14C28N

14C28N Steel, developed by Sandvik (formerly known as Alleima®), is a premium martensitic stainless steel specifically designed for professional knife applications. With a carbon content of approximately 0.62% and a chromium content of around 14%, this steel achieves a high hardness level, typically reaching up to 62 HRC after heat treatment. The addition of 0.11% nitrogen further enhances its hardness and edge stability without compromising corrosion resistance.

14C28N is recognized for its good edge retention, making it suitable for knives that require a sharp and lasting edge. It also offers better corrosion resistance than some of its counterparts like 12C27 due to the higher chromium content, and the nitrogen addition provides additional protection against corrosion.

The steel is also favored for its high grindability, which means it can be easily sharpened using most sharpening systems, and it is cost-effective to manufacture. This makes 14C28N an ideal choice for a wide range of knives, from kitchen cutlery to outdoor and tactical knives.

While 14C28N has slightly less toughness compared to some other steels like 12C27, it still maintains a high level of toughness, allowing the blade to withstand impacts without chipping or breaking. This, combined with its ease of sharpening and good corrosion resistance, makes 14C28N a popular choice among both manufacturers and users who value a durable, long-lasting blade.