ATS-34 Steel

ATS-34 Steel

Quick look

  • Hardness window: 60–61 HRC with Hitachi heat treatment.
  • Toughness: High molybdenum content keeps the edge tough for daily use.
  • Corrosion profile: Stainless enough for salon moisture, though not as resistant as VG-10.
  • Weight/feel: Medium weight with smooth, crisp closure.

Why it matters

ATS-34 (Hitachi’s Aichi-made analog to 154CM) was the upgrade path before ATS-314 arrived. It blends 1.05% carbon with 14% chromium and ~4% molybdenum, giving stylists a fine-grained edge that glides yet resists micro-chipping. Many legacy Japanese shears still rely on ATS-34 for its balance of longevity and serviceability.

Shear pairing & edge compatibility

  • Convex 5.5–6.0 in cutters: Ideal for precision, point, and slide work.
  • Offset handles with tension dials: Alloy tolerates tight tolerances without galling.

Technique map

  • Precision bobs, fringe detailing, and advanced layering.
  • Dry slide and channel work when you want glide without moving to cobalt.
  • Salon rotations mixing wet and dry services in the same day.

Real-world stress tests

  • Edge retention: Expect 900–1,200 salon cuts (~5–7 weeks at 25 cuts/day). MetalZenith lists achievable hardness up to 61 HRC, credited to its molybdenum-rich matrix.
  • Impact/drop resilience: Harder than 440C but less brittle than cobalt; dropped tips may nick but rarely shatter.
  • Weight & in-hand feel: Around 7.75 g/cm³ density—feels planted without being heavy.

Maintenance notes

Keep tension neutral, wipe dry after sanitation, and oil pivots weekly. Book sharpening every 6 months in busy salons; ask for a mirror convex polish to protect the moly-rich edge.

Industry snapshot

  • Washi TT Master shears: Use Japanese ATS-34 Hamaguri blades for slide-friendly convex edges in mid-premium kits.

Trade-offs

  • Slightly less corrosion resistant than VG-10—don’t leave bleach overnight.
  • Hardness means home honing is difficult; rely on pro sharpeners.
  • Supply is limited as manufacturers migrate to ATS-314 or powder steels.

Sources

Related: Steel Types • Edge Types • Scissor Maintenance

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