Böhler K110 is a ledeburitic chromium steel, corresponding to material number 1.2379 or AISI D2. The steel is characterized by high wear resistance, compressive strength, and good toughness, and is also used for knives.
Three key characteristics of the steel: edge retention, rust resistance, and sharpenability
Edge retention: high
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The high wear resistance of K110 supports long edge life.
Rust resistance: medium
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K110 contains 11.3% chromium. It is therefore one of the chromium-rich tool steels but is not to be equated with highly corrosion-resistant knife steels.
Sharpenability: medium
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The high wear resistance and the associated carbide content make K110 more difficult to sharpen than less wear-resistant knife steels.
Areas of application
Pocket knives: Böhler explicitly names K110 for hand knives and thus also for knife applications where high wear resistance is required.