Advantages
- Exceptional edge retention
- Extremely fine edge potential
- High hardness capability
- Excellent sharpening feedback
- Superior cutting performance
- Highly regarded by traditional Japanese bladesmiths
Hitachi / Japan
Aogami 1B
High Carbon Tool Steel (Non-Stainless)63–66 HRCConventional Ingot Steel Process
Composition
Core alloying elements define the baseline trade-off between wear resistance, corrosion behavior, and toughness.
Material Overview
Performance Radar
Use four core metrics to understand the usable operating envelope of this steel at a glance.
Edge Retention
Toughness
Corrosion Resistance
Sharpenability
Edge Retention
9.0
Toughness
7.0
Corrosion Resistance
2.0
Sharpenability
8.0
Disadvantages
- Very low corrosion resistance
- Requires regular cleaning and oiling
- More brittle than lower-hardness carbon steels
- Can chip if misused
- Not suitable for marine or humid environments
At A Glance
Aogami 1A is a selected high-purity version of Aogami #1, valued for exceptional sharpness, excellent edge retention, and superior consistency in premium handcrafted Japanese blades.