Hitachi HAP-40 is currently one of the most mysterious and attractive steels produced in Japan. This hi-tech powdered metal steel alloy has a very rich chemical position and, when it is forged and heat-treated properly, we believe that it probably offers better cutting performance and edge retention than any other high-quality Japanese steel.

 Sukenari’s knowledge of traditional forging processes and their extensive experience with modern, high performance, steels proved to be invaluable while perfecting these new HAP-40 knives. Master Hanaki, Sukenari’s innovative and energetic knife maker and Master forge-smith, has successfully managed to extract the best cutting performance and edge retention from these HAP-40 knives (HRc. 68). They are perfect for customers who love testing exotic hi-tech steels, or those who appreciate knives with outstanding cutting performance and edge retention.

 Master Hanaki believes that these new HAP-40 knives offer very competitive cutting performance and edge retention relative to his ZDP-189 and Aogami Super knives. In addition, HAP-40 offers better toughness than ZDP-189, - even when it is heat-treated to a higher Rockwell hardness. Consequently, Master Hanaki has confidence that the new Sukenari HAP-40 knives will prove to be some of the best performing and most practical knives that Sukenari offer.