AUS6M, AUS8 and AUS10 High Carbon Stainless Steel

One of the prominent materials in molybdenum vanadium steel is the AUS series manufactured by Aichi Techno Metal Fukaumi Co., Ltd. Aichi Metal is a leading material manufacturer in Japan, supplying steel to Toyota Motor Corporation. They handle a range of steel materials, including special bar steel, titanium, and tool steel. Within their offerings, there is a division for high-strength stainless steel, which is used as blade steel.

The AUS series includes models such as AUS-6, AUS-8, and AUS-10. All models contain the same ratio of Chromium, Molybdenum and Vanadium, and the difference is the amout of carbon content.

• Chromium: 13 to 14.5%
• Molybdenum: 0.1 to 0.3%
• Vanadium: 0.1 to 0.25%

AUS6M

• Carbon content: 0.55-0.65%
• HRC (Rockwell hardness): Approximately 58.0

It is marketed under the name of molybdenum steel, and this material is used mainly in inexpensive products. Its carbon content is the lowest, making it less sharp and wear-resistant. However, it's favoured for its resilience, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening. This makes it particularly suitable and user-friendly for domestic use.

AUS8

• Carbon content: 0.70-0.80%
• HRC: Approximately 59.0

AUS8 is the most commonly used steel of knives sold as molybdenum steel. Its carbon content is slightly higher than 6M, improving its hardness and wear resistance. It also boasts a good balance in toughness, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening. Given its affordability, it's suitable for both household and professional use.

AUS10

• Carbon content: 0.95-1.10%
• HRC: Approximately 60.0

AUS10 has the highest carbon content within the AUS series, excelling in hardness and wear resistance. It's often used in mid-range products, providing a good balance between price and quality. Some knives indicate the steel type as AUS 10V. The 'V' denotes that the steel underwent a vacuum process, enhancing the knife's durability and performance.