4116 is a German stainless steel often sold as 4116 Krupp. It is common in kitchen knives and some budget outdoor knives.
4116 Steel at a Glance
| Type | Stainless steel |
|---|---|
| Made by | Thyssenkrupp and other German mills (W.Nr. 1.4116) |
| Typical hardness | 55-58 HRC |
| Key elements | Carbon about 0.5%, chromium 14 to 15%, molybdenum about 0.6%, vanadium about 0.15% |
| Edge retention | 2/10 (low) |
| Toughness | 6/10 (good) |
| Rust resistance | 7/10 (very good) |
| Ease of sharpening | 9/10 (very easy) |
| Best for | Kitchen and outdoor knives |
Ratings are relative 1 to 10 scores for typical factory heat treatments. See how 4116 ranks against 46 other steels in our Knife Steel Chart.
What Is 4116 Steel?
4116 is the same family as X50CrMoV15. It has a fine grain and takes a keen edge, but it is usually hardened to the mid 50s HRC, so the edge does not last as long as harder steels.
4116 Steel Properties
- Edge retention: Low.
- Toughness: Good.
- Rust resistance: Very good.
- Ease of sharpening: Very easy.
4116 Equivalents and Alternatives
It is essentially X50CrMoV15. 5Cr15MoV is a close Chinese equivalent.
4116 vs Other Steels
4116 vs X50CrMoV15
Compared with 4116, X50CrMoV15 resists rust slightly better. Read our X50CrMoV15 guide.
4116 vs 420HC
Compared with 4116, 420HC resists rust slightly better. Read our 420HC guide.
4116 vs 8Cr13MoV
Compared with 8Cr13MoV, 4116 is slightly tougher and is slightly easier to sharpen. 8Cr13MoV holds an edge slightly longer. Read our 8Cr13MoV guide.
Is 4116 Steel Good for Knives?
Yes, for kitchen and budget outdoor knives. Its toughness and easy sharpening make it a practical, low-maintenance steel.
Pros:
- Tough
- Easy to sharpen
- Good rust resistance
Cons:
- Modest edge retention
Knives That Use 4116 Steel
Makers sometimes change blade steels between versions, so check the listing to confirm the steel before you buy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 4116 steel stainless?
Yes. 4116 is a stainless steel, though no knife steel is completely rust proof. Wipe it dry after use.
How hard is 4116 steel?
Knives in 4116 are usually heat treated to around 55-58 HRC.
Is 4116 easy to sharpen?
Very easy. Most standard stones and pull-through sharpeners work.