Stainless steel 440C is a high-carbon martensitic grade known for its exceptional hardness, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance. With a carbon content ranging from 0.95% to 1.20%, it achieves a high level of hardness through heat treatment, making it ideal for applications that require superior cutting performance, such as knife blades and surgical instruments. The chromium content of around 16-18% provides corrosion resistance, enabling its use in mildly corrosive environments. Stainless steel 440C is valued for its toughness, edge retention, and ability to maintain its properties at high temperatures. While it may not offer the same corrosion resistance as some other stainless steel grades, it excels in applications where hardness and wear resistance are paramount.