Carpenter / USA

440XH

High Carbon Stainless Steel60–64 HRCParticle Metallurgy (Micro-Melt® Process)

Composition

Core alloying elements define the baseline trade-off between wear resistance, corrosion behavior, and toughness.

Material Overview

Carpenter 440XH is a proprietary high-hardness stainless steel developed by Carpenter Technology as an upgraded variation within the 440 steel family. Compared to standard 440C, it is engineered to provide improved wear resistance and edge stability while maintaining good corrosion resistance. The steel is capable of achieving higher hardness levels, making it suitable for performance-focused cutting tools and premium production knives. Although it predates many modern powder metallurgy steels, it remains respected for its balanced stainless performance and reliable cutting behavior.

Performance Radar

Use four core metrics to understand the usable operating envelope of this steel at a glance.

Edge Retention

Toughness

Corrosion Resistance

Sharpenability

Edge Retention

7.0

Toughness

7.0

Corrosion Resistance

8.0

Sharpenability

7.0

Advantages

Better edge retention than standard 440 steels
Good corrosion resistance
Strong hardness capability
Stable cutting performance
Easier maintenance than tool steels

Disadvantages

Lower toughness than modern PM steels
Harder to sharpen than basic stainless steels
Outperformed by modern super steels
Less common in current knife production

At A Glance

Carpenter 440XH is an enhanced high-carbon stainless steel developed for improved hardness and wear resistance compared to standard 440-series steels.