SteelWhat is 1.2714 steel and what is it used for? Tough tool steel for forging
1.2714 steel is a tough tool steel for forging. In this guide we explain what 1.2714 steel is, its chemical composition, hardness, how it is heat treated, what it is used for and the sizes we stock.
What is 1.2714 steel?
Low-alloy nickel-chrome-molybdenum tool steel, oil hardening, known for its very high toughness and impact resistance. For forging dies, shafts, punches and tooling subject to impact.
Chemical composition of 1.2714 steel
This is the typical composition of 1.2714 steel (AISI ≈ L6 / EN-DIN 1.2714 / JIS ≈ SKT4 standard):
| Element | Contents | What for? |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon (C) | 0.50 – 0.60 % | Hardness and wear resistance |
| Silicon (Si) | 0.10 – 0.40 % | Deoxidizer |
| Manganese (Mn) | 0.60 – 0.90 % | Hardenability |
| Chromium (Cr) | 0.80 – 1.20 % | Hardenability and wear resistance |
| Nickel (Ni) | 1.50 – 1.80 % | Toughness and hardenability |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | 0.35 – 0.55 % | Hot hardness and hardenability |
| Vanadium (V) | 0.05 – 0.15 % | Refines the grain and forms hard carbides |
| Phosphorus (P) | 0.030 % max. | Impurity, kept low |
| Sulfur (S) | 0.030 % max. | Impurity, kept low |
Hardness and heat treatment of 1.2714 steel
The typical working hardness of 1.2714 is 38 – 48 HRC. It is oil-quenched and tempered. Its priority is toughness and impact resistance, which is why it is used in forging dies and tooling that take heavy blows. You can see the full overview in our article on heat treatments for steel, and hardness scales in steel hardness.
What is it for? Applications of 1.2714
1.2714 steel is mainly used in:
- Forging dies
- Forging dies
- Press dies
- Hot cutting blades
- Forging punches
- Extrusion tools
- Die inserts
- Industrial mold bases
- Forging hammers
Forms and sizes we carry
At NAT MAC we stock 1.2714 steel in these forms and sizes:
| Package size | Sizes |
|---|---|
| Round bars | Ø 6" – 12" (Ø 152 – 305 mm) |
| Plates | 4" – 10" (100 – 254 mm) |
If you need a particular size, tell us which one and we will gladly source it for you.
1.2714 equivalents and standards
1.2714 steel is also identified by these standards: AISI ≈ L6 / EN-DIN 1.2714 / JIS ≈ SKT4. You can see how to read them in our article on steel standards.
In summary
- 1.2714 is a tough tool steel for forging
- Typical composition: C 0.50 – 0.60 and Cr 0.80 – 1.20, plus alloying elements
- Typical working hardness: 38 – 48 HRC
- Ideal for forging dies and impact tooling
- We carry it in round bar (6" – 12") and plates (4" – 10"), cut to size
Why buy your 1.2714 steel at NAT MAC?
We have more than 54 years of experience as an industrial supplier and ISO 9001 certified quality. We carry a wide range of tool grade steels and help you choose the right one for your tool or mold.
- Quality 1.2714 Steel, backed and traceable
- Material cut to the size you need
- Technical advice on choosing the right grade
- Wide range of tool-grade steels in stock
- On-time deliveries and competitive prices
Tell us what tool or mold you are going to make and in what dimensions, and we will recommend the right grade and form. Request your free quote.
Sources: data sheet from our NAT MAC catalog (composition, sizes and applications) and public industry references for working hardness. Values are for reference and may vary by standard, heat and treatment.



