When determining what kind of steel, you want, it is helpful to understand the hardness rating. During your search, you will probably run into the acronym HRC. This is in reference to the Rockwell Scale of Hardness, where the “C” refers to steel. Basically, the hardness of steel is determined by measuring the heat treatment of the blade. However, all you need to know is that the higher the rating is the harder the steel is. While you may think, this hardness would be better, it works both ways. Sure, it will hold an edge longer than softer steel but it can also be too hard to the point of brittleness.