S90V Steel
CPM S90V is an advanced American powder metallurgy stainless steel originally developed by Crucible Industries. Its composition includes approximately 2.3% carbon, 14% chromium, 1% molybdenum and an exceptionally high 8.75-9% vanadium. This very high vanadium content gives S90V outstanding wear resistance and edge retention.
At around 62 HRC, S90V offers an exceptional balance for high-performance kitchen knives. It combines extremely long-lasting edge retention with greater toughness and better resistance to chipping than very high-hardness steels such as ZDP-189, while also being easier to sharpen.
Nakiri – Japanese Vegetable Knife
The Nakiri is a traditional Japanese vegetable knife with a tall, rectangular blade and a relatively flat cutting edge. Its shape is designed for efficient contact with the cutting board, making it especially well suited to push cutting, chopping and slicing vegetables.
The tall blade provides generous knuckle clearance and also makes it easy to scoop and transfer chopped ingredients from the board. Unlike a chef’s knife, the Nakiri has no pointed tip, allowing almost the entire length of the edge to be used effectively for vegetable preparation.
For cooks who prepare a large amount of vegetables, a Nakiri is one of the most efficient and comfortable knife shapes in the kitchen.
BTN Chef Knives
BTN chef knives are individually handcrafted in Vietnam in a small artisan workshop, with a strong focus on high-performance powder metallurgy steels, precise heat treatment and cutting performance. BTN specializes in steels such as CPM S90V, combining exceptional edge retention with practical toughness for demanding kitchen use.
The knives are distinguished by their carefully executed convex grinds, thin cutting geometry and excellent food release. Each knife is individually made rather than mass-produced, with considerable attention given to blade geometry, finishing and distinctive premium handles.
Hikari Chef Knives works directly with BTN on specifications, design details and product development. Our BTN knife collection is available internationally for both retail and wholesale.
