Precursor of VG10, another popular stainless steel choice for making Japanese knives. Typically has an HRC of 58+, and has great edge retention. Originally made by Takefu Special Steel Company in Japan.
A high-carbon molybdenum stainless steel that contains 0.95–1.05% carbon, 13–15% chromium, 0.2–0.4% molybdenum, and less than 0.25% nickel.