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Sandvik

14C28N

Blade steels

Hardness (HRC) 60-62 HRC

Type stainless

14C28N Steel

Description

14C28N is a stainless steel from Sandvik (Sweden), developed as an improvement over 13C26/AEB-L. With increased chromium and nitrogen content, it offers better corrosion resistance while maintaining excellent toughness. Commonly used in pocket knives (e.g. Kershaw), kitchen knives, and EDC knives.

Composition

ElementContent
Carbon (C)0.68 %
Chromium (Cr)14 %
Nitrogen (N)0.11 %
Manganese (Mn)0.4 %

Properties

PropertyValueRating (1-10)
Hardness60–62 HRC—
Toughness10–15 ft-lbs at 61 HRC8/10
Corrosion ResistanceVery good8/10
Edge Retention (CATRA TCC)~400–450 mm at 61 HRC5/10
Carbide Volume~6–7 % (chromium carbides)—
GrindabilityVery good8/10

Microstructure

14C28N has a very fine microstructure similar to AEB-L/13C26. The chromium carbides are small and evenly distributed. The nitrogen addition improves corrosion resistance and enables higher hardness.

Heat Treatment

StepTemperature / Duration
Austenitizing1050–1075 °C
QuenchOil or air
CryoOptional for maximum hardness
Tempering150–200 °C (2×)
Achievable Hardness60–62 HRC
SteelHardnessToughnessCorrosionEdge Retention
14C28N61 HRC8/108/105/10
AEB-L / 13C2660 HRC8/107/105/10
12C2759 HRC8/108/105/10
VG1060 HRC5/108/105/10

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Excellent toughness for a stainless steel
  • Very good corrosion resistance (better than AEB-L)
  • Very fine microstructure
  • Easy to grind
  • Good edge stability
  • Cost-effective

Cons:

  • Moderate edge retention compared to higher-alloyed steels
  • Not suitable for extreme applications
  • Limited availability outside factory knives

Conclusion

14C28N is one of the best budget steels with an excellent combination of properties. It offers the best balance of toughness, corrosion resistance, and edge retention in the budget category. Ideal for EDC knives and kitchen knives.

Sources