Kigami vs Aogami #1

Detailed metallurgical comparison between Yellow Paper Steel and Blue Paper Steel #1.

KIGAMI

Kigami

Yellow Paper Steel

A high-carbon steel with slightly more impurities than Shirogami. Often used for saws and general-purpose tools. Easier to forge but does not reach the extreme sharpness or edge retention of Blue or White steels. A workhorse steel with an honest, reliable character.

carbon1.05–1.15%
Sharpness
7
Edge Retention
5
Ease of Sharpening
8
Rust Resistance
3
AOGAMI-1

Aogami #1

Blue Paper Steel #1

High-carbon steel alloyed with chromium and tungsten for enhanced wear resistance and edge retention. Ideal for hard woods and heavy use. Forged by masters who prize its demanding nature, it rewards a skilled sharpener with extraordinary edges that outlast almost any other carbon steel.

carbon1.25–1.35%chromium0.30–0.50%tungsten1.50–2.00%
Sharpness
9
Edge Retention
9
Ease of Sharpening
6
Rust Resistance
4