Kategorie: AUS8 Stainless Steel

What Is AUS-8 Steel?

AUS-8 (or AUS8) is a Japanese stainless steel widely used in kitchen knives, everyday carry (EDC) tools, and tactical blades.

Known for its excellent balance of corrosion resistance, edge retention, and ease of sharpening, it is often referred to internationally as “Japanese AUS 8 steel.”

Its versatility and user-friendly characteristics make it a popular choice among both professionals and hobbyists.

The following topics are explained below the product list.

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Composition of AUS-8

According to the official material specifications provided by Aichi Steel (愛知製鋼), the manufacturer of AUS-8, its composition is as follows:

Element Min (%) Max (%)
Carbon (C) 0.70 0.80
Chromium (Cr) 13.0 14.5
Molybdenum (Mo) 0.10 0.30
Nickel (Ni) 0.49 0.49
Manganese (Mn) 0.50 0.50
Silicon (Si) 1.00
Vanadium (V) 0.10 0.25

Compared to AUS-6, AUS-8 contains more carbon and includes vanadium, which results in increased hardness, better edge retention, and improved wear resistance.

While AUS-10 has even higher carbon content, offering longer edge life, AUS-8 provides a more accessible balance—maintaining ease of sharpening and dependable performance for everyday use.

Cutting Edge of the Inoguchi AUS8 Kiritsuke Santoku

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AUS-8 vs Other Popular Steels

AUS-8 vs VG10

VG10, a high-end Japanese stainless steel made by Takefu Special Steel (武生特殊鋼材), contains higher levels of carbon (~1.0%), vanadium, and cobalt, making it significantly harder than AUS-8.

AUS-8 vs 8Cr13MoV

8Cr13MoV is a Chinese stainless steel often considered equivalent to AUS-8 in composition. In fact, both contain similar levels of arbon (~0.75%), Chromium (~13–14%), Molybdenum (~0.2%).

AUS-8 vs S30V

8Cr13MoV is a Chinese stainless steel often considered equivalent to AUS-8 in composition. In fact, both contain similar levels of arbon (~0.75%), Chromium (~13–14%), Molybdenum (~0.2%).

Blade-to-handle connection of the AUS8 knife

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AUS-8 in the Community

Cold Steel and AUS-8

Cold Steel,, an American knife brand, helped popularize AUS-8 in the 2000s, establishing its reputation as a reliable and affordable stainless steel.

While the company now uses other steels like CTS-XHP and S35VN, older AUS-8 models remain well-regarded in enthusiast forums and resale markets.

Notable Review Sources

To better understand how AUS-8 kitchen knives performs in both professional and home settings, the following reviews and discussions offer valuable, user-driven insights:

📝 Technical and Informative Articles:

💬 Reddit Forums:

Polished finish on the surface of the AUS8 blade

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Summary: A Well-Balanced Blade Steel for Everyday Use

Cold Steel and AUS-8

AUS-8, developed by Aichi Steel in Japan, is valued for its excellent balance of corrosion resistance, ease of sharpening, and toughness.

It offers the performance needed for everyday kitchen use, while remaining affordable and easy to maintain. For those looking for a dependable Japanese stainless steel without the premium price, AUS-8 is a smart and practical choice.

🔍FAQ

Q: Is AUS-8 steel good?

Yes. AUS-8 is a well-rounded mid-range stainless steel that is rust-resistant, easy to sharpen, and suitable for everyday kitchen use.

Q: What is the Rockwell hardness of AUS-8?

AUS-8 typically falls between HRC 57–59, depending on the manufacturer’s heat treatment.

Q: How does AUS-8 compare to VG10?

VG10 has higher hardness and retains its edge longer, but AUS-8 is easier to maintain and more forgiving for everyday use.