Aichi Steel AUS-8 vs VG-10: Mid-Range Steels Compared

One of the most common questions from stylists upgrading their scissors is whether the jump from AUS-8 to VG-10 steel is worth the price difference. It is a fair question, and the answer requires understanding what each steel actually is and who makes it.

The AUS Series: Aichi Steel Corporation

Aichi Steel Corporation (愛知製鋼), headquartered in Tokai City, Aichi Prefecture, produces the AUS series of stainless steels widely used in Japanese cutlery and scissors. The range spans three main grades:

AUS-6 (6A): Carbon 0.55-0.65%, chromium 13.0-14.5%. A finished hardness and service interval depend on the maker’s heat treatment, geometry, use, and care.

AUS-8 (8A): Carbon 0.70-0.75%, chromium 13.0-14.5%, molybdenum 0.10-0.30%, vanadium 0.10-0.26%. Finished hardness depends on the scissor maker’s heat treatment.

AUS-10 (10A): Carbon 0.95-1.10%, chromium 13.0-14.5%, vanadium 0.10-0.25%. The higher carbon and vanadium distinguish its published composition from AUS-8; that alone does not quantify edge life against a finished 440C or VG-10 scissor.

VG-10: The Takefu Standard

VG-10 is produced by Takefu Special Steel (武生特殊鋼材) in Fukui Prefecture. Its published composition is approximately 1.0% carbon, 15% chromium, 1.0% molybdenum, 0.25% vanadium, and 1.5% cobalt. Finished hardness varies with heat treatment and should be verified for the exact model.

The composition differs from AUS-8 in carbon, chromium, molybdenum, vanadium, and cobalt. Those differences inform a material comparison, but they do not establish the hardness, edge angle, corrosion behavior, or chip resistance of two finished scissors without comparable production and test data.

The Practical Difference

Published grade-level hardness ranges may overlap, and the grade name does not determine a finished scissor’s performance. Compare model-specific hardness information, edge geometry, heat treatment, fit, warranty, service route, and a relevant cutting trial. No universal percentage difference in sharpening intervals follows from the alloy labels.

The Verdict

Neither label supplies a universal buying verdict. Choose between exact models using documented specifications, condition, fit, intended technique, current price, return terms, and service support. Leave comparative edge life unresolved unless the claim comes from a suitable head-to-head test.