Gyuto knife, SKD tool steel, Black Damascus finish - Yoshikane

Kazuomi Yamamoto is a 4th generation blacksmith working under the Yoshikane name. The forge is over 100 years old and are renown for the heat treatment and the ability to bring out the finest qualities in all steels.

SHAPE: Gyuto. Japan's answer to the chef's knife with a thinner profile. Gyuto translates to cow sword.

STEEL: SKD. This is a Japanese high chromium and Carbon Tool Steel that is semi Stainless and virtually identical to American D2 steel. It’s easy to sharpen and has great edge retention.

FINISH: Damascus or suminagashi. This type of finish is made by creating a Kitaeji; which is produced by repeatedly folding/stacking then compressing two different steels until they create a laminated pattern. This can then be manipulated in various ways to produce the maker’s desired pattern effect. This material is then clad around the core metal of the blade as an elaborate protective layer for the core steel - thus giving the knife a beautiful and striking appearance. To enhance the Damascus effect, the blade has ben dipped in acid.

HANDLE: Octagonal burnt chestnut handle with a buffalo horn ferule.

LENGTH: 210mm in length

MAKER: Yoshikane - Sanjo, Japan

BEST FOR: Those wanting the performance of carbon steel but with the ease of use of stainless steel.

SAUNDERS SAYS: "After met Kazuomi Yamamoto, having his knives in our shop is a real treat." 

These knives are hand-forged so there may be slight variations in measurements and finishes.