Heat Treatment Specifications
Austenitizing
Temperature1060°C(1940°F)
Soak Time25 minutes
Tempering
Temperature540°C(1004°F)
Time120 minutes
Cycles3x
Quench Medium
oil
Target Hardness
60 - 62 HRC
Performance Characteristics
Toughness6.5/10
Edge Retention7/10
Corrosion Resistance4/10
Ease of Sharpening5/10
Overall Score22.5/40
Interesting Facts
- 1Böhler 8% chromium ESR (electroslag remelting) steel
- 2Better toughness than 12% Cr steels like K110/D2
- 3ESR process ensures exceptional purity and uniformity
- 4Can reach 64 HRC with excellent toughness
- 5Considered best choice for large hunting/outdoor knives
Famous Uses
AAKnives Bear/Grizzly/Scandinavian
European hunting knives
Industrial blanking tools
Best For
Tool steels
High-wear cutting
Industrial applications
Similar Steels
D2
K340 is tougher and more resistant
Sleipner
Swedish competitor
Not Recommended For
- Budget projects
- Beginners
- Marine environment
Expert Tips
- 1ESR technology for cleanliness
- 2Cold work tool steel
- 3Semi-stainless properties
- 4Uniform hardness in HT