives made from such steel are much easier to care for, and they cut just as well as Shiro Gami and Ki Gami steels.
Hardness of steel for AOGAMI # 2 knives on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load 150 kgf): 60 - 62.
AOGAMI # 2 knife steel manufacturer: Hitachi Metals, Ltd. Japan.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of AOGAMI # 2 steel: Moritaka, Takeda, Watanabe, Hiromoto, Masamoto, etc.
Steel ATS-34. It is a very high quality, high carbon stainless steel for knife making. Due to the highest Japanese quality, it is considered one of the best steel for making elite and collectible knives around the world. Also used for automotive, razor blades, jet turbine blades and metalworking tools.
Hardness of steel for ATS-34 knives on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load 150 kgf): 59 - 61.
Analogue of steel for knives of the ATS-34 brand in other countries: 100X15M (Russia), 154CM (USA), RWL-34 (Sweden).
ATS-34 knife steel manufacturer: Hitachi Japan.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of ATS-34 steel: Spyderco, Benchmade.
Steel ATS-55. ATS-55 high carbon stainless steel is analogous to ATS-34, but practically free of molybdenum, which makes steel for kitchen, camping and folding knives significantly cheaper. That is why ATS-55 is so often found in serial models of knives for various purposes, for example, in the products of Spyderco. In addition, ATS-55 has the same ability to maintain the sharpness of the cutting edge of a knife or blade as ATS-34, but at the same time this alloy is harder, which affects the tactical properties of blades and knives.
Hardness of steel for ATS-55 knives on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load 150 kgf): 60 - 62.
ATS-55 knife steel manufacturer: Hitachi Japan.
Manufacturers of knives and blades in ATS-55 steel: Spyderco.
Steel AUS-2 is an alloy produced by Japanese knife steel manufacturers (Aichi Steel Works), belonging to the AUS series. It is characterized as an alloy capable of maintaining a balance between high wear resistance and increased corrosion and corrosion resistance. Ease of processing for making blades for touring, kitchen, folding and hunting knives and high cutting performance make AUS-2 popular among cutting tool manufacturers. Alloy AUS-2 is also characterized by its ability to hold the initial sharpening and low susceptibility to chipping in case of unexpected impacts, while it is most often used as covers on laminates.
Hardness of steel for AUS-2 knives on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load 150 kgf): 54 - 58.
AUS-2 knife steel manufacturer: Aichi Steel Works (Japan)
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of AUS-2 steel: Kanetsugu.
Steel AUS-6. It is a Japanese-made, corrosion-resistant chromium steel for kitchen, camping and folding knives. Steel was originally developed as a knife steel and is very popular in the manufacture of blades of serial models of folding and kitchen knives. AUS-6 is traditionally hardened to 54-57 HRC, which indicates its softness on the one hand and not susceptible to blade or knife chips on the other.
Hardness of steel for AUS-6 knives on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load 150 kgf): 56 - 57.
Analogue of steel for knives of the AUS-6 brand in other countries: 65X13 (Russia), 440A (USA), X55CrMo14 (Germany), AEB-L (Sweden).
Steel manufacturer for AUS-6 knives: Aichi Steel Works (Japan).
Steel AUS-8. Steel AUS-8 was developed as a knife and was created a long time ago, well mastered by leading companies for the manufacture of blades for kitchen, tourist and folding knives. The blade has an optimal combination of hardness - 57-59 HRC (which is more than enough for an everyday knife) and flexibility. Slightly lower than in VGold-10, the carbon content with a similar percentage of chromium, increases the corrosion resistance of blades for knives for various purposes. The lower hardness of the knife (compared to VGold-10 (61-62 HRC) and ceramics (87 HRC)) accelerates its sharpening, for which more brands of abrasives and improvised tools are suitable. Heat treatment of AUS-8 steel is well mastered by the industry, therefore, high quality and relatively low price are characteristic of kitchen, tourist and folding knives from it.
The hardness of steel for AUS-8 knives on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor is a diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load of 150 kgf): 57 - 59.
Analogue of steel for AUS-8 knives in other countries: 75X14MF (Russia), 445MOD (USA), X55CrMo14 / 1.4110 (Germany), 12C27, 13C26 (Sweden).
AUS-8 knife steel manufacturer: Aichi Steel Works (Japan).
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of AUS-8 steel: CRKT, Cold Steel, Hattori.
Steel AUS-10. It is an excellent material for the production of blades and knives, it is characterized by high wear resistance, strength and hardness, but slightly corroded. Knives for various purposes from it cut perfectly and do not dull for a long time, but at the same time, with prolonged contact with moisture and / or salt, rust may appear. The laminated structure of the blade is important because it allows strips of different steel grades to be combined into a single blade. The cutting edge of the blade must be as hard as possible in order to keep sharpening longer and effectively cut and cut, but if the entire blade were so hard, it could be damaged during combat or work.
Hardness of steel for AUS-10 knives on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load 150 kgf): 59 - 60.
AUS-10 knife steel manufacturer: Japan.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of AUS-10 steel: Seki Cut.
Steel BG-42. This steel was originally developed for plain bearings, so its composition affects certain tactical characteristics of blades made from it. The thin blades of kitchen, camping and folding knives made of it are admired for their aesthetic beauty and "clean and thin" cutting of the cutting surface, excellent holding of sharpening. But the mechanical endurance of the blade made of this steel for blades and knives for various purposes leaves much to be desired. Also insufficient is the resistance of the blade or knife to pressure from the sides and, in general, the endurance of the tool, especially if the steel has been hardened to a high degree of rigidity.
Rockwell hardness of steel for BG-42 knives (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with a 120⁰ angle at the apex, load 150 kgf): 61 - 63.
Steel manufacturer for BG-42 knives: Latrobe Steel (USA).
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of BG-42 steel: Chris Reeves, Case.
Cobalt steel (Cobalt steel). When creating edged weapons and kitchen knives, the Japanese try to keep as much information as possible secret. Apparently, the age-old clan secrecy was reflected in the era of post-industrial development. Some craftsmen do not even indicate what type of steel was used to create a particular knife. An ordinary Japanese, even if he is a professional chef, is not very interested in such information. Anyone who professionally works with a knife knows many ways to test a knife in action. All that is known about Japanese "cobalt steel" is that it is a high-hardness steel, which is used in cases where the thinnest and sharpest cutting edge is required from the tool.
Hardness of "cobalt steel" steel for knives on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load 150 kgf): 59-62.
Analogue of "cobalt steel" for knives in other countries: no.
Cobalt Steel Knife Steel Manufacturer: Takefu Special Steel Co., Ltd.
COWRY X steel. Cowry X is a ductile powder steel for making camping, folding and kitchen knives specially developed by Daido Steel Company using amorphous metal alloy technology for cutting tools. Cowry X steel has excellent blade or knife cut when properly sharpened and has a high corrosion resistance on the cutting surface of the tool.
Rockwell hardness of steel for COWRY X knives (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load 150 kgf): 63 - 66.
Steel manufacturer for COWRY X knives: Daido Steel Company.
Manufacturers of knives and blades in COWRY X: Hattori.
Steel COWRY Y. Japanese corrosion-resistant steel produced by Daido Steel Company, used in the knife industry. The increased content of alloying impurities indicates the high hardness and strength of the blade made of this steel for the production of kitchen, tourist and folding knives. The blade of a tool made of this alloy will be distinguished by moderate hardness, the blades of knives made of it are very plastic, they do not rust for a long time.
Rockwell hardness of steel for COWRY Y knives (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load 150 kgf): 61 - 64.
Steel manufacturer for COWRY Y knives: Daido Steel Company (Japan).
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of COWRY Y steel: Hattori, Koji Hara.
CPM 420V steel. This steel is made using the amorphous metal alloy technology, better known among knife manufacturers and lovers under the abbreviation CPM (Crucible Particle Metallurgy process). CPM 420V alloy for the production of kitchen, camping and folding knives is CPM steel, an analogue of 440V steel, with a lower chromium content and a double fraction of vanadium, more wear-resistant and possibly more durable than 440V. Steel perfectly keeps sharpening (better than ATS-34), but at the same time knives and tools for various purposes are hard to sharpen from it for the first time. According to some leading manufacturers, this steel is the best for knife making.
