Blue Steel No.1

Blue Steel No.1 (Aogami #1) is a premium high-carbon steel from Hitachi Metal Company with exceptional edge retention and superior hardness. At 1.25-1.35% carbon content and 64-65 HRC, it's among the finest Japanese cutlery materials. Tungsten and chromium additions enhance wear resistance while maintaining sharpness. Professionals value it for its razor-sharp edge, though it requires proper maintenance to prevent corrosion.

Compared to Blue Steel No.2, No.1 offers better edge retention but is more brittle and demanding to sharpen. Both contain tungsten and chromium and develop a blue-gray patina, but No.1's higher carbon content provides greater hardness (64-65 HRC vs. 61-63 HRC) and sharpness potential. This makes No.1 ideal for precision tasks, while No.2 offers better chip resistance and easier maintenance, making it more versatile for everyday use.

Category: High Carbon

HRC: 64-65