Heat Treatment Specifications
Austenitizing
Temperature1080°C(1976°F)
Soak Time25 minutes
Tempering
Temperature204°C(399°F)
Time120 minutes
Cycles2x
Quench Medium
air
Target Hardness
62 - 63 HRC
Performance Characteristics
Toughness6.5/10
Edge Retention7.5/10
Corrosion Resistance3.5/10
Ease of Sharpening4/10
Overall Score21.5/40
Interesting Facts
- 1Developed by Uddeholm, Sweden's powder metallurgy leader
- 2Most versatile PM tool steel on market per Uddeholm
- 3Better edge holding than CPM 3V, tougher than M4
- 4Can reach 66-67 HRC in small knives and folders
- 5Not stainless but exceptional cutting performance
Famous Uses
Zero Tolerance 0180
Zero Tolerance 0102 tomahawk
Custom high-performance knives
Best For
Small knives and folders
Light to medium cutting
Edge retention priority
Similar Steels
Not Recommended For
- Marine environment
- Budget
- Beginners
Expert Tips
- 1Minimal chipping even at high hardness
- 2Not corrosion resistant
- 3Excellent but rarely used by custom makers