Mitsumoto Sakari Japanese Damascus Gyuto Knife (8 Inch, Micarta Handle)

What makes HAP40 powder steel superior to regular knife steel?

HAP40 powder steel is an aerospace-grade material with 67 HRC hardness, significantly harder than standard kitchen knives which typically rate 56-58 HRC. The powder metallurgy process creates fine, evenly distributed crystals with higher cobalt content, resulting in exceptional edge retention and rust resistance. This means the knife stays sharp much longer between sharpenings and maintains its performance even with heavy use.

How long does the hand forging process actually take?

Each knife undergoes 45 days of traditional Japanese hand forging, with the complete process from raw materials to finished product taking 90 days. This extended timeframe allows for proper heat treatment cycles, careful blade geometry development and the creation of the distinctive Damascus patterning. The hand forging creates superior grain structure compared to machine-made knives, resulting in better performance and longevity.

Is the Micarta handle suitable for professional kitchen use?

Yes, Micarta is widely used in electrical insulation due to its waterproof properties and heat resistance. In kitchen applications, it offers superior grip even when wet, reduces wrist fatigue due to its lightweight nature and withstands the demanding conditions of professional cooking environments. The anti-slip pattern provides additional safety during food preparation tasks.

What cutting tasks is this gyuto knife best suited for?

The 8-inch gyuto excels at most kitchen tasks including slicing vegetables, trimming meat and general food preparation. It's particularly effective on hard vegetables like carrots, pumpkin and broccoli due to its sharp edge and robust construction. However, avoid cutting bones, frozen foods, or using it on hard surfaces as this can damage the blade edge.

How should I maintain and care for this knife?

Hand wash immediately after use with warm water and mild soap, then dry thoroughly to prevent rust spots. Store in a dry, ventilated location away from other utensils that could damage the blade. Never put it in the dishwasher as this can damage both the blade and handle. Regular stropping with leather and abrasive paste can maintain the edge between professional sharpenings.

What's included in the sandalwood gift box?

The premium sandalwood presentation box contains the 8-inch gyuto knife, detailed maintenance instructions and a microfibre cleaning cloth. The box features a fitted interior that securely holds the knife and accessories, making it suitable for gift-giving or safe storage. The handcrafted wooden box reflects the artisanal quality of the knife itself.

Can this knife handle heavy-duty cutting tasks?

While the knife excels at precision cutting and general food preparation, it's not designed for heavy-duty tasks like bone cutting or chopping through joints. The 67 HRC hardness makes it extremely sharp but also more brittle than softer steels. Use it for slicing, dicing and trimming tasks where precision and sharpness are more important than brute force.

How does the 15-degree cutting angle affect performance?

The 15-degree cutting angle is significantly sharper than Western knives, which typically feature 20-22 degree angles. This acute angle allows for cleaner cuts with less cellular damage to food, preserving flavour and appearance. However, the sharper angle requires more careful handling and maintenance to prevent edge damage from improper use or storage.