[limpet chicken]

I was wondering, what do the different grades of carbon/stainless steel?

I have seen things such as 420 stainless and 1050 carbon steel, what are the differences?

I ask, because I am looking to buy a new diamond edged folded damask steel katana for my collection, and wondering what would be best

[kevins]

stainless steel: contains at least 12% Cr.
1050 carbon steel is a medium carbon steel and sword is usually made by this kind of steel.

For the chemical compostion and some physical properties of 420 stainless steel, please search
www.imetalindina.com/stainless-steel.html
www.delvest.com/alloys.htm