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Knife steel SK-5 characteristics
SK-5 steel is a Japanese tool steel that is the equivalent of American 1084 steel and German W.Nr 1.1269 used for the manufacture of folding and outdoor knives.
This knife making steel can have a hardness of up to 65 HRc, and contains a mixture of carbon in martensites with some dissolved cementite (iron carbite, very hard but brittle). Increasing the content of cementite in steel increases its resistance to abrasion and allows you to achieve the perfect balance between high strength characteristics of the blade and a high degree of sharpness 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 mechanical 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 the 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, it is not afraid of shock loads, it can really cut bones. I own a lot of knives, but this SK-5 steel knife is one of the few that I would "trust" my life to.
Analog of steel SK-5 - steel 1084 (USA), steel W.Nr 1.1269 (Germany)
Composition of steel grade SK-5:
Carbon (C) 0.80 - 0.90%,
Manganese (Mn) 0.5%,
Chromium (Cr) 0.3%,
Silicon (Si) 0.35%,
Nickel (Ni) 0.25%.
SK-5 grade knife steel manufacturer: JFE Steel Japan.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of SK-5 steel: SOG, Cold Steel.
SK 5 steel is a Japanese-made alloy that was originally produced for the manufacture of various tools.
Steel SK 5: reviews, characteristics
The alloy belongs to the class of carbon steels. It has analogues, among which:
- 1080 is an American alloy.
- 80 (85) - Russian-made alloy.
- W.Nr 1.1269 - German steel.
To date, steel is actively used both in household knives (kitchen, EDC), and in blades for weapon models (machete) and tools (axe). Such a diversity of the introduction of this alloy into production is due to:
- wear resistance of the cutting edge;
- strength;
- hardness.
The latter according to Rockwell reaches 59 HRc. According to customer reviews, SK 5 steel can withstand the most impressive loads.
Features of knives made of steel SK 5
A knife made of SK5 alloy compares favorably with wear resistance in the cutting edge area. The blade is strong and hard, which allows you to work on rough surfaces without the risk of fractures, cracks, chips.
Steel SK 5: where to buy
The Arbaletika online store invites you to become the owner of a product, the blade of which is made of SK 5 alloy. You don’t even have to leave your home to place an order - just fill out the online order form. We guarantee you prompt delivery to any location in Russia. For clients living in the city of Moscow, we are ready to send a courier. All provided goods have passed the state certification. Happy shopping!
STEELS GRADES FOR MANUFACTURE OF KITCHEN, TOURIST AND FOLDING KNIVES AND KNIFE ART OBJECTS
Before choosing a kitchen knife for everyday use, an exclusive blade for a collection, an ax or machete for rough woodworking, or a camping knife for outdoor activities, you should get to know the material for making the cutting surfaces of tools. Since ancient times, such 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 to your taste, whether it be a blade, a bonsai tool or a traditional Japanese knife.
Without going into the subtleties 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%) allows you to get tin. The material between these extreme points of manufacture is the same steel that is used for the production of kitchen and tourist knives, folding knives and multi-tools, axes and machetes, scissors and collectible blades.
Steel for the production of objects of knife art (from scissors to collectible Japanese knives) can be conditionally divided into high-carbon and "stainless".
Blades for kitchen, camping or folding knives made of high carbon steel, most often 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 at the same time. High-carbon blades for camping, kitchen and folding knives are more prone to corrosion than "stainless" steel blades, but when properly hardened, such blades outperform "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 work and incredible efforts. "Stainless" steel, unlike high-carbon steel, has its pros and cons for the manufacture of kitchen and outdoor knives, folding knives and multi-tools.
But the various properties of steel are determined not so much by the different amount of carbon in the composition of the alloy, 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 tourist knife hardness and rigidity. The carbon content in the composition of steel for blades for various purposes from 0.6% to 2% gives steel the name of high-carbon steel, which largely characterizes the properties, advantages and disadvantages of knives and blades made from it.
Chromium, which is part of the steel, gives the alloy wear resistance, high hardening ability 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 the environment or an aggressive environment, and your favorite kitchen, folding or tourist knife (as well as scissors, an ax, a machete or a multitool) will be saved from corrosion only by strict observance of the Rules for the care of tools made of steel.
One of the most important elements of the alloy is manganese, which gives the material of the blades a grainy structure, which, in turn, contributes to the strength of the knife or tool made of steel. It is manganese that gives a tourist or kitchen knife rigidity and wear resistance. In the production of household and professional blades, it is used to improve steel during rolling and forging. Such steel for future kitchen, folding and tourist knives is called "deoxidized". Manganese is present in almost all knife steel alloys used to make blades.
Molybdenum is a hard-melting element, in the composition of steel it helps it become less brittle and brittle, and also gives the material of a kitchen, collection or tourist knife resistance to heat. The so-called "air-hardened" steels contain at least 1% molybdenum, with the help of which this type of hardening of blades for kitchen, tourist and collection knives becomes possible.
In the manufacture of steel alloy for the manufacture of objects of knife art (kitchen, tourist, folding knives, axes and machetes, multi-tools and scissors, bonsai tools) to give them hardness and resistance to corrosion, nickel. Nickel also adds toughness to the blade alloy of a kitchen 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 an alloy of tungsten with additives such as chromium or molybdenum, it makes the blade steel for a kitchen, folding, collection or tourist knife "quick cutting". This type of blade steel contains the highest amount of tungsten. Steel with a high tungsten content, in addition to the manufacture of kitchen, folding, collectible 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.
The following is detailed description popular grades of steel used for the production of blades for kitchen and outdoor knives, axes and machetes, folding knives and multi-tools, scissors and bonsai tools.
Steel 1095. According to the designations of the system, articles for the manufacture of knives with numbers starting with 10 are carbon. These alloys are specifically designed for kitchen, folding, collectible and outdoor knives, but 1095 is the most commonly used. Among 10xx grade steels, 1095 blade steel holds sharpening best of all and is the least viscous. For the manufacture of kitchen, folding, collectible and outdoor knives, 1095 steel is considered the “standard”, a carbon steel grade, not the most expensive, but at the same time, with decent technical indicators.
The hardness of steel for knives grade 1095 on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 57 - 62.
Similar to 1095 knife steel in other countries: C92D (D 95-2) (Germany), SWR-9 (Sweden).
1095 knife steel manufacturer: Precision Steel (USA).
Manufacturers of 1095 steel knives and blades: 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, "This is our main steel grade for hand knives, high-end skating blades and ice drills. For more than 45 years, we have been working to improve the quality and technical performance of the grade. The structure has become denser, the degree of purity is higher, and the fine microstructure of carbide today is far from what it was in steel in the sixties."
The hardness of steel for knives of grade 12 C27 Sandvic on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 55 57.
Knife steel manufacturer 12 C27 Sandvic: Sandvic Sweden.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of steel grade 12 C27 Sandvic: Brusletto, Opinel, EKA.
Steel 13 C26 Sandvic. In the development of 13 C26 Sandvic steel, a strong focus was placed on applications as a material for making kitchen, folding, collectible and outdoor knives. This means that the main focus during production was on improving the hardness of the alloy, the sharpness of the blade and the stability of the cutting edge of the knife. Steel 13 C26 Sandvic has highest level hardness while maintaining the fine structure of carbide, which is typical of Sandvic steels in general. With excellent cutting properties and high toughness, this alloy is an excellent choice for those kitchen, folding, collectible and outdoor knives, where the predominance of cutting properties is much more important than moderate corrosion resistance.
Knife steel manufacturer 13 C26 Sandvic: Sandvic Sweden.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of steel grade 13 C26 Sandvic: Kershaw.
Steel 154 CM. This steel for the production of kitchen, folding, collectible and outdoor 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 keep the cutting edge of future kitchen, folding, collectible and tourist knives on a hard surface. 154CM steel is a fairly hard steel, blades and knives made of 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 occur. 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 grade 154 CM on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 57 -61.
An analogue of steel for knives of the 154 CM brand in other countries: 100X13M (Russia), ATS-34 (Japan), X110CrMoV15 / 1.4111 (Germany), RWL 34 (Sweden).
Manufacturer of 154 CM knife steel: Crusible Metals (USA).
Manufacturers of 154 CM steel knives and blades: Benchmade, Spyderco.
Steel 410 High-end 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 is highly resistant to wear. Such an alloy is steel 410 (hardened, directly chlorinated) with an increased carbon content, which gives this alloy the above characteristics. The degree of hardness of alloy 410 is controlled by changing the proportion of its carbon content. Typically used as overlays.
The hardness of steel for knives grade 410 on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 45 - 52.
Manufacturer of 410 knife steel: USA, Takefu Japan.
Manufacturers of 410 steel knives and blades: 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 such as 440 series, which is reflected in the characteristics of kitchen, folding and outdoor knives, which as a result do not hold sharpening well. Due to its high corrosion resistance, such steel is often used for the manufacture of knives for divers (for use in fresh water). 420 series steel is also used for the production of inexpensive kitchen and outdoor knives, produced mainly in Southeast Asia. One of the varieties of steel grade 420, namely 420er (the alloy contains special additives), is used for the manufacture of kitchen and tourist knives of a low price category by some European and American manufacturers, for example, Magnum.
The hardness of steel for knives grade 420 on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 52-56.
An analogue of steel for knives of grade 420 in other countries: 30X13 (Russia), SUS420J1 (Japan), X21Cr13 (Germany), 6C27 (Sweden).
420 knife steel manufacturer: Crusible Metals (USA).
