440C Stainless Steel

Why Choose 440C Steel

440C Steel has been an industry favourite for knife making for many years. Professionals and beginners choose this steel time and time again for a few reasons, including;

  • Maximum hardness: 440C is capable of reaching the highest hardness levels, creating a stable, long-lasting edge.
  • High corrosion resistance:With a chromium content of at least 17%, 440C stainless steel is highly protected against rust and staining.
  • Wear resistance:Thanks to the high volume of chromium, you are guaranteed a longer lasting blade that can resist scratches and dents.

Common Uses for 440C Steel

The balanced properties of 440C make it suitable for a range of applications, including;

  • Hunting knives:Durability and resistance are key elements when it comes to creating a hunting knife, and 440C stainless steel boasts both components.
  • Folding knives: Known for their reliable edges and maintenance-free use, 440C is the obvious choice for a pocket or folding knife.
  • Professional kitchen knives: The ideal choice when stain resistance in a high-moisture environment is one of the most important factors to consider.

Shop 440C Stainless Steel Blade Stock

Browse our collection of 440C steel to find the perfect piece for your next custom build. Whether you're creating a new folding knife or adding to your kitchen knife collection, get started on your next knife-making project with some 440C stainless steel.

Need help choosing the stainless steel? Contact our expert team for advice and recommendations.

FAQ

440C is a high-carbon stainless steel. It is one of the most popular and time-tested stainless steels in the knifemaking world, known for achieving a very high hardness and excellent corrosion resistance.

The key components of 440C are:

  • Carbon (C): 0.95%–1.20% (for hardness and edge holding)
  • Chromium (Cr): 17.00%–18.00% (for excellent corrosion resistance)
  • Manganese (Mn) and Silicon (Si): Less than 1.0%

440C is capable of achieving high hardness, with typical operating hardnesses ranging from 58–60 HRC.