SK-5

SK-5 is the Japanese equivalent of the American 1080 steel. The steel contains a high concentration of carbon (between 0.75% -0.85%) and 0.60% -0.90% manganese. The steel can be hardened to HRc 65 but at this hardness the steel is too brittle for kitchen knives. Mcusta hardens the steel to HRc 60.

SK-5 steel is widely used for chisels and other hand implements. The steel is known for its ideal balance between hardness and long tool life (the knife stays sharp for a long time).