Manufacturers of 420 steel knives and blades: 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 outdoor knives and good anti-corrosion survivability. Steel 420HC holds the cutting edge of the blade well, however, from time to time your pet will need sharpening, yielding to higher class steels in this, but it is easy to sharpen the knife from it. Symbol HC stands for High Carbone, referring to the higher carbon variety of the standard 420 martensitic stainless steel blade.
The hardness of steel for knives of the brand 420 HC Crio on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 57 - 59.
An analogue of steel for knives of the brand 420 HC Crio in other countries: 50X14MF (Russia), SUS420J2 (Japan), X45CrMoV15 / 1.4034 (Germany), 10C29 (Sweden).
Knife steel manufacturer 420 HC Crio: Crusible Metals (USA).
Manufacturers of 420 HC Crio knives and blades: Cold Steel, Kershaw.
Steel 420J1- this is an analogue of the 420J2 alloy modified by Japanese steel manufacturers for the production of knife blades and blades for various purposes, which has the properties of hardness, anti-corrosion and resistance to moisture and aggressive environments to a lesser extent than the 420J2 alloy. Due to its ability to hold sharpening for a long time and high resistance to external influences of moisture and corrosion, 420J1 alloy is widely used for the manufacture of survival knives, outdoor knives, fishing knives and blades for divers, and is also used in laminates as soft covers.
The hardness of steel for knives grade 420J1 on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 52 - 55.
Manufacturer of 420J1 knife steel: Crucible Metals USA.
Manufacturers of 420J1 steel knives and blades: CRKT, Hiromoto.
Steel 420J2- this is a soft stainless steel 420 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 amount of alloying elements. Thus, steel, remaining not subject to corrosion, acquires sufficient hardness to be used independently as a material for the blade in some models of kitchen, folding, collection and tourist knives. 420J2 steel is mainly used in fishing knives, diving knives and camping knives.
The hardness of steel for knives grade 420J2 on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 52 - 55.
420J2 knife steel manufacturer: 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. Steel 420 mod, after appropriate treatment, has a high resistance to pitting corrosion, due to which the blades of kitchen, tourist and folding knives do not easily react with aggressive environments. Products made of 420 mod steel are resistant to treatment cycles consisting of disinfection, pre-sterilization cleaning and sterilization. Blades for kitchen, tourist and folding knives made of 420 mod steel can be processed even in water that contains chlorine ions.
The hardness of steel for knives of the brand 420 mod on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 57 - 59.
An analogue of steel for 420 mod knives in other countries: 50X14MF (Russia), SUS420J2 (Japan), X45CrMoV15 / 1.4034 (Germany), 10C29 (Sweden).
Manufacturer of steel for 420 mod knives: Crusible Metals (USA).
Manufacturers of 420 mod steel knives and blades: Cold Steel, Kershaw.
Steel 440 A. This alloy is a steel with the highest degree of resistance to corrosion, which is important in the production of blades for kitchen, folding, collectible and tourist knives. However, the composition of the chemical elements included in the alloy reduces the mechanical properties of steel and reduces the wear resistance of blades and tools made from it. 440A is an air-hardened stainless steel commonly referred to as surgical steel. In fairness, it should be noted that the very good resistance to corrosion, due to which steel 440A is used in knives for scuba divers. 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.
The hardness of steel for knives grade 440 A on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 55 - 57.
An analogue of steel for knives of grade 440 A in other countries: 75X18 (Russia), AUS-6 (Japan), X55CrMo14 / 1.4110 (Germany), 12C27, AEB-L (Sweden).
Manufacturer of 440 A knife steel: Crusible Metals (USA), Takefu (Japan).
Manufacturers of 440 A steel knives and blades: SOG, Gerber.
Steel 440 B. Fairly good stainless steel for the production of blades for kitchen, folding, collectible and tourist knives, but, unfortunately, rather capricious in hardening and processing. Reputable manufacturers have high hardness, while being 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 chip out portions of the blade. With prolonged contact with moisture, kitchen, folding, collection and tourist knives, and even more so with salt, corrosion may slightly appear on them. Given the above, this is one of the best steels in the knife industry, which is used by both large manufacturers and respected private craftsmen.
The hardness of steel for knives grade 440 B on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 57 - 59.
An analogue of steel for knives of grade 440 B in other countries: 95X18SH (Russia), AUS-8 (Japan), X90CrMoV18 / 1L4112 (Germany), 123C26 (Sweden).
Manufacturer of 440 B knife steel: Crusible Metals (USA), Takefu (Japan).
Manufacturers of 440 B steel knives and blades: 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, outdoor and folding knives, until it was replaced by new expensive high-tech alloys. But it is still a very popular and worthy knife material for making blades. 440 C is a fairly hard steel, knives made of it cut perfectly and do not dull for a long time, but corrosion may occur with prolonged contact with moisture and / or salt. It is a very good blade material for kitchen, camping and folding knives when processed correctly. However, it is worth noting that 440 C steel from Spanish manufacturers is often softer than even 440 A from other Europeans.
The hardness of steel for knives grade 440 C on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 58 - 60.
Similar to 440 C knife steel in other countries: 110X18 (Russia), SUS440C (Japan), X105CrMo17/1.4125 (Germany), 19C27 (Sweden).
Manufacturer of steel for knives grade 440 C: 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 refers to "spring-spring steels", which are used to create parts and parts of large mechanisms. Russian trains in most cases have springs that are made of steel 75x14MF 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 the low hardness, the blade made of 75x14MF steel is easily edited with musat or a strip of leather. This quality is especially appreciated by chefs and lovers of haute cuisine. Due to the high mechanical strength and toughness, the cutting edge is less chipped and erased during the sharpening process. A kitchen knife made of steel 75x14MF will last more than long time than a classic 440C stainless steel knife.
The hardness of steel for knives grade 75x14MF on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 58-59.
An analogue of steel for knives of grade 75x14MF 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 made of steel grade 75x14MF: Damir Safarov, Gennady Prokopenkov.
Steel 8Cr13MoV. When properly heat treated, this steel has good corrosion resistance and long-term edge retention for your kitchen, outdoor and folding knives. Steel 8Cr13MoV is well balanced in terms of strength, cutting and anti-corrosion properties of blades for knife blades. Great for inexpensive tourist and urban knives with good average performance. This Chinese high carbon medium chromium stainless steel, thanks to its balanced chemical composition cuts perfectly and is quickly restored to factory sharpening. It is a widely used steel for the production of kitchen, travel and folding knives from Western leaders in the art of knifemaking.
8Cr13MoV knife steel manufacturer: 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 qualities with improved anti-corrosion protection.
The hardness of steel for knives of the brand 8Cr14MoV on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 57 - 58.
An analogue of steel for knives of the 8Cr14MoV brand in other countries: 75X14MF (Russia), 445mod (USA), AUS-8 (Japan), X55CrMo14 (Germany), 12C27, 13C26 (Sweden).
8Cr14MoV knife steel manufacturer: Yangjiang Shibazi China.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of 8Cr14MoV steel: Benchmade.
Steel 9Cr13COMoV. This is a Chinese-made stainless steel with a high content of cobalt added to obtain a stronger cutting edge for kitchen, camping or folding knives. It has a high corrosion resistance of a knife or blade blade at a low cost. High-speed steels alloyed with vanadium or cobalt have improved cutting properties of knives for various purposes. Cobalt increases heat resistance, magnetic properties, increases resistance to impact, which improves the tactical performance of the blade. The more cobalt in the alloy, the higher the bending strength of the knife blade or blade and the better the mechanical properties of a kitchen, folding or tourist knife, but with a large amount it reduces the hardness and wear resistance of the alloy.
The hardness of steel for knives of the brand 9Cr13COMoV on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 57 - 58.
9Cr13COMoV knife steel manufacturer: Yangjiang Shibazi China.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of steel grade 9Cr13COMoV: Benchmade.
ACUTO440 steel. 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 craftsmen, 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, ACUTO440 steel contains: Vanadium (V) 0.20, Silicon (Si) 0.50, Manganese (Mn) 0.50, Carbon (C) 1.00, Molybdenum (Mo) 1.40, Chromium (Cr) 17.50.
The hardness of steel for knives of the ACUTO440 brand on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 59 - 61.
ACUTO440 knife steel manufacturer: Japan.
Manufacturers of ACUTO440 steel knives and blades: CRKT Ripple series folding knives, Glestain kitchen knives.
AISI A2 steel. This alloy is a low carbon steel, the designation "A" in the name of which means "austenitic". This steel for the manufacture of blades and knives for various purposes is not hardened, resistant to corrosion, non-magnetic in conditions of weak magnetization (if it has been cold worked). AISI A2 alloy is easy to weld, resistant to intercrystalline corrosion and is excellent for the production of kitchen, folding and outdoor 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 knife art products.
Analogue of steel for AISI A2 brand knives in other countries: 95X5GM (Russia).
AISI A2 knife steel manufacturer: Paxton Vierling (USA).
Manufacturers of knives and blades in AISI A2 steel: Chris Reeves.
Aogami Super Steel is a material related to 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 its "brothers" - Shirogami and Kigami steels, Aogami blade steel is alloyed. Some elements have been 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 blade steel, while very slightly reducing the cutting properties of folding, outdoor and kitchen knives. It is much easier to care for knives made of such steel, and they cut no worse than Shiro Gami and Ki Gami steels.
The hardness of steel for knives of the AOGAMI SUPER brand on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 63 - 65.
