VG-10 Steel: The Japanese Kitchen & EDC Staple

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VG-10 steel is a Japanese stainless steel that’s become a go-to for kitchen knives and EDC blades alike. Renowned for its sharpness and durability, this steel from Takefu Special Steel Co. powers popular models like the Spyderco Delica. In this guide, we’ll dive into its composition, properties, and why it’s a staple for knife enthusiasts in 2025.

What is VG-10 Steel?

VG-10, short for V-Gold 10, is a high-carbon stainless steel with 15% chromium, 1% carbon, 1.5% cobalt, and traces of vanadium and molybdenum. Originally designed for kitchen cutlery, its fine balance of hardness and corrosion resistance has made it a favorite in EDC knives too. It’s a step above budget steels like 14C28N but more affordable than M390.

Key Properties of VG-10 Steel

  • Edge Retention: Holds a sharp edge well, though not as long as K390.
  • Corrosion Resistance: 15% chromium ensures strong rust resistance, ideal for kitchen or humid environments.
  • Toughness: Decent durability for light to medium tasks (typically 59-61 HRC), though less tough than M4.
  • Sharpenability: Easier to sharpen than CPM S30V, thanks to its simpler carbide structure.

Want to understand hardness better? Check out our upcoming What is Rockwell Hardness in Knives (And Why It Matters) in Knife Steel Guides.

Why Choose VG-10 Steel?

VG-10 strikes a sweet spot for sharpness and ease of maintenance, making it perfect for chefs and EDC users. It’s featured in knives like the Spyderco Police 4 Lightweight (though that uses K390) and is a cost-effective alternative to 154CM. Compare it in our planned VG-10 vs D2 under Comparisons.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Excellent sharpness
  • Strong corrosion resistance
  • Affordable for its quality

Cons:

  • Moderate edge retention
  • Not ideal for heavy-duty tasks

VG-10 in Action

From slicing sushi to opening packages, VG-10 delivers precision and reliability. It’s less rugged than D2, but its finesse shines in the kitchen. Want to try it? This Sunnecko VG-10 knife on Amazon showcases its potential (adjust if your link differs). Keep it sharp with Flattening Your Sharpening Stones: Why and How in Knife Care & Tips soon.

Is VG-10 Worth It?

For a versatile, user-friendly steel, VG-10 is a standout. It won’t outlast M390, but its balance of performance and price makes it a staple. Explore more in our next guide, , or read about the Benchmade Tagout 533 in Knife Reviews.





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