ZDP-189 vs Aogami Super

Detailed metallurgical comparison between Hyper Carbon Stainless and Super Blue Steel.

ZDP-189

ZDP-189

Hyper Carbon Stainless

A remarkable Hitachi powder-metallurgy stainless steel with an extraordinary 3% carbon content — the highest of any commercial steel. Achieves hardness levels of 67–69 HRC, creating edges of uncanny keenness with stainless properties. Heat treatment demands extreme precision; it is unforgiving and expensive.

carbon3.00%chromium20.00%tungsten0.60%molybdenum1.30%vanadium0.10%
Sharpness
10
Edge Retention
10
Ease of Sharpening
3
Rust Resistance
9
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AOGAMI-SUPER

Aogami Super

Super Blue Steel

The highest-carbon variant among Aogami steels. Includes vanadium and molybdenum for extreme edge retention and hardness. Revered and feared in equal measure — its edge outlasts almost everything, but requires a master's touch to sharpen properly. The pinnacle of the Hitachi carbon steel family.

carbon1.40–1.50%chromium0.30–0.50%tungsten2.00–2.50%vanadium0.30–0.50%molybdenum0.30–0.52%
Sharpness
9
Edge Retention
10
Ease of Sharpening
5
Rust Resistance
4
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