Heat Treatment Specifications
Austenitizing
Temperature1066°C(1951°F)
Soak Time20 minutes
Tempering
Temperature565°C(1049°F)
Time120 minutes
Cycles3x
Quench Medium
air
Target Hardness
58 - 60 HRC
Performance Characteristics
Toughness8/10
Edge Retention5/10
Corrosion Resistance2.5/10
Ease of Sharpening6/10
Overall Score21.5/40
Interesting Facts
- 1Released in 1997 as PM version of Vasco Die (1964 patent)
- 2Developed by Pinnow and Stasko at Crucible
- 3Still the best high-toughness steel in 2025 according to experts
- 4Crucible bankruptcy in 2024 - Erasteel acquired rights in 2025
- 5Production continues under familiar CPM names
Famous Uses
Bark River knives
Survival knives
Hard-use fixed blades
Best For
Small fixed blades
High-impact applications
Folders at high hardness
Similar Steels
CPM CruWear
More wear resistance, less toughness
A2
Cheaper, but significantly less tough
CPM 4V
More vanadium, better wear, less toughness
Not Recommended For
- Corrosive environments (semi-stainless)
- Razor sharpness (not designed for that)
- Budget projects
Expert Tips
- 1Develops surface rust rather than pitting
- 2Excellent edge stability at 63HRC
- 3Avoids microchipping common in other alloys