AOGAMI SUPER grade knife steel manufacturer: 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 related to 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 steel for Aogami blades are alloyed. Some elements have been 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 blade steel, while very slightly reducing the cutting properties of folding, outdoor and kitchen knives. It is much easier to care for knives made of such steel, and they cut no worse than Shiro Gami and Ki Gami steels.
The hardness of steel for knives of the AOGAMI # 2 brand on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 60 - 62.
AOGAMI #2 knife steel manufacturer: Hitachi Metals, Ltd. Japan.
Manufacturers of AOGAMI #2 steel knives and blades: Moritaka, Takeda, Watanabe, Hiromoto, Masamoto, etc.
Steel ATS-34. This is a very high quality, high carbon stainless steel for knife making. Thanks to the highest Japanese quality, it is considered one of the best steels for the manufacture of elite and collectible knives around the world. Also used for automotive, razor blades, jet turbine blades and metalworking tools.
The hardness of steel for knives of the ATS-34 brand on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 59 - 61.
Analogue of steel for ATS-34 brand knives 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 similar to ATS-34 steel, only with virtually no molybdenum content, which makes steel for kitchen, outdoor and folding knives much cheaper. That is why ATS-55 is so often found in serial models of knives for various purposes, for example, in Spyderco products. 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 this alloy is harder, which affects the tactical properties of blades and knives.
The hardness of steel for knives of the ATS-55 brand on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 60 - 62.
ATS-55 knife steel manufacturer: Hitachi Japan.
Manufacturers of ATS-55 steel knives and blades: 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 stainless and anti-corrosion ability. Ease of processing for the manufacture of blades for camping, kitchen, folding and hunting knives and high cutting performance make the AUS-2 alloy popular among cutting tool manufacturers. AUS-2 grade is also characterized by its ability to hold initial sharpening and low susceptibility to chipping on unexpected impacts, and is most often used as facings on laminates.
The hardness of steel for knives of the AUS-2 brand on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 54 - 58.
AUS-2 grade knife steel manufacturer: Aichi Steel Works (Japan)
Manufacturers of AUS-2 steel knives and blades: Kanetsugu.
AUS-6 steel. It is a corrosion-resistant, Japanese-made chromium steel for making kitchen, camping and folding knives. Steel was originally developed as a knife steel and is very popular in the manufacture of blades for 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 resistance to blade or knife chipping on the other.
The hardness of steel for knives grade AUS-6 on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 56 - 57.
Analogue of steel for AUS-6 brand knives in other countries: 65X13 (Russia), 440A (USA), X55CrMo14 (Germany), AEB-L (Sweden).
AUS-6 knife steel manufacturer: Aichi Steel Works (Japan).
AUS-8 steel. AUS-8 steel was developed as a knife steel 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 close 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)) speeds up its sharpening, for which more brands of abrasives and improvised tools are suitable. The heat treatment of AUS-8 steel is well mastered by the industry, therefore kitchen, tourist and folding knives from it are characterized by high quality and relatively low price.
The hardness of steel for knives grade AUS-8 on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 57 - 59.
An analogue of steel for knives of the AUS-8 brand 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 AUS-8 steel knives and blades: CRKT, Cold Steel, Hattori.
Steel AUS-10. This is an excellent material for the production of blades and knives, it is characterized by high wear resistance, strength and hardness, but is slightly susceptible to corrosion. 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 grades of steel to be combined into one blade. The cutting edge of the blade must be as hard as possible in order to keep sharpening longer and cut and cut efficiently, but if the entire blade were so hard, it could be damaged during combat or work.
The hardness of steel for knives grade AUS-10 on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 59 - 60.
AUS-10 knife steel manufacturer: Japan.
Manufacturers of AUS-10 steel knives and blades: 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. Thin blades of kitchen, tourist and folding knives from it are admired due to their aesthetic beauty and "clean and thin" cutting of the cutting surface, which perfectly keeps sharpening. But the mechanical endurance of a 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 the overall endurance of the tool, especially if the steel has been hardened to a high degree of hardness.
The hardness of steel for knives grade BG-42 on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 61 - 63.
BG-42 knife steel manufacturer: Latrobe Steel (USA).
Manufacturers of BG-42 steel knives and blades: Chris Reeves, Case.
Steel Cobalt (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 closeness was reflected in the era of post-industrial development. Some masters do not even indicate what type of steel was used to create this or that knife. An ordinary Japanese, even if he is a professional chef, is not very interested in such information. Anyone who works professionally with a knife knows many ways to test a knife in action. About the Japanese "cobalt steel" it is only known that it is a high-hard steel, which is used in cases where the tool needs the thinnest and sharpest cutting edge.
The hardness of the "cobalt steel" steel for knives on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 59-62.
Analogue of "cobalt steel" for knives in other countries: no.
Cobalt steel grade knife steel manufacturer: Takefu Special Steel Co.,Ltd.
COWRY X steel. Cowry X is a ductile powder steel for the manufacture of camping, folding and kitchen knives, specially developed by Daido Steel Company using amorphous metal alloy technology for cutting tools. Cowry X steel has an excellent blade or knife cut when properly sharpened and has a high corrosion resistance of the cutting surface of the tool.
The hardness of steel for knives of the COWRY X brand on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 63 - 66.
Manufacturer of steel for COWRY X brand knives: Daido Steel Company.
Manufacturers of COWRY X steel knives and blades: Hattori.
COWRY Y steel. Japanese stainless steel manufactured by Daido Steel Company, used in the knife industry. The increased content of alloying impurities indicates the high hardness and strength of the blade from this steel for the production of kitchen, tourist and folding knives. The blade of a tool made of this alloy will differ in moderate hardness, the blades of knives made from it are very plastic, they do not rust for a long time.
The hardness of steel for knives of the COWRY Y brand on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 61 - 64.
COWRY Y knife steel manufacturer: Daido Steel Company (Japan).
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of COWRY Y steel: Hattori, Koji Hara.
Steel CPM 420V. This steel is made using amorphous metal alloy technology, better known among knife makers and hobbyists under the acronym CPM (Crucible Particle Metallurgy process). Alloy CPM 420V for the production of kitchen, outdoor and folding knives is CPM steel, an analogue of steel 440V, with less chromium and twice the proportion of vanadium, more wear-resistant and possibly more durable than 440V. Steel perfectly holds sharpening (ATS-34 is better), 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 production.
The hardness of steel for knives of the CPM 420V brand on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 58 - 60.
CPM 420V knife steel manufacturer: Crusible Metals (USA).
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of CPM 420V steel: Spyderco.
Steel CPM 440V. This steel is made using amorphous metal alloy technology, better known among knife makers and hobbyists under the acronym CPM (Crucible Particle Metallurgy process). In terms 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 the steel itself, associated with high-tech methods of production, and the high cost of the final product (due to some difficulties in working with such steels), make it suitable for the manufacture of not mass-produced (this position is still rightfully held by 440 and similar steels), but expensive and elite products.
The hardness of steel for knives of the CPM 440V brand on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 56 - 58.
Analogue of steel for knives of the CPM 440V brand in other countries: X230CrVMo14 9 (Germany).
CPM 440V knife steel manufacturer: Crusible Metals (USA).
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of CPM 440V steel: Microtech, Spyderco.
Steel CPM S30V. This steel is made using amorphous metal alloy technology, better known among knife makers and hobbyists under the acronym CPM (Crucible Particle Metallurgy process). CPM S30V was developed specifically to meet the knife industry's need for quality steel with very high (higher than 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).
The hardness of steel for knives of the CPM S30V brand on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 58 - 60.
Analogue of steel for knives of the CPM S30V brand in other countries: X220CrV17 6 (Germany).
CPM S30V knife steel manufacturer: Crusible Metals (USA).
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of CPM S30V steel: Spederco, Microtech, Chris Reeves.
Steel CPM S60V. This steel is made using amorphous metal alloy technology, better known among knife makers and hobbyists under the acronym CPM (Crucible Particle Metallurgy process). This alloy keeps the cutting edge of a kitchen, tourist or folding knife sharp 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 physical properties products from it, namely (in this case) the complexity of sharpening.
The hardness of steel for knives of the CPM S60V brand on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 58 - 60.
CPM S60V knife steel manufacturer: Crusible Metals (USA).
Manufacturers of CPM S60V steel knives and blades: Spyderco.
Steel CPM S90V. This steel is made using amorphous metal alloy technology, better known among knife makers and hobbyists under the acronym CPM (Crucible Particle Metallurgy process). IN this moment is a veteran of the lineup, not inferior to its position 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).
The hardness of steel for knives of the CPM S90V brand on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 56 - 58.
Analogue of steel for knives of the CPM S90V brand in other countries: X230CrVMo14 9 (Germany).
CPM S90V knife steel manufacturer: Crusible Metals (USA).
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of CPM S90V steel: Microtech, Spyderco.
Steel CPM S110V. It's no secret that in terms of creating high-hard 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 (Crucible Particle Metallurgy Process) technology. 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 alloy containing the following alloying elements: niobium, vanadium and molybdenum. All these components are refractory metals of high hardness. Molybdenum allows you to harden the blade to a level of 61-63HRC. Vanadium endows the crystal lattice of the alloy with elasticity and viscosity, as well as resistance to chemically active media. Niobium gives the alloy high resistance to corrosion and pitting. It is worth noting that the combination of these elements gives knives made of CPM S110V steel high performance. The blade is difficult to sharpen, but subsequently, the knife can work for a long time without losing its original sharpness. Due to these characteristics, steel is often used to create author's, custom and small-scale premium-segment knives.
The hardness of steel for knives of the CPM S110V brand on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 60-61.
