What is clad material (composite material) for knives? Explaining its features, benefits, and differences from honyaki knives

The term "clad material (composite material)" is often seen when choosing a knife.
This is a slightly ingenious material that was created to achieve both sharpness and ease of use.
This time, we will explain in an easy-to-understand manner how it works, its benefits, and the differences between it and honyaki knives.
What is clad material (composite material)?
Clad materials (composite materials) are multi-layered materials that have a steel core with excellent sharpness and hardness, sandwiched between rust-resistant stainless steel or other materials on both sides.
It is generally referred to as a "three-layer structure," and uses high-hardness steel for the core to ensure sharpness, while the stainless steel on the outside serves to prevent rust and chipping . Its appeal lies in its beautiful appearance and its ability to combine sharpness with durability.
Advantages of using clad materials
Rust resistance and easy maintenance: The exterior is made of stainless steel, so if you wash it with water and wipe it thoroughly, it will not rust, and it is easy to handle at home.
Well-balanced sharpness: The core material is made of high-hardness steel that prioritizes sharpness, and the exterior provides strength, so the structure makes it easy to achieve both sharpness and ease of use.
Disadvantages of clad knives
The cutting edge of clad materials is made up of a hard core material and a soft exterior material, and the sharpened tip of the blade is a mixture of both.
For this reason, with use, the soft parts tend to wear out first, causing the blade edge to lose its shape and sharpness .
It's not a problem once you get used to it, but beginners may find that sharpening is uneven . Also, it's important to keep in mind that the more joints there are in a composite material, the more costly the manufacturing process and the more complex the structure.
Differences from Honyaki knives
While clad materials are made by layering multiple materials, honyaki knives have the entire blade made from the same steel material.
The appeal of Honyaki knives
Consistent sharpening: Because the blade is made of a single material, the sharpening sensation is consistent and unevenness is reduced, making maintenance easy even for beginners . Long-term stable performance: Because the structure is simpler than that of clad materials, there is less risk of deterioration over time or at the joints, making this a knife that can be used safely for a long time.
Beautiful finish that shows craftsmanship: Honyaki knives are difficult to process, so the techniques used from forging to sharpening are directly reflected in the finished product. Each knife has its own unique character and a high level of perfection, which is also its appeal.
A blissful knife that has undergone the honyaki process: "Tashinam Perfect Knife"
The "Perfect Knife" developed by the Japanese kitchen brand Tashinam is a knife made using only a single steel material, VG-10 .
With careful maintenance, the blade will maintain its sharpness for a long time, making it the choice of those who want to use it for a long time .
At Tashinam , we aim to utilize traditional Japanese techniques to create the highest quality products that meet the needs of our users.
In particular, the "Perfect Knife" series utilizes solid VG-10 wood and is designed to maintain stable sharpness and beauty over the long term .
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Features of the Perfect Knife
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All blades are made using V Gold No. 10.
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Superb sharpness recognized by professionals
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Each knife is carefully hand-finished by a craftsman
We also offer a 7-day trial period after delivery, so if you're not satisfied after using it, you can return it.
The finely sharpened blade cuts through meat, fish, and vegetables without crushing the fibers, bringing out the maximum flavor in your food.
If you are looking for the best knife, please try the Perfect Knife.