The Masamoto Ao-ko Hongasumi blades are crafted from a combination of blue carbon steel #2 and soft iron steel. Blue steel #2 is created by mixing chromium and tungsten with white carbon steel in order to produce a blade with longer edge retention than white carbon steel blades. The forging process includes several extra steps and requires a higher level of craftsmanship than kasumi style knives, which gives hongasumi knives a more refined finish.

Specifications

• HRc: 62-63 
• Bevel: Single Edged 
• Steel Type: Blue Steel #2 (Moisture and acidity will cause discoloration or rust)
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For Left-Handed Customer

• Left-handed blades must be special ordered from Japan, and will cost 50% more than the right-handed blades. Due to how each traditional Japanese knife is handmade by right handed craftsmen, it will take 4 to 6 weeks to forge and deliver.