Californian San Mai S290 Microclean
Experience one of the most advanced high-performance San Mai steels available today.
This exclusive laminated billet combines an ultra-hard Böhler S290 Microclean core with durable stainless 440B outer layers and nickel interlayers, creating a premium balance of extreme edge retention, toughness, corrosion resistance, and stunning visual appearance.
The central cutting core is heat treated to 65–66 HRC, while the steel itself is capable of reaching up to 69–70 HRC, delivering exceptional wear resistance and aggressive cutting performance for high-end custom knives.
Each billet undergoes a specialized two-stage cryogenic treatment in liquid nitrogen, improving carbide structure, hardness stability, and long-term edge performance.
Construction
- Outer Layers: 440B Stainless Steel — 60–61 HRC
- Intermediate Layer: Nickel (Ni)
- Core Steel: Böhler S290 Microclean — 65–66 HRC
Key Features
- Extremely high wear resistance
- Outstanding edge retention
- Premium laminated San Mai construction
- Double cryogenic treatment
- Excellent cutting aggression
- Ideal for high-end custom knife making
Chemical Composition of S290 Microclean
- Carbon (C): 2.0%
- Tungsten (W): 14.3%
- Vanadium (V): 5.1%
- Cobalt (Co): 11%
- Molybdenum (Mo): 2.5%
- Chromium (Cr): 3.8%
- Silicon (Si): 0.5%
- Manganese (Mn): 0.3%
Perfect for makers seeking a truly elite steel combination with maximum cutting performance and exclusivity.
