White Steel #1: Seeking Ultimate Sharpness and Ease of Sharpening

  • February 9, 2025

  • What is White Steel #1?

    White Steel #1 is a high-carbon steel highly esteemed in the world of traditional Japanese knives. It is known for its purity, with minimal alloying elements, making it exceptional for its sharpness and ease of sharpening. This steel is the essence of Japanese craftsmanship, providing both high performance and a refined edge.

  • Why is White Steel #1 so Special?

    1. Unrivaled Sharpness

    White Steel #1 contains a high carbon content, which gives it an extraordinary level of hardness. This allows the blade to achieve the sharpness that cuts effortlessly, often likened to slicing through paper. It excels in cutting tasks that demand precision, such as delicate vegetables or sashimi.

    2. Ease of Sharpening

    Unlike other high-carbon steels, White Steel #1 is known for its easy sharpening. Its high purity makes it less prone to impurities that can make sharpening difficult. You can achieve an incredibly sharp edge with smooth and consistent sharpening, ensuring longevity and precision in every cut.

    3. A Testament to Tradition

    Crafted using traditional Japanese methods, White Steel #1 carries with it the legacy of craftsmanship passed down through generations. The years of refinement by artisans are reflected in the blade's ultimate sharpness and ease of sharpening, offering a tool that connects you to a rich tradition of knife-making.

  • The Meaning of Choosing a White Steel #1 Knife

    For Professional Chefs

    White Steel #1 knives are prized by chefs for their precision and ease of sharpening, which enhances their ability to work with delicate ingredients. The sharpness they provide makes them indispensable for creating finely crafted dishes, elevating both the process and the result.

  • For Knife Enthusiasts

    For collectors and enthusiasts, White Steel #1 knives are not only functional but beautiful. Their sharpness, combined with the rich history behind them, makes them a true work of art. Owning one allows you to experience the allure of traditional Japanese craftsmanship while adding a piece of history to your collection.

  • Comparing White Steel #1 to Other Steels

    While White Steel #1 is renowned for its sharpness and ease of sharpening, it has distinct differences compared to other steel types:

    • Blue Steel: Blue Steel offers superior wear resistance, meaning it holds its sharpness for a longer time. However, it is more difficult to sharpen than White Steel #1 and requires advanced sharpening skills.
    • Stainless Steel: Stainless Steel is renowned for its rust resistance and low maintenance. However, it lacks the sharpness and ease of sharpening that White Steel #1 provides, making it less suitable for precision cutting tasks.

  • Important Notes on Choosing White Steel #1 Knives

    Though White Steel #1 knives excel in sharpness, they are more prone to rust than other steels. To ensure they stay in optimal condition, it is important to clean and dry them thoroughly after use. Regular sharpening will also maintain their excellent cutting edge.

  • Conclusion:

    White Steel #1 embodies the core values of traditional Japanese knife-making. Its sharpness and ease of sharpening make it a favorite among chefs and enthusiasts alike. Choosing a White Steel #1 knife means embracing a piece of Japanese culinary tradition, bringing precision, performance, and beauty into your kitchen. Whether you’re a professional chef or a knife enthusiast, experiencing the magic of White Steel #1 will elevate your culinary journey.

White Steel #1: The Pinnacle of Sharpness and Craftsmanship

  • White Steel #1 represents the highest expression of purity and sharpness in Japanese knife steel.
    With its exceptionally high carbon content and nearly alloy-free composition, it delivers a razor-thin edge that few materials can match.
    However, this performance comes with a demand: only skilled hands—both in forging and sharpening—can unlock its full potential, making it a favored choice among elite chefs and master sharpeners who value absolute control and artistic precision.

White Steel #1

  • The Pinnacle of Japanese Knife Steel

    In the hands of a skilled chef, White Steel #1 becomes more than just metal — it becomes precision, artistry, and expression.
    With its ultra-high carbon content and near-zero impurities, this steel achieves unmatched sharpness and control, demanding both respect and mastery.
    Discover why top chefs around the world choose White Steel #1, and how its purity transforms every cut into a statement of craftsmanship.

White Steel #1

Refined sharpness, elevated.
With higher carbon content than White Steel #2, White Steel #1 delivers a finer edge that lasts longer. It rewards skilled hands with unmatched precision, making it the choice for those who accept nothing less than excellence.

White Steel #1

White Steel #2

Where traditional sharpness begins.
Made from ultra-pure carbon steel, White Steel #2 offers razor-sharp edges that respond instantly to the whetstone. Its clarity and control make it ideal for chefs who value precision and the authentic feel of Japanese blades.

White Steel #2

Material of Knife

The material behind a Japanese knife plays a crucial role in its sharpness, durability, and maintenance. From traditional carbon steels like White #2 and Blue #2 to modern innovations such as Ginsan and ZDP189, each material offers a unique balance of performance and ease of care. Understanding the material will help you choose the perfect knife for your cooking style and needs.

Material of Knife

The Soul of Craftsmanship

  • The Journey, Not the Outcome – What Truly Matters Beyond Winning and Losing

    “It’s not about winning or losing; it’s about how you live and the courage you inspire in others.” This is something I have come to deeply believe after years of being a craftsman. When creating a single knife, it’s never just about sharpening the steel. The true value lies in the thoughts behind it, the dedication to the craft, and above all, the heart that infuses every strike of the hammer.

  • In a world obsessed with competition, it’s easy to lose sight of what really matters. Chasing results often blinds us to what we can truly give: the courage, the inspiration, and the pride we carry in our work. That’s why I focus on the journey, rather than the end result. No matter how long it takes, no matter how much effort is required, the work I create is a reflection of my soul and my journey as a craftsman.

  • You, too, may face challenges in your own life. Keep focusing on the process, give your best in every small effort, and approach each task with sincerity. Because, in the end, the value you create will reflect your own journey.

KIREAJI's Three Promises to You

  • japanese_knife_made_in_Sakai

    1. Forged in the Legacy of Sakai

    From Sakai City—Japan’s renowned birthplace of professional kitchen knives—each blade is crafted by master artisans with over six centuries of tradition. Perfectly balanced, enduringly sharp, and exquisitely finished, every cut carries the soul of true craftsmanship.

  • 2. Thoughtful Care for Everyday Use

    Every knife includes a hand-fitted magnolia saya for safe storage. Upon request, we offer a complimentary Honbazuke final hand sharpening—giving you a precise, ready-to-use edge from day one.

  • 3. A Partnership for a Lifetime

    A KIREAJI knife is more than a tool—it is a lifelong companion. With our bespoke paid aftercare services, we preserve its edge and beauty, ensuring it remains as precise and dependable as the day it first met your hand.