ZDP189 steel
ZDP-189 – exceptional powder steel from Japan
ZDP-189 is a top-quality powder tool steel manufactured by Hitachi Metals Ltd. in Japan. It is one of the hardest steels used in the manufacture of kitchen knives – with proper heat treatment, it can achieve a hardness of up to HRC 67. This makes it highly valued by professional chefs and demanding enthusiasts who are looking for unrivalled edge retention and exceptional cutting performance.
Chemical composition (simplified):
C (carbon): approx. 3.0% – very high content, ensures extreme hardness and long-lasting sharpness
Cr (chromium): approx. 20% – high resistance to corrosion and wear
Mo, V, W: additives that increase toughness and blade stability
ZDP-189 is a stainless steel, but thanks to its extreme hardness and fine microstructure, it has mechanical properties similar to carbon steels, but without their susceptibility to corrosion.
Advantages of ZDP-189 in the kitchen:
Extreme sharpness and cutting ability – knives made from this steel ‘glide’ through ingredients, giving the user a feeling of absolute control
Long blade life – with normal use, it stays sharp significantly longer than conventional knives
Minimal blade maintenance – suitable for chefs who want top performance without frequent sharpening
Luxurious material – a premium choice for connoisseurs and collectors, often combined with Damascus patterns
What to watch out for:
ZDP-189 is extremely hard, but this also makes it slightly more brittle. Not suitable for chopping bones, frozen food or hard shells (e.g. coconut). Knives made from this steel do not tolerate rough handling – but when used correctly, they reward you with an exceptionally sharp and precise cut that lasts for weeks or even months without sharpening.