Similar to CPM S110V knife steel in other countries: CPM S90V (USA).
CPM S110V knife steel manufacturer: Crusible Metals (USA).
Manufacturers of knives and blades from CPM S110V steel: Spyderco, Zero Tolerance.
Steel CPM-154. This steel is made using amorphous metal alloy technology, better known among knife makers and hobbyists under the acronym CPM (Crucible Particle Metallurgy process). CPM 154 is a CPM derivative of the standard Crucible 154 CM for kitchen, outdoor and folding knives. The manufacturing process of CPM is based on the even distribution of carbides in the material, as a result of which blades and blades made of CPM 154 steel are easier to grind and polish. It is also stronger than regular 154CM steel. Compared to 440C steel, CPM 154 steel is more resistant to corrosion, wear-resistant and hard, and also has a higher strength of blades made from it. In the knife industry, it holds blades and knives sharper better and is more resistant to chipping than 440C.
An analogue of steel for knives of the CPM-154 brand in other countries: RWL-34 (Sweden).
CPM-154 knife steel manufacturer: Crusible Metals (USA).
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of CPM-154 steel: Hattori, G-Sakai.
Steel CV-134. High vanadium die steel powder processing for the manufacture of kitchen, tourist and folding knives. Provides a sufficiently 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 hunting knives of high class.
The hardness of steel for knives grade CV-134 on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 62 - 63.
CV-134 knife steel manufacturer: Hitachi Metals, Ltd.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of CV-134 steel: Hattori, G-Sakai.
Steel D-2. D-2 blade steel is sometimes referred to as "semi-stainless". It contains about 12% chromium, which is quite a bit short of the parameters of stainless steel for knives for various purposes. It is the most corrosion-resistant of all carbon greases, and at the same time it perfectly keeps the sharpening of the edge of the blade of a knife or blade. But it is less durable than other steels in this section, and at the same time does not lend itself to the final polishing of the surface of the blade of a kitchen, outdoor or folding knife. It is used by Bob Dozier in the production of knife art.
The hardness of steel for knives grade D 2 on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 57 - 61.
An analogue of steel for knives 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 steel grade D 2: Ontario, Busse, Ka Bar.
Steel DSR1K6. This alloy is a medium carbon high alloy stainless steel with high strength properties. DSR1K6 steel is not prone to chipping during the use of tools made from it. It is easy to edit and sharpen without losing its tactical characteristics. It is mainly intended for the manufacture of linings for multi-layered blades of kitchen, hunting and tourist knives.
The hardness of steel for knives of the DSR1K6 brand on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 57 - 59.
Analogue in the domestic industry: 65X13.
DSR1K6 knife steel manufacturer: Daido steel, Ltd.
Manufacturers of DSR1K6 steel knives and blades: Kanetsugu
Elmax steel. In fact, in composition, this steel for the manufacture of kitchen, outdoor and folding knives is a 3% version of steel 440C, and, in some ways, the predecessor of the M390 and the “grandmother” of Vanax 35. The steel has been on the market for quite some time and is quite popular in the manufacture of blades and blades for knives. In terms of durability, the knife grade is slightly inferior to M390 and roughly corresponds to CPM S30V. A good steel for making knives of medium and slightly higher grades.
The hardness of steel for knives of the Elmax brand on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 60.
Elmax knife steel manufacturer: Uddeholm.
GIN-1 steel. Gingami steel 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 sharpness for a long time. The name change was made in the late 90s, due to the availability of the G-2 plastic of the same name on the North American market. This stainless steel for knife making is easy to sharpen and long lasting. GIN-1 is most often used in the manufacture of Japanese kitchen knives and knives for yachtsmen, fishermen and divers due to its high degree of corrosion resistance.
GIN-1 knife steel manufacturer: Japan.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of GIN-1 steel: Benchmade, Spyderco.
Gokunan steel. The soft, pliable and easy-to-work steel that is typically used to make Japanese laminate knives is also known as Gokunan-Tetsu and Gokunan-Koh. Most often, Gokunan steel is used as a soft center layer in harder metal linings. Many traditional Japanese knives (kiridashi and higonokami) are made using this technology. The soft layer provides fast sharpening and precise cuts, while the harder metal plates protect the cutting edge from damage. Quite often when creating covers, traditional 410 stainless steel is used with Gokunan. It can also be used vice versa, as soft facings of the central hard layer of steel in a package.
The full 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. H-1 steel is a unique phenomenon in the global 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 is highly resistant to corrosion and is ideal for using blades made from it in salt water. The production of H-1 steel uses virtually no carbon. Instead, hardening is carried out with liquid nitrogen at a temperature of -80°C. Knives made from these steels boast high cutting performance and the ability to hold sharpening for a long time. H-1 is quite difficult to process and quite expensive, therefore it is used relatively rarely, most often in the manufacture of professional knives for yachtsmen, sailors and divers.
The hardness of steel for knives grade H-1 on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 58 - 60.
H 1 knife steel manufacturer: Benchmade.
Manufacturers of H-1 steel knives and blades: Benchmade, Spyderco.
Steel HAP 40. This steel belongs to a rare type of semi-stainless steel powder, which combines the high corrosion resistance of stainless steels and the ease of dressing and sharpening of the cutting edge of high-carbon steels. The manufacturer positions HAP 40 as one of the best modern steels for creating high-quality kitchen knives. Kitchen knives made from this steel are known for their extremely sharp cutting edge for a remarkably long time. When working on products of medium and high hardness, no jamming is formed on the cutting edge.
The hardness of steel for knives of the HAP 40 brand on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 65-66.
HAP 40 blade steel manufacturer: Hitachi Metals.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of HAP 40 steel: Gihei-hamono.
Steel HAP 72. This alloy is a high-speed Japanese steel for the manufacture of kitchen, tourist and folding knives of increased hardness. The steel has a high wear resistance among high-alloy knife steels. The peculiarity of this steel is excellent grinding ability, dimensional stability during heat treatment, high strength of blades and knives made from it, and high resistance to abrasion. It is mainly used for the manufacture of cutting tools that require, among their tactical characteristics, high strength of the cutting surface.
The hardness of steel for knives of the HAP 72 brand on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 69 - 72.
HAP 72 blade steel manufacturer: Hitachi Metals.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of HAP 72 steel: Katsumi Kitano.
HELLE HCS steel.
The hardness of steel for HELLE HCS knives on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, 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, shock-resistant, in addition, the 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 is collaborating with Stratcor. The main secret of knife steel, of course, is not in this, but in heat treatment technology. But it is classified and is carried out exclusively by the Busse company itself.
The hardness of steel for INFI knives on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 58 - 60.
INFI knife steel manufacturer: Busse.
Manufacturers of INFI steel knives and blades: Busse Combat.
Steel Kigami (Kigami "Yellow Paper"). Japanese Kigami steel (the so-called "Yellow Paper") is a high-strength and wear-resistant high-carbon alloy of one of the leading knife steel manufacturers 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.
The hardness of steel for Kigami brand knives on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): up to 62.
Manufacturer of steel for Kigami brand knives: Hitachi Metals (Japan).
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of Kigami steel: Masahiro, Tojiro.
Steel M390. It is a high-tech alloy created with the cooperation of Swedish and German metallurgists. Refers to powder alloys of the latest generation. During smelting, liquid metal is fed into the molds under high pressure, which ensures a high uniformity of the structure. To create steel, microgranules are used, which become part of the crystal lattice. Due to technological features, the alloy acquires high hardness and elasticity. The presence of vanadium and molybdenum in the composition of the alloy allows thermal hardening up to 60-62HRC. Steel was created specifically for the needs of the knife industry, great importance high corrosion resistance and ability to withstand strong shock loads. Recommended applications for M390 steel: premium folding and fixed knives, professional kitchen and chef's knives, gift and author's knives.
The hardness of steel for knives of the M390 brand on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 60-62 HRC.
M390 knife steel manufacturer: Böhler - Uddeholm AG, Sweden.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of 1M390 steel: Microtech, Benchmade, Lion Steel, Damir Safarov.
Steel MARSS 500
MARSS 500 knife steel manufacturer: Uddeholm Sweden.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of MARSS 500 steel: Lauri.
Steel MBS-26. This alloy is Masahiro's "proprietary" steel, for which Masahiro 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 perfectly polished. Steel perfectly perceives the sharpening of the cutting edge of the knife and has a high wear resistance of the blade blade. Remarkably holds the sharpening of the cutting edge, in terms of its cutting properties it approaches 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 knives of the MBS-26 brand on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 58 - 60.
MBS-26 knife steel manufacturer: Masahiro (Japan).
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of MBS-26 steel: Masahiro, Spyderco.
Steel MRS-30. This is a high-carbon molybdenum-vanadium stainless steel, developed by Daido Steel in 1965, on the personal order of the then president of Masahiro, specifically for the production of knives. The development took about five years, 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 perceives sharpening and has high wear resistance. In terms of its cutting properties, it approaches 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).
Manufacturers of MRS-30 steel knives and blades: Masahiro.
Molybdenum Vanadium steel. This alloy is a high-carbon martensitic (forged or rolled) high-strength chromium alloy with molybdenum and vanadium alloying additions. Molybdenum-vanadium steel is characterized by high corrosion resistance (stainless steel), high hardness, low susceptibility to oxidation by aggressive environments and stability of the original color. Cutting products made of molybdenum-vanadium alloy, whether it is a tourist, kitchen, hunting or folding knife or blade, have the properties to keep sharpening longer, retain 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.
