<p>A new method based on Berkovich nanoindentation is proposed to predict the stress–strain curve of hardened martensitic bearing steels. This method combines a theory for predicting yield strength with experimental Berkovich indentation. Kick’s constant has been identified as the most robust parameter derived from sharp nanoindentation tests. The yield limit is predicted using a screw-dislocation strengthening theory, while the steel hardening exponent is calculated using Kick’s constant derived from the nanoindentation data. This ’hybrid method’ shows good agreement with experimentally measured stress–strain curves of different bearing steels, combining the strengths of both experimental and theoretical approaches. The proposed model elegantly addresses the long-standing challenge of deriving a unique solution for the material stress–strain curve from nanoindentation test data.</p>