Menu
History
Anatomy & Features
Guides
Blade Steel: Aichi AUS-8
Published: May 14th, 2025
AUS-8 is a stainless steel that has been a staple in the knife world for decades, offering a well-balanced combination of corrosion resistance, toughness, and ease of sharpening. Developed by Aichi Steel Corporation in Japan, AUS-8 belongs to a family of steels that also includes AUS-6 and AUS-10, each progressively increasing in carbon content and performance characteristics. AUS-8 sits in the middle, making it an ideal choice for knife users who want dependable performance without venturing into premium-priced territory.
The composition of AUS-8 includes 0.7 to 0.75 percent carbon, which provides the hardness and edge retention necessary for cutting tasks. It also contains 13 to 14.5 percent chromium, giving it a high level of resistance to rust and staining, a key trait for knives used in humid or wet environments. Molybdenum and vanadium are present in small amounts, enhancing strength, wear resistance, and refining the grain structure. Other elements include 0.49 percent nickel for added toughness and corrosion resistance, 0.5 percent manganese to boost hardness, and 1 percent silicon to increase strength and heat resistance. This blend gives AUS-8 its hallmark versatility.
Composition
Carbon - 0.7-0.75%
Chromium - 13-14.5%
Molybdenum - 0.1-0.3%
Vanadium - 0.1-0.3%
Nickel - 0.49%
Manganese - 0.5%
Silicon - 1%
The steel gained popularity in the 1990s and early 2000s as knife manufacturers sought an alternative to the commonly used 440 series stainless steels. Compared to 440A and 440B, AUS-8 offered better edge retention and slightly improved toughness. It became especially favored among tactical and outdoor knife makers who appreciated how easily it could be sharpened in the field, a quality that end-users valued in demanding conditions. While it may not compete with the top-tier powdered metallurgy steels introduced in more recent years, AUS-8 remains respected for its practical performance.
AUS-8’s most appealing characteristics include good corrosion resistance, decent edge retention, and ease of maintenance. It sharpens readily with basic tools, making it user-friendly for those who may not have access to professional sharpening equipment. Its toughness is notable for a stainless steel, giving it a good resistance to chipping during heavy use. While it won't hold an edge as long as higher-carbon or super steels, it offers enough retention to get most jobs done with minimal fuss.
This steel has seen widespread use in a variety of knife styles. Everyday carry folders, tactical knives, hunting and fishing knives, and even some kitchen knives have all featured AUS-8 blades. Its stainless nature makes it particularly appealing for field use where moisture is a constant factor. Hunters, outdoorsmen, and first responders have often favored AUS-8 for its no-nonsense reliability.
Many well-known knife brands have relied on AUS-8 throughout their product lines. Cold Steel was the most prominent, using AUS-8 extensively in bestsellers like the Recon 1 and Voyager series before transitioning to higher-end steels like CTS-XHP. Ontario Knife Company employed AUS-8 in their popular RAT folders, widely appreciated by bushcrafters and EDC enthusiasts. SOG Knives made AUS-8 a mainstay in many of their tactical folders and fixed blades, and Ka-Bar and CRKT have also used it across various models. While many of these brands have since adopted newer budget steels such as 8Cr13MoV or D2, AUS-8’s legacy is firmly cemented in the knife industry.
In a market flooded with steels ranging from ultrabudget to ultra-premium, AUS-8 continues to offer real-world performance at an accessible price. It may not carry the prestige of more exotic alloys, but for those who prioritize reliability, ease of care, and value, AUS-8 remains a steel worth knowing.
What to Buy
The SOG Combat Bowie 2.0 is a modern tribute to a legendary Vietnam-era combat knife. Featuring a 6.4" AUS-8 stainless steel clip point blade with a black TiNi finish, it delivers exceptional durability and corrosion resistance. The stacked leather handle offers a classic, comfortable grip, while the sculpted cross guard enhances safety. With an overall length of 11" and weighing 11.2oz, it’s perfectly balanced for serious tasks. It comes with a premium black leather sheath, sharpening stone, and presentation box. Functional, collectible, and built for performance, the Bowie 2.0 honors its roots while meeting today’s toughest challenges.
The Mcusta Kamon Aoi Money Clip combines traditional Japanese artistry with modern utility in a sleek, compact design. Made in Seki, Japan, it features a 1.875" AUS-8 spear point blade with a satin finish for smooth cutting performance. A skeletonized frame lock keeps the weight at just 1.9 ounces, while the all-stainless handle integrates a detailed Aoi crest money clip. At 2.9" closed, it slips easily into any pocket, offering dual-purpose function as a cutting tool and money clip. Precision-built and elegantly styled, it’s a refined EDC choice for those who value heritage, craftsmanship, and practicality.
The CRKT Provoke Folding Karambit merges ancient karambit design with modern engineering through Joe Caswell’s groundbreaking Kinematic technology. With a push of the thumb, the 2.41" AUS-8 stainless steel hawkbill blade deploys swiftly and locks in place. A discreet lever allows smooth retraction. The stonewashed blade offers toughness and wear resistance, while the sand Grivory handle keeps the knife lightweight yet durable. A flush-mounted, spring-loaded pocket clip enables secure, low-profile carry. At 4.96" closed and 4.7oz, the Provoke is compact, reliable, and built for tactical readiness, making it a cutting-edge tool for everyday use or emergency response.
Written By
Drew Clifton
Drew is the lead writer for SMKW's Knives 101, crafting informative and engaging content for the world’s largest knife store. With expertise in knife history, design, and functionality, Drew delivers articles and product descriptions that educate and inspire knife enthusiasts at all levels.
Expert Reviewed
T.C. Barnette
T.C. Barnette is a dynamic media personality and the esteemed spokesperson for SMKW (Smoky Mountain Knife Works), where his passion for knives intersects with his captivating on-screen presence. With a magnetic charisma and deep expertise in cutlery, T.C. has become a beloved figure in the knife community.