Develops a dark patina fast; keep it dry and lightly oiled.
What it is
Carbon Steel is iron alloyed mainly with carbon. Unlike Stainless Steel, it has little or no chromium, so it lacks the protective oxide layer that helps stainless resist rust. In exchange, it can be heat treated to high hardness and is prized for tools, blades and forged pieces. The exact steel and heat treatment depend on the maker.
How it feels in your EDC
Carbon Steel has a similar density to Stainless Steel, so it feels solid and substantial in hand. Many enthusiasts love its raw, working-tool character, especially when it is forged, blackened or left to age. It is also a key ingredient in many Damascus patterns, where layers of different steels create contrasting lines.
Care & aging
Carbon Steel can rust if it stays damp, so dry it promptly after it gets wet or sweaty. A very light coat of oil helps protect it, but keep oil away from bearings and magnets unless the maker recommends it. Over time it develops a gray-to-dark patina that actually helps slow rust. If spots appear, remove them early with a gentle metal cleaner.
是什么
碳钢（Carbon Steel）是主要加入碳的铁合金。与不锈钢不同，它几乎不含铬，因此没有帮助不锈钢抗锈的保护性氧化膜。作为交换，它可以通过热处理达到很高的硬度，深受工具、刀刃和锻造件的青睐。具体钢种和热处理取决于品牌。
上手感受
碳钢密度与不锈钢相近，手感扎实厚重。很多爱好者喜欢它原始、工具般的质感，尤其是经过锻造、发黑或任其老化之后。它也是许多大马士革钢花纹的关键成分，不同钢材层叠后形成对比鲜明的线条。
保养与老化
碳钢长时间潮湿会生锈，沾水或出汗后要及时擦干。薄涂一层油有助于保护，但除非品牌建议，否则不要让油接触轴承和磁铁。时间久了会形成灰色到深色的包浆，这反而有助于减缓生锈。如果出现锈点，尽早用温和的金属清洁剂去除。
