Elmax
Elmax is a third-generation powder-metallurgy stainless steel from Bohler-Uddeholm, built with high chromium, vanadium, and molybdenum content for a strong all-around balance of wear resistance, corrosion resistance, and toughness. Its fine, round carbides make it noticeably easier to sharpen than many other steels with this level of performance.
Elmax FAQ
What hardness does Elmax reach?
Most working knives run around 60-61 Rc, with a maximum working hardness near 62 Rc. See the heat treat details further down this page for the full recipe.
Is Elmax hard to sharpen?
No, it is one of the easier premium powder-metallurgy steels to sharpen for its performance class, thanks to its fine, round carbide structure. See the full grinding and sharpening guide for belt recommendations.
Does Elmax rust?
No, it offers excellent stainless corrosion resistance, among the best of any premium knife steel, well suited to marine and humid environments.
How does Elmax compare to CPM 20CV or CPM S35VN?
Elmax is tougher and easier to sharpen than CPM 20CV, and holds a slight corrosion-resistance edge over CPM S35VN while being nearly tied with it otherwise. See the full breakdowns: CPM 20CV vs Elmax and Elmax vs CPM S35VN.
Also known as: Elmax, Bohler Elmax
Composition
| Carbon (C) | 1.70% |
| Chromium (Cr) | 18.00% |
| Vanadium (V) | 3.00% |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | 1.00% |
| Silicon (Si) | 0.80% |
| Manganese (Mn) | 0.30% |
Properties
| Property | Rating | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Toughness | ★★★★☆ | Fine, round carbides from the powder-metallurgy process give it good toughness for a high-carbide steel, with minimal risk of edge chipping when hardened correctly. |
| Edge Retention | ★★★★☆ | Strong wear resistance from a heavy vanadium and chromium carbide load, holding an edge well in everyday-carry and outdoor use. |
| Corrosion Resistance | ★★★★★ | 18% chromium puts it among the best corrosion resistance of any premium knife steel, a strong choice for marine or wet environments. |
| Machinability / Grinding | ★★★☆☆ | One of the easier premium powder-metallurgy steels to sharpen for its performance level, though still slower to grind than basic stainless steels. |
Heat Treatment
Austenitize at 1975-2050 F (1080-1120 C). Air or plate quench, then apply a cryogenic treatment (liquid nitrogen or dry ice) before tempering to reduce retained austenite and boost hardness. Double temper at 350-400 F for 2 hours per cycle. Maximum working hardness is around 62 Rc, though most production knives run 60-61 Rc.
Best Uses
A strong all-around choice for EDC and outdoor knives, especially where top-tier corrosion resistance matters, such as marine or humid environments. Browse more entries in the Knife Steel Database, and see the Heat Treating Guide for the full stage-by-stage process.
Sources: Bohler-Uddeholm Elmax datasheet; Topham Knife Co, How to Heat Treat Elmax Steel.