Steel Composition
| carbon | 0.6 % |
|---|---|
| chromium | 13.5 % |
| manganese | 0.4 % |
| silicon | 0.4 % |
| phosphorus | 0.025 % |
The 12C27 is a high-grade stainless steel manufactured by Sandvik, a Swedish company renowned for producing advanced alloys. It is a popular choice for knife blades as it combines excellent edge performance with high hardness and good corrosion resistance. Known for its exceptional toughness, the 12C27 can withstand considerable stress, making it a preferred choice for domestic and professional use.
What are the Benefits of 12C27?
The 12C27 Steel is known for the excellent edge sharpness and durability it offers. Its high carbon content allows the steel to be hardened to great extents, providing superior edge retention for EDC knives. The steel doesn't react with moisture or oxidation quickly, making the blades more durable, easier to clean, and less prone to contamination. It can withstand high stress, making it a durable choice for many knife users.
Disadvantages of 12C27 for Knives
Despite its impressive properties, 12C27 Steel does have some shortcomings. The most obvious is that while being quite corrosion resistant, it does eventually show some wear if left uncleaned after prolonged exposure to high humidity or salt environments.
Steel Rating
Steels with good edge retention will stay sharp longer, reducing the need for frequent sharpening
Edge Retention
3/6 PointsToughness is the steel's ability to absorb energy and deform without breaking
Toughness
3/6 PointsCorrosion Resistance measures how well the steel can resist rust and oxidation
Corrosion Resistance
4/6 PointsSharpenability refers to how easily a knife blade can be sharpened to its desired edge
Sharpenability
4/6 PointsThis is a relative measure based on typical market values. The actual price can vary widel
Price
5/6 PointsA higher HRC number typically indicates a harder steel, which can hold a sharper edge
Hardness
55-59 HRCHow Rust Resistant is 12C27?
The stainless 12C27 steel has a high chromium content of about 13.5%, which makes it highly resistant to corrosion. However, it's crucial to maintain proper blade care as its anti-rust capabilities can be compromised if proper care and cleanliness are not maintained.
How Strong is 12C27?
With an HRC range of 55-59, the hardness of 12C27 Steel is evident. This hardness translates into excellent edge retention and high wear resistance, making it a good fit for everyday carry (EDC) knives. However, its hardness also adds a learning curve when it comes to sharpening.
For what is 12C27 known for?
The 12C27 Steel has built a reputation for multi-purpose use, ranging from hunting and fishing knives to domestic utility and professional chef knives. It is particularly known for its sharpness, high hardness, and excellent edge retention which makes it a reliable companion for knife users who require constant and heavy-duty usage.
Conclusion
In conclusion, 12C27 Steel makes a solid choice for EDC knives due to its combination of impressive edge sharpness, high hardness, and resistance to roughest uses. Its corrosion-resistant nature makes it even more appealing for anyone looking for a low-maintenance blade steel. While there are other steel types with higher specs on paper, the performance and versatility of 12C27 make it an all-round high-performing steel.
