AUS-10: Extremely Sharp Steel For Japanese Knives
You’ve probably heard of Damascus steel or maybe white paper steel blades, but you might want to try AUS 10 Japanese steel instead.
AUS 10 is a high-carbon stainless steel with chromium, nickel, Vanadium, and molybdenum added for extra toughness and edge retention. It has a carbon content of 1.2%, which is higher than most other steels used for knives.
In this article, I’ll share everything I’ve learned from working with these knives and what makes them special.
Until fairly recently, AUS-10 steel was pretty much unknown because it’s a tough alloy to work with.
Now, with new technologies and better quality control, AUS-10 is becoming more popular with knife makers. And for good reason: it’s an excellent steel for knives that makes them extremely sharp.
Therefore, AUS-10 steel has the highest carbon content among all the AUS steels out there. This makes it razor-sharp and easy to sharpen.
However, it’s fragile steel compared to some others and can be more prone to chipping.
AUS-10 steel is produced in the city of Tokai, Japan by Aichi Steel Corporation. Aichi steel is a member of the Toyota Group and supplies 40% of the steel, springs and forged products to automotive members of the group.
They also make excellent steel for forged products, like knives.
In this post we'll cover:
What does AUS mean?
The AUS is an abbreviation of ‘Aichi Utility Steel’.
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Read for freeWhy should I choose an AUS 10 steel knife?
AUS 10 is a high-carbon stainless steel that offers excellent durability and corrosion resistance. It is also very easy to sharpen, making it a great choice for both home and professional cooks.
It’s generally known as good steel but it does have some shortcomings.
Advantages of AUS 10 steel knives
- Excellent durability and corrosion resistance
- Very easy to sharpen
- Great for both home and professional cooks
- Affordable
- Very good edge retention
Disadvantages of AUS 10 steel knives
- Can be brittle
- Not as widely available as other types of steel
So, if you’re looking for a good quality, affordable knife, AUS 10 is a great option. But if you’re looking for the best of the best, there are better options out there.
FAQs
Is AUS 10 steel the same as stainless steel?
No, AUS 10 is high-carbon stainless steel while stainless steel is an alloy of iron, chromium, and other metals.
The other alloying elements make this steel very sharp but it’s not quite as durable in the long run.
Is AUS 10 steel good for knives?
Yes, AUS 10 is a great choice for knives because it is very durable and easy to sharpen. However, it can be brittle and is not as widely available as other types of steel.
AUS 10 vs AUS 8 what’s the difference?
The main difference between these two types of steel is the carbon content. AUS 10 has more carbon which makes it harder and more durable.
AUS 8, on the other hand, has less carbon and is therefore softer and easier to sharpen.
Does AUS 10 rust?
AUS 10 is high-carbon stainless steel which means it is more resistant to rust than other types of steel.
Because it’s an alloy of chromium, nickel, and vanadium it is pretty much rust-proof.
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Joost Nusselder, the founder of Bite My Bun is a content marketer, dad and loves trying out new food with Japanese food at the heart of his passion, and together with his team he's been creating in-depth blog articles since 2016 to help loyal readers with recipes and cooking tips.
