L2 vs L6
These two grades are listed as equivalents of each other: their chemistry windows overlap and they serve the same applications. They are not always identical — check the differences below before substituting, especially in certified designs.
L2
Tool Steel
L2 is a low-alloy special-purpose tool steel supplied in several carbon bands matched to section size and duty. Its Cr-V chemistry gives better hardenability and wear than plain carbon W steels at modest cost.
Standards: DIN — (1.2210 family, near) · AISI L2 · GB CrV (near)
L6
Tool Steel
L6 is a nickel-chromium oil-hardening steel prized for toughness in large tools. The nickel content deepens hardening and keeps big sections from going brittle.
Standards: DIN 1.2714 (family) · AISI L6 · JIS SKT4 (near) · GB 5CrNiMo (near)
Chemical composition compared (%)
| Element | L2 | L6 |
|---|---|---|
| C | 0.45–1.00 | 0.65–0.75 |
| Si | 0.10–0.50 | 0.10–0.50 |
| Mn | 0.10–0.90 | 0.25–0.80 |
| Cr | 0.70–1.20 | 0.60–1.00 |
| V | 0.10–0.30 | — |
| Ni | — | 1.25–2.00 |
| Mo | — | ≤0.50 |
Properties compared
| Property | L2 | L6 |
|---|---|---|
| Delivery condition | Annealed | Annealed |
| Hardness (hardened) | 55–62 HRC (grade band dependent) | 50–58 HRC |
| Density | 7.85 g/cm³ | 7.85 g/cm³ |
| Toughness | — | Very high (nickel-bearing) |
Sourcing either grade?
Nasteel stocks both families from Shenzhen with EN 10204 3.1 mill certificates by heat number.
Ask for a quotationSee full data sheets: L2 · L6. Substitution decisions for certified parts stay with the design authority.