M7 vs M2
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.
M7
Tool Steel
M7 is the high-carbon, higher-vanadium development of M1, tuned for deep-hole drills and tools that need maximum edge hardness from a molybdenum high-speed steel.
Standards: DIN — (HS2-9-2 family) · AISI M7 · GB W2Mo9Cr4V2 (near)
M2
Tool Steel
M2 is the most widely used high-speed steel in the world, balancing red hardness, toughness and cost for cutting tools of every kind.
Standards: DIN 1.3343 · AISI M2 · JIS SKH51 · GB W6Mo5Cr4V2
Chemical composition compared (%)
| Element | M7 | M2 |
|---|---|---|
| C | 0.97–1.05 | 0.78–0.88 |
| Si | ≤0.55 | ≤0.45 |
| Mn | ≤0.40 | ≤0.40 |
| Cr | 3.50–4.00 | 3.80–4.50 |
| Mo | 8.20–9.20 | 4.70–5.20 |
| W | 1.40–2.10 | 5.90–6.70 |
| V | 1.75–2.25 | 1.70–2.10 |
Properties compared
| Property | M7 | M2 |
|---|---|---|
| Delivery condition | Annealed | Annealed |
| Hardness (hardened) | 63–66 HRC | 63–66 HRC |
| Density | 7.90 g/cm³ | 8.10 g/cm³ |
| Red hardness | — | To ~600 °C |
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: M7 · M2. Substitution decisions for certified parts stay with the design authority.