Masutani VG1 Tsuchime

Sanmai - Stainless Clad Tsuchime VG1 / Stainless Stainless Clad Echizen, Japan

Masutani's VG1 Tsuchime (Hammered) line probably offers one of the best price / performance ratio amongst all the K&S offerings. The VG1 steel in stainless clad with hammered finish brings a simple and classic look to the knife.

VG1 is very much similar to its favorite rival VG10 steel in terms of durability and corrosion resistance. With thin grind behind the edge, the Masutani is more like a laser to allow you can cut through food effortlessly.

Pros

Budget friendly
Excellent performance
Great OOTB

Cons

Non-premium steel

Best For

First-timers
Students

Construction

Sanmai - Stainless Clad

Surface Finish

Tsuchime

Cladding

Stainless Clad

Steel

VG1 / Stainless

Origin

Echizen, Japan

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between VG1 and VG10?

On Takefu's own figures, VG1 (V金1) carries 14.00% chromium and 0.30% molybdenum, at a hardening hardness of HRC 61 or more, while VG10 carries 15.00% chromium, 1.00% molybdenum, 0.25% vanadium and 1.55% cobalt at HRC 60 or more.

Both hold 1.00% carbon, and Takefu describes VG1, refined from low-impurity raw material, as the origin of its V steel series: dense in structure and tough, it forges well and is easy to heat-treat.

Published by K&S Education Desk; staff review pending

What steel is the Masutani VG1 Tsuchime?

Our line page describes the Masutani VG1 Tsuchime as a VG1 core in a stainless clad blade with a hammered tsuchime finish. Takefu, which makes VG1 (V金1), lists it among its stainless steels, with 14% chromium.

The JSSA says stainless strictly means rust resistant, not rust proof. We suggest drying the knife after washing.

Published by K&S Education Desk; staff review pending