Petty • 150 mm • VG10 33 layers • Pakka ebony handle • for both left and right handed use

Features of the Zanmai Custom

The new petty knives from Mcusta Zanmai offer a glimpse of what is coming later this year. A new concept in which you can assemble a fully custom knife yourself. This includes choosing the model, the handle, the blade, and even the screws that hold everything together.

For now, this small preview consists of several fully assembled petty knives, created to showcase what will be possible.

VG10 - Takefu - steel

Very Gold 10, better known as VG10, is one of the most commonly used steel types in today’s knife market. The steel is produced by Takefu Special Steel in Echizen, Japan. VG10 is appreciated by both knifemakers and users for its excellent balance between performance and ease of use.

It is a stainless steel with a high carbon content, alloyed with elements such as chromium, molybdenum, vanadium, and cobalt. Chromium provides corrosion resistance, while vanadium contributes to wear resistance and a longer edge retention.

Although VG10 is widely used, there are noticeable differences in quality and performance. During the production process, various techniques can be applied to increase the steel’s hardness and refine its structure. Factors such as additional alloying elements, the hardening and heat-treatment process play an important role. In addition, the knowledge and skill of the knifemaker during the grinding process are crucial to the final sharpness and cutting performance of the knife.

Elwin de Veld about Zanmai Mcusta