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At A Glance
AUS 8, developed by Aichi Steel Corporation, is lauded for its toughness, edge retention, and ease of sharpening. Conversely, 8CR13MOV, a Chinese stainless steel, is a cost-effective option known for its decent corrosion resistance, good edge retention, and relative ease of sharpening. AUS 8’s balanced properties make it suitable for a range of general-purpose tasks, while 8CR13MOV, though potentially less tough and corrosion-resistant, offers excellent value for budget-oriented users. The ultimate choice between AUS 8 and 8CR13MOV depends on the knife’s intended use and the user’s preference.
Top Rated Knives
AUS 8
8CR13MOV
Blade steel is a significant component to contemplate when selecting a knife. AUS 8 and 8CR13MOV are two frequently compared blade steels. This article will juxtapose AUS 8 and 8CR13MOV, assessing their composition, hardness, toughness, corrosion resistance, edge retention, and sharpening ease, to determine the superior steel for knives.
The sphere of knife-making materials can appear complicated, especially for the novice or even experienced knife enthusiasts.
To assist in unraveling this intricate subject, we will conduct a comprehensive comparison between two popular knife steel types: Aichi Steel Corporation’s AUS 8 and China’s 8CR13MOV.
We’ll evaluate their composition and performance based on hardness, toughness, corrosion resistance, edge retention, and sharpening ease, which will help discern the more suitable choice for knives.
Steel Background
Before delving into the comparison, it’s essential to comprehend what each steel type embodies and how they’re fabricated.
AUS 8
AUS 8, developed by Aichi Steel Corporation, is a Japanese stainless steel with a high chromium and medium carbon content. It’s highly revered for its balance of toughness, edge retention, and ease of sharpening. AUS 8 is used extensively in both low-end and high-quality knives, providing a good balance of performance and price.
8CR13MOV
8CR13MOV, a Chinese stainless steel, is similar in properties to AUS 8, but usually available at a lower cost. It is known for its adequate corrosion resistance and good edge retention while being relatively easy to sharpen.
Steel Composition
The initial point of comparison is the chemical composition of each steel.
AUS 8
- Carbon: 0.7-0.75%
- Chromium: 13-14.5%
- Molybdenum: 0.1-0.3%
- Vanadium: 0.1-0.25%
- Manganese: 1%
- Silicon: 1%
8CR13MOV
- Carbon: 0.8%
- Chromium: 13%
- Molybdenum: 0.2%
- Vanadium: 0.1%
- Manganese: 1%
- Nickel: 0.4%
- Silicon: 0.6%
From the above composition, it’s clear that 8CR13MOV has slightly higher carbon content but less Chromium, contributing to its hardness but slightly reduced corrosion resistance compared to AUS 8.
AUS 8 vs 8CR13MOV – Complete Comparison
Hardness
Hardness directly impacts a knife steel’s edge retention and wear resistance.
AUS 8 typically has a Rockwell hardness (HRC) of 57-58, presenting a good balance between toughness and edge retention. It can handle rigorous usage without succumbing to chipping or breaking.
8CR13MOV, on the other hand, usually exhibits a Rockwell hardness (HRC) of 56-59, providing decent wear resistance and edge retention. However, it can be slightly more prone to chipping under heavy use compared to AUS 8.
Toughness
Toughness implies a steel’s resistance to chipping and cracking during use.
AUS 8, due to its balance of carbon and other elements, offers excellent toughness, making it suitable for knives intended for demanding tasks.
8CR13MOV, while still maintaining good toughness, may be slightly more prone to chipping under heavy use compared to AUS 8.
Corrosion Resistance
Corrosion resistance indicates how well the steel can resist rust and oxidation.
AUS 8, with its 13-14.5% chromium content, has excellent corrosion resistance, making it an ideal choice for knives to be used in moist or humid conditions.
8CR13MOV, despite having similar chromium content, offers slightly lesser corrosion resistance compared to AUS 8, but still performs well for regular use.
Ease of Sharpening
Ease of Sharpening signifies the simplicity of sharpening the steel using conventional methods. It generally correlates inversely with hardness and edge retention.
Both AUS 8 and 8CR13MOV are relatively easy to sharpen compared to harder steels, making them good choices for general-purpose knives. However, AUS 8 may be marginally easier to sharpen due to its slightly softer nature.
Edge Retention
Edge retention reflects how well the blade can maintain its sharpness during use.
Both AUS 8 and 8CR13MOV have good edge retention, especially considering their relative hardness. However, 8CR13MOV, due to its slightly higher carbon content, might hold an edge slightly longer than AUS 8.
Price
As a Japanese steel, AUS 8 is often more expensive than 8CR13MOV. This difference is reflected in the slightly superior performance of AUS 8, and also due to the generally higher cost of Japanese steel production.
8CR13MOV, being Chinese steel, offers excellent value for money, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious users who still desire a functional, quality knife.
Conclusion
Both AUS 8 and 8CR13MOV are quality blade steels with their unique strengths. AUS 8 is a well-balanced steel offering toughness, good edge retention, and excellent corrosion resistance, ideal for general-purpose tasks. 8CR13MOV, despite being slightly harder and offering excellent edge retention, may be marginally less tough and corrosion-resistant than AUS 8. Nevertheless, it is a viable option for budget-focused knife users.
The decision between AUS 8 and 8CR13MOV ultimately depends on the intended knife usage and personal preference. Regardless of choice, it is vital to purchase from a reputable brand and manufacturer to maximize the full potential of the chosen steel.
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When you visit a merchant by clicking a link on this site we may make a commission on anything you buy (at no additional cost to you). Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to Amazon Associates and the eBay Partner Network.”