AUS-8 Stainless Steel for Knife Blades

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AUS-8 Stainless Steel

Manufacturer: Aichi Steel

AUS-8 is a step up from AUS-6 steel as far as general performance is concerned, with greater hardenability and better wear resistance. AUS-8 is a very serviceable steel that is more than good enough for the majority of users, and takes a very keen edge typically around RC 58-59.

AUS-8 would be considered a mid-ranged steel, a step above entry level but not considered a premium steel as least in my opinion. Companies using a lot of AUS-8 in their product line include CRKT in their M16 series and other mid-ranged stuff, and of course Cold steel uses a lot of AUS-8 in their knives, including their high-priced models.

AUS-8 is part of the family of steels that consists of AUS-4, AUS-6, AUS-8 and AUS-10.

Composition

C Co Cr Mn Mo Ni P Si S W V
0.7-0.75 - 13-14.5 0.5 0.1-0.31 0.49 0.04 1 0.3 - 0.1-0.27
Values are shown in percentages.