High Cobalt Alloy (HC)

High Cobalt Alloy (HC)

Quick look

  • Hardness window: 60–61 HRC depending on the maker’s tempering cycle.1
  • Toughness: Cobalt and molybdenum keep the edge tough enough for everyday salon work while lifting wear resistance above entry stainless.1,2
  • Corrosion profile: Stainless matrix with elevated cobalt offers strong protection in humid or chemical-heavy chairs.1,2
  • Weight/feel: Smooth, lightly damped closing feel that forgives slight tension changes—great for stylists stepping up from 440C.1

Why it matters

Okawa’s HC alloy bridges the gap between stainless and pure cobalt. You get the soft-close “cobalt feel,” improved corrosion resistance, and better edge stability without the brittleness of higher-end powder steels. It’s a comfortable upgrade path for stylists moving into premium tools.1,2

Shear pairing & edge compatibility

  • Semi-convex all-rounders: Balanced hardness keeps the edge keen for wet-to-dry rotations.1
  • Hybrid texturising shears: HC alloy holds polished teeth without chipping when tension drifts.1

Technique map

  • Main-shear duties in mixed salons where humidity and chemicals are daily realities.1,2
  • Barbering and scissor-over-comb work needing a responsive, forgiving edge.
  • Stylists upgrading from 440C or AUS-series steels who want longer wear without hyper-hard powder alloys.1

Real-world stress tests

  • Edge retention: Expect 850–1,000 salon cuts before glide declines when maintenance is on schedule.1,2
  • Impact/drop resilience: Rolls gently; cobalt content resists catastrophic chips when tips kiss combs.1
  • Weight & in-hand feel: Neutral balance keeps the scissors steady during long sessions without thumb fatigue.1

Maintenance notes

Clean and dry after every client, oil the pivot weekly, and plan professional sharpening every 9–10 months (or sooner if you work dry). Keep tension slightly firm so the convex edge stays aligned.1,2

Industry snapshot

  • Okawa HC Cut Series: Uses HC alloy to deliver smooth cobalt feel with stainless reliability for everyday salon work.1

Trade-offs

  • Edge life trails powder and pure cobalt alloys—stay disciplined with oiling and service.1,2
  • Marketing varies; confirm OEM heat treatment to avoid softer rebrands.1
  • Needs cobalt-aware sharpeners to keep the finish slick.2

Sources

  1. Okawa – High Cobalt Alloy Overview (Japanese)
  2. Sisrma – Cobalt Materials Guide (Japanese)

Related: Extramarise I • SUS440C • Scissor Maintenance

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