A1 steel question

[RB61]

I was recently given the newest version of a Stanley 62. I have checked it out and used it for a few weeks. It seems to function very well. My understanding is that the blade is A1. Does anyone know if these blades are Cryogenically treated like Hock blades? I would call Hock, but I hate to take up his time without a sale- his site states that his blades will not fit this plane. 

Thanks

[AHill]

It's A2 steel and it's not cryogenically treated.  Most users can't really tell the difference between cryogenically treated and non-treated blades.

[enjuneer]

Quality control on the new Stanley planes is iffy at best, but the A2 irons are not bad. They are reasonably easy to hone and stay sharp for quite a while, especially if you use a microbevel. It seems to make the cutting edge less fragile.