The cutting tool, made from a forged molybdenum-vanadium alloy, is produced using a single piece of steel and processed by several large tonnage hammers at once. Among the advantages of forged molybdenum-vanadium steel, one can note a greater density, and, as a result, increased strength of the resulting steel. Thickening at the base of the blade, which have knives and blades made of forged steel, give them additional rigidity, strength and resistance to bending. Professional cooks and hunters prefer such knives and blades due to their durability and tactical characteristics. The heat treatment of the blades is carried out in two stages - the steel undergoes a hardening process and becomes much harder. This is followed by tempering, which eliminates internal stresses arising in the structure of the metal, and reduces the brittleness of steel.
Cutting tools, knives and blades made by the stamped method were inferior to forged cutlery only until recently. Appearance 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, stamped tools made of molybdenum-vanadium steel are ergonomic due to the lower weight of knife blades and blades made from it.
The hardness of molybdenum-vanadium steel for knives on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, 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. This is a martensitic, cobalt-alloyed steel for knife production, produced by the Austrian corporation Bohler-Uddeholm. The addition of cobalt makes the alloy structure for blades and knives uniform, and this is also facilitated by the unique technology of rolling steel sheets in the longitudinal and transverse directions. Alloy for making knives has excellent cutting properties, excellent resistance to impact loads, and excellent sharpening. The composition of this steel approximately corresponds to 440C, but contains more molybdenum and cobalt. It is sometimes referred to as Austrian 440C or Austrian cobalt stainless steel for blades. It has very high corrosion resistance and can be hardened to high levels on the Rockwell scale up to 60 HRC. It is considered a good steel for outdoor long lengths and tactical knives, which need to have not only a stable edge, but also the ability to withstand shock and side loads (turning and breaking).
Manufacturer of steel for knives grade N 690: Bohler Austria.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of steel grade N 690: Benchmade, Extreme Ratio.
Steel N690Co. For anyone who is even slightly familiar with chemistry, the "Co" sign in the name of the alloy indicates that this alloy contains cobalt - a rare metal of a dirty silver color, which is used to alloy 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 up to 60-62 HRC and at the same time remains highly hard. Knives made of this steel can withstand the load of fracture and twisting well. Such properties make this steel suitable for making survival and tactical knives. In terms of its other characteristics, the steel is close to traditional 440C stainless steel.
The hardness of steel for knives of the brand 420 mod on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 59-60.
Analogue of steel for knives of the N690Co brand in other countries: 440С (Japan).
N690Co knife steel manufacturer: Bohler-Uddeholm (Austria).
Manufacturers of N690Co knives and blades: Benchmade, Boker, Ontario.
Steel O-1. A very popular type of steel with blacksmiths and makers of kitchen, outdoor and folding knives, it has a reputation for being "generous, indulgent". An excellent steel that perfectly perceives and holds the burnishing of the blades and knives, and at the same time has a high tensile strength. However, it is subject to rapid corrosion. Despite the low cost, it is distinguished by the high strength of the blades made from it.
The hardness of steel for knives grade O-1 on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 60.
O-1 steel knife and blade manufacturers: Randall, Mad Dog.
Steel R2. Among the many technological secrets that knife makers hide from each other, as a rule, the main secret is the composition of steel, the process of its creation and the method of its hardening. 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 the right is registered with the patent office. If another manufacturer needs a similar steel, then he slightly changes the composition of the original steel and receives a product that is close in characteristics. In Japan, things are different. If any master manages to achieve the ideal (in his opinion) steel composition, 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 steel foundry, lack of a chemical laboratory, etc.), he enters into an agreement with the steel company, and this secret is passed down from generation to generation and belongs only to his family or trusted persons.
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 that this is powder steel. Some models use Damascus steel facings made from Japanese 420J2 steel.
Those who have the knives of these masters unanimously assert that the blades have amazing sharpness, are not subject to corrosion and retain sharpening 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 composition of R2 steel, 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 - hardening stainless steel (martensite) for the production of blades and knives. RWL-34 steel is a powder steel, it differs in that it is produced without a casting process, but with a sintering process, which allows you to create a blade that is ideal for cutting. RWL-34 is very popular with knife manufacturers, because with high hardness it is well processed and polished, blades made of such steel are not subject to corrosion, and the cutting edge keeps sharpening perfectly during operation.
The hardness of steel for knives of the RWL 34 brand on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 60 - 61.
An analogue of steel for knives of the RWL 34 brand in other countries: 100X15M (Russia), 154CM (USA), ATS-34 (Japan), X110CrMoV15 / 1.1411 (Germany).
RWL 34 knife steel manufacturer: Damasteel Sweden.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of RWL 34 steel: Eklund.
Shirogami steel. It is a high carbon unalloyed blade steel for 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 "golden" steels with a high degree of purification and the simplest composition that came from ancient times. Hitachi Metals currently has several types of Shiro Gami in its working range, 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 this cut to be a reference. Like all carbon steels, Shiro Gami is not resistant to corrosion and requires careful maintenance.
The hardness of steel for Shirogami brand knives on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 62 - 64.
Shirogami knife steel manufacturer: Hitachi Japan.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of Shirogami steel: Kasumi, Saji, Tojiro.
SILVER STEEL
The hardness of steel for knives of the SILVER STEEL brand on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 61 - 62.
SILVER STEEL knife steel manufacturer: Piter Stub Germany.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of SILVER STEEL steel: Kainuun, Kellam Knives.
Steel SK-4. This Japanese tool steel is the equivalent of American 1095 steel and German W.Nr 1.1274 used for the production of kitchen, folding and outdoor knives. This knife making steel can have a hardness of up to 65 HRc, and contains a mixture of carbon in martensites with some dissolved cementites. Increasing the content of cementite in steel increases its resistance to abrasion and allows you to achieve the perfect balance between high strength characteristics of the blade and a high degree of sharpness 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.
SK-4 grade knife steel manufacturer: JFE Steel Japan.
Manufacturers of SK-4 steel knives and blades: SOG, Cold Steel, Fujiwara Kanefusa.
Steel SK-5. This Japanese tool steel is the equivalent of American 1084 steel and German W.Nr 1.1269 used for kitchen, folding and outdoor knives. This knife making steel can have a hardness of up to 65 HRc, and contains a mixture of carbon in martensites with some dissolved cementites. Increasing the content of cementite in steel increases its resistance to abrasion and allows you to achieve the perfect balance between high strength characteristics of the blade and a high degree of sharpness 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.
SK-5 grade knife steel manufacturer: 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 occurs 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, less prone to brittleness. The latter factor is especially important, as it allows you to sharpen the knife to a sharper angle, while the cutting edge does not crumble during operation. Kitchen knives are made using SG2 steel with laminated carbon steel sheaths.
The hardness of steel for knives grade SG2 on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 60-64.
Alternative steel for SG2 knives in other countries: no
SG2 grade knife steel manufacturer: Takefu Special Steel Co.,Ltd (Japan).
Manufacturers of SG2 steel knives and blades: Ryusen Hamono Co., Ltd (Japan), Kai Industries Co., Ltd (Japan).
Steel SUJ-2. This is a Japanese structural steel, which is widely used in the production of various types of bearings. Moreover, all bearing elements are made of this steel: rolling balls, separators and guides. This type of steel is especially widely used in the production of needle type bearings. This steel in its composition and characteristics is an analogue of the Russian steel ШХ15. With the addition of alloying elements, it can be used for operation at high temperatures and in aggressive chemical environments. Traditionally used by Japanese knifemakers to create knives for use in conditions where maximum reliability is required. Steel is susceptible to corrosion, so knives made of steel require some care.
The hardness of steel for knives of the SUJ-2 brand on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - a diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 59-60.
Manufacturer of steel for SUJ-2 brand 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 provides products made from it with high strength. A feature of this steel is increased resistance to chemically active substances (acids, alkalis), due to which products 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. Used to create food equipment, production and storage tanks alcoholic beverages. SUS304 is used to make knives, cutlery and kitchen accessories.
The hardness of steel for knives of the brand SUS 304 on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 70.
An analogue of steel for knives of the SUS 304 brand in other countries: AISI 304 (USA), 08X18H10 (Russia), PN 86020 (Poland).
Manufacturers of SUS 304 knives and blades: Del Ben.
Steel SUS 405. Multilayer laminated steel SUS 405 is an analogue of 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 energy. Turbine parts, highly reliable bearings and medical instruments are made from this steel.
The hardness of steel for knives of the brand SUS 405 on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 63-64.
SUS 405 grade knife steel manufacturer: Haihong International Trade (HK) CO., Limited.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of SUS 405 steel: G.Sakai, Takeda Hamono.
Swedish steel. Swedish steel Swedish steel is a high-strength and wear-resistant high-carbon alloy of one of the leading manufacturers SSAB Swedish Steel LLP (SSAB Svedish Steel LLP), LLP. This steel has been produced and supplied to the world's production facilities for the manufacture of knife art for more than 20 years. Swedish steel's main brands are Hardox wear-resistant steel, Weldox high-strength structural steel and Domex hot-rolled steel. In the knife industry, the Swedish steel brand Hardox is mainly used, which has proven itself due to its increased strength characteristics combined with high ductility. The unique combination of stable and high hardness, strength and excellent toughness makes Hardox material in demand for the production of tourist, kitchen, folding and hunting knives and blades.
The hardness of steel for knives of the Hardox Swedish steel brand on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 58 - 62.
