Knife enthusiasts and makers have always been concerned with the quality of the steel used in the manufacturing of their cutting tools. Among the top tier of knife steels lies one remarkable and highly regarded alloy - the N690. Known for its high hardness, excellent corrosion resistance, and impressive edge retention, N690 steel has been the material of choice for many knife makers and users alike. In this article, we will explore the composition of N690 steel, unravel its history, and discuss some of its most famous applications. N690 Steel Composition The N690 steel is a high-quality stainless steel characterized by a composition that imbues it with impressive durability, hardness, and resistance. It boasts the following elemental composition: 1. Carbon: 1.08% 2. Chromium: 17.30% 3. Manganese: 0.40% 4. Molybdenum: 1.10% 5. Silicon: 0.40% 6. Cobalt: 1.50% 7. Vanadium: 0.10% The high carbon content of N690 steel grants it exceptional hardness and edge retention capabilities. With Chromium comprising 17.3% of its composition, N690 also displays incredible resistance to corrosion, making it suitable for use in harsh conditions, including saltwater environments. The presence of Manganese, Silicon, and Molybdenum improves the mechanical properties of the steel, enhancing its strength, wear resistance, and toughness. Lastly, the addition of Cobalt and Vanadium refines the microstructure of N690, resulting in a finer grain, which further contributes to its remarkable properties. History of N690 Steel The N690 steel has its origins in Austria, where steel manufacturer Böhler-Uddeholm developed and introduced it as a successor to their earlier stainless steel variants. Initially, the steel was primarily used for applications in the medical and food processing industries, where both corrosion resistance and hygiene were of utmost importance. Over time, however, the impressive attributes of N690 caught the attention of the knife-making community, prompting its growing popularity and adoption in that sector. Today, N690 steel is widely used in the manufacturing of numerous knife types, from pocket knives and tactical knives to kitchen knives and even diving knives. Manufacturers around the world have recognized the N690 steel as an ideal choice for producing top-quality cutting tools that cater to a range of professional and recreational needs. Applications of N690 Steel As mentioned earlier, N690 steel has been utilized in a wide array of knife-related applications. Some of the most notable uses of this high-performance stainless steel include: 1. Pocket knives: With its impressive durability and edge retention, N690 steel makes for an exceptional choice for use in everyday carry (EDC) pocket knives. Users can expect a reliable and long-lasting tool that effectively resists corrosion, making it ideal for daily usage. 2. Tactical and hunting knives: The toughness and wear resistance of N690 make it a popular choice for tactical and hunting knives, which often find themselves subjected to strenuous tasks and demanding environments. 3. Kitchen knives: N690 steel’s corrosion resistance, combined with its ability to maintain a sharp edge over extended periods of use, makes it an ideal candidate for kitchen knives that can withstand regular exposure to water and food acids. 4. Diving knives: Thanks to its exceptional rust resistance, N690 steel has also found a niche in the fabrication of diving knives. These specialized tools are constantly exposed to saltwater and other corrosive elements, making the need for a high-quality stainless steel all the more essential. Conclusion N690 steel has earned its reputation as a top-tier knife steel, offering knife makers and users an outstanding combination of hardness, corrosion resistance, and edge retention. Its unique composition, storied history, and wide-ranging applications make it a truly remarkable knife steel that will continue to be sought-after and cherished by enthusiasts and professionals alike.