wiki- AUS8

  • Definition: A mid-grade stainless steel developed by Aichi Steel (Toyota Group), widely used in knives, scissors, and precision tools.
  • Details: AUS-8 contains 0.70–0.80% carbon, 13–14% chromium, 0.25% molybdenum, and 0.1–0.3% vanadium. This composition provides a balance of hardness (~59 HRC), corrosion resistance, and wear resistance. Compared to lower grades like AUS-6, AUS-8 offers improved durability, while AUS-10 further enhances performance.
  • Comparison: Compared with high-carbon steels such as Aogami or Shirogami, AUS-8 offers superior rust resistance and ease of maintenance, but may not reach the same extreme sharpness or edge retention. Within the AUS series, AUS-8 is positioned as a versatile middle grade, balancing sharpness, toughness, and affordability.
  • Practical Use: AUS-8 is valued for its ease of sharpening and balanced performance. It is often used in kitchen knives, folding knives, and medical instruments. For knife users, it provides reliable sharpness with less risk of rusting, making it suitable for both professional and home use.