Oftentimes we know what the product is called but have no idea about what the term actually means. One such common example is san mai steel. Do you really know what is san mai steel? It’s a knife of Japanese tradition. And the knife has been a part of the culture for centuries now. After all, it is made using the finest steel.
In short – san mai steel is actually a combination of different forms of carbon steel. The blend includes low carbon, medium carbon, and high carbon. This gives you a very, very hard blade that has an extremely tough-resistant outer later, which resists corrosion, rusting, etc. like no other blade out there.
16 forged metal layers subjected to high pressure and temperature – it’s that tough!
Now let’s get to know more about its quality, construction, and everything else that’s relevant about san mai steel…
What Is San Mai Steel – How Is It Made?
San mai steel, much like Damascus steel, is incredibly durable, even though forged and then cut into blades. The cutting power, in particular, of san mai steel is exceptional. The process, however, of making this type of steel is wholly different. And that’s the reason why it has such unique characteristics that give it the upper hand over other kinds of steel.
San mai steel originates from Japan. The Japanese terms san mai actually means three parts. And that’s the most accurate description indeed because these blades consist of a center core made using hard steel and two outer layers or edges made with more pliable, milder steel.
So the manufacturing method includes the best of both worlds – hard steel and mild steel. The hard metal in the center makes the sheer edge sharp. Thus, the most suitable for cutting and slicing. On the other hand, the milder version of steel surrounds the core to provide excellent shock resistance while also preventing the pure hard metal from shattering.
It’s this combination of various elements that’s responsible for the unique attributes and legendary popularity of blades constructed of san mai steel.
There’s a specific method for creating these types of blades in order to give them their special properties. It’s with the help of carbon density that metalsmiths choose steel, right? To be more specific, the outer and center portion carbon density. Harder carbon means more carbon. And this harder metal is positioned between two regions of milder steel i.e. less carbon.
Then all the three are forged, hence bonded together. This produces the sheer edge in the center that’s made of harder steel while the milder version acts as a more defensive, shatter-resistant coat surrounding the core.
What Makes San Mai Steel So Special?
These, no doubt, are top-quality knives designed to last for a very, very long time. If you decide to purchase a knife set like this, you’ll get a bread knife, a paring knife, 3 chef knives, and a sharpening stone. All blades, needless to say, are going to be made using san mai steel to deliver exceptional hardness and strength while also retaining maximum flexibility.
On top of that, such high-quality knives are equipped with genuine leather-made sheaths that provide much-needed protection.
Why Buy San Mai Knives?
How can you tell if the knife you’re buying is worth the investment or not. With so many types of knives now available, how do you differentiate between good and bad? To be honest, it’s common to get confused about something like this. At the same time, it’s common to not know how to care for your knives properly.
The thing about san mai steel knives is that these have been around for more than 500 years. The traditional Japanese knives are extremely popular even now. All thanks to their incredible durability, craftsmanship, and also their affordable price.
Very sharp with three layers – that’s what makes san mai knives so long-lasting, thus hugey popular. To keep your kitchen utensils from deteriorating or getting damaged anytime soon – that’s why you should consider getting san mai steel knives since they’re a more long-term investment.
But Doesn’t San Mai Steel Rust?
The core of san mai steel blades consists of hard carbon sandwiched between two layers of milder, softer steel. The latter offers resistance to corrosion, along with toughness and strength.
So what does this mean? That the blade is prone to rust if not treated properly. Nevertheless, in comparison to standard stainless steel, this happens more slowly. Because in the case of san mai steel, the two outer layers protect the inner core against oxygen exposure.
Now how do you go about preventing rust? Simply just wipe the knife after each use. Use mineral or cooking oil for wiping the blade. This facilitates the evaporation of water present on the blade and, at the same time, leaves no spots.
How Do San Mai Blades Change Your Cooking Experience?
Cooking may be fun and all but then it’s no easy task, right? Spending lots of time in the kitchen is what comes with choosing to cook healthy, homemade meals. But then factors that make the undertaking quicker, easier, and more convenient include the tools and utensils you use. One such very commonly used product is your kitchen knife. To be more specific, your chef knife.
When using a high-quality chef knife, chopping vegetables and other ingredients becomes a lot easier and also safer. Otherwise, you end up with painful finger cuts and unevenly chopped veggies.
On that note, it’s a relief to know that high-quality Japanese san mai is an affordable option. These types of blades not only cut vegetables but can also take on meat in the most effortless manner.
Conclusion
So now you know what is san mai steel? These knives consist of three layers – the inner core is hard metal while the outer layers (on each side) are softer, milder steel. The result – an incredibly strong blade able to tolerate heavy use. And no breaking down easily or becoming brittle.
So the next time you want to replace your chek knife in the kitchen, you know what to buy!