T-10 Steel

T10 tool steel

T10 is a Chinese tool steel with a high carbon content and tungsten admixture. It is known for its extreme hardness and ability to maintain a sharp edge, making it popular for making swords, knives, and other blades.

• Chemical composition: Carbon content of about 0.95-1.1% and the addition of tungsten increases both hardness and wear resistance.
• Properties:
• Hardness up to HRC 60-62.
• Excellent wear resistance.
• Prone to corrosion due to the absence of chromium (regular maintenance is required).
• When hardened, it produces a distinctive hardening line (hamon), which gives it aesthetic value.
• Uses: Ideal for making katana, long blades and working knives with high sharpness requirements.

AISI 1095

AISI 1095 is an American carbon steel used for blade tools. It is a classic among carbon steels due to its simplicity and balance between hardness and flexibility.

• Chemical composition: Carbon content of about 0.95% (similar to T10), but without tungsten.
• Properties:
• Hardness up to HRC 58-60.
• It holds the edge well and is easy to sharpen.
• Slightly higher flexibility than T10, making it a more versatile choice.
• Like T10, it is susceptible to corrosion, so requires regular maintenance.
• Uses: Suitable for making hunting knives, cleavers, survival knives and blades that require a good balance between durability and ease of maintenance.

Comparison of T10 and AISI 1095:

1. Hardness: T10 achieves higher hardness due to its tungsten content.
2. Flexibility: AISI 1095 is slightly more flexible, which makes it more suitable for higher mechanical stresses.
3. Wear resistance: T10 has better wear resistance due to the tungsten content.
4. Appearance: T10 produces a beautiful hamon when traditionally hardened, making it an aesthetically appealing choice.

Both steels are great blade materials, but the choice depends on the specific application and personal preference.