• White Steel #2 vs Blue Steel #2

  • FEBRUARY 11, 2024

  • Explore the detailed comparison of Blue Steel #2 and White Steel #2, focusing on cutting performance, durability, and ease of sharpening to help you choose the best steel for your culinary needs.

  • Introduction to Steel Varieties in Knife Making

  • Explore the distinct differences between White Steel #2 and Blue Steel #2 in kitchen knife materials. Despite similar carbon content and hardness levels, these steels differ significantly in their characteristics and applications.

  • 1. Cutting Performance: White Steel #2 vs. Blue Steel #2

  • White Steel #2

    Known for its sharpness, thanks to the structure of its cutting edge that provides smooth cuts with minimal snagging on food.

  • Blue Steel #2

    Contains rare metals like chromium and tungsten, forming hard carbides at its edge that may cause snagging and resistance during cutting. This property is beneficial for cutting through harder materials.

  • 2. Sharpness Retention

    • Longevity of Sharpness: 
       Blue Steel #2 tends to retain its sharpness longer due to the presence of compound carbides, which increase with use and make the knife harder to sharpen over time.
    • Speed of Dulling:  
      White Steel #2 may dull quicker as it loses sharpness more rapidly from continuous wear on its cutting edge.

  • 3. Resistance to Chipping

  • White Steel #2

    More prone to chipping, particularly in single-edged knives like Deba, where the unique cutting angle increases this risk.

  • Blue Steel #2

    Offers superior resistance to chipping, preferred for its edge longevity.

  • 4. Ease of Sharpening

  • White Steel #2

    Easy to sharpen, making it suitable for those who regularly maintain their knives with a whetstone.

  • Blue Steel #2

    Wear resistance makes sharpening challenging. The difficulty is affected by the carbide size and the hardness of the base material.

  • Conclusion: Choosing Between White Steel #2 and Blue Steel #2

  • When deciding between these two reputable steel types, consider your specific needs and preferences. Whether you prefer the exceptional sharpness of White Steel #2 or the durable edge and wear resistance of Blue Steel #2, understanding these differences will help improve your culinary experience. Remember, effective knife maintenance and enjoyable cooking are closely linked, making your choice of steel an important part of your culinary practices.

White Steel #2

The White Steel #2 collection presents knives crafted from pure White Steel, known for minimal impurities and excellent sharpness. Ideal for creating finely honed edges, this material is particularly valued for its ease of sharpening. These knives are designed for those who prioritize precision cutting and easy maintenance in their culinary tools.

White Steel #2

Blue Steel #2

The Blue Steel #2 collection features knives made from a specially formulated steel that includes tungsten and chromium for improved wear resistance and sharpness retention.

Blue Steel #2

Japanese Knife Materials

By introducing the materials used in knives, we aim to help customers understand the quality and performance of knives, enabling them to find the perfect knife that meets their needs and preferences.

Japanese Knife Materials

The Origin of Craftsmanship

  • Sharpening the Blade of the Heart

    "Do not try to change the world around you. The one who must change is always yourself."

  • These words reflect the very mindset I carry when crafting a single Japanese knife.
    Forging steel, heating it, shaping it, and polishing it—this process seems like we are transforming the material itself. But in truth, it is a journey to refine our own skills and spirit.

  • There are moments when things don't go as planned, when the blade doesn't cut as it should. At such times, it’s not about blaming the tools or the environment. Instead, what’s needed is to look inward—to examine our own hands, our own approach.

  • Just as a knife becomes sharper through meticulous honing, so too does our heart grow stronger and more flexible through self-reflection. It’s not about changing others or the world around us. The true path to growth lies in sharpening ourselves.

  • We don’t simply create knives that cut; we craft tools that enrich the lives and hearts of those who use them. Likewise, by honing our actions and thoughts, we can inspire and uplift those around us.

  • Let us cherish the days spent sharpening both our blades and our hearts. It is through this process that we truly make an impact.

KIREAJI's Three Promises to You

  • japanese_knife_made_in_Sakai

    1. Exceptional Japanese Knives

    Our knives, crafted by Sakai City's master artisans, combine traditional techniques with carefully selected materials, delivering unrivaled sharpness and durability.

  • Honbazuke

    2. Genuine Sharpness

    We offer free Honbazuke sharpening performed by skilled craftsmen, ensuring that you experience the authentic sharpness of a true Sakai knife.

  • 3. Lifetime Knife Use

    Each knife comes with a free Saya (protective sheath) for added durability. We also offer after-sales service through a trusted Sakai City workshop to maintain your knife's performance.