Nitric acid is a highly oxidizing acid, and when combined with stainless steel will promote oxidation of the chromium content of the steel, creating a film that will protect the steel from further attack by the acid. Stainless steel is a recommended container for nitric acid. \n\nHydrochloric acid is less likely to undergo this interfering oxidation reduction reaction, leaving the steel unprotected, so even though it is a weaker acid, it will dissolve the steel. \n\nSometimes the turtle wins the race.
While HNO3 is a stronger acid than HCl, it can't be used to dissolved razor blade, why?