BÖHLER K340

BÖHLER K340 ISODUR is a remelted cold-work tool steel developed for applications that require wear resistance, toughness and dimensional stability. Böhler describes its wear resistance as high, its toughness and ductility as good, and its grindability as very high.

WHAT THIS MEANS IN A KNIFE
K340 is attractive for working fixed blades because it offers a practical balance rather than chasing a single extreme property. With appropriate heat treatment and geometry, it can provide strong edge retention while maintaining useful resistance to chipping and impact.

KIZLYAR SUPREME HEAT TREATMENT
Kizlyar Supreme K340 blades are commonly targeted around 62–63 HRC, depending on the model, blade thickness and production run. Precise hardening and tempering are essential to realise the alloy's stability and performance; always use the specification of the exact knife as the final reference.

EDGE PERFORMANCE
K340 can support a keen, durable working edge and is particularly well suited to outdoor and field knives that combine cutting with controlled harder work. Performance still depends on edge angle and blade geometry: even a tough tool steel should not be used for prying, twisting or striking hard mineral surfaces.

SHARPENING
Böhler rates K340's grindability highly for its class. In knife use, quality diamond, ceramic or modern water stones work well. Maintain the edge before it becomes completely blunt, use a stable angle and finish with light alternating strokes to reduce the burr.

CORROSION CARE
K340 contains 8.3% chromium but is not stainless. Wipe the blade clean and dry after use, especially after contact with moisture, salt, food acids or plant sap. Apply a thin protective oil before long storage and never leave a damp blade inside its sheath.

BEST SUITED TO
K340 is a strong choice for demanding fixed blades, hunting knives and outdoor tools where users want a blend of edge retention, toughness and field maintainability. It is less suitable when near-maintenance-free stainless behaviour is the primary requirement.

KEY ADVANTAGES
• High wear resistance
• Good toughness and resistance to edge chipping
• Good dimensional stability after heat treatment
• Very high grindability for its class
• Strong balance for hard-working fixed blades

CONSIDERATIONS
• Not stainless and requires corrosion care
• Exact performance depends on heat treatment and edge geometry
• Availability can vary by model and production run

Composition and baseline properties are based on Böhler's official K340 ISODUR technical information.