Tool steel is a specific type of high-carbon steel that is designed for making tools, dies, and other cutting or forming applications. The carbon content in tool steel can vary depending on the specific grade and intended use. Generally, tool steel contains a carbon content ranging from approximately 0.70% to 1.50%.

The higher carbon content in tool steel provides several desirable properties, including increased hardness, wear resistance, and strength. The specific carbon content in tool steel is carefully chosen to achieve the desired combination of hardness, toughness, and other mechanical properties required for specific tool applications.

It's worth noting that there are different types and grades of tool steel, each with its own specific composition and performance characteristics. Some common tool steel grades and their approximate carbon content ranges include:

1. O1 Tool Steel: Contains approximately 0.85% to 1.00% carbon.
2. A2 Tool Steel: Contains approximately 0.95% to 1.05% carbon.
3. D2 Tool Steel: Contains approximately 1.40% to 1.60% carbon.
4. M2 Tool Steel: Contains approximately 0.78% to 0.88% carbon.

These are just a few examples, and there are many other tool steel grades available with varying carbon content and alloying elements to suit different tool applications.

The choice of the specific tool steel grade and carbon content depends on factors such as the intended use, desired hardness, toughness, wear resistance, and manufacturability of the tool. Proper heat treatment and craftsmanship are also crucial to optimizing the performance and durability of tool steel.