Duke 500 steel-question

P

Peter LC

Joined
Dec 10, 2001
Messages
207
Just wondering, since it's neither on the blade, nor anywhere to be found on the web...: Does anyone know -probably a "Joe Houser question"- the exact type of steel used in my 500? It was bought recently but, according to the dating-sign, made in '99.
It would be more or less logical the steel is from the 440-family...?

I've noticed that it's a real slicer when sharpened on a medium-grit stone; and very easy to re-sharpen. I do have the feeling it's not too high on the Rockwell-scale, FWIW; more likely -say- 57 than 61.
 
Thanks Larry... Not exactly high-end steel but then, it's not a high-end knife. My info says that standard 420 has a standard HRC of 54, so it looks like Buck have at least upgraded it a bit.
Do you know what the "HC" stands for? High Carbon perhaps...?

Anyway I won't love my Duke any less for it! It's a gorgeous-looking tool-knife and one of the few I own that doesn't scare people too much when I grab it... :D ...Somehow it seems anything beyond a SAK is considered a weapon here. :rolleyes:
 
Peter, the HC stands for High Chromium. This steel is good if you not the type who cleans and oils your blades frequently. I use a 110 in 420HC for work in a chemical plant. VERY harsh conditions. Acids, caustics, salts, and very humid. There's not one speck of rust or staining anywhere on the knife and I only clean and oil every two to three weeks.
Later,
Alex
 
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