Steel Composition
| carbon | 1.05 % |
|---|---|
| chromium | 13.00 % |
| molybdenum | 0.55 % |
| vanadium | 0.10 % |
| manganese | 0.50 % |
AUS-10 steel, from Japan, is a high-quality knife steel popular in higher-end cooking and EDC knives. It offers an impressive blend of sharpness, durability, and resilience, marking it as a crowd favorite. Its high carbon and chromium content provides it a good edge retention, exceptional toughness, and noteworthy stain resistance, which is ideal for a range of uses. Its composition leads to an overall strength and hardness that facilitates long-lasting and reliable performance.
What are the Advantages of AUS-10?
AUS-10 steel is highly regarded for its corrosion resistance, making it ideal for use in humid environments or when cutting acidic or salty foods. The steel's hardness level also means it's less prone to deformation and maintains its sharpness for longer periods.
AUS-10 blade steel also features a good degree of quenchability and annealing resistance, meaning it retains its properties and structure even under high temperatures.
Disadvantages of AUS-10 for Knives
Despite its many advantages, it's important to note that AUS-10 is not indestructible. It might require more frequent sharpening compared to some premium-grade knife steels. Furthermore, while it's highly corrosion resistant, it is not completely immune to it.
Steel Rating
Steels with good edge retention will stay sharp longer, reducing the need for frequent sharpening
Edge Retention
4/6 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
4/6 PointsA higher HRC number typically indicates a harder steel, which can hold a sharper edge
Hardness
60 - 62 HRCIs AUS-10 Rust Resistant?
Thanks to a considerable amount of chromium, AUS-10 exhibits good rust resistance. Though not completely immune to rust, it nevertheless require lesser maintenance compared to several other knife steels.
How Hard is AUS-10?
AUS-10 has a high hardness rating, falling between 60 and 62 HRC. This enables the blades made from this steel to maintain their edge for a longer duration and resist chipping, a considerable advantage in EDC knives.
For What is AUS-10 Recognized for?
Known for its reliable sharpness, AUS-10 steel has crafted a solid reputation for itself among chefs and outdoor enthusiasts. Its balanced attributes make it an excellent choice for everyday carry knives, kitchen knives, and hunting knives.
Conclusion
In conclusion, AUS-10 is a great all-rounder when it comes to knife steels offering a balanced blend of sharpness, toughness, and corrosion resistance. While it may not compete with premium steel in all areas, its overall performance is certainly impressive, especially for mid-range knives.
