Bohler M390 Microclean Powder Steel
Böhler M390 MICROCLEAN – premium powder steel from Austria
Böhler M390 MICROCLEAN is a corrosion-resistant martensitic chromium steel produced using powder metallurgy. It combines very high wear resistance, long edge retention and good corrosion resistance – properties that make it an attractive material for high-performance kitchen knives.
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Why choose a knife made from Böhler M390 MICROCLEAN?
M390 MICROCLEAN was developed by the Austrian company Böhler Edelstahl. It was originally designed as a highly alloyed steel for demanding industrial applications where high wear resistance, dimensional stability and corrosion protection are required. The same properties are also advantageous in high-quality kitchen knives.
The high chromium, carbon and vanadium content allows a large amount of hard carbides to form. These help protect the cutting edge from gradual abrasion. As a result, when used correctly, the knife keeps a sharp edge for a long time.
Long edge retention
The high proportion of hard carbides significantly slows wear of the cutting edge.
Good corrosion resistance
A chromium content of 20% helps protect the blade during everyday kitchen use.
Very high durability
M390 offers excellent resistance to abrasive wear and long-term use.
MICROCLEAN technology
Powder metallurgy creates a clean and uniform material structure.
What does MICROCLEAN mean?
MICROCLEAN is Böhler’s designation for high-performance materials produced using powder metallurgy. During production, molten steel is atomised into fine particles, which are then consolidated into a homogeneous billet.
The result is a finer and more uniform distribution of carbides than in conventionally produced highly alloyed steel. For M390 MICROCLEAN, Böhler states very high microcleanliness, dimensional stability and polishability.
Powder technology, however, is not the only measure of the quality of a finished knife. The actual result also depends on heat treatment, blade geometry, thickness behind the edge, grind and final sharpening.
Chemical composition of Böhler M390 MICROCLEAN
| Element | Average content | Practical significance |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon | 1.90 % | Supports high hardness and carbide formation. |
| Chromium | 20.00 % | Contributes to corrosion resistance and the formation of chromium carbides. |
| Vanadium | 4.00 % | Forms very hard carbides that support edge retention. |
| Molybdenum | 1.00 % | Supports hardenability and material durability. |
| Tungsten | 0.60 % | Contributes to wear resistance. |
| Silicon | 0.70 % | Influences the properties and processing of the alloy. |
| Manganese | 0.30 % | Helps during steel production and heat treatment. |
The values represent the average composition stated by the manufacturer. According to the current material data sheet, M390 does not contain a declared cobalt addition.
Corrosion-resistant, but not completely maintenance-free
Böhler M390 MICROCLEAN is a corrosion-resistant martensitic chromium steel. The manufacturer rates its corrosion resistance as good, and the material is approved for contact with food and beverages.
However, the high chromium content of 20% does not mean that all of the chromium remains freely available for corrosion protection. Part of it is bound in carbides. A knife made from M390 should therefore also be washed by hand and dried after use, especially after cutting salty or acidic foods.
Long edge retention does not mean indestructibility
The fine edge of M390 is not intended for chopping bones, cutting frozen foods, prying or twisting during a cut. The hard carbides resist wear extremely well, but improper lateral stress can damage the edge.
Choose the right Dellinger M390 Cocobolo knife
| Model | Suitable use | Who it is suitable for |
|---|---|---|
| Santoku 180 mm | Vegetables, boneless meat, fish and herbs | For customers looking for an agile all-purpose knife. |
| Chef/Gyuto 210 mm | All-purpose preparation and longer smooth cuts | As a main everyday knife for home and professional kitchens. |
| Chef 155 mm | Smaller portions, vegetables and more precise work | For smaller hands or users who prefer a compact knife. |
| Petty 130 mm | Fruit, small vegetables, trimming and precise cuts | As a complement to the main chef’s knife. |
How to sharpen Böhler M390
M390 is not a steel we would describe as easy to sharpen. The high content of hard vanadium and chromium carbides extends edge retention, but at the same time places greater demands on the abrasive.
For effective sharpening, we recommend high-quality diamond or suitable water sharpening stones. If you have no experience sharpening premium powder steels, use a professional service.
Caring for an M390 knife
- Always wash the knife by hand and dry it without delay.
- Do not put it in the dishwasher.
- Use a wooden or high-quality synthetic cutting board.
- Avoid glass, ceramic, stone and metal boards.
- Do not cut bones, hard pits or frozen foods.
- Do not use the blade for prying and do not twist it during a cut.
- Store the knife separately in a stand, on a magnetic strip or with an edge guard.
Need advice?
Contact us at +420 702 049 048, Mon–Fri, 7:30–16:00. We will help you compare M390 with other premium powder steels and choose the right knife shape.
Frequently asked questions about Böhler M390 MICROCLEAN
What is Böhler M390 MICROCLEAN?
It is an Austrian corrosion-resistant martensitic chromium steel produced using powder metallurgy. It stands out for its wear resistance and long edge retention.
Is M390 a powder steel?
Yes. It is produced using Böhler MICROCLEAN powder metallurgy, which helps create a clean and uniform material structure.
Does M390 come from Sweden?
No. Böhler M390 MICROCLEAN is a material from the Austrian company Böhler Edelstahl, which is based in Kapfenberg, Austria.
Is M390 stainless?
M390 is a corrosion-resistant martensitic chromium steel with good corrosion resistance. Even so, we recommend washing and thoroughly drying the blade after use.
How long does M390 hold an edge?
Thanks to its very high wear resistance, it can hold an edge for a long time. The result is also influenced by heat treatment, geometry, sharpening and the way the knife is used.
Is M390 easy to sharpen?
Not as easy as ordinary kitchen steels. Hard carbides create greater resistance to the abrasive, so we recommend high-quality diamond or suitable water stones.
Is M390 suitable for kitchen knives?
Yes. It offers long edge retention, good corrosion resistance and, according to the manufacturer, the material is approved for contact with food and beverages.
Can an M390 knife go in the dishwasher?
No. A dishwasher can damage the fine edge, blade surface and natural handle. Always wash a quality knife by hand.
Can you chop bones with an M390 knife?
No. A finely ground kitchen knife is not intended for bones, frozen foods or prying. Use a specialised cleaver for these tasks.
Does the steel alone determine the quality of a knife?
No. Heat treatment, blade geometry, thickness behind the edge, grind precision and the quality of the final sharpening are equally important.