Hardness of steel for CPM 420V knives on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load 150 kgf): 58 - 60.
Steel manufacturer for CPM 420V knives: Crusible Metals (USA).
CPM 420V knife and blade manufacturers: Spyderco.
CPM 440V steel. This steel is made using the amorphous metal alloy technology, better known among knife manufacturers and lovers under the abbreviation CPM (Crucible Particle Metallurgy process). By the combination of properties, CPM 440V is one of the best materials for the manufacture of kitchen, tourist and folding knives. However, the high price of both steel itself, associated with high-tech production methods, and the high cost of the final product (due to some difficulties in working with such steels), make it suitable for the manufacture of by no means mass (this position is rightly held firmly by 440 and similar steels ), but expensive and elite products.
The hardness of steel for CPM 440V knives on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor is a diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load of 150 kgf): 56 - 58.
Analogue of steel for knives brand CPM 440V in other countries: X230CrVMo14 9 (Germany).
Steel manufacturer for CPM 440V knives: Crusible Metals (USA).
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of CPM 440V steel: Microtech, Spyderco.
CPM S30V steel. This steel is made using the amorphous metal alloy technology, better known among knife manufacturers and lovers under the abbreviation CPM (Crucible Particle Metallurgy process). CPM S30V was developed specifically to meet the needs of the knife industry for high-quality steel with very high (higher than that of 440C and D2 steels) strength properties. In terms of wear resistance (that is, the ability to keep sharpening), S30V steel exceeds 440C by 45%, and 154CM by 30%, which was confirmed by an independent examination conducted by the Cutlery and Allied Trades Research Association (CATRA).
Hardness of steel for CPM S30V knives on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load 150 kgf): 58 - 60.
Steel analog for CPM S30V knives in other countries: X220CrV17 6 (Germany).
Steel manufacturer for CPM S30V knives: Crusible Metals (USA).
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of CPM S30V steel: Spederco, Microtech, Chris Reeves.
CPM S60V steel. This steel is made using the amorphous metal alloy technology, better known among knife manufacturers and lovers under the abbreviation CPM (Crucible Particle Metallurgy process). This alloy keeps the cutting edge of a kitchen, camping or folding knife sharp for much longer, but makes the blade material brittle. In addition, the chemical composition of the alloy for the manufacture of blades, knives and tools for various purposes determines the physical properties of the product from it, namely (in this case) the complexity of sharpening.
The hardness of steel for CPM S60V knives on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor is a diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load of 150 kgf): 58 - 60.
Steel manufacturer for CPM S60V knives: Crusible Metals (USA).
CPM S60V knife and blade manufacturers: Spyderco.
CPM S90V steel. This steel is made using the amorphous metal alloy technology, better known among knife manufacturers and lovers under the abbreviation CPM (Crucible Particle Metallurgy process). At the moment, he is a veteran of the lineup, not inferior to his positions in the knife industry. The alloy contains primary vanadium carbides, which somewhat limits the mechanics of knife blades, but theoretically gives them high wear resistance. In practice, its application is significantly limited by the maximum achievable hardness (often 59 - 60 HRC).
Hardness of steel for CPM S90V knives on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load 150 kgf): 56 - 58.
Analogue of steel for CPM S90V knives in other countries: X230CrVMo14 9 (Germany).
Steel manufacturer for CPM S90V knives: Crusible Metals (USA).
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of CPM S90V steel: Microtech, Spyderco.
CPM S110V steel. It's no secret that in terms of creating high-hardness powder steel alloys, American metallurgical concerns are ahead of the rest. There is a whole series of powder steels that are created using the patented CPM technology (Crucible Particle Metallurgy Process). The peculiarity of this technology allows you to create alloys in which chemical elements create the most homogeneous structure. CPM S110V steel is a top grade alloy containing the following alloying elements: niobium, vanadium and molybdenum. All of these components are high-hardness refractory metals. Molybdenum allows the blade to be hardened to 61-63HRC. Vanadium endows the crystal lattice of the alloy with elasticity and toughness, as well as resistance to the effects of chemically active media. Niobium gives the alloy high resistance to corrosion and pitting. It is worth noting that the combination of these elements gives high performance knives made of CPM S110V steel. The blade is difficult to sharpen, however, subsequently, the knife can work for a long time without losing its original sharpness. Due to these characteristics, steel is often used to create designer, custom and small-scale premium knives.
Hardness of steel for CPM S110V knives on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load 150 kgf): 60-61.
Analogue of steel for CPM S110V knives in other countries: CPM S90V (USA).
Steel manufacturer for CPM S110V knives: Crusible Metals (USA).
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of CPM S110V steel: Spyderco, Zero Tolerance.
Steel CPM-154. This steel is made using the amorphous metal alloy technology, better known among knife manufacturers and lovers under the abbreviation CPM (Crucible Particle Metallurgy process). CPM 154 is a CPM derivative of the standard version of Crucible 154 CM for kitchen, camping and folding knives. The CPM manufacturing process consists of an even distribution of carbides throughout the material, making CPM 154 blades and blades easier to grind and polish. It is also more durable than regular 154CM steel. Compared to 440C steel, CPM 154 steel is more corrosion resistant, wear resistant and harder, and also has a higher strength of the blades made from it. In the knife industry, it holds the sharpening of blades and knives better and is more resistant to chipping than 440C.
Analogue of steel for CPM-154 knives in other countries: RWL-34 (Sweden).
Steel manufacturer for CPM-154 knives: Crusible Metals (USA).
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of CPM-154 steel: Hattori, G-Sakai.
Steel CV-134. Powder-processed high-vanadium die steel for kitchen, camping and folding knives. Provides a fairly high wear resistance of the blade with decent mechanics and corrosion resistance of the cutting surface of knives for various purposes. A good choice for high-end hunting knives.
The hardness of steel for CV-134 knives on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor is a diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load of 150 kgf): 62 - 63.
Steel manufacturer for CV-134 knives: Hitachi Metals, Ltd.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of CV-134 steel: Hattori, G-Sakai.
Steel D-2. D-2 steel is sometimes referred to as "semi-stainless" for making blades. It contains about 12% chromium, which is quite a bit lower than the parameters of stainless steel for knives for various purposes. It is the most corrosion-resistant grease of all carbon, and at the same time it perfectly holds the edge of a knife or blade. But it is less durable than other steels in this section, and at the same time it does not lend itself to the final polishing of the surface of the blade of a kitchen, camping or folding knife. It is used by Bob Dozier in the production of knife art.
Hardness of steel for knives grade D 2 on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load 150 kgf): 57 - 61.
Analogue of steel for knives of grade D 2 in other countries: Kh12MF (Russia), SLD (Japan), X155CrMo12.1 (Germany), SKD-11 (Sweden).
Manufacturer of steel for knives grade D 2: Crusible Metals (USA).
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of D 2 steel: Ontario, Busse, Ka Bar.
DSR1K6 steel. This alloy is a medium-carbon high-alloy stainless alloy with high strength characteristics. DSR1K6 steel is not prone to chipping when using tools made from it. Easy to edit and sharpen without losing its tactical characteristics. Basically, it is intended for the manufacture of covers of multi-layer blades of kitchen, hunting and tourist knives.
Rockwell hardness of steel for DSR1K6 knives (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with a 120⁰ angle at the apex, load 150 kgf): 57 - 59.
Analogue in the domestic industry: 65X13.
DSR1K6 knife steel manufacturer: Daido steel, Ltd.
DSR1K6 brand knife and blade manufacturers: Kanetsugu
Elmax steel. In fact, in terms of composition, this steel for the manufacture of kitchen, camping and folding knives is a 3% version of 440C steel, and, in some way, the predecessor of the M390 and the "grandmother" of Vanax 35. Steel has been on the market for quite a long time and is quite popular in the production of blades and blades for knives. In terms of durability, the alloy for knives is slightly inferior to M390 and roughly corresponds to CPM S30V. Good steel for making knives of average and slightly higher grades.
