Description
Originally designed for industrial cutting and stamping dies. Exceptional toughness combined with good edge retention. The tough guy of PM steels.
Properties
Edge Retention
Corrosion Resistance
Toughness
Ease of Sharpening
Chemical Composition
C
1.10%
Carbon
Cr
7.50%
Chromium
Mo
2.40%
Molybdenum
V
1.60%
Vanadium
W
2.50%
Tungsten
✓ Pros
Best toughness among common PM steels. Very hard use capable. Good edge retention. Can be run very hard without chipping. Excellent for choppers and outdoor knives.
✗ Cons
Will rust - requires maintenance. Not stainless despite some chromium. Grinds slowly. Harder to sharpen than simple steels.
Grinding Notes
Moderately difficult to grind. PM structure helps. Ceramic belts recommended. Toughness means some 'gumminess' when grinding. Keep belts sharp.
Polishing Notes
Takes very good polish. PM structure is fine and uniform. Popular for working knife finishes. Looks excellent with stonewash or DLC.