ZA18 was developed by Osaka Clad Co. in partnership with Aichi Steel Corp as a direct competitor to VG10 - and it delivers. With higher carbon (1.20%), chromium (18%), molybdenum, and cobalt content than VG10, ZA18 achieves exceptional edge retention and corrosion resistance at 61-62 HRC. The San Mai construction wraps the hard ZA18 core in stainless Damascus cladding, adding visual drama and protecting the core from lateral stress. The gyuto profile - curved belly, pointed tip, versatile length - makes the 210mm an ideal all-rounder for protein work, vegetable prep, and general kitchen tasks. It is long enough to slice cleanly through larger cuts, compact enough for precise detail work. The octagonal oak Wa handle keeps the balance point forward, letting the blade do the work.