Hardness of steel for Elmax knives on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load 150 kgf): 60.
Steel manufacturer for Elmax knives: Uddeholm.
Steel GIN-1. Steel Gingami or GIN-1 (old name G-2) is a fairly old and well-proven Japanese steel for making knives of high corrosion resistance. A blade or knife made of GIN-1 has a good, balanced cut and retains its working sharpness for a long time. The name change was made in the late 90s, due to the availability of the same name G-2 plastic on the North American market. This knife-making stainless steel is easy to sharpen and has a long service life. GIN-1 is most commonly used in Japanese kitchen knives and knives for boaters, fishermen and divers due to its high degree of corrosion resistance.
Manufacturer of steel for knives brand GIN-1: Japan.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of GIN-1 steel: Benchmade, Spyderco.
Gokunan steel. The soft, docile and easy-to-work steel typically used to make Japanese laminate knives is also known as Gokunan-Tetsu and Gokunan-Koh. Most often, Gokunan steel is used as the soft center layer in harder metal linings. Many traditional Japanese knives (kiridashi and higonokami) are made using this technology. The soft layer ensures fast sharpening and precise cuts, while the harder metal covers protect the cutting edge from damage. Quite often, traditional 410 stainless steel is used in conjunction with Gokunan when creating covers. It can also be used the other way around, as soft covers of the central hard layer of steel in a package.
The complete composition of the steel is kept secret, it is only known that the carbon content is 0.80%.
Gokunan Knife Steel Manufacturer: Hitachi Metals.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of Gokunan steel: Carter Cutlery, Takeda Hamono.
Steel H-1. Steel H-1 is a unique phenomenon in the world of the knife industry. This American-made chrome-nickel steel was introduced to the market in 2003 by Benchmade and immediately became popular with knife and blade manufacturers. Due to its unusual chemical composition, it has increased corrosion resistance and is ideal for using blades made from it in salt water. There is practically no carbon used in the production of H-1 steel. Instead, quenching is carried out with liquid nitrogen at a temperature of -80 ° C. Knives made from these steels boast high cutting performance and long-term retention of sharpening. H-1 is quite difficult to handle and quite expensive, therefore it is used relatively rarely, most often in the manufacture of professional knives for yachtsmen, sailors and divers.
Hardness of steel for knives grade H-1 on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load 150 kgf): 58 - 60.
Knife steel manufacturer H 1: Benchmade.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of H-1 steel: Benchmade, Spyderco.
Steel HAP 40. This steel belongs to the rare type of semi stainless powder steels, which combine the high corrosion resistance of stainless steels and the ease of straightening and sharpening of the cutting edge inherent in high carbon steels. The manufacturer positions HAP 40 as one of the best modern steels for making high quality kitchen knives. Kitchen knives made from this steel are renowned for keeping their cutting edge sharp for a surprisingly long time. When working on medium to hard products, there will be no wrinkles on the cutting edge.
Hardness of steel for knives grade HAP 40 on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load 150 kgf): 65-66.
Steel manufacturer for HAP 40 knives: Hitachi Metals.
Manufacturers of knives and blades in HAP 40 steel: Gihei-hamono.
Steel HAP 72. This alloy is a high-speed Japanese steel for the manufacture of kitchen, camping and folding knives of increased hardness. The steel has the highest wear resistance among the high alloy steels for knife making. A feature of this steel is its excellent grinding ability, dimensional stability during heat treatment, high strength of blades and knives made from it, and high abrasion resistance. It is used mainly for the manufacture of cutting tools that require high strength of the cutting surface among their tactical characteristics.
Hardness of steel for knives grade HAP 72 on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load 150 kgf): 69 - 72.
Steel manufacturer for HAP 72 knives: Hitachi Metals.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of HAP 72 steel: Katsumi Kitano.
Steel HELLE HCS.
Rockwell hardness of steel for HELLE HCS knives (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load 150 kgf): 58 - 59.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of HELLE HCS steel: Helle.
INFI steel. The use of nitrogen in the composition of steel for the production of blades provides a high resistance of the cutting edge of the knife for such a relatively low carbon content. A small percentage of carbon makes steel for a knife or blade more elastic, that is, impact-resistant, in addition, steel resists corrosion well. Presumably, in terms of organizing the technical process for the production of steel for knife production with nitrogen and vanadium, Busse collaborates with Stratcor. The main secret of knife steel, of course, is not in this, but in the heat treatment technology. But it is classified and conducted exclusively by Busse itself.
Rockwell hardness of steel for INFI knives (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load 150 kgf): 58 - 60.
Steel manufacturer for INFI knives: Busse.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of INFI brand steel: Busse Combat.
Kigami steel (Kigami "Yellow Paper"). Japanese steel Kigami (the so-called "Yellow Paper"), is a high-strength and wear-resistant high-carbon alloy of one of the leading manufacturers of knife steels Hitachi Metals (Japan). This steel is a tool alloy for the production of cutting tools for various purposes. The unique combination of stable and high hardness, strength and excellent toughness makes Kigami steel suitable for the production of blades for camping, kitchen, folding and hunting knives and blades.
Rockwell hardness of steel for Kigami knives (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with a 120⁰ angle at the apex, load 150 kgf): up to 62.
Steel manufacturer for Kigami knives: Hitachi Metals (Japan).
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of Kigami brand steel: Masahiro, Tojiro.
Steel M390. It is a high-tech alloy created in cooperation with Swedish and German metallurgists. Refers to the latest generation of powder alloys. During smelting, liquid metal is fed into the molds under high pressure, which ensures a high homogeneity of the structure. To create steel, microgranules are used, which become part of the crystal lattice. Due to the technological features, the alloy acquires high hardness and elasticity. The presence of vanadium and molybdenum in the alloy allows for thermal hardening up to 60-62 HRC. The steel was created specifically for the needs of the knife industry, with great emphasis on high corrosion resistance and the ability to withstand strong shock loads. Recommended applications for M390 steel: premium folding and fixed knives, professional kitchen and chef knives, gift and designer knives.
Hardness of steel for M390 knives on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load 150 kgf): 60-62 HRC.
Steel manufacturer for M390 knives: Böhler - Uddeholm AG, Sweden.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of 1M390 steel: Microtech, Benchmade, Lion Steel, Damir Safarov.
Steel MARSS 500
Steel manufacturer for MARSS 500 knives: Uddeholm Sweden.
Manufacturers of knives and blades in MARSS 500 steel: Lauri.
Steel MBS-26. This alloy is Masahiro's “proprietary” steel for which it holds a patent. Steel is only used to make high quality chef's knives. Among the undoubted excellent properties of steel are excellent corrosion resistance, attractive appearance, in addition, knives made of this steel are highly polished. Steel perfectly perceives the sharpening of the cutting edge of the knife and has a high wear resistance of the blade. Remarkably holds the sharpening of the cutting edge, its cutting properties are close to high-carbon steels. Allows you to make a blade of small thickness, which is very important for a kitchen knife.
The hardness of steel for MBS-26 knives on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor is a diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load of 150 kgf): 58 - 60.
Steel manufacturer for MBS-26 knives: Masahiro (Japan).
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of MBS-26 steel: Masahiro, Spyderco.
Steel MRS-30. It is a high-carbon molybdenum-vanadium stainless steel developed by Daido Steel in 1965, at the personal request of the then president of Masahiro, specifically for the production of knives. It took about five years to develop, and today Daido Steel owns the exclusive right to manufacture the MBS-26. The right to sell products from this steel belongs to Masahiro. Steel perfectly accepts sharpening and has high wear resistance. Its cutting properties are close to high-carbon steels. Allows you to make a blade of small thickness, which is very important for a kitchen knife.
MRS-30 knife steel manufacturer: Daido Steel (Japan).
