Steel Types for Knife Making
Different steel types require different grinding speeds to avoid overheating and to achieve the best finish. Below is information about common steel types and their optimal grinding requirements.
← Back to Speed CalculatorCarbon Steel (1084, 1095, 52100, W2)
Carbon steel is commonly used for knife making and is easy to grind. However, it has a high risk of overheating, which can ruin the hardening and tempering. Recommended speed is 4000-6000 SFPM (1200-1800 m/min).
- Keep a water quench bucket nearby to cool the blade frequently.
- Use higher speeds for coarser grits and lower for finer ones.
- If the steel turns blue, it's already too hot!
Stainless Steel (AEB-L, 440C, 14C28N)
Stainless steel has better heat resistance than carbon steel but is still vulnerable to overheating. It tends to load up belts faster. Recommended speed is 3500-5500 SFPM (1050-1650 m/min).
- Use grinding wax to reduce loading.
- Cool regularly, but it can handle a bit more heat than carbon steel.
- Change belts more often to maintain cutting ability.
Tool Steel (O1, A2, D2)
Tool steel is harder to grind than carbon steel and has higher alloy content. It can withstand more heat but also takes longer to grind. Recommended speed is 3000-5000 SFPM (900-1500 m/min).
- Use ceramic or zirconia belts for better durability.
- D2 and A2 contain chromium and have higher wear resistance than O1.
- Use less pressure and let the tool do the work.
RWL34 & 14C28N
RWL34 is a Swedish powder steel that is popular among knife makers for its balance between corrosion resistance and ease of sharpening. 14C28N is a similar steel with good toughness. Recommended speed is 3200-4800 SFPM (975-1450 m/min).
- Moderate belt wear.
- Responds well to both coarse and fine grits.
- Balanced grinding speed gives the best surface finish.
Powder Steel (CPM 154, Elmax)
Powder steels have very uniform carbide structure and are more wear-resistant than conventional steels. They require more time and effort to grind but can handle more heat. Recommended speed is 2800-4200 SFPM (850-1275 m/min).
- Use ceramic abrasives for best results.
- Dress belts more often as they can become glazed.
- Grind in multiple passes instead of removing too much material at once.
Super Steels (ZDP-189, M390, K390)
Super steels with high carbon content and carbides are the most challenging to work with. The hardest versions require special abrasives and patience. Recommended speed is 2000-3400 SFPM (600-1035 m/min).
- Use high-quality CBN or diamond abrasives.
- Work at lower speeds with lighter pressure.
- Expect slow material removal and high tool wear.