Niolox steel, also known as SB1, is a high-performance alloyed steel that combines the excellent edge retention of high-carbon steels with the corrosion resistance of stainless steels – even though it lacks silicon and manganese.
Produced using powder metallurgy by Lohmann steelworks in Witten, Germany, Niolox has an ultra-fine grain structure that significantly improves edge durability and wear resistance.
Niobium contributes to the fine-grain structure and edge stability. The steel achieves a hardness of 58 to 63 HRC, offers excellent abrasion resistance, and is easy to sharpen even at low edge angles (18–20 °).
Niolox is a popular choice among knife makers, especially for utility and outdoor knives, where a reliable combination of edge retention, toughness, and corrosion resistance is essential.