Elmax Stainless Steel
Elmax is a premium powder metallurgy stainless steel developed by Böhler-Uddeholm, designed to deliver an excellent balance of edge retention, corrosion resistance, and toughness. It is often considered a “well-rounded” high-end steel, sitting between extreme wear-resistant steels like M390 and tougher steels like CPM 3V.
Produced using a powder metallurgy process, Elmax has a very fine and uniform microstructure. This improves edge stability, wear resistance, and overall consistency, making it highly reliable across different types of use.
Technical Profile
Hardness: 60–62 HRC (★★★★★)
Edge retention: ★★★★★
Corrosion resistance: ★★★★☆
Toughness: ★★★★☆
Sharpening: ★★★☆☆
What Makes Elmax Special
Elmax stands out because it delivers high performance in all key categories without major weaknesses. It has strong edge retention due to its chromium and vanadium carbides, while still maintaining good toughness and corrosion resistance.
Compared to M390, Elmax is slightly tougher and easier to sharpen. Compared to S35VN, it offers better wear resistance and longer edge life. This makes it a versatile premium steel that performs consistently in both everyday and demanding environments.
Best Uses for Elmax
– Premium everyday carry (EDC)
– Outdoor and utility knives
– High-end folding knives
– All-purpose use
It is ideal for users who want a high-performance steel without extreme trade-offs.
Advantages
– Excellent edge retention
– Good corrosion resistance
– Strong overall balance
– More forgiving than some high-end steels
Disadvantages
– Higher cost
– Not as corrosion resistant as M390
– Not as tough as dedicated tool steels like 3V
Maintenance Tips
Elmax is stainless and low maintenance. Regular cleaning is usually sufficient. It sharpens best with quality sharpening systems due to its wear resistance.
Well-Known Knives From Your Brand Portfolio Using Elmax
• K1118VA1 Kansept QTRO Crossbar Lock
• BTKT2305B Bestech VK-Void Framelock Ti/CF
• VOSA2810 Vosteed Shilin Cutter Vanchor Lock
• TPMSFB01 Tops MSF Linerlock Black Elmax
• CHAV14324 Chaves Sangre Street Linerlock
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