N690 is a premium stainless steel from Bohler Austria, the world's largest supplier of high-quality tool steels.
The manufacturer uses a longitudinal and transverse rolling process of the steel to eliminate internal stresses, resulting in greater stability of the blades in service.
N690 is by far one of the most balanced blade steels available today.
The high proportion of molybdenum and cobalt in the composition gives the steel high fracture strength and stability in service, while carbon, vanadium and silicon give it very good cutting and edge retention.
Not surprisingly, leading European and Russian manufacturers are increasingly using this steel for their blades.
The hardness of N690 can vary between 58 and 63 HRC, but the optimum hardness of blades made from N690 is around 60-61 HRC. Quenching in a nitrogen environment of Kizlyar Supreme allows you to maximize the useful properties of the steel at this hardness and get the perfect balance between resistance and durability of the knife. A little harder and the steel can become brittle, a little less and it will not show its full cutting potential.
We recommend N690 blades for all knife applications, but this steel is particularly well-suited when strength, stability and excellent corrosion resistance are required: for demanding water hikes, fishing and hunting, but it is also appreciated by inhabitants of regions with humid climates. It also performs well in high-quality kitchen knives.
ADVANTAGES:
Optimal balance of operating properties
High corrosion resistance. Practically maintenance free
Excellent edge retention
Easy sharpening
DISADVANTAGES:
We have not found any. The N690 is the best choice for the money.