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 nakiri profile - flat edge, squared tip, tall blade height - is purpose-built for the push-cut technique used in Japanese vegetable prep. At 170mm it is nimble enough for daily use without sacrificing knuckle clearance. The octagonal oak Wa handle keeps the balance point forward, letting the blade do the work.
