AUS-10A is a Japanese rust-resistant knife steel with a balanced ratio of edge retention, corrosion resistance, and sharpenability. The steel offers improved cutting performance compared to simpler AUS variants due to its higher carbon content.
Three key characteristics of the steel: edge retention, rust resistance, and sharpenability
Edge retention: medium to high
★★★☆☆
The increased carbon content allows for higher hardness and better wear resistance than with low-alloy stainless steel variants.
Rust resistance: high
★★★★☆
The chromium content ensures good corrosion resistance and makes the steel easy to care for.
Sharpenability: good
★★★★☆
Despite its good hardness, AUS-10A can be resharpened relatively easily.
Areas of application
Kitchen: The combination of rust resistance, fine cutting ability, and good sharpenability makes AUS-10A suitable for kitchen knives.
Pocket knives & EDC: The steel offers a balanced combination of cutting performance and everyday usability.
Everyday knives: Good corrosion resistance reduces maintenance effort during regular use.
Steel composition
| Element | Content |
|---|---|
| Carbon (C) | approx. 0.95–1.10% |
| Chromium (Cr) | approx. 13% |
| Manganese (Mn) | approx. 0.5% |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | approx. 0.1% |
| Vanadium (V) | approx. 0.1–0.2% |
Products with AUS-10A Knife Steel
