Heat Treatment Specifications
Austenitizing
Temperature1121°C(2050°F)
Soak Time20 minutes
Tempering
Temperature177°C(351°F)
Time120 minutes
Cycles2x
Quench Medium
oil
Target Hardness
61 - 63 HRC
Performance Characteristics
Toughness7.5/10
Edge Retention7/10
Corrosion Resistance8.5/10
Ease of Sharpening5/10
Overall Score28/40
Interesting Facts
- 1Designed by metallurgist Dr. Larrin Thomas (Knife Steel Nerds)
- 2Thomas's father is Devin Thomas, famous Damascus maker
- 3Released through Crucible partnership
- 4Goal: toughness of CPM-CruWear/4V but stainless
Famous Uses
Spyderco
Benchmade
Many custom makers
Best For
High-performance chef knives
Heavy-use tactical blades
Fine cutting
Saltwater environments
Similar Steels
Not Recommended For
- Budget projects (new and expensive)
- Conservatives (too new)
- Absolute wear resistance (S90V is better)
Expert Tips
- 1Fine carbide structure supports thin edges
- 2Achieves toughness at 65HRC matching others at lower hardness
- 3Cryogenic treatment recommended