Kigami vs Aogami #2

Detailed metallurgical comparison between Yellow Paper Steel and Blue Paper Steel #2.

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
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AOGAMI-2

Aogami #2

Blue Paper Steel #2

Similar to Aogami #1 but with slightly lower carbon and tungsten content. Offers an excellent balance of edge retention and toughness, making it the most-used steel among Japanese master blacksmiths. The sweet spot of the Aogami family — demanding enough to be worthy, forgiving enough to be reliable.

carbon1.05–1.15%chromium0.20–0.50%tungsten1.00–1.50%
Sharpness
8
Edge Retention
8
Ease of Sharpening
7
Rust Resistance
4
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