SK Steel vs Shirogami #1

Broad category of high-carbon steel widely used for general Japanese woodworking tools. Affordable, easy to sharpen, and highly functional, though it lacks the extreme refinement of the Hitachi paper steels. A democratic steel that puts functional tools in every craftsman's hands.

Pure high-carbon steel with minimal impurities. Takes a laser-like edge and is easy to sharpen, but more brittle than Aogami. The traditional choice of master woodworkers who demand the finest possible cutting edge and sharpen their tools with religious dedication. Rust forms overnight if neglected.