Tool Steel
Intermediate
Budget

9KHS

Heat Treatment Specifications

Austenitizing

Temperature860°C(1580°F)
Soak Time20 minutes

Tempering

Temperature200°C(392°F)
Time120 minutes
Cycles2x

Quench Medium

oil

Target Hardness

58 - 60 HRC

Performance Characteristics

Toughness6.5/10
Edge Retention6/10
Corrosion Resistance1.5/10
Ease of Sharpening7.5/10
Overall Score21.5/40

Interesting Facts

  • 1GOST 9ХС low alloy tool steel
  • 20.9% carbon, up to 1.5% Cr and Si
  • 3Similar to German W-Nr 1.2108
  • 4High working hardness with good toughness
  • 5Standard Soviet tool steel for cutting implements
  • 6Excellent wear resistance for the price

Famous Uses

Russian cutting tools
Drills
Reamers

Best For

Industrial cutting tools
Drills
Machining implements

Similar Steels

Not Recommended For

  • Wet environments
  • Western markets
  • Budget projects

Expert Tips

  • 1Cobalt enhances hardness
  • 2Good toughness/wear balance
  • 3Tool steel applications
  • 4Ingot manufacturing

Track Your 9KHS Heat Treats

Start logging your heat treatment cycles with 9KHS. Track what works, compare results, and repeat your best blades.

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