Bunka • 170 mm • AUS10 • Handle of burned oak handle • for both left and right-handed use
Features of OEM AUS10 series
The knife is constructed from multiple layers of stainless steel with nickel layers in between. The addition of nickel affects the color of the Damascus layers. The core of the knife is made from AUS-10, a very user-friendly steel that can also achieve a high level of sharpness. To achieve the glossy finish, the blade is first fully polished and then finished in an acid bath (etching). The handle is a Japanese WA-style handle made from oak wood.
AUS-10 / 10A Steel (Aichi Steel)
AUS-10 is a stainless steel produced by the steel manufacturer Aichi Steel. Thanks to its high chromium content, the steel offers excellent corrosion resistance. It is widely regarded as a well-balanced all-round steel, combining sharpness, ease of maintenance, and durability.
Compared to VG-10, AUS-10 is slightly softer and therefore more forgiving in use. The hardness typically ranges from 59–61 HRC, depending on the maker and the heat-treatment process used. The addition of vanadium and molybdenum improves wear resistance, reduces chipping, and helps the blade retain its edge well.
An ideal steel for both enthusiastic home cooks and professional chefs.
Elwin de Veld about OEM
An Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) is a company that manufactures an original product that is sold under another company’s brand name. In the case of knives, an OEM might manufacture a knife and sell it to several different companies who then simply add their price margin and sell the knife under their own brand name. This is a common practice in the Japan knife industry. Does it affect quality? No it doesn't, in fact, it can mean a stable production for the knifemaker.
In this particular OEM case, a well known knifemaker from Sakai, provides knives from other producers from the region. A well overthought choice, to provide a beautiful blade with a stunning handle.
