Steel is a very important material for knife making. Different types of steel have different properties, which make them suitable for different purposes. Two popular types of steel used in knife making are 4116 steel and Aus 8. These steels have their own strengths and weaknesses, making them suitable for different uses. This blog post will compare 4116 and Aus 8 steel and discuss their differences.
Difference Between 4116 Steel and Aus 8
Composition and Properties:
4116 steel is a high carbon, low chromium stainless steel. It has a carbon content of 0.45-0.55% and a 13-15% chromium content. It also contains 0.5% of Molybdenum, which makes it corrosion-resistant. The steel is made by adding vanadium, which improves its strength and wear resistance. On the other hand, Aus 8 steel is also a high carbon, low chromium stainless steel. It has a carbon content of 0.75-0.95% and a chromium content of 13-15%. It contains 0.1% vanadium, which improves its strength and makes it easier to sharpen.
Hardness and Edge Retention:
One of the most important properties of a knife is its ability to hold an edge. 4116 steel has a hardness rating of 56-58 HRC, lower than Aus 8 steel’s hardness rating of 58-59 HRC. This means Aus 8 steel is harder and holds an edge longer than 4116 steel. However, 4116 steel is easier to sharpen than Aus 8 steel, which makes it a good choice for beginners.
Corrosion Resistance:
Both 4116 and Aus 8 steel are stainless steel, which means they are resistant to rust and corrosion. However, 4116 steel is more corrosion-resistant than Aus 8 steel due to its higher Molybdenum content. 4116 steel is a good choice for knives in humid or wet environments.
Price:
Price is another important factor to consider when choosing a knife. 4116 steel is cheaper than Aus 8 steel, which makes it a good choice for budget-conscious buyers. However, if you want a knife that will last longer and hold an edge longer, consider investing in a knife made of Aus 8 steel.
Uses:
4116 and Aus 8 steel are suitable for making knives for different purposes. 4116 steel is a good choice for knives used for general purposes such as cutting meat and vegetables. It is also a good choice for beginners learning to sharpen knives. On the other hand, Aus 8 steel is a good choice for knives that will be used for heavy-duty tasks such as hunting and camping. Its hardness and edge retention make it a good choice for tasks that require a sharp and durable blade.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, both 4116 steel and Aus 8 steel have their strengths and weaknesses. 4116 steel is a good choice for knives used for general purposes such as cutting meat and vegetables. It is also a good choice for beginners. On the other hand, Aus 8 steel is a good choice for knives that will be used for heavy-duty tasks such as hunting and camping. Its hardness and edge retention make it a good choice for tasks that require a sharp and durable blade. Ultimately, the choice between 4116 steel and Aus 8 steel depends on your preferences, budget, and the knife’s intended use.