MRS-30 steel knife and blade manufacturers: Masahiro.
Molybdenum Vanadium steel. This alloy is a high-carbon martensitic (forged or rolled) extra strong chromium alloy with alloying additions of molybdenum and vanadium. Molybdenum-vanadium steel is characterized by high corrosion resistance (stainless steel), high hardness, low susceptibility to oxidation by aggressive media and resistance to the original color. Cutting products made of molybdenum-vanadium alloy, whether it be a tourist, kitchen, hunting or folding knife or blade, have the properties of sharpening longer, retaining their original aesthetic appearance over a long service life and are optimally suited for everyday intensive use. Molybdenum-vanadium steel is an optimally balanced alloy in terms of hardness and strength characteristics.
Cutting tools made of forged molybdenum-vanadium alloy are manufactured using a single piece of steel and processed with several heavy-duty hammers at once. Among the advantages of forged molybdenum-vanadium steel, one can note a higher density, and, as a result, an increased strength of the resulting steel. The thickening at the base of the blade, which has knives and blades made of forged steel, give them additional rigidity, strength and resistance to bending. Such knives and blades are preferred by professional chefs and hunters due to their durability and tactical characteristics. The blades are heat treated in two stages - the steel goes through the hardening process and becomes much harder. This is followed by tempering, which eliminates the internal stresses arising in the metal structure and reduces the brittleness of the steel.
Cutting tools, knives and blades made by the stamped method were inferior to forged cutlery only until recently. The emergence of the latest technologies smoothed out the differences between them and brought forged and stamped tools closer in quality and tactical characteristics to each other. In addition to the high characteristics of the blade material, forged tools made of molybdenum-vanadium steel are ergonomic due to the lower weight of the knives and blades made from it.
Rockwell hardness of molybdenum-vanadium steel for knives (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load 150 kgf): 58.
Manufacturer of molybdenum vanadium steel for knives: Misono, Fujiwara Kanefusa.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of molybdenum-vanadium steel: Misono, Fujiwara Kanefusa.
Steel N 690. It is a martensitic cobalt alloyed steel for knife making, produced by the Austrian corporation Bohler-Uddeholm. The addition of cobalt makes the structure of the alloy for blades and knives uniform, and this is also facilitated by the unique technology of rolling steel sheets in the longitudinal and transverse directions. Knife grade has excellent cutting properties, excellent shock resistance and excellent sharpening properties. The composition of this steel is approximately 440C, but contains more molybdenum and cobalt. It is sometimes called Austrian 440C or Austrian cobalt stainless steel for blades. It features very high corrosion resistance and the ability to harden it to high Rockwell values up to 60 HRC. It is considered a good steel for outdoor long gauges and tactical knives, which need not only a durable edge, but also the ability to withstand impact and lateral loads (turning and breaking).
Steel manufacturer for N 690 knives: Bohler Austria.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of steel grade N 690: Benchmade, Extreme Ratio.
Steel N690Co. For anyone who is at least a little familiar with chemistry, the sign "Co" in the name of the alloy indicates that this alloy contains cobalt - a rare metal of dirty silver color, which is used for alloying martensitic steels. Steel belongs to the group of stainless steels, which are widely used for the manufacture of industrial tools: cutters, drills and other high-strength elements. Due to the presence of cobalt, the steel is well hardened to 60-62 HRC and at the same time remains highly hard. Knives made of this steel have good resistance to breaking and twisting. These properties allow this steel to be used for making survival knives and tactical knives. In terms of its other characteristics, the steel is close to the traditional 440C stainless steel.
Hardness of steel for 420 mod knives on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load 150 kgf): 59-60.
Analogue of steel for knives of the N690Co brand in other countries: 440C (Japan).
Manufacturer of steel for knives brand N690Co: Bohler-Uddeholm (Austria).
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of N690Co steel: Benchmade, Boker, Ontario.
Steel O-1. A very popular type of steel with blacksmiths and manufacturers of kitchen, camping and folding knives, it has a reputation for being "generous, condescending". An excellent steel that perfectly accepts and holds the bluing of blades and knives, and at the same time has a high tensile strength. However, it corrodes quickly. Despite the low cost, it is distinguished by the high strength of the blades made from it.
Hardness of steel for O-1 knives on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load 150 kgf): 60.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of O-1 steel: Randall, Mad Dog.
Steel R2. Among the many technological secrets that nightmakers hide from each other, as a rule, the main secret is the composition of the steel, the process of its creation and the method of hardening it. In Europe and America, with their developed system of patents and registration of rights to inventions, the secret of a particular brand of steel ceases to be a secret from the moment of registration of the right in the patent office. If another manufacturer needs a similar steel, then he slightly changes the composition of the original steel and gets a product similar in characteristics. In Japan, things are different. If any master manages to achieve the ideal (in his opinion) composition of steel, then he makes such steel on his own and does not reveal the secret of its composition. If it is not possible to independently produce such steel (lack of capacity for the required volume, labor intensity of production outside the steelmaker, lack of a chemical laboratory, etc.), he concludes an agreement with a steel company, and this secret is passed down from generation to generation and belongs only to his family or proxies ...
This type of steel is R2 steel, which is used by only a few knifemakers in the world. One of these masters is called Mr. ITOU (Hiroo Itou) and Mr. Tanaka. It is known to be powder steel. Some models use damask covers made from Japanese 420J2 steel.
Those who have knives of these masters unanimously claim that the blades have amazing sharpness, are not subject to corrosion and remain sharpened for a long time. This type of steel is produced by the Japanese concern Kobelco (Kobe Steel Group, Ltd.) and it is still not known exactly who owns the rights to the R2 steel composition, master Mr. ITOU (Hiroo Itou) as the first person who began to make knives from this steel or the Kobelco concern.
Steel RWL 34. RWL 34 - hardened stainless steel (martensite) for the production of blades and knives. RWL-34 steel is powder steel, it differs in that it is produced without a casting process, but using a sintering process, which allows you to create a blade ideal for cutting. RWL-34 is very popular with knife manufacturers, since at high hardness it can be processed and polished well, blades made of such steel are not subject to corrosion, and the cutting edge keeps sharpening perfectly during operation.
Hardness of steel for knives grade RWL 34 on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load 150 kgf): 60 - 61.
Analogue of steel for knives of the RWL 34 brand in other countries: 100X15M (Russia), 154CM (USA), ATS-34 (Japan), X110CrMoV15 / 1.1411 (Germany).
Steel manufacturer for RWL 34 knives: Damasteel Sweden.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of RWL 34 steel: Eklund.
Shirogami steel. It is a high carbon unalloyed steel for knife making by Hitachi Metals Corporation. Literally translated, shiro gami means "white paper". Steel for blades and knives got its name from the color of the wrapper in which the manufacturer wraps it. Steel for the manufacture of kitchen, tourist and folding knives belongs to the group of "gold" steels with a high degree of purity and the simplest composition that has come from time immemorial. In the working range of Hitachi Metals, today there are several types of Shiro Gami, slightly differing in purity and carbon content. Knives made of this steel easily accept sharpening and hold it for a long time. Many experts, by right, consider the cut of this steel to be a reference. Like all carbon steels, Shiro Gami is not resistant to corrosion and requires careful maintenance.
Rockwell hardness of steel for Shirogami knives (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with a 120⁰ angle at the apex, load 150 kgf): 62 - 64.
Shirogami knife steel manufacturer: Hitachi Japan.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of Shirogami brand steel: Kasumi, Saji, Tojiro.
Steel SILVER STEEL
Hardness of steel for SILVER STEEL knives on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load 150 kgf): 61 - 62.
Steel manufacturer for SILVER STEEL knives: Piter Stub Germany.
SILVER STEEL knife and blade manufacturers: Kainuun, Kellam Knives.
