CarTech 416 BQ stainless is a balanced version of standard CarTech 416 stainless steel capable of producing a minimum hardness of Rockwell C 40 when bright hardened. The high hardness capability is obtained through very close chemistry and structure control. Although capable of high hardness, CarTech 416 BQ stainless is nearly machinable as CarTech 416 stainless. It can be cut rapidly and cleanly with regular metal cutting tools, and can be freely ground and polished.

All of the same applications for CarTech 416 stainless (No. 5) can be handled by CarTech 416 BQ stainless (No. 5 BQ), particularly those requiring good bright hardening characteristics. Examples of uses have included cutters in food processing equipment, shafts, axles, gears, pinions, etc.