Producer of hardox Swedish steel knife steel: SSAB Swedish Steel LLP (SSAB Svedish Steel LLP), TOO
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of Hardox Swedish steel: Misono
Steel UHB 17VA
UHB 17VA knife steel manufacturer: Uddeholm Sweden.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of UHB 17VA steel: Lauri.
Steel UHB ELMAX
Analogue of steel for knives of the UHB ELMAX brand in other countries: X190CrMo17.3 (Germany).
UHB ELMAX knife steel manufacturer: Uddeholm Sweden.
UHC steel. This is a modified high-carbon steel for the production of knives with a minimum (or no) additives, an analogue of steel grade 1095. With the help of a specialized technological process increase the carbon content in steel. The negative point is the fragility of the blade blade. Carbon steel has found use in the manufacture of hunting knives, machetes and swords. Carbon steels are easier to sharpen, but because of 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. At the factory, carbon steel knives intended for export are usually coated with oil to prevent rust.
The hardness of steel for knives of the UHC brand on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 64 - 66.
Manufacturer of steel for knives of the UHC brand: Thissen Krupp Germany.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of UHC steel: Roselli.
Steel UX10. Developed by Misono, UX10 steel is an alloy that combines the physical characteristics of both carbon and stainless steel for the production of outdoor, kitchen, hunting and folding knives. The alloy was based on high-quality Swedish carbon steel (Sweden steel), which included additives (for example, 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 fine cutting, high corrosion resistance, low maintenance and excellent ability to maintain the hardness of the cutting edge when re-sharpened. Also, knives and blades made of this steel are distinguished by a combination of the highest tactical characteristics of the alloy blade of the blade with the practicality of daily use.
Steel V-Toku#2. 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 produced commercially. Belongs to the type of alloy steels with an average content of chromium and vanadium. Created by some blacksmith shops in Japan when making a professional wood carving tool. The softness of this type of steel makes it possible to create a thin and sharp cutting edge on the tool, which allows you to create the finest patterns on soft wood. One of the few brands on the Russian market is Hiro Knives Co., Ltd, which produces a woodcarving set of 9 traditional knives. The cutter blades are made of V-Toku#2 high carbon steel. The most widespread in Japan, has no direct analogues in other countries.
Manufacturers of V-Toku#2 steel knives and blades: Hiro Knives Co.
Steel Vg-1
The hardness of steel for knives grade Vg 1 on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 58 - 59.
Vg 1 knife steel manufacturer: 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., which has the properties of high corrosion resistance. It is mainly intended for the manufacture of facings for multi-layered blades of kitchen knives.
The hardness of steel for knives grade Vg-2 on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 56 - 57.
Vg-2 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 No. 10) - alloyed with cobalt and molybdenum, high-carbon corrosion-resistant steel for knife production. 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. Its composition is intermediate 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 tougher.
VG-10 knife steel manufacturer: 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 with an effective hardness of 59-62HRC. The carbon content in the alloy ranges from 0.7 to 0.8%. Carbon steel has found application in the manufacture of hunting knives, machetes and swords. Carbon steels are easier to sharpen, but because of 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. At the factory, carbon steel knives intended for export are usually coated with oil to prevent rust.
The hardness of steel for knives grade W 75 on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 59 - 62.
Manufacturer of steel for knives brand W 75: Thissen Krupp Germany.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of W 75 steel: Roselli.
Steel ZA-18. This alloy is a Japanese alloy designed and manufactured by Aichi Steel on special order from Kanetsugu. Steel ZA-18 is an improved analogue of the well-known knife alloy VG-10. 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 tougher.
The hardness of steel for knives of the brand ZA-18 on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 60 - 61.
ZA-18 knife steel manufacturer: Daido steel, Ltd.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of ZA-18 steel: Kanetsugu
Steel ZDP-189. Powder steel ZDP-189 - high-chromium, ultra-high-carbon tool steel of the highest category, manufactured by Hitachi Metals Corporation (Japan). Developed on the basis of amorphous metal alloy technology, it is used for making knives. Allows very high hardness (up to HRc 69). Due to the presence of three percent carbon in the alloy, it should be considered cast iron, however, classifiers classified it as high-carbon steel due to modern powder technologies that were used in the production of ZDP-189. After 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 was very brittle and the cutting edge was constantly chipped.
The hardness of steel for knives of the ZDP-189 brand on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - a diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 69.
ZDP-189 knife steel manufacturer: Hitachi Metals.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of ZDP-189 steel: Kitano, Sanetu, Konosuke-Sakai, etc.
Steel 100 X13M. Alloy stainless steel of domestic production, used for the production of tourist, kitchen and folding knives. Steel grade 100X13M was originally developed as a steel for cutting tools (it was put into production on 01/01/1981, the 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 such material achieves an excellent combination of cutting and strength properties, corrosion resistance and the possibility of sharpening at home.
Manufacturer of steel for knives grade 100 X13M: ZMZ (Russia).
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of steel grade 100 X13M: Zlatko.
Steel 110 Kh18MShD. This high chromium tool steel is used in special purpose bearings and critical surgical instruments due to its high strength and wear resistance requirements. It is an expensive and labor-intensive steel, 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 knife steels. The main element of steel is chromium. It increases 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 grade 110 X18MShD on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 58 - 61.
Manufacturer of steel for knives brand 110 H18MShD: Russia.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of steel grade 110 H18MShD: Ros Arms.
Steel 50X14MF. 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, it is subject to increased requirements for strength and corrosion resistance. Steel for knife production is smelted in open electric arc and induction furnaces or in vacuum induction furnaces, followed by vacuum arc remelting.
The hardness of steel for knives grade 50X14MF on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 55 - 58.
An analogue of steel for knives of the brand 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 made of steel grade 50X14MF: Kizlyar, NOKS.
Steel 65 X13. One of the most popular blade materials is 65X13 steel. Its original purpose is a cutting tool, kitchen knives, saws, removable blades, scalpels, razor blades. Since scalpels and other medical instruments are often made from it, it is also often called "medical". It was developed a very long time ago and, probably, no longer fully meets the modern requirements for cutlery. However, this is an inexpensive stainless steel that does not require serious maintenance, is relatively easy to sharpen and keeps sharpening blades and knife blades well. In general - a fairly good option for an inexpensive working and gift knife. With proper heat treatment, it has a hardness of 56-58 HRC, and with proper sharpening of the blade, it has good cutting properties and wear resistance.
The hardness of steel for knives grade 65 X13 on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 56 - 58.
An analogue of steel for knives of grade 65 X13 in other countries: 440A (USA), AUS6 (Japan), X55CrMo14 (Germany), AEB-L (Sweden).
Manufacturer of steel for knives grade 65 X13: Russia.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of steel grade 65 X13: Kizlyar, SARO, SSO.
Steel 770
An analogue of steel for knives of grade 770 in other countries: 65G (Russia).
Manufacturer of 770 knife steel: Uddeholm Sweden.
Manufacturers of 770 steel knives and blades: Eriksson, Frost.
Steel 95X18. 95X18 - high-alloy stainless steel for knife production, with high hardness, cutting edge resistance, moderate corrosion resistance. According to the complex of its physical, chemical and mechanical properties, steel 95X18 is considered one of the best materials for the manufacture of bladed weapons. Steel is quite difficult in the production of knives. Requires strict observance of the modes of mechanical and heat treatment, is expensive and time-consuming in processing. Subject to technology, it has a high hardness of 60-62 HRC, while being 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 are exposed to moderate aggressive environments.
The hardness of steel for knives grade 95 X18 on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 57 - 60.
Manufacturer of steel for knives brand 95 X18: Russia.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of 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, camping or folding knives. Steel R6M5 basically replaced steel R18, R12 and R9 and found application in the processing of non-ferrous alloys, cast iron, carbon and alloy steels, as well as some heat-resistant and corrosion-resistant steels.
The hardness of steel for knives grade R6M5 on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 63 - 65.
Manufacturer of steel for knives grade R6M5: 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 matrices during molding sheet metal, reference gears, knurling dies, dies, dies and punches for cutting punched dies with a complex configuration of working parts and forging the active part of electrical machines. Also, X12MF steel has proven itself well in the manufacture of blades for knives. Unpretentious, but easy-to-use steel for the manufacture of knife tools.
The hardness of steel for knives of the X12MF brand on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 60 - 62.
An analogue of steel for knives of the X12MF 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. For critical parts of instruments and machines, in some cases, hardened steels with high hardness, hardened by martensitic transformation, are used; this alloy belongs to such steels. Repeated cold treatment, alternating with tempering, improves the resistance to microplastic deformation and dimensional stability of hardened high-carbon steel for the production of kitchen, outdoor and folding knives.
The hardness of steel for knives of the ShKh15 brand on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - a diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 59 - 61.
An analogue of steel for knives of the ShKh15 brand in other countries: 52100 (USA).
Manufacturer of steel for knives of the ShKh15 brand: Russia.
Manufacturers of knives and blades made of steel grade ShKh15: Kizlyar.
Steel 100CrMo7. High-strength bearing steel that is used to make balls and rollers for bearings big size. Unlike similar chromium-plated steels, it has a high resistance to long-term mechanical stress and a low temporary fatigue threshold. It is not prone to tempering during prolonged heating, it is poorly subjected to zone hardening. Has high hardness, not plastic. In the process of smelting, steel acquires a bainitic structure, which provides it with high strength and toughness.
The hardness of steel for knives grade 100CrMo7 on the Rockwell scale (HRC, itdentor - diamond cone with an angle of 120⁰ at the top, load 150 kgf): 59 -65.