Steel SK-4. It is a Japanese tool steel equivalent to the American steel 1095 and the German W.Nr 1.1274 used for the production of kitchen, folding and camping knives. This knife-making steel can have a hardness of up to 65 HRc and contains a mixture of carbon in martensite with some dissolved cementite. An increase in the cementite content in steel increases its abrasion resistance and makes it possible to achieve an ideal balance between high strength characteristics of the blade and a high degree of bluntness of the cutting edge. Due to these characteristics, steels of this class are traditionally used for the manufacture of various hand tools, as well as for the manufacture of chisels and power saws in the woodworking industry. This steel has stood the test of time and has been used for many years in many countries.
Steel manufacturer for SK-4 knives: JFE Steel Japan.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of SK-4 steel: SOG, Cold Steel, Fujiwara Kanefusa.
Steel SK-5. It is a Japanese tool steel equivalent to the American steel 1084 and the German W.Nr 1.1269 used for the production of kitchen, folding and camping knives. This knife-making steel can have a hardness of up to 65 HRc and contains a mixture of carbon in martensite with some dissolved cementite. An increase in the cementite content in steel increases its abrasion resistance and makes it possible to achieve an ideal balance between high strength characteristics of the blade and a high degree of bluntness of the cutting edge. Due to these characteristics, steels of this class are traditionally used for the manufacture of various hand tools, as well as for the manufacture of chisels and power saws in the woodworking industry. This steel has stood the test of time and has been used for many years in many countries.
Steel manufacturer for SK-5 knives: JFE Steel Japan.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of SK-5 steel: SOG, Cold Steel.
Steel SG2. Powdered steel SG2, also known as Super Gold II, is currently considered one of the most high-tech alloys. The exact composition of the steel, as usual, is kept secret. The process of creating this steel takes place in two stages. At the first stage, the steel alloy is saturated with nitrogen in a special chamber. As a result of this operation, a powder is formed, which consists of dense particles. At the next stage, the powder is placed in a vacuum chamber, where the process of high-temperature melting under pressure takes place. As a result, the output of this process is the most homogeneous alloy, which is characterized by high hardness. Unlike other powder steels, SG2 has a number of advantages: it can be hardened to a higher hardness, and is less susceptible to brittleness. The latter factor is especially important, since it allows the knife to be sharpened to a sharper angle, while the cutting edge does not chip out during operation. The kitchen knives are manufactured using SG2 steel in multilayer carbon steel linings.
Rockwell hardness of steel for SG2 knives (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load 150 kgf): 60-64.
Analogue of steel for SG2 knives in other countries: no
Steel manufacturer for SG2 knives: Takefu Special Steel Co., Ltd (Japan).
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of SG2 steel: Ryusen Hamono Co., Ltd (Japan), Kai Industries Co., Ltd (Japan).
Steel SUJ-2. It is a Japanese structural steel that is widely used in the production of various types of bearings. Moreover, all bearing elements are made of this steel: rolling balls, cages and guides. This type of steel is especially widely used in the manufacture of needle bearings. In terms of its composition and characteristics, this steel is analogous to the Russian steel ShKh15. With the addition of alloying elements, it can be used for work at high temperatures and in aggressive chemical environments. Traditionally used by Japanese knife makers to create knives for use in conditions where maximum reliability is required. Steel is susceptible to corrosion, therefore knives made of steel require some maintenance.
Rockwell hardness of steel for SUJ-2 knives (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load 150 kgf): 59-60.
Steel manufacturer for SUJ-2 knives: Ryoma (Japan), Shougang steel (China).
SUS 304 steel. One of the most common steels with low carbon content and high corrosion resistance. Steel belongs to the austenitic class of steels, which ensures high strength of products made from it. A feature of this steel is its increased resistance to chemically active substances (acids, lye), due to which products made from it are widely used in the chemical industry. An important quality is the ability to withstand high temperatures for a short time, up to 900 degrees Celsius. Such properties are provided by an oxide film of chromium, which is formed on the surface of the product. It is used to create food equipment, containers for the production and storage of alcoholic beverages. SUS304 is used to make knives, cutlery and kitchen accessories.
Rockwell hardness of steel for SUS 304 knives (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load 150 kgf): 70.
Analogue of steel for SUS 304 knives in other countries: AISI 304 (USA), 08Х18Н10 (Russia), PN 86020 (Poland).
SUS 304 steel knife and blade manufacturers: Del Ben.
Steel SUS 405. Multilayer laminated steel SUS 405 is analogous to the well-known powder steel SRS 15. The main characteristics of this type of steel include the ability to be exposed to high temperatures, high resistance to machining. Due to these properties, products made from this steel are used in shipbuilding and the military industry, in the space industry and in nuclear power. This steel is used to make turbine parts, highly reliable bearings and medical instruments.
Hardness of steel for SUS 405 knives on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load 150 kgf): 63-64.
SUS 405 knife steel manufacturer: Haihong International Trade (HK) CO., Limited.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of SUS 405 steel: G. Sakai, Takeda Hamono.
Steel Swedish steel. Swedish steel Swedish steel is a high-strength and wear-resistant high-carbon alloy of one of the leading manufacturers of SSAB Swedish Steel LLP (SSAB Swedish Steel LLP), LLP. This steel has been produced and supplied to world production sites for the manufacture of knife art for over 20 years. The main brands of Swedish steel are Hardox wear-resistant steel, Weldox high-strength structural steel and Domex hot-rolled steel. In the knife industry, the Swedish steel grade Hardox is mainly used, which has proven itself due to its increased strength characteristics in combination with high ductility. The unique combination of stable and high hardness, strength and excellent impact strength makes Hardox material in demand for the production of tourist, kitchen, folding and hunting knives and blades.
Rockwell hardness of steel for knives of Hardox Swedish steel (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with a 120⁰ angle at the apex, load 150 kgf): 58 - 62.
Producer of steel for knives of the Hardox Swedish steel brand: SSAB Swedish Steel LLP (SSAB Swedish Steel LLP), LLP
Knife and blade makers in Hardox Swedish steel: Misono
UHB 17VA steel
Steel manufacturer for UHB 17VA knives: Uddeholm Sweden.
UHB 17VA knife and blade manufacturers: Lauri.
UHB ELMAX steel
Analogue of steel for UHB ELMAX knives in other countries: X190CrMo17.3 (Germany).
Steel manufacturer for UHB ELMAX knives: Uddeholm Sweden.
UHC steel. This is a modified high-carbon steel for the production of knives with a minimum (or complete absence) of additives, analogous to steel grade 1095. Using a specialized technological process, the carbon content in the steel is raised. The negative point is the fragility of the blade of the blade. Carbon steel has found applications in the manufacture of hunting knives, machetes, and swords. Carbon steels are easier to sharpen, but due to their high carbon content, they are susceptible to corrosion. Carbon steel rusts and over time the blades of knives and blades become covered with an oxide, gray or brown film, although the oxide film, unlike rust, does not have any negative effect on the blade. In the factory, export carbon steel knives are usually coated with oil to prevent rust.
The hardness of steel for UHC knives on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor is a diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load 150 kgf): 64 - 66.
Steel manufacturer for UHC knives: Thissen Krupp Germany.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of UHC steel: Roselli.
Steel UX10. Developed by Misono, UX10 is an alloy that combines the physical characteristics of both carbon and stainless steel to make camping, kitchen, hunting and folding knives. The alloy was based on high quality carbon Swedish steel, which was supplemented with additives (such as chromium) to give the alloy the tactical and physical characteristics of stainless steel. The combination of the qualities of carbon and stainless steel in one alloy made UX10 steel in demand in the manufacture of knives and blades for various purposes. Knives and blades made of UX10 steel have the properties of a thin cut, high corrosion resistance, ease of maintenance and excellent ability to retain the hardness of the cutting edge when re-sharpening. Also, knives and blades made of this steel are distinguished by a combination of the highest tactical characteristics of the blade alloy with the practicality of daily use.
