M42 adds ~8% cobalt for higher red hardness in heavy cutting; M2 remains the economy standard for general tools.

M2

Data verified

M2 is the most widely used high-speed steel in the world, balancing red hardness, toughness and cost for cutting tools of every kind.

Hardness63–66 HRC

DIN1.3343

AISIM2

JISSKH51

CategoryTool Steel

Chemical composition

Element	Content (%)
C	0.78–0.88
Si	≤0.45
Mn	≤0.40
Cr	3.80–4.50
Mo	4.70–5.20
W	5.90–6.70
V	1.70–2.10

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

Properties

Delivery condition	Annealed
Hardness (hardened)	63–66 HRC
Density	8.10 g/cm³
Red hardness	To ~600 °C

Heat treatment

Preheat 850 °C; harden 1190–1230 °C (salt/oil/air); triple temper 540–560 °C.

Equivalent grades

Standard	Designation
din	1.3343
aisi	M2
jis	SKH51
gb	W6Mo5Cr4V2

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

Applications & Processing

Applications: Drills, taps, end mills, broaches, saw blades, cold-work punches needing red hardness.

Processing: Difficult — carbide segregation in large sections; powder-metallurgy versions (ASP/PM M2) for premium tools.

FAQ

M2 vs M42?: M42 adds ~8% cobalt for higher red hardness in heavy cutting; M2 remains the economy standard for general tools.

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Source: ASTM A600 / EN published ranges · Last updated 2026-11-03. Data is indicative — verify critical values against the governing standard and mill certificate before use.