Heat Treatment Specifications
Austenitizing
Temperature1200°C(2192°F)
Soak Time2 minutes
Tempering
Temperature560°C(1040°F)
Time120 minutes
Cycles3x
Quench Medium
oil
Target Hardness
68 - 70 HRC
Performance Characteristics
Toughness5/10
Edge Retention9.5/10
Corrosion Resistance2.5/10
Ease of Sharpening2/10
Overall Score19/40
Interesting Facts
- 1Also known as YXR7
- 28% cobalt for extreme hardness (65-68 HRC)
- 3Hitachi powdered metallurgy HSS
- 4Among the hardest knife steels available
- 5Very difficult to work - requires specialized equipment
Famous Uses
Ultra-premium industrial cutting tools
High-end custom knives
Best For
High-speed cutting tools
Professional cutting implements
Edge retention priority
Similar Steels
Not Recommended For
- Wet environments (rusts)
- Field sharpening
- Normal use
Expert Tips
- 1Carbide formation from W and V
- 2Optimal toughness at 61-65 HRC
- 3Ingot manufacturing