V-Toku # 2 steel. A rare type of steel with a high carbon content. Soft and ductile steel, which is used to create cutting tools for working on soft materials. Not available commercially. It belongs to the type of alloy steels with an average content of chromium and vanadium. Created by some blacksmiths in Japan to create a professional woodcarving tool. The softness of this type of steel allows a thin and sharp cutting edge to be created on the tool, which allows for the finest patterns in soft wood. One of the few brands on the Russian market is Hiro Knives Co., Ltd, which produces a set for wood carving of 9 traditional knives. Cutter blades are made of V-Toku # 2 high carbon steel. The most widespread in Japan, has no direct analogues in other countries.
V-Toku # 2 brand knife and blade manufacturers: Hiro Knives Co.
Steel Vg-1
Hardness of steel for knives grade Vg 1 on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load 150 kgf): 58 - 59.
Knife steel manufacturer Vg 1: Japan.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of Vg 1: Cold Steel.
Steel VG-2. This alloy is a Japanese knife steel produced by Takefu Special Steel Co., Ltd. with high corrosion resistance properties. It is mainly used for the production of multi-layer blades for kitchen knives.
The hardness of steel for Vg-2 knives on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor is a diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load of 150 kgf): 56 - 57.
Vg-2 brand knife steel manufacturer: Takefu Special Steel Co., Ltd.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of Vg-2 steel: Tojiro, Kanetsugu
Steel VG-10.(short for V-Gold # 10) is a high-carbon, corrosion-resistant steel alloyed with cobalt and molybdenum for knife production. The VG-10 was specially designed by Takefu Special Steel Co., Ltd. (Japan) for the needs of the knife industry and is one of the best steels for knives. In terms of its composition, it occupies an intermediate position between ATS-34 and ATS-55 (these steel grades are considered the best knife steels). The toughness of this steel is sufficient to maintain the cutting edge even when the blade is hardened to a hardness of 60-62 Hrc, however, the steel is not brittle. A distinctive feature of VG-10 is the use of cobalt in the alloy - this expensive and rare alloying additive in steels makes the steel harder and more tough.
Steel manufacturer for VG-10 knives: Takefu Japan.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of VG-10 steel: Mcusta, Hattori, Hiroshi Saito, Spyderco, Fujiwara Kanefusa, Kanetsugu, Falkniven, etc.
Steel W-75. W-75 is a knife-making steel manufactured by Thissen Krupp, effective hardening hardness 59-62HRC. The carbon content in the alloy ranges from 0.7 to 0.8%. Carbon steel is used in the manufacture of hunting knives, machetes and swords. Carbon steels are easier to sharpen, but due to their high carbon content, they are susceptible to corrosion. Carbon steel rusts and over time the blade of the blade becomes covered with an oxide, gray or brown film, although the oxide film, unlike rust, does not have any negative effect on the blade. In the factory, export carbon steel knives are usually coated with oil to prevent rust.
Hardness of steel for knives grade W 75 on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load 150 kgf): 59 - 62.
Steel manufacturer for W 75 knives: Thissen Krupp Germany.
Manufacturers of knives and blades in W 75 steel: Roselli.
Steel ZA-18. This alloy is a Japanese alloy developed and manufactured by Aichi Steel for a special order from Kanetsugu. Steel ZA-18 is an improved analog of the well-known VG-10 knife alloy. A feature of the production of the alloy is hardening followed by cryogenic treatment (cryogenic hardening) to transform the remaining austenite into martensite. A distinctive feature of ZA-18 steel is the use of cobalt in the alloy - this expensive and rare alloying additive in knife steels makes the steel harder and more tough.
The hardness of steel for ZA-18 knives on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor is a diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load of 150 kgf): 60 - 61.
Steel manufacturer for ZA-18 knives: Daido steel, Ltd.
ZA-18 brand knife and blade manufacturers: Kanetsugu
Steel ZDP-189. Powdered steel ZDP-189 is a high-chromium, ultra-high-carbon tool steel of the highest category, produced by Hitachi Metals Corporation (Japan). Developed on the basis of amorphous metal alloy technology, used for the manufacture of knives. Allows to obtain very high hardness (up to HRc 69). Due to the 3% presence of carbon in the alloy, it should be considered cast iron, however, it is classified as high-carbon steel by the classifiers due to modern powder technologies that were used in the production of ZDP-189. After the ZDP189 went on sale, the opinions of knifemakers about the properties of this new steel were divided into two groups - some admired the high cutting properties, others - on the contrary, said that the steel is very fragile and the cutting edge is constantly chipping away.
Hardness of steel for ZDP-189 knives on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load 150 kgf): 69.
Steel manufacturer for ZDP-189 knives: Hitachi Metals.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of ZDP-189 steel: Kitano, Sanetu, Konosuke-Sakai, etc.
Steel 100 X13M. Domestic alloyed stainless steel used for the production of travel knives, kitchen knives and folding knives. Steel grade 100X13M was originally developed as steel for cutting tools (introduced into production on 01.01.1981, foreign analogue according to AISI is steel 154CM). Products made of high quality stainless steel grade 100X13M (EI515) are unique in their working properties. The use of this material achieves an excellent combination of cutting and strength properties, corrosion resistance and the ability to sharpen at home.
Manufacturer of steel for knives grade 100 X13M: ZMZ (Russia).
Manufacturers of knives and blades from steel grade 100 X13M: Zlatko.
Steel 110 Kh18MShD. This high-chromium tool steel has found application in special bearings and in critical surgical instruments, as high strength and wear resistance requirements are imposed on it. It is expensive and laborious to work with, but the blades and knives forged from it are excellent. The presence of harmful impurities such as sulfur and phosphorus is less compared to other steels in the knife industry. The main element of steel is chrome. It improves the cutting properties of steel for knives and blades and its wear resistance, and also increases the strength of the blades.
The hardness of steel for knives of grade 110 Х18MShD on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor is a diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load 150 kgf): 58 - 61.
Manufacturer of steel for knives grade 110 X18MShD: Russia.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of 110 X18MShD steel: Ros Arms.
Steel 50X14MФ. This alloy is used not only for the manufacture of knives, blades and tools for various purposes, but also for cutting tools in the medical and food industries (for example, all-metal scalpels, removable blades). Therefore, increased requirements for strength and corrosion resistance are imposed on it. Steel for knife production is smelted in open electric-arc and induction furnaces or in vacuum-induction furnaces, followed by vacuum arc remelting.
Hardness of steel for knives of grade 50X14MF on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load 150 kgf): 55 - 58.
Analogue of steel for knives grade 50X14MF in other countries: 420mod (USA), SUS420J2 (Japan), X45CrMoV15 / 1.4034 (Germany), 10C29 (Sweden).
Manufacturer of steel for knives brand 50X14MF: Russia.
Manufacturers of knives and blades from steel grade 50X14MF: Kizlyar, NOKS.
Steel 65 X13. One of the most popular materials for making blades is 65X13 steel. Its original purpose is cutting tools, kitchen knives, saws, removable blades, scalpels, razor blades. Because it is often used to make scalpels and other medical instruments, it is often referred to as "medical". It was developed a very long time ago and, probably, no longer fully meets the modern requirements for cutlery. However, it is an inexpensive stainless steel that does not require serious maintenance, is relatively easy to sharpen and holds well sharpening blades and knife blades. In general, this is a pretty good option for an inexpensive working and gift knife. With proper heat treatment, it has a hardness of 56-58 HRC, and with the correct sharpening of the blade, it has good cutting properties and wear resistance.
The hardness of steel for knives of grade 65 X13 on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor is a diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load of 150 kgf): 56 - 58.
Analogue of steel for knives of brand 65 X13 in other countries: 440A (USA), AUS6 (Japan), X55CrMo14 (Germany), AEB-L (Sweden).
Manufacturer of steel for knives brand 65 X13: Russia.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of 65 X13 steel: Kizlyar, SARO, SSO.
Steel 770
Analogue of steel for knives of grade 770 in other countries: 65G (Russia).
Steel manufacturer for 770 knives: Uddeholm Sweden.
Manufacturers of knives and blades from 770 steel: Eriksson, Frost.
