What type of steel is SRS-13?

SRS-13 is a stainless knife steel, made by Nachi-Fujikoshi, Japan. Powder metallurgy yields a fine, uniform carbide structure that improves edge stability and toughness compared to conventional ingot-cast steels. Stainless steels resist rust and require less day-to-day care than carbon steels, but typically trade off some edge retention.

What is the hardness of SRS-13 steel?

SRS-13 steel is typically hardened to 63–64 HRC on the Rockwell C scale. Within this range, higher hardness supports finer edges and longer edge retention, while slightly lower hardness gains toughness and ease of sharpening — most premium Japanese kitchen knives target the 60–63 HRC range to balance these properties.

Is SRS-13 steel stainless?

SRS-13 contains 13.0% chromium. The conventional threshold for stainless classification is around 13% chromium; steels below that level will discolor or rust under typical kitchen acid/moisture exposure and are classified as carbon or semi-stainless.

Stainless Stainless Steel

"Stainless" means stain-resistant, not stain-proof. In kitchen use, the steel can still discolour or pit if exposed to acidic environments — citrus, vinegar, or salt water — for extended periods. Wash and wipe dry after every use, and avoid leaving the blade soaking in water. With basic care, a stainless knife is very low-maintenance and a great everyday choice. PM / Powder Steel Powder Metallurgy (PM)

A modern steel-making process where the alloy is atomised into a fine powder and then compressed under high pressure before sintering. This creates an exceptionally uniform carbide distribution — far finer and more even than conventionally cast steel. The result is a blade that achieves higher hardness without sacrificing toughness, holds a keener edge for longer, and is more resistant to chipping. PM steels are generally considered a step up in performance, though they can be harder to sharpen on coarse stones. Nachi-Fujikoshi, Japan 🇯🇵

SRS-13

Hardness

63–64 HRC

555759616365+

SRS-13 steel is a high-end, powder metallurgy stainless steel known for its excellent balance of hardness, toughness, and corrosion resistance. It combines the best attributes of both high-carbon and stainless steels, making it a versatile choice for kitchen knives. SRS-13 contains a notable amount of chromium for rust resistance, alongside carbon, molybdenum, and vanadium to enhance its edge retention and wear resistance. This steel is capable of being hardened to a high degree, allowing knives made from SRS-13 to achieve a sharp, durable edge that lasts. Its powder metallurgy process results in a uniform grain structure, contributing to its ability to take on a fine edge and maintain it through extensive use. SRS-13 steel is favored for premium kitchen knives, appealing to professional chefs and cooking enthusiasts seeking a blend of performance, ease of maintenance, and longevity.