This work aimed the study of the fracture behavior of the structural steel DIN 42CrMo4 through the experimental determination of resistance curves (R curves) to the stable spread of cracks. Traction tests were initially conducted to determine the mechanical properties of the material. The fracture tenacity tests were carried out in specimens of the type SE(B) notched, subjected to flexion and with 3 distinct geometries. The samples were precracked by fatigue in order to meet the a/W ratio equivalent to 0.5. In the crack propagation tests, the single specimen technique was adopted with the use of the partial discharge method for obtaining the curves load (P) versus displacement of the notch mouth (CMODCrack mouth Opening Displacement). At each point of unloading, relating the inclination of the load line with the measurements of the elastic flexibility of the sample, it was possible to calculate the length of the crack and consequently the values of the elasto-plastic parameter J. In sequence, based in the values of J and crack propagation, the R curves of the material were raised. The experimental results showed that the geometry of the specimens influenced the stability of crack propagation during the test, and it was possible to obtain R curves only for the most robust specimens. In addition, it was noticed that the crack propagation values calculated by the compliance method were overestimated.