Mitsumoto Sakari Japanese Damascus Chef Knife (VG-10 Steel, 8.5 Inch, Nanmu Handle)

What makes VG-10 Damascus steel superior to regular kitchen knife steel?

VG-10 Damascus steel combines a high-carbon VG-10 core with multiple Damascus layers, creating superior edge retention and corrosion resistance. The VG-10 core contains chromium, molybdenum and vanadium, which provide exceptional sharpness and rust resistance. The Damascus layers add strength and create the distinctive wavy pattern whilst improving the blade's overall durability compared to standard stainless steel knives.

How should I properly maintain and care for this Damascus knife?

Hand wash the knife immediately after use with warm water and mild soap, then dry thoroughly to prevent water spots. Avoid dishwashers as high temperatures can damage the handle and blade finish. Store in a knife block or magnetic strip to protect the edge. Sharpen using whetstones rather than electric sharpeners and oil the blade occasionally if storing for extended periods to maintain the Damascus pattern's appearance.

Is this knife suitable for cutting bones or frozen foods?

No, this santoku knife is designed for slicing, dicing and chopping soft to medium-hard ingredients like vegetables, herbs, fish and boneless meats. The thin 2mm blade profile and 60 HRC hardness make it unsuitable for bones, frozen foods, or hard objects as this could chip or damage the edge. Use a dedicated cleaver or bone knife for such tasks.

What's the difference between this santoku and a traditional Western chef's knife?

Santoku knives feature a shorter, wider blade with a straighter edge compared to the curved belly of Western chef's knives. The santoku's design excels at the three cutting techniques its name represents: slicing, dicing and mincing. The flatter blade profile makes it ideal for chopping vegetables with a rocking motion, whilst the wide blade surface helps transfer cut ingredients from board to pan.

How sharp is this knife out of the box and will it stay sharp?

The knife arrives razor-sharp from the factory, capable of slicing paper cleanly and dicing tomatoes without crushing. The VG-10 steel core and 60 HRC hardness provide excellent edge retention, meaning it stays sharp significantly longer than standard kitchen knives. With proper care and occasional honing, the edge can maintain its sharpness for months of regular home use before requiring professional sharpening.

What does the 60 HRC hardness rating mean for everyday use?

The 60 HRC (Rockwell Hardness Scale) rating indicates professional-grade steel hardness that balances sharpness with durability. This hardness level allows the blade to take and hold an extremely sharp edge whilst resisting chipping during normal use. It's harder than most Western knives (typically 56-58 HRC) but not so hard that it becomes brittle, making it ideal for both delicate and robust kitchen tasks.

Can left-handed people use this knife comfortably?

Yes, the symmetrical blade geometry and balanced handle design make this knife suitable for both right and left-handed users. Unlike some traditional Japanese knives that feature single-bevel edges, this santoku has a double-bevel edge that cuts equally well regardless of hand preference. The ergonomic handle provides comfortable grip for extended use by cooks of either handedness.

What's included in the sandalwood presentation box?

The package includes the Damascus santoku knife, a maintenance instruction guide, a knife cleaning cloth and a detailed instruction manual, all presented in an elegant sandalwood gift box. The wooden box provides proper storage and protection for the knife whilst making it suitable for gifting. The included materials help users understand proper care and maintenance techniques to preserve the knife's performance and appearance.