An analogue of steel for knives of the 100CrMo7 brand in other countries: K19965 (USA), SUJ5 (Japan), 100CrMo7-3 (England, France, Italy), 1.3536 (Germany).
100CrMo7 knife steel manufacturer: LongHal Steel (China), Takefu Special Steel Co.,Ltd. (Japan)
Zirconium ceramics (Nanoceramics, English Nanoceramics). Zirconium ceramics is one of the types of materials that are better known in Russia under the term "nanoceramics". Chief developer and manufacturer various types nanoceramics in Russia is the state corporation "Rosnano". Nanoceramics include non-metallic materials that are obtained from powders with a microstructure by high-temperature sintering or high-temperature molding. There are three basic 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 in jewelry and medical applications. In the mid-80s of the last century, the Japanese company Kyocera produced a trial batch of zirconium ceramic knives.
There are two types of zirconia knives: white and black ceramic. White ceramics are obtained 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 ceramic is more resistant to mechanical damage.
It is not surprising that it was the Japanese masters, with their eternal desire to search for the best material for knife blades, were pioneers in this matter. Any steel, even with the highest corrosion resistance, begins to lose its stainless properties during long-term use, and eventually begins to enter into chemical reactions with products. The result is an unpleasant smell or bitter taste in products.
Japanese, National cuisine which consists of a large number dishes without heat treatment are very sensitive to such things. The main and main advantage of knives made of zirconium ceramics is the complete absence of taste and smell in this type of material.
The second important aspect of using ceramic knives is their incredible sharpness and high edge durability. With proper and careful use, a high-quality ceramic knife needs to be sharpened about once every few months. While the knife is made of stainless steel, with regular use you have to sharpen it 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, subjected to a strong blow, or when working on frozen food. When choosing a ceramic knife, keep this in mind and be careful.
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4 173Digging dug and dug. In general, I found an interesting, in my opinion, article. I think she will fit in here. Because there was no such review. If you missed something and this has already happened, well, .. either pair it or demolish it. :)
Types and grades of popular steels
I Types and grades of popular steels
Production and art knife industry constantly evolving and bringing its own adjustments to our lives. Nobody is surprised by a stainless steel knife. At that time, when being a little hooligan, I could not imagine a knife that would not rust from an apple cut by it. But life goes on, science develops, and some types and grades of steel on knives are replaced by others. Depending on the purpose, complexity of production and pricing policy, the steel manufacturer 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 and limited versions of produced knives.
Here I must make a reservation for sophisticated readers, who will certainly be ready to embark on an argument with me about the pricing of specific steel grades. The types of materials are divided by me very conditionally to indicate certain price limits for knives, and are rather informative for the convenience of orienting an inexperienced buyer.
Before beginning an overview of the steels themselves, one should understand the chemical composition and the influence of individual elements on physical characteristics.
Carbon(C) - the most important element in steel, it increases its strength, without enough 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 stainless steel of any brand.
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 the occurrence of steel brittleness, allows you to maintain strength at high temperatures. It also increases corrosion resistance, strength, hardness, hardenability, toughness and promotes better machinability,
Nickel(Ni) - improves strength, toughness and corrosion resistance.
Silicon(Si) - increases the strength and wear resistance of steel. Like manganese, it makes steel more stable and durable.
Vanadium(V) - forms the structure of carbides in such a way as to increase wear resistance, durability and hardenability.
It 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 sharpened. Due to its high corrosion resistance, it is often used in the manufacture of scuba diving knives. Often used for very inexpensive knives; except for use in salt water conditions, too soft to make a functional blade. Almost all Chinese “noname” knives are made from it, which brought her notoriety. Indeed, in the "eastern" version, this is a low-quality material, according to its characteristics, it is closer to our "kitchen" 40X12. In the "western" version, 420th 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 of good manufacturers from 420 steel, are more hard and accurate. Of particular note is the American quality of the knives made of 420 steel. Along with almost souvenir items from United Cuttlery, SOG and Buck make excellent knives from 420 steel with a blade hardness up to 57 HRs, and at the same time the blade is often quite thin and elastic. This once again confirms the position that high-quality hardening and processing is often more important than the grade (chemical composition) of steel. Knives made of 420 steel 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 420th steel with all the ensuing consequences.
420HC(High Carbone - "high-carbon") One of the popular alloys used for mass production of knives in last years. Many well-known manufacturers prefer this steel because of its low cost, ease of processing, sufficient strength for an average knife, and good anti-corrosion survivability. Steel 420HC holds the cutting edge well, but needs to be sharpened from time to time, yielding in this to higher grade steels, it is easy to sharpen the knife from it.
420J2 Japanese steel, used for a long time in the manufacture of knives by various companies. Due to its affordability, ease of processing and significant distribution, knife manufacturers use it both on its own and as part of composite alloys, where 420J2 acts as a lining, enclosing 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 resist corrosion well, with 440A the best and 440C 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, they will certainly indicate this. The general feeling is that 440A steel (and similar) is good enough for everyday use, especially when it is well-hardened (there are many good reviews about 440A steel hardening by SOG). The 440B version can be called an intermediate option, and 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 puukko knives, Swedish Mora Of Sweden knives, and 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 molybdenum, phosphorus, silicon and sulphur, which has exceptional corrosion resistance, excellent strength and wear resistance. Quite common in the production of Swedish knives "Mora Of Sweden".
1095 It is used most often for clumsy knives (fixed). If you line up the grades in order from 1095 to 1050, in general, we can say that as the number decreases, the amount of carbon in the steel decreases, it keeps the blade sharper worse and becomes more viscous. Therefore, most often grades 1060 and 1050 are used to make swords. For knives, 1095 is considered the "standard" carbon steel grade, not the most expensive and yet good qualities. Also, this brand has sufficient rigidity and holds sharpening very well, but it rusts easily. This is a simple steel grade containing, in addition to iron, one or two more elements - about 0.95 carbon and sometimes about 0.4% manganese.
9Cr13CoMoV Made in China stainless steel with a high 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, increases impact resistance. The more cobalt in the alloy, the higher the bending strength and better mechanical properties, but with a large amount of cobalt, the hardness and wear resistance of the alloy decrease. Of those used in knives, VG-10 and N690 steels contain about 1.5% cobalt.
8Cr13MoV Chinese steel, characteristic of Spyderco's Byrd line of knives. This is a steel with a fairly high content of carbon, chromium, vanadium and molybdenum, it keeps sharpening well and at the same time it is easy to sharpen.
8Cr14MoV Chinese steel, similar to the previous one, including the chemical composition. The presence in it of a greater amount of chromium than in 8Cr13MoV allows it to combine the same cutting and strength qualities with improved corrosion protection.
TO popular steels, medium price category, include the following stamps:
3Cr13 Chinese stainless steel, which is a modified 440A steel hardened to approximately 57 HRC. Thanks to elevated content carbon, 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 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 the strength of ATS-34, many note its outstanding wear resistance. Also, some manufacturers label AUS-8 as AUS-8A, but there are no real differences. AUS-10 steel has a slightly higher carbon content, but contains less chromium, so it is slightly less corrosion resistant, but harder. All of these steels contain up to a quarter 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 Good domestic stainless steel, but there is a blessing in disguise - it is rather capricious in hardening and processing. With proper heat treatment, it has high hardness, good flexibility and sufficient strength. A knife made of this material is not as easy to sharpen well 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. Import analogue 440C steel is considered. 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 hygiene requirements (for the manufacture of medical equipment, this steel is an excellent choice 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 edge resistance. Cutting edge resistance in cutting tests exceeded those of blades made from 420 and 440 series stainless steels. Other alloying elements used in the manufacture of 4116 Krupp, help to increase the strength of the blades and allow you to make them thinner without losing strength properties.Composition: 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 1055 carbon steel 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 carbon and manganese content makes it possible to achieve a hardness of the alloy between Rc 60-64, depending on the exact carbon content. The combination of a number of factors during production made it possible to make one of the most complex steels, while it has enough martensite, without excess carbides. This steel is especially suitable for those jobs where strength and toughness are valued 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 manganese between 0.60%-0.90%. This steel can have a hardness up to 65 Rc, and contains a mixture of carbon in martensites with some dissolved cementites. Increasing the content of cementite in steel increases its resistance to abrasion and allows you to achieve the perfect balance between high strength characteristics of the blade and a high degree of sharpness 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 are approaching the steels used on more expensive knives and limited editions.
