Hajegato Damascus Gyuto Knife (8 Inch, VG10 Steel)

What makes this Damascus steel different from other kitchen knives?

This knife uses genuine folded Damascus construction with 67 layers surrounding a VG10 steel core. The pattern extends through the entire blade thickness, not just surface etching. The VG10 core provides 60-62 HRC hardness for excellent edge retention, whilst the Damascus layers add flexibility and corrosion resistance. Deep vacuum cooling during manufacture enhances these properties further.

How do I properly maintain and sharpen this knife?

Use a water stone sharpener with 1000/6000 grit for best results. The manufacturer recommends their specific sharpening stones. Avoid dishwashers - hand wash with mild soap and dry immediately. Don't leave acidic foods like tomatoes or lemon juice on the blade. Store in the provided sheath or on a magnetic strip to protect the edge.

Can I choose the handle colour and pattern?

No, handle colours are randomly assigned during manufacture. Each handle features unique natural dye patterns compressed into G10 stabilised wood. The colours will differ from product photos as every knife is individually handcrafted. This randomness ensures no two knives are identical, which helps with identification in professional kitchens.

What cutting tasks is this gyuto knife best suited for?

This 8-inch gyuto excels at general kitchen tasks including vegetable preparation, meat slicing, fish filleting and fruit cutting. The blade geometry suits rocking motion cutting and push-cutting techniques. Avoid frozen foods, bones and hard materials that could chip the edge. Don't use it as a cleaver or butcher's knife.

How does the weight and balance affect performance?

At 180g, this knife is lighter than many Western chef's knives, reducing fatigue during extended use. The balance point sits at the blade guard, providing optimal control for precision work. The lightweight design allows for quick, accurate movements whilst the octagonal handle prevents rolling and provides secure grip even when hands are wet or greasy.

What warranty coverage does this knife include?

The manufacturer provides a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects. This covers issues with blade construction, handle attachment and material failures. The warranty doesn't cover damage from misuse, such as cutting frozen foods, bones, or improper sharpening. Normal wear from regular use isn't covered, but the VG10 steel should maintain performance for many years with proper care.

Is this knife suitable for professional kitchen use?

Yes, this knife meets professional standards with its VG10 Damascus construction and ergonomic design. The unique handle patterns help chefs identify their knives in busy kitchens. The lightweight design reduces fatigue during long shifts, whilst the superior edge retention means less frequent sharpening. Many professional chefs in the reviews confirm its suitability for commercial kitchen environments.

How sharp is the knife when it arrives and how long does it stay sharp?

The knife arrives with a mirror-polished edge sharp enough for immediate use. Some users report it's sharp enough to shave with straight from the box. The VG10 steel core maintains sharpness significantly longer than standard stainless steel knives. With proper use and occasional honing, the edge should remain keen for months of regular home cooking or weeks of professional use before requiring resharpening.