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YXR7

Heat Treatment Specifications

Austenitizing

Temperature1150°C(2102°F)
Soak Time5 minutes

Tempering

Temperature580°C(1076°F)
Time120 minutes
Cycles2x

Quench Medium

oil

Target Hardness

64 - 65 HRC

Performance Characteristics

Toughness7.5/10
Edge Retention7.5/10
Corrosion Resistance3/10
Ease of Sharpening5/10
Overall Score23/40

Interesting Facts

  • 1Hitachi matrix high-speed steel - extreme toughness at 62-66 HRC
  • 2Similar to M2 HSS but with better toughness
  • 3Minimal primary carbides = no chipping even on dry maple
  • 45% Mo, 1.1% W, 1.1% V - semi-stainless with 5% Cr
  • 5Designed for forging tools requiring extreme toughness
  • 6Rockstead's signature steel for premium knives

Famous Uses

Rockstead knives
Sukenari kitchen knives
High-end Japanese knives

Best For

High-end kitchen knives
Industrial cutting
Premium blades

Similar Steels

Not Recommended For

  • Wet environments
  • Budget
  • Beginners

Expert Tips

  • 1PM high-speed steel
  • 2Excellent edge retention
  • 3Not stainless
  • 4Requires diamond stones

Track Your YXR7 Heat Treats

Start logging your heat treatment cycles with YXR7. Track what works, compare results, and repeat your best blades.

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