Is 440C a good knife steel?

Yes for edge retention: at 58–60 HRC it holds an edge far longer than 420, though it is harder to sharpen and less tough, so blade geometry must avoid thin, brittle edges.

Grades · Stainless Steel · 440C

440C

Data verified

440C is a high-carbon martensitic stainless capable of the highest hardness of any standard stainless grade, used for bearings, knife blades and wear parts. Its large chromium carbides give edge retention but limit toughness and corrosion resistance relative to its chromium content.

Hardness58–60 HRC

DIN1.4125

AISI440C

JISSUS440C

CategoryStainless Steel

Chemical composition

Element	Content (%)
C	0.95–1.20
Si	≤1.00
Mn	≤1.00
P	≤0.040
S	≤0.030
Cr	16.00–18.00
Mo	≤0.75

Weight percent, per the governing standard ranges. Actual values per heat are on the mill certificate.

Properties

Delivery condition	Annealed (hardened for use)
Hardness (hardened)	58–60 HRC
Tensile strength	760–2030 MPa (condition dependent)
Density	7.70 g/cm³
Magnetic	Yes

Heat treatment

Anneal 845–900 °C slow cool; harden 1010–1065 °C oil/air (sub-zero treatment improves stability); temper 150–370 °C.

Equivalent grades

Standard	Designation
din	1.4125
aisi	440C
jis	SUS440C
gb	102Cr17Mo

Compare side by side: 440C vs 440B · 440C vs 440A

Equivalents overlap in chemistry and use but are not always identical — see our equivalents guide before substituting in certified designs.

Applications & Processing

Applications: Ball bearings and races, premium knife blades, valve seats, surgical instruments, wear components.

Processing: Difficult to machine and grind due to carbide volume; weldability negligible; corrosion resistance is moderate and best when hardened and finely polished.

FAQ

Is 440C a good knife steel?: Yes for edge retention: at 58–60 HRC it holds an edge far longer than 420, though it is harder to sharpen and less tough, so blade geometry must avoid thin, brittle edges.

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Source: ASTM A276 / EN 10088 published ranges · Last updated 2026-11-03. Data is indicative — verify critical values against the governing standard and mill certificate before use.