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Z-Tuff

Heat Treatment Specifications

Austenitizing

Temperature1050°C(1922°F)
Soak Time25 minutes

Tempering

Temperature204°C(399°F)
Time120 minutes
Cycles2x

Quench Medium

plate

Target Hardness

61 - 62 HRC

Performance Characteristics

Toughness10/10
Edge Retention4.5/10
Corrosion Resistance4/10
Ease of Sharpening6.5/10
Overall Score25/40

Interesting Facts

  • 1Zapp PM steel - tougher version of CPM 3V
  • 2Developer also helped create CPM 3V
  • 390/100 toughness rating, 35/100 edge holding
  • 4Similar toughness to S7 but better edge retention
  • 5Designed for maximum impact resistance

Famous Uses

Hard-use knives
Impact tools
Survival knives

Best For

Impact-resistant applications
Heavy-duty knives
Die work

Similar Steels

Not Recommended For

  • Budget
  • Maximum wear
  • Wide availability

Expert Tips

  • 1Shock-resistant steel
  • 2Toughness priority
  • 3PM technology
  • 4Cold work applications

Track Your Z-Tuff Heat Treats

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

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