Hardness of SAK blades?

[dalee100]

Hi,

I tested the main blade on my Super Tinker today for fun. It tested at 73Rc!! Not once, but twice!! That can't be right.

What hardness are they supposed to be at?

I tested a die made from AISI-S5 at the proper 52Rc, so the tester is working correctly.

Thanks,
dalee

 

[SAKsRCool]

If I remember correctly the blades are in the high 50s like 56 or 57.

 

[ufox9al]

SAKsRCool is right. From the authoritative source on SAKs (http://www.sosakonline.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=93&Itemid=61):
* Blades – Stainless chrome molybdenum steel, mixed from carbon, chrome, molybdenum, manganese & silicum.
* Blade Hardening – 1,900 degrees F. (and annealing temperature of 140 degrees). RC 56.
* Wood saw, scissors and nail files – RC 53.
* Screwdrivers, tin openers and awls – RC 52.
* Corkscrew and springs – RC 49.

 

[miro44]

I always thought they were 49-51, might be wrong, though.

 

[dalee100]

Hi,

Thanks Guys! They are a bit harder than I thought they would be. I was under the impression like miro44 that they were in the low 50's.

dalee