Attached find test results showing the relative scratch resistance of various GageMetal finishes.   The testing method used was ASTM D3363-00 Pencil Hardness.   We tested the applied color finishes and topcoats used on GageMetal against certain benchmark finishes including standard stainless steel finishes, exterior automotive and appliance finishes.  

Although our applied finishes demonstrate very good scratch resistance, please remember that nothing is "bullet proof", and literally all finishes can be scratched.   If the scratch is deep enough to go through the applied finish, then the underlying substrate will be revealed.

Pencil hardness (ASTM D3363-00) is a standard method to test scratch resistance. Pencil lead comes in varying degrees of hardness. A soft lead leaves a heavy dark line while a hard lead leaves a finer gray line. The standard hardness of pencils goes (hardest to softest) 6H, 5H, 4H, 3H, 2H, H, F, HB, 2B, 3B, 4B, 5B, 6B. When the pencil lead is drawn across the surface of a finish a soft lead may not scratch the finish while a hard lead may. Finishes can then be rated by the hardness of the pencil lead that will scratch the surface.

As a reference, #8 polished, 304 stainless steel is rated an F, exterior automotive finishes rate between F to 2H and electroplated gold on stainless steel scratches with a 4B lead.

By contrast, applied Gage opaque or transparent colors on stainless steel or aluminum achieve a 6H rating. The topcoat used on aluminum or brass GageMetal also rates a 6H.

Refer to chart above.