While both belong to the "Blue Paper" family (carbon steel with added Tungsten and Chromium), they represent opposite ends of the performance spectrum.
Comparison Table
Feature | Aogami Super (AS) | |
|---|---|---|
Carbon Content | Highest (1.40% – 1.50%) | Lowest (0.80% – 0.90%) |
Hardness (HRC) | 64–67 (Extremely Hard) | 58–61 (Relatively Tougher) |
Edge Retention | Top Tier (Longest lasting) | Moderate (Requires frequent honing) |
Toughness | Low (Brittle/Prone to chipping) | High (Resistant to impact) |
Sharpenability | Difficult (Wear resistant) | Very Easy (Fast metal removal) |
Performance Breakdown
Edge Retention (The "Super" Advantage):
Aogami Super is the king of edge retention among Japanese carbon steels. It includes extra Vanadium, Tungsten, and Chromium. It creates a "silky" cutting feel that lasts through massive amounts of prep work without needing a stone. Aogami #3 has significantly less carbon and tungsten, meaning its edge will round over much faster during heavy use.Durability and Toughness:
Aogami #3 is much more "durable" in terms of structural integrity. Because it isn't pushed to extreme hardness, it can handle slight twisting or accidental contact with small bones better than AS. Aogami Super is very brittle; if you use it with poor technique (like "rocking" cuts on a hard board), the edge is prone to micro-chipping.Sharpening Experience:
Because of its high wear resistance, Aogami Super takes more time and high-quality stones to sharpen properly. Aogami #3 is very forgiving and sharpens almost as easily as White Steel, making it a great choice for those who are still perfecting their sharpening skills.
Maintenance Note
Both steels are not stainless. However, Aogami Super has a tiny bit more Chromium, which offers a slight delay in rusting compared to #3, but both will develop a patina (or rust) very quickly if not wiped dry.