Steel 95Х18. 95X18 is a high-alloy stainless steel for knife making with high hardness, cutting edge resistance, moderate corrosion resistance. In terms of its complex of physical, chemical and mechanical properties, 95X18 steel is considered one of the best materials for making bladed weapons. Steel is quite difficult to make knives. It requires strict adherence to the modes of mechanical and heat treatment, is expensive and time consuming to process. Subject to the technology, it has a high hardness of 60-62 HRC, while flexible and very durable. In general, it is one of the best steels used for the production of knives in terms of price-quality ratio. The purpose of steel 95X18 is parts that require high strength and wear resistance and operate at temperatures up to 500 C or exposed to moderate aggressive environments.
Hardness of steel for knives of grade 95 X18 on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load 150 kgf): 57 - 60.
Manufacturer of steel for knives grade 95 X18: Russia.
Manufacturers of knives and blades from steel grade 95 X18: AiR, NOKS.
Steel R6M5. P6M5 - high speed tool steel. High-speed steels are used for cutting tools operating under conditions of significant loading and heating of the working edges. High speed steel tools are highly stable and are well suited for making kitchen knives, camping knives or folding knives. Steel R6M5 has largely displaced steels R18, R12 and R9 and has found application in the processing of non-ferrous alloys, cast irons, carbon and alloy steels, as well as some heat-resistant and corrosion-resistant steels.
Hardness of steel for P6M5 knives on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load 150 kgf): 63 - 65.
Manufacturer of steel for knives brand P6M5: Russia.
Steel Kh12MF. Damask steel is poured from Kh12MF steel, profiling rollers of complex shapes, sections of body dies of complex shapes, complex hole-piercing dies when forming sheet metal, reference gears, rolling dies, dies, dies and punches of punching punched punches with a complex configuration of working parts and stamping of the active part of electrical machines ... Also, Kh12MF steel has proven itself well in the manufacture of blades for knives. Unpretentious, but easy-to-use steel for making knife tools.
Hardness of steel for knives of grade Kh12MF on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load 150 kgf): 60 - 62.
Analogue of steel for knives of the Kh12MF brand in other countries: SLD (Japan), X155CrMo12.1 (Germany), SKD-11 (Sweden).
Manufacturer of steel for knives brand X12MF: Russia.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of X12MF steel: Kizlyar.
Steel ШХ15. In a number of cases, hardened steels with high hardness, hardened by martensitic transformation, are used for critical parts of devices and machines; this alloy belongs to such steels. Multiple cold cuts, alternating with tempering, improve the resistance to microplastic deformation and dimensional stability of hardened high-carbon steel for the manufacture of kitchen, camping and folding knives.
Rockwell hardness of steel for knives of grade ШХ15 (HRC, itdentor is a diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load 150 kgf): 59 - 61.
Analogue of steel for knives of the ShKh15 brand in other countries: 52100 (USA).
Manufacturer of steel for knives brand ШХ15: Russia.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of SHX15 steel: Kizlyar.
Steel 100CrMo7. High-strength bearing steel that is used to create balls and rollers for large bearings. Unlike similar chrome-plated steels, it has a high resistance to long-term mechanical stress, has a low threshold for temporary fatigue. Not prone to tempering during prolonged heating, poorly subjected to zone hardening. It has high hardness and is not plastic. During the smelting process, the steel acquires a bainitic structure, which provides it with high strength and toughness.
Rockwell hardness of steel for knives of grade 100CrMo7 (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the apex, load 150 kgf): 59 -65.
Analogue of steel for knives grade 100CrMo7 in other countries: K19965 (USA), SUJ5 (Japan), 100CrMo7-3 (England, France, Italy), 1.3536 (Germany).
Steel manufacturer for 100CrMo7 knives: LongHal Steel (China), Takefu Special Steel Co., Ltd. (Japan)
Zirconium ceramics (Nanoceramics, eng. Nanoceramics). Zirconium ceramics is one of the types of materials that are better known in Russia as “nanoceramics”. The main developer and manufacturer of various types of nanoceramics in Russia is the state corporation Rusnano. Nanoceramics include non-metallic materials that are obtained from powders with a microstructure by high-temperature sintering or high-temperature molding. There are three main types of nanoceramics:
ceramics based on aluminum oxide Al2O3;
ceramics based on aluminum and nitrogen compounds AIN;
ceramics based on carbide compounds
zirconium ceramics based on zirconium dioxide> ZrO.
Powder sintered materials based on zirconium dioxide have long been used for jewelry and medical purposes. In the mid-80s of the last century, the Japanese company Kyocera released a trial batch of zirconia ceramic knives.
Zirconia knives are divided into two types: white and black ceramic. White ceramics are produced in the usual way. Black ceramics undergo a longer heat treatment. To give black color, a special dye is used, which also acts as a stabilizer. Black zirconium ceramics are more resistant to mechanical damage.
It is not surprising that it was the Japanese craftsmen, with their eternal desire to find the best material for knife blades, who were the pioneers in this matter. Any steel, even with the highest corrosion resistance, begins to lose its stainless properties during prolonged use, and eventually begins to enter into chemical reactions with products. The result is an unpleasant odor or bitter taste in the food.
The Japanese, whose national cuisine consists of a large number of dishes without heat treatment, are very sensitive to such things. The main and main advantage of zirconium ceramic knives is the complete absence of taste and smell in this type of materials.
The second important aspect of using ceramic knives is their incredible sharpness and high edge resistance. With proper and careful use, a high-quality ceramic knife should be sharpened approximately once every few months. While the knife is stainless steel, with regular use you have to sharpen about once a week.
The downside of these advantages is a certain fragility of knives and blades made of zirconium ceramics. The knife may break if dropped, severely hit, or when working on frozen food. When choosing a ceramic knife, keep this in mind and be careful.
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... FAQ.Q: Why Cold Steel doesn't make knives out of Carbon V anymore?
We have been making knives in the USA from our exclusive Carbon V steel since 1987. Over the past two years, we have done everything in our power to support the plant that produced this steel for us, but to no avail, and it is currently in a very serious financial crisis and has lost almost all of its workforce.
Question: Where are the factories that produce the products Cold Steel?
Our products are manufactured all over the world. Most of the factories are located in Japan, Taiwan or China.
Q: What is VG-1 San Mai III
San Mai means "three layers". This term is used to describe the traditional laminated blades used for Japanese swords and daggers. The laminated structure of the blade is important as it allows strips of different steel grades to be combined into a single blade. An easy way to imagine this type of design is to imagine a sandwich: Meat - in the center, high carbon solid steel and slices of bread on either side - lower carbon steel strips. The cutting edge of the blade must be as hard as possible in order to keep sharpening longer and effectively cut and chop, but if the entire blade were that hard, it could be damaged during combat or work. Ultimately, the blade must be able to withstand impact and lateral stresses. To give the blade additional strength and flexibility, additional, "softer" steel plates are welded to it. San Mai III is used to make blades with a very hard, high-carbon steel layer in the middle of the blade to increase the overall mechanical strength, wear resistance and flexibility of the product.
Question: What knives are made from San Mai III?
Since January 2007 from San Mai III is made by:
All knives in Tanto Series (# 13BN, 13MBII #, # 13MBIX, and # 13MBXII), The Tai Pan (# 13D), The Black Bear Classic (# 14BBCJ), The Military Classic (# 14R1J), The Natchez Bowie (# 16ABSJ), The San Mai III® Laredo Bowie (# 16CCB), The San Mai III® Trail Master (# 16JSM), The Outdoorsman (# 18H), The San Mai III® Gurkha Kukri (# 35ATCJ), Master Hunter Plus (# 36G) , Master Hunter (# 36JSK), The San Mai III® Recon Scout (# 37S), The Konjo I and II (# 60SK & 60SKL), The Sisu (# 60SS).
Folding knives with San Mai III®:
The Black Sable (# 60BS), The Black Talon (# 60BT), The Caledonian Edge (# 60CE), The Hatamoto (# 60H), The Specter (# 60SF), The Talwar Folder (# 60ST).
Q: What is stainless steel VG 1?
