ATS-34 is the Japanese counterpart to 154CM. It was a favorite of custom makers in the 1990s and is still used today.
ATS-34 Steel at a Glance
| Type | Stainless steel |
|---|---|
| Made by | Hitachi Metals, now Proterial (Japan) |
| Typical hardness | 58-61 HRC |
| Key elements | Carbon about 1.05%, chromium about 14%, molybdenum about 4% |
| Edge retention | 5/10 (good) |
| Toughness | 4/10 (modest) |
| Rust resistance | 7/10 (very good) |
| Ease of sharpening | 6/10 (moderate) |
| Best for | Mid-range EDC |
Ratings are relative 1 to 10 scores for typical factory heat treatments. See how ATS-34 ranks against 46 other steels in our Knife Steel Chart.
What Is ATS-34 Steel?
ATS-34 was made by Hitachi, whose metals business now operates as Proterial. Its composition matches 154CM.
ATS-34 Steel Properties
- Edge retention: Good.
- Toughness: Modest.
- Rust resistance: Very good.
- Ease of sharpening: Moderate.
ATS-34 Equivalents and Alternatives
154CM is the American equivalent. CPM 154 is a refined powder version.
ATS-34 vs Other Steels
ATS-34 vs 154CM
ATS-34 and 154CM perform very similarly. Choose based on price, the knife design and the maker’s heat treatment. Read our 154CM guide.
ATS-34 vs 440C
Compared with 440C, ATS-34 holds an edge slightly longer. Read our 440C guide.
ATS-34 vs VG10
Compared with VG10, ATS-34 holds an edge slightly longer. VG10 is slightly tougher and resists rust slightly better. Read our VG10 guide.
Is ATS-34 Steel Good for Knives?
Yes, for mid-range knives. It is a dependable steel, though powder steels now offer more.
Pros:
- Good edge retention
- Good rust resistance
Cons:
- Average toughness
Knives That Use ATS-34 Steel
Makers sometimes change blade steels between versions, so check the listing to confirm the steel before you buy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ATS-34 steel stainless?
Yes. ATS-34 is a stainless steel, though no knife steel is completely rust proof. Wipe it dry after use.
How hard is ATS-34 steel?
Knives in ATS-34 are usually heat treated to around 58-61 HRC.
Is ATS-34 easy to sharpen?
Moderate. Quality ceramic or diamond stones help.