Vanax (often specifically referred to as Vanax SuperClean) is a third-generation powder metallurgy steel that represents a paradigm shift in knife metallurgy. Developed by Uddeholm, its defining characteristic is the substitution of carbon with nitrogen. By using approximately 1.55% nitrogen, the steel forms hard vanadium nitrides rather than traditional chromium carbides.
This unique chemistry allows the chromium to remain "in solution" to fight rust, giving Vanax a level of corrosion resistance comparable to 300-series marine-grade stainless steels, yet with the 60+ HRC hardness required for high-performance knives. While it may not match the absolute edge retention of high-carbide "monster" steels, its fine microstructure makes it incredibly rewarding to sharpen and exceptionally stable at very thin edge geometries.