Are you considering a 420HC steel knife but unsure if it would live up to your standards? If so, you’ll benefit from our write-up below.
Knives made of 420HC steel typically cost very little money while still promising top-notch performance. Many other knife users are constantly looking for more details about this steel to determine whether it’s worthwhile to invest in.
In such a case, you may use the information in our comprehensive 420HC steel review to make an informed decision about whether to purchase it or not.
First of All, What Is 420HC Steel?
Latrobe usually manufactures 420HC, a low-end martensitic stainless steel, in the United States. It was created as a result of altering the extremely old steel grade 420. The main modification is done to increase the carbon content in 420HC, hence the designation HC, which stands for “Higher Carbon,” and to increase the steel’s hardness rating over 420.
This steel shines in its strong resistance to corrosion. Numerous knife makers even use it to create blades, scissors, surgical equipment, etc.
Besides that, this steel is also heavily utilized by two businesses, in particular, Buck Blades and Gerber Knives, to produce their affordable knives.
What Are the Chemical Compositions of 420HC?
According to the manufacturer’s 420HC steel datasheet, the following list indicates the alloying components of the steel and their respective volumes:
- Its hardness and wear resistance is increased by its 0.45% 420HC carbon content.
- The 13% Chromium content enhances its tensile strength and edge retention. Additionally, it improves the steel’s resistance to corrosion and overuse.
- Its 0.4% Manganese content makes steel harder and more brittle.
- Its 0.3% Vanadium promotes higher hardenability and wear resistance.
- The silicon increases its strength at 0.4%.
What Is Meant by the “420HC Hardness?”
A quality heat treatment can increase the hardness of 420HC stainless steel to as much as RC 56-59 HRC. However, this steel has a typical hardness value of 55HRC.
- The 420HC Edge Retention
420HC may struggle to maintain an edge. This is because it has low levels of carbide, which are needed to give steel the hardness needed to keep it stable and sharp. Low levels of carbide are due to low carbon content. However, compared to other steels in the 400 series, it will maintain its cutting edge for a long time.
- The 420HC Steel Sharpening
You will find that sharpening 420HC is really simple because it tends to lean toward the “softer” edge of steel. It is less difficult because of its low hardness. By doing this, you may quickly sharpen it to get an incredibly fine cutting edge. Therefore, you should get a knife made of this steel if you’re just getting started with the sharpening game.
- The 420HC Steel Toughness
420HC is pretty resilient! Compared to the harder steel in the 440 family, this steel has a stronger feel and can handle a lot more damage. The reason Bucks and Gerber have been using this steel to make their knives for so long is because of its great durability.
- The 420HC Corrosion Resistance
The 420HC may have you wondering if it has steel rust. NO is the definite answer! The 420HC is non-rusting. It has a higher concentration of chromium (13% vs. 11–12%), making it more stainless. Indeed, its strong corrosion resistance is a result of its high chromium content, which is another factor contributing to its appeal among users and knife makers.
Conclusion
The unrivaled quality of the 420HC steel knife is evident in its ability to withstand a variety of rigorous conditions. The steel is basically tough, making it the perfect material for a knife that needs to be durable. Not only is the steel strong, but it is also corrosion-resistant, convincing many of its potential buyers and current users to bring it more during their outdoor trips.
Indeed, the 420HC steel knife is a great choice for anyone who needs a reliable and durable knife.
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