Premium (top) steels:
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 grades of steel to be combined into one blade. An easy way to think of this type of construction is to think of a sandwich: meat in the center, hard steel with a high content and pieces of bread on both sides - strips of steel with a lower carbon content. The cutting edge of the blade must be as hard as possible in order to keep sharpening longer and cut and cut efficiently, but if the entire blade were so hard, it could be damaged during combat or work with side loads. To give the blade additional strength, flexibility and resistance to corrosion, additional, “softer” steel linings 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 developed by Takefu Special Steel Co., Ltd. (Japan) for the needs of the knife industry. 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, as a rule, are 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 rollers, dies and punches used in the manufacture of blades. Non-toxic, non-magnetic, non-hardenable, corrosion resistant steel. Easy to weld without becoming 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. The ATS-34 is a product of the Japanese corporation Hitachi and is very close to 154CM in terms of performance. These grades are typically hardened to 60 HRc and are stable at this hardness while maintaining high rigidity, but they are not as rust resistant as 440 series steels. These steels can rightfully be considered one of the best steels today. Composition: C=1.05%, Cr=14%, Mn=0.5%, Mo=4%, Si=0.3%
S60V(440V) and S90V(420V) These two steels hold an edge very well (better than ATS-34). Both steels are high in vanadium, making them incredibly hard-wearing, but hard to sharpen blades. Spyderco produced knives made of S60V steel in a limited edition. At the same time, they heated it only to 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 for Spyderco knives. Due to its unusual chemical composition, it has increased corrosion resistance, including 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 toughness 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 linings 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 a more perfect steel grain. 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. is the equivalent of S30V, the gold standard of the powder steel industry. It is recommended to harden CTS-BD30P up to 58–61 units. on the Rockwell scale. Despite its considerable hardness, the CTS-BD30P blade is easy to dress. The cutting edge of the blade made of CTS-BD30P steel in terms of wear resistance (that is, the ability to keep sharpening) exceeds 440С 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 440Ci steel and 3.5 times stronger than 154CM. According to users, the steel is still better than the standard S30V. 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 the "corrosion resistance" parameter, it far surpasses any carbon steels. It also has high strength, which allows you to keep the cutting edge for a long time. Steel 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 category. Developed by Hitachi Metals in 1996. It combines extremely high hardness, which at the moment has almost no analogues 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 range, 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. It's essentially an American answer to the Japanese ZDP-189, but not as brittle or rusty as the M4. It is very difficult to process, so very little is produced from it. 25-50% wear resistant than S90V. For milling, grinding and sharpening this steel, special machines are used that consume a large amount of abrasive. Composition: C=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 proves to be stronger and more wear resistant than M2 and M3 in applications requiring easy and fast cutting. CPM M4 is also available in several grades such as high carbon steel which makes it better hardenable during heat treatment and high sulfur steel to improve machinability. Like all CPM steels, CPM M4 is created by the Crucible Materials Corporation using the patented Crucible Particle Metallurgy technology, which achieves uniformity, strength and good machinability compared to steels produced in traditional 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 is highly corrosive in a humid environment, so it requires careful maintenance, or the blade must have an anti-corrosion coating.
CTS-BD1 Steel manufactured by Carpenter. Very close in properties to the popular 154CM, ATS-34 and GIN-1. 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 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 machining. CPM-S35VN features niobium, which makes the steel stronger, more wear resistant and able to keep sharper longer than most chromium alloys such as 440C and D2. Like CPM-S30V, it has excellent corrosion resistance. It reaches its best properties when hardened to a hardness of 58-61 HRc. Composition: C=1.4%, Cr=14%, V=3%, Mo=2%, Nb=0.5%.
CPM-S110V High-alloyed martensitic stainless tool steel produced by Crucible Industries (USA). CPM-S110V contains a fairly large amount 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. Steel production technology gives uniform 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 was 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 to make 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 hard materials. The blade of this steel has super high performance, excellent cutting ability and wear resistance due to its structure with high concentration of vanadium and chromium carbides. The unique powder metallurgical manufacturing process promotes uniform distribution of carbide in the rest of the steel's balancing chemical elements, making M390 very popular with users and knifemakers. M390 steel is used in surgical cutting instruments, scalpels, files, knives and instruments that fundamentally require high performance and properties. Composition: C=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", one of the strongest steels. Crucible's CPM 3V is designed to provide the highest fracture and chipping resistance among high wear tool steels. The impact strength of CPM 3V is greater than A2, D2, Cru-Wear or CPM M4 and approaches the level of S7 and other high impact steels. At the same time, it provides excellent wear resistance, high hardness and heat resistance. With a hardness of HRC 58-60, CPM 3V can replace tool steels where there are constant 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". Until 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%. Hardness59-60HRc.
Cronidur 30 Highly nitrided, corrosion-resistant bearing steel developed by FAG (Germany). It is marked by 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 contact with an aggressive environment - salt water. Now such steel is also used for the production 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 cause high stability and resistance to corrosion. Vanax is two and a half times stronger than 440C steel and will not rust at all.
Elmax is a general purpose stainless steel composition similar to M390: C=1.7% Si=0.8% Mn=0.3% CR=18% Mo=1.10% V=3%). This is one of the newest powder materials, has the best value for money. With a somewhat similar composition to S35VN and M390, it wins in properties due to the many evenly distributed carbides. It practically does not rust (17-18% chromium), it is hard enough to sharpen, but it holds sharpening very well. Currently used in Kershaw, Zero Tolerance and Microtech knives. According to Sal Glesser, this steel has shown very good results in the Spyderco laboratory.
CTS-XHP Stainless steel manufactured by Carpenter. It 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 on limited versions. The hardness is in the range of 62-64HRc, it is notable for high wear resistance and good corrosion resistance in addition to hardness. It is several times superior to S30V in durability, is at the level of D2 or ZDP-189 in hardness, but does not have the negative characteristics of the latter.
CTS-204P Also steel produced by "Carpenter", as indicated by the prefix CTS. It 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 practically is at about the same level in real tests. Both CTS-XHP and CTS-204P steels are among the best available today, but the prices for knives made from these steels are quite high.
Hitachi Blue Super Steel(Aogami Super Steel) High purity Japanese alloy steel manufactured by Hitachi (Japan), popular in the production of professional chef's 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. Proper 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/
My Soviet secateurs at the dacha fell into disrepair, the hero of today's review was chosen to replace it.
Testing showed that the quality of the secateurs is good, the steel is really hard and wear-resistant.
The parcel with garden tools reached me for 40 days, having been delayed for the May holidays.
All contents were extremely crumpled.
The box from the secateurs got the most. 
There are many inscriptions on the reverse side, but there is no valuable information. 
And here is the pruner itself. Total length 205 mm.
Coloring in protective colors is not suitable for garden tools, easy to lose. 
The pruner weighs 207 g. 
And here is the most important part - an SK-5 steel blade. 
read that
SK5 Japanese tool steel equivalent to American 1080 steel with carbon content between 0.75%-0.85% and manganese content between 0.60%-0.90%. This steel can have a hardness up to 65 Rc, and contains a mixture of carbon in martensites with some dissolved cementites. Increasing the content of cementite in steel increases its resistance to abrasion and allows you to achieve the perfect balance between high strength characteristics of the blade and a high degree of sharpness of the cutting edge. Due to these characteristics, steels of this class are traditionally used for the manufacture of various hand tools.
The second blade without sharpening in some sources is called an emphasis, in others it is called a support blade. For some reason, the manufacturer painted it with black paint, and did it very casually. This greatly spoils the impression of the thing. 
There is no paint on the other side. 
The main working blade is flat on the reverse side. 
The length of the entire cutting part is 65 mm, the sharpened part is 52 mm.
The thickness in the butt at the working blade is 3.5 mm, at the reference blade 4.3 mm.
Out of habit, I measured the convergence at the cutting part - quite decent 0.5 mm.
The handles are made of light metal alloy, I hope it's aluminum, not silumin. 
Band type return spring. Judging by the background information, these are considered the best if they are made of high-quality metal. 
The lock is fixed by a lever located on the handle not far from the axial screw. You can move with one finger, which is quite convenient. 
The length of the handles is approximately 10 cm. For comfortable holding, they have rubber inserts.
Solid on one side. 
And on the other segmented. There are rather big gaps between metal and rubber, which of course is not encouraging. 
When ordering, I did not look at the description very carefully and expected that the secateurs would be quite large. But it is even smaller than the old Soviet secateurs. 
But in the hand lies quite well. 
Let's move on to testing.
Two small sawn trees are lying next to the bathhouse in the country: a plum and a cherry. 
I start to cut them into pieces of 20 cm. With a thickness of about 1 cm, I cope effortlessly. 
But a branch with a diameter of 20 mm, apparently, is the limit for this pruner. 
Here is the cut. 
It can be seen that at first I stopped to take pictures, and at the end I did not cut cleanly.
Here is such a small pile of pieces of branches turned out. 
After trial testing, I took the Chan Long pruner and folding saw from the last review and went to work in the country. I cut dry branches from plums and cherries, cut dry raspberries.
I can say that there were no problems with the secateurs. I worked with and without gloves, in any case, the handle was comfortable, did not rub or slip.
The saw also pleased, easily coped with branches 8 cm thick.
A few hours later, a two-meter heap of dried wood accumulated.
It was not possible to photograph against the sun, so this view. 
He brought the secateurs home, wiped the dirt with alcohol. Now you can see what happened to him.
The paint on the anvil blade has peeled off. 
Well, okay, I'll be glad when it comes down completely.
Absolutely nothing happened to the cutting edge.
Several macro photos. 
Since steel is of high hardness, we will carry out a handicraft check of this parameter. 
With a saw for metal, the blade practically does not scratch and, moreover, is not sawn. Tried scratching near the edge of the blade. 
I tried to grind the butt next to the tip with a Soviet needle file. He almost
does not cling to the metal, but a little grinded off. 
So, the hardness of the metal is around 60 HRC. It seems that the Chinese did not deceive and this is indeed the declared SK5 steel.
Let's sum up results.
Minuses
Blade paint
Holes on the handle.
Protective coloring of the product, easy to lose.
pros
Wear-resistant blade made of good steel
Comfortable ergonomic design.
The cutter does its job well.
I liked the secateurs, but I don’t see any point in praising it, it’s quite an ordinary tool.
And as always, the sore point of price. I looked at the Gardener store, a similar pruner costs 3,700 tenge, which is about 11 dollars. It turns out that it costs less, but not at times.
If there is a 5/10 coupon, then it will be cheaper offline in Bangud.
That's all.
Thank you for your attention.
The product was provided for writing a review by the store. The review is published in accordance with clause 18 of the Site Rules.
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