Korean Stainless

Korean Stainless

Quick look

  • Hardness window: 54–58 HRC—typically 420J2/440A hardness.
  • Toughness: Forgiving; edges roll before they chip.
  • Corrosion profile: High chromium content handles salon humidity.
  • Weight/feel: Light-to-medium; often paired with ergonomic handles.

Why it matters

Korean mills export mid-grade stainless for value-priced salon shears. Think of it as sitting between Chinese 5Cr grades and Japanese AUS-8. ScissorHub ranks Korean steel as Asia’s second-best option after Japan because it balances corrosion resistance with decent hardness without the premium price tag.

Shear pairing & edge compatibility

  • Semi-convex daily drivers: Good for stylists who need reliable stainless tools.
  • Micro-serrated blades: Holds serrations for men’s cuts and blunt lines.

Technique map

  • Everyday salon rotations mixing wet and dry work.
  • Apprentices who want an upgrade from entry Chinese steel.
  • Chemical stations where rust resistance matters.

Real-world stress tests

  • Edge retention: Count on 500–750 salon cuts (~3–4 weeks at 25 cuts/day) before sharpening. Carbon levels mirror 420J2/440A, so service intervals are moderate.
  • Impact/drop resilience: Softer matrix means drops usually roll the edge rather than chipping.
  • Weight & in-hand feel: Neutral balance; forged handles vary by OEM but generally comfortable.

Maintenance notes

Wipe dry after sanitation, oil pivots weekly, and keep tension snug to reduce roll. Sharpen every 2–3 months in busy salons to maintain bite.

Industry snapshot

  • Korean OEM salon kits: Many barber/salon bundles specify “Korean stainless” to signal a step up from basic Chinese steels while keeping budgets in check.

Trade-offs

  • Performance depends on the OEM’s heat treat—verify quality before buying.
  • Edge life trails Japanese AUS/VG steels; schedule regular service.
  • Marketing labels can be vague; look for hardness specs around 56–58 HRC.

Sources

Related: Steel Types • Edge Types • Scissor Maintenance

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