PGK

German PGK steel from Lohmann has revolutionized the way we think about the possibilities of knife steels.

When PGK entered the Russian mass-produced knife market in 2016, it practically blew it up.
Kizlyar Supreme was one of the first Russian factories to start producing knives from PGK, and even in the testing phase we were surprised by its wear resistance.

Later, at the request of Lohmann factory representatives, we conducted serious tests with this steel: We checked the optimal technologies for heat and mechanical treatment, as well as sharpening angles. And now we have the opportunity to share our results with you.

From the chemical composition alone, it is clear that PGK is a highly alloyed tool steel. 1.15% carbon and a high content of other alloying elements such as molybdenum, vanadium and tungsten make PGK very wear resistant and strong. For the owner, that means a serious cutting steel chosen for long-lasting sharpness and demanding work. Our experience with PGK lets us bring those strengths together in a carefully heat-treated, purpose-designed blade. The working hardness range for PGK is between 59 and 65 HRC, although we consider the optimum hardness for blades to be 62-63 HRC.

At 62–63 HRC, we develop the lively cutting character and lasting working edge that made PGK one of the most exciting steels in our range. Hardness, heat treatment and geometry work together to give you a knife worth taking into the field.

Due to its very high wear resistance, sharpening Lohmann PGK knives requires some time and the right choice of abrasives. We recommend the use of modern diamond grit grinding tools and ceramics.

PGK has another property that is important to know.
We explored an included edge angle of about 40 degrees (20 per side) in demanding development trials to understand how PGK’s edge holds up under challenging conditions. This hands-on work helps us choose geometry for the model instead of relying on a steel name alone. Keep that high-performance edge for cutting, and use purpose-built tools for cans, prying and hard impacts. See our proper-use guidance.

A finer included angle, around 30 degrees (15 per side), brings easier slicing to suitable cutting tasks; about 40 degrees leaves more support behind the edge. Our work on sharpening angles is about giving each knife the right cutting character. Follow your model’s geometry, or ask us which angle best suits your use.

PGK has some corrosion resistance, but it can not be called stainless steel. In practice, we recommend wiping the knife dry after moisture or cutting acidic foods (fruit, onions, etc.). For longer storage, apply a thin film of a suitable protective oil. If the knife is used for food preparation, choose a food-safe product and follow its instructions.

If you value an eager cut and sharpness that keeps working, PGK deserves a place on your shortlist. Explore our PGK models and choose the size, geometry and carry system that fit your work.

ADVANTAGES:
Phenomenal cutting quality
High breaking strength
Excellent wear resistance and cutting durability

OWNERSHIP TIPS:
Use diamond or suitable ceramic abrasives to restore the wear-resistant edge.
Wipe clean and dry after use; oil before longer storage.