1. 440A

Very much like 420HC but with more carbon, which improves wear resistance and edge retention, but reduces corrosion resistance.

2. 420HC

Generally considered the king of the 420 series, 420HC is similar to 420 steel, but with more carbon to make it harder. Although it is classified as a low- to medium-grade steel, some capable 

manufacturers can still use heat treatment technology to maximize the value of this cheap steel, optimizing its edge retention and corrosion resistance. In fact, although it is cheap, it is one of 

the most corrosion-resistant steels.

3. 13C26

This is a copy of Sandvik's AEB-L steel, which was originally used for razors. Compared with 440A, it has a higher carbon content and a lower chromium content, so the hardness and wear 

resistance are increased, but the cost is reduced corrosion resistance. In actual application, their performance is very close and difficult to distinguish. Sandvik later produced 14C28N, which is 

slightly better than 13C26.

4. 1095

This is the most popular 10-series standard carbon steel, with weak corrosion resistance and average edge retention. So why would you want 1095 steel? The answer is here, 1095 steel is a 

tough steel that does not break easily, is easy to sharpen, takes an extremely sharp edge and is inexpensive to produce. Therefore, it is well suited to making larger heavy-duty blades and 

survival knives, rather than being abused by ordinary everyday carry knives. Many manufacturers add sheaths to knives made from 1095 to prevent rust, but the easiest way to prevent this is 

to coat the surface with oil.