Zapp Precision Metals / Germany

LC200N

Nitrogen-Based Stainless Steel58-61HRCConventional Ingot / Vacuum Melted Process

Composition

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

Material Overview

LC200N is a high-performance nitrogen-based stainless steel originally developed for aerospace and marine applications. Produced by Zapp Precision Metals, it offers near-rustproof corrosion resistance while maintaining excellent toughness and respectable edge retention. Unlike many high-hardness steels, LC200N is relatively easy to sharpen and performs exceptionally well in humid, wet, or saltwater environments. Its balanced properties have made it increasingly popular in premium outdoor and diving knives.

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

9.0

Corrosion Resistance

10.0

Sharpenability

8.0

Advantages

Exceptional corrosion resistance
Excellent toughness
Highly resistant to rust in saltwater environments
Easy to sharpen and maintain
Good balance of performance and durability

Disadvantages

Edge retention is lower than ultra-high wear-resistant steels
Not designed for maximum hardness or extreme slicing performance
Premium cost compared to standard stainless steels

At A Glance

LC200N is an ultra-corrosion-resistant nitrogen steel with excellent toughness and easy maintenance, making it ideal for marine, diving, and outdoor knives exposed to harsh environments.