Powder Metallurgy Steel
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M398

Heat Treatment Specifications

Austenitizing

Temperature1150°C(2102°F)
Soak Time20 minutes

Tempering

Temperature180°C(356°F)
Time120 minutes
Cycles2x

Quench Medium

oil

Target Hardness

62 - 64 HRC

Performance Characteristics

Toughness3/10
Edge Retention9/10
Corrosion Resistance8/10
Ease of Sharpening3/10
Overall Score23/40

Interesting Facts

  • 1Böhler-Uddeholm's ultra-high vanadium PM steel
  • 22.7% carbon, 20% chromium, 7.2% vanadium
  • 3Stainless version of Vanadis 8 concept
  • 4Very high edge retention + corrosion resistance
  • 5Released 2019 as premium alternative to M390
  • 6Spyderco MT25 Mule Team first production knife

Famous Uses

Spyderco Mule Team
High-end custom knives

Best For

High-performance cutters
Smaller blades
Extreme wear resistance

Similar Steels

Not Recommended For

  • Budget projects
  • Field sharpening
  • Beginners

Expert Tips

  • 130% carbide volume
  • 2Not for high-polished acute edges
  • 3Difficult to forge and sharpen
  • 4Low temps, minimal impact

Track Your M398 Heat Treats

Start logging your heat treatment cycles with M398. Track what works, compare results, and repeat your best blades.

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