420 Steel?

[Lenny]

Just picked up a folder with 420 steel. Is this stuff worthy of consideration? Will it hold an edge?
How does it compare to 440A and 440C?
Thanks,
Lenny

 

[Jeff Clark]

The basic 420 stainless is sometimes called 420J2. This is very soft, having only about .3% carbon. It will dull rapidly and the edge will indent or roll over under hard pressure. I would guess that you will see hardness in the 54 RC range.

Some vendors use an improved version called something like 420HC that is around .5% carbon. If this is cryogenically quenched and well heat treated it may be in the 56-57 RC range. This is around where 440A fits.

As you may know 420V is a totally different premium quality material that is very abrasion resistant and can be used up the the 60 RC range.

 

[Cosmic Superchunk]

I agree with Jeff, 440A is pretty basic stuff. 440C is better. 420 is not known for good edge holding at all. Buck uses 420HC on their basic knives like the 110 and the Odyssey, although they also make an ATS-34 version.



[This message has been edited by el cid (edited 04-06-2001).]

 

[Lenny]

Thanks for the reply gentlemen
Lenny

 

[Walt Welch]

Lenny; use the search button. Searching for 420 will give you 92 threads, including one entitled, '420HC vs 440A.'

Most alloys have been discussed at great length in the past.

Walt