Tom Schade

Tool steel has come a long way since its D2 roots. Advancements in production methods have helped improve steel quality and subsequent tool performance, including DC53 developed in the 1980s and the most recent generation that comprises less carbon and chromium and, hence, carbides. Fatigue strength tests show DC53 has a longer life by a factor of 10 times the life of D2, and the third-generation low-carbide steel has a lifespan of 10 times that of DC53.