When researching a new material for use in the Tanto knife series, we tested seven different grades of steel, including Shiro 2, V-SP-2, 10A, 440C, VG 10, AT S 34, and VG 1. We carried out a series of tests for mechanical strength, cutting edge resistance, and the test results showed that some steels have properties that are superior to other samples in one or two tests. And only one steel tried VG 1, showed the highest efficiency in all the most critical test categories. These outstanding edge holding properties and the remarkable mechanical strength of a blade made from this steel led us to assume that VG 1 will be able to fully meet the needs of customers Cold steel in efficient, durable stainless steel knives.
Q: What is Krupp 4116 stainless steel?
4116 Krupp is a high quality stainless steel made in Germany by Thyssen Krupp. This steel is used in industries with increased hygiene requirements (for the manufacture of medical equipment and equipment for the pharmaceutical industry, in the food and processing industries), thus, this steel is an excellent choice of material for the manufacture of kitchen knives. The optimum percentage of carbon and chromium in this steel provides it with a high degree of corrosion resistance as well as excellent mechanical strength and cutting edge resistance. Edge resistance in cutting tests exceeded that of blades made of 420 and 440 series stainless steels. Other alloying elements used in the manufacture of 4116 Krupp increase the strength of the blades and allow them to be made thinner without loss of strength properties, as well as sharpen them at a lower angle, which is very important for a knife used in the kitchen.
Q: What is 1055 carbon steel?
The chemical composition and physical properties of carbon steel 1055 are on the border between medium and high carbon steels, with a carbon content between 0.50% -0.60%, and a manganese content between 0.60% -0.90%. This content of carbon and manganese allows the hardness of the alloy to be achieved between Rc 60-64, depending on the exact carbon content. The combination of a number of factors in the production made it possible to make one of the most difficult steels, while it contains enough martensite, without an excessive content of carbides. This steel is especially suitable for those works where strength and toughness are appreciated above all other qualities.
Q: What is SK5 high carbon steel?
SK5 is a Japanese tool steel equivalent to American 1080 steel, with a carbon content between 0.75% -0.85% and a manganese content between 0.60% -0.90%. This steel can have hardness up to 65 Rc, and contains a mixture of carbon in martensite with some dissolved cementite. An increase in the cementite content in steel increases its abrasion resistance and makes it possible to achieve an ideal balance between the high strength characteristics of the blade and a high degree of bluntness of the cutting edge. Due to these characteristics, steels of this class are traditionally used for the manufacture of various hand tools, as well as for the manufacture of chisels and power saws in the woodworking industry. This steel has stood the test of time and has been used for many years in many countries.
Q: What is AUS 8A stainless steel?
The words "stainless steel" are misleading for many people because, in fact, all steels can become stained or discolored if left in unfavorable conditions for a long time. Steel is made "stainless" by adding chromium and reducing the percentage of carbon during the smelting process. There is a serious compromise between the anti-corrosion properties of steel and its strength characteristics. As the chromium content increases and the carbon content decreases, the steel becomes more "stainless". However, it is also becoming more and more difficult to sharpen such steel, and the cutting edge potential of the blade becomes severely limited. Because of this, many stainless steel knives can rarely be sharpened to a razor-sharp condition and quickly lose their sharpness with use. Unlike these steels, used in Cold steel Japanese steel AUS 8A, with a sufficiently high corrosion resistance, contains little chromium and a lot of carbon, which ultimately made it possible to achieve the desired combination of rigidity and strength, cutting edge resistance, and corrosion resistance.
Question: What is the Rockwell Scale?
The hardness of steel or other metals is usually measured on the Rockwell scale. The number of hardness is preceded by a combination of letters Rc (for example Rc58). A high value of the number indicates a high hardness of the material. If the knife is too “soft”, it means that the Rockwell hardness is too low and it will probably not have enough cutting edge life. If the knife is too "hard" it means too high a Rockwell hardness and is likely to be very brittle and difficult to sharpen again. Knowing the purpose of the knife, it is very important to determine what hardness will be needed to use it. This will affect the choice of steel. Once the steel has been selected, a heat treatment sequence for the blade must be developed to achieve the hardness value required for the particular finished product.
Q: What's the difference between Saber Grind and Flat Grind?
These two types of descents are quite similar. They are "flat", as opposed to concave ( H ollow grind ) or convex. However, the "straight descents" of the blade tend to converge evenly from the butt to the cutting edge. The "saber descents" of the blade, as a rule, occupy only half the width of the blade. The rest of the blade repeats the thickness of the butt along its entire length, as in traditional sabers, hence the name.
Question: At what angle are the knives sharpened? Cold Steel?
This question assumes that you are interested in knife resharpening. Knives Cold steel are made from a wide range of steels, have different slopes, geometry and thickness of the cutting edge, depending on the size, shape and end use of the knife. So there is no one size fits all cutting edge angle that we can recommend. For example, the actual measured angles for different Tanto models are 25.79 °, 30.99 ° and 28.15 °. We recommend that you use those angles when sharpening that are the closest to the angle of the cutting edge made at the factory. Generally, we recommend 23 ° to 25 ° as the main standard.
Question: How can you sharpen a knife Cold Steel?
Sharpening theory is quite simple, although in practice it takes patience and experience. The basics are as follows: you need to start sharpening by creating the desired geometry of the cutting edge, gradually moving from a coarse abrasive to a "fine" one. A good way to make sure you are almost there is to sharpen the burr evenly along the entire cutting edge of the blade. After you have achieved the formation of a burr, you need to grind it off with finer abrasives. Then the planes of the cutting edge need to be polished.
Q: Like Cold Steel are knife handles made from Kraton?
As far as we know Cold steel was the first company in the United States to use Kraton® for a knife handle. Obviously, we were right in our choice of this material, since almost every major manufacturer has used it in the manufacture of knife handles over the past 18 years. There are two main ways to make a handle from a craton.
The first is to fit the finished handle onto the tang (Tang) of the knife. Craton expands slightly when heated, and then is pushed onto the shank. After installing the handle, it can be additionally secured with a bushing or bolt.
The second way is to shape the handle on the shank of the knife. In this method, having previously melted the craton, it is poured under pressure into a mold located around the shank of the knife, where it solidifies. After hardening, it is firmly attached to the shank and does not need additional fasteners.
Q: Like Cold Steel make axes?
Axes Co ld Steel Constructed from forged 1055 carbon steel. In the process of manufacturing the product, the metal ingot is heated, and then takes the desired shape under the influence of the blows of a pneumatic hammer, with an impact energy of several hundred tons at each blow. During this process of forming the steel, a completely homogeneous product structure is achieved. And this, in turn, makes it extremely hard and durable. Like all good axes, these products Cold steel have zone hardening. This means that the leading edge and butt are hardened, while the middle of the ax body remains relatively soft to absorb shock vibrations. This production technology not only creates a high quality product, but is also very effective. The quality of our axes often surpasses handicrafts at three or even four times the price!
Q: Can I leave my Cold Steel kitchen knives in the sink or dishwasher?
The short answer to this is no! Most stainless cutlery is made from high chromium and low carbon steel. This makes them very "rustproof" and they will not darken or discolor even if the knife is in the water for several weeks. But this also means that it is almost impossible to sharpen them well and the cutting edge will become dull very quickly.
In Cold Steel When making kitchen knives, we use a very high carbon content for stainless steel. This allows us to create very thin and extremely sharp blades, combining these qualities with a sufficiently high mechanical strength and hardness. Unfortunately, this compromise means the blade requires a little more care than some of your other stainless cutlery. For example, we do not recommend that you use your kitchen knife. Cold steel for working with frozen food or carving bones, as these measures can certainly damage the blade. These small drawbacks, however, are more than offset by the quality workmanship and excellent working properties of the kitchen knives. Cold Steel.
Q: What is Cold Steelcan recommend for removing knife stains e?
Polishing with soft abrasive pastes such as Flitz or Simichrome. They are available at many knife and gun shops.
This article is not a complete and literal translation of the original ..
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