52100 - High Carbon Blade Steel Flat Bars

52100 - High Carbon Blade Steel Flat Bars

This steel is manufactured in Germany and is supplied annealed. It has a smooth surface and is soft in its annealed state, making it easy to cut, grind, drill, and file. Thickness may vary slightly from batch to batch.

52100 High Carbon Blade Steel is a high-carbon, chromium alloy steel primarily known for its use in ball bearings. However, its excellent wear resistance, toughness, and ability to take a fine, razor-sharp edge have made it a popular choice among knifemakers for high-performance blades. 52100 is favored for forging and stock removal, and when heat-treated correctly, it can reach very high hardness levels while maintaining good toughness. It is particularly valued for its ability to hold an edge and withstand heavy use, making it a great option for hard-use knives, hunting blades, and chef’s knives.

Composition

• Carbon – 1.00%
• Chromium – 1.50%
• Manganese – 0.30%
• Silicon – 0.25%
• Iron – Balance

Performance Characteristics

• Toughness 7/10 – 52100 is known for its high toughness, particularly at lower hardness levels. It is more resistant to chipping and cracking than many stainless steels, making it a solid choice for knives that need to endure heavy use or impact. It is commonly used in large hunting knives, outdoor blades, and tools.

• Edge retention 7/10 – 52100 offers excellent edge retention due to its high carbon and chromium content. It holds a fine edge for extended periods, particularly when used in slicing and chopping applications. While it may not outperform modern powdered steels in edge retention, it is easier to sharpen and maintains good edge stability.

• Corrosion resistance 2/10 – As a high-carbon steel with relatively low chromium content, 52100 is prone to rust and corrosion if not properly cared for. Regular oiling and maintenance are essential to prevent rust, especially in wet or humid conditions. It requires more attention than stainless steels but can offer superior performance in other areas.

Recommended Heat Treatment

• Heat blade to 800-830°C (non-magnetic stage)
• Quench immediately in medium-speed oil like canola or parks 50
• Temper at 150-200°C for 2 hours, twice, depending on the desired hardness

Note: 52100 is known for its ability to reach high hardness levels while maintaining toughness, especially when heat-treated with care. For best results, it can also benefit from cryogenic treatment to enhance its wear resistance and edge retention.

Approximate As-Quenched Hardness Before Tempering:

• 800-830°C followed by oil quench – 63-65HRC

Recommended Working Hardness
58-62HRC