C45 is an unalloyed carbon steel with a medium carbon content. The steel offers a balanced combination of strength, toughness, and easy machinability but does not achieve the hardness of higher carbon knife steels.

Three key characteristics of the steel: Edge Retention, Rust Resistance, and Sharpenability

Edge Retention: low to medium
★★☆☆☆
The medium carbon content limits the maximum achievable hardness compared to higher-alloyed knife steels.

Rust Resistance: low
★★☆☆☆
C45 does not contain sufficient chromium for rust resistance.

Sharpenability: very good
★★★★★
Its simple composition allows for easy processing and resharpening.

Areas of Application

Tools: C45 is frequently used as an engineering steel due to its strength and machinability.

Simple Cutting Tools: Its easy machinability makes it suitable for simple applications.

Steel Composition