N690

Description

N690 Steel

Introduction

N690 is a premium martensitic stainless steel manufactured in Austria by Böhler-Uddeholm. Designed for high-performance cutting tools, it offers an excellent balance of corrosion resistance, edge retention, and reliable heat treat response. Known for its fine grain structure and consistent performance, N690 is widely used in production and custom knives alike.

Steel Composition Highlights

• • ~1.08% Carbon – Supports strong hardness and edge retention
  • ~17.0% Chromium – Excellent corrosion and stain resistance
  • ~1.10% Molybdenum – Improves wear resistance and pitting resistance
  • ~1.50% Cobalt – Refines grain structure and enhances heat treat response
  • ~0.09% Vanadium – Contributes to grain refinement

Typical Hardness Range: 58–60+ HRC
Steel Type: Conventional ingot metallurgy stainless steel

Equivalent Steels

• • VG-10
  • 440C (enhanced performance over traditional 440C)
  • 1.4528 (DIN designation)

Manufactured in: Austria
Technology: Conventional ingot metallurgy