V1 Steel

V1 Steel

Quick look

  • Hardness window: 61–64 HRC after proper tempering.1
  • Toughness: Low-impurity billet keeps the grain tight, so the edge resists chipping despite the high hardness.1
  • Corrosion profile: Carbon tool steel—needs disciplined wipe-downs because chromium content is minimal.1
  • Weight/feel: Forged blanks stay lightweight and responsive; boutique builds describe a razor-keen close with noticeable bite.2

Why it matters

V1 (sometimes marketed as V Gold 1 carbon) is Takefu Special Steel’s flagship non-stainless blend. The mill refines the billet to keep phosphorus, sulfur, and other edge-killing impurities extremely low, then targets 1.15% carbon for aggressive carbide formation.1 The result is a steel that takes a screaming edge, holds point strength for detail work, and forges cleanly into custom profiles—perfect for stylists who want classic carbon feedback with modern consistency.

Shear pairing & edge compatibility

  • Convex and hybrid convex: Maximises the high hardness for glassy slices while retaining tip strength for point work.
  • Slim, offset handles: Lightweight blades pair well with ergonomic grips designed for rapid scissor-over-comb passes.

Technique map

  • Precision perimeter work where a keen, tactile edge keeps blunt lines ultra-crisp.
  • Dry detailing, deep point cutting, and contour edging that benefit from the instant feedback carbon provides.
  • Advanced barbering on medium to coarse hair when you want audible “bite” without switching to serrated tools.

Real-world stress tests

  • Edge retention: Expect roughly 1,000–1,300 salon cuts (~5–7 weeks at 25 cuts/day). The 1.15% carbon content and HRC 64 potential documented by Takefu explain why boutique builders market V1 for long-lived edges.1,2
  • Impact/drop resilience: High hardness means tips will micro-chip if slammed onto tile—keep a leather holster and controlled closures.1
  • Weight & in-hand feel: Artisanal V1 shears such as Tokko Katana’s Kyosho series highlight the nimble, low-mass feel that reduces fatigue in marathon sessions.2

Maintenance notes

Treat V1 like any carbon tool steel: wipe and dry between every client, oil pivots nightly, and store blades open so moisture doesn’t sit on the edge.1 Book a convex-capable sharpener every 3–4 months (or sooner if you favour dry cutting) and request a fine, cool polish to protect the heat-sensitive carbides.2

Industry snapshot

  • Tokko Katana Kyosho 6” Shears: Forged from Hitachi/TSS V1, promoted for a razor edge that holds up to pro abuse when properly serviced.2

Trade-offs

  • Carbon core rusts quickly; fingerprints can stain if you delay cleaning.1
  • Hardness rewards gentle technique—twisting or forcing the close will chip the apex.
  • Availability fluctuates outside Japan; verify that “V1” claims map back to Takefu/Hitachi billets before purchasing.3

Sources

  1. 武生特殊鋼材 – V2C・V1・V2・白2 (Japanese)
  2. Tokko Shears – Kyosho 6” V1 Hitachi Steel Cutting Shears
  3. Japan Scissors – Hair Scissor Steel & Materials Guide

Related: VG-1 • Carbon Steel • Scissor Maintenance

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