Asai Enji Damascus Chef's Knife - Gyuto - 8 1/2 in. (210mm)

Product Description for Asai Enji Damascus Chef's Knife - Gyuto - 8 1/2 in. (210mm)

Maker: Asai (click to see more by this maker)
Item num: 86770
Blade length: 8.50 in.
Total length: 14.50 in.
Blade height (at heel): 1.85 in.
Blade thickness (near bolster): 0.15 in.
Item weight: 4.72 oz.
Shipment weight: 8.32 oz.
Blade: Stainless Damascus san mai blade, Rc 60-61
Bolster: Dark red pakka wood ferrule
Handle: Ho wood
Description: Renowned bladesmith Masami Asai passed away in the summer of 2014. He will be greatly missed – as a person, an artist, and one of the truly great knifemakers of Japan. Before his passing, his apprentice, Yamamoto, was given the right to continue to make knives under the Asai name. We are working with Yamamoto-san to determine which knife lines will be continued. We regret that this means that only those knives that are in stock can be ordered at this time.
The gyuto is modeled after the French pattern chef's knife. Longer and slimmer than the santoku, it is well suited to slicing and chopping -- an ideal general purpose chef's knife. The long blade is needed for the sawing motion required to cut meat and the slim profile keeps the weight low and the balance perfect.
Each knife is individually hand-forged beginning with a high carbon stainless steel core (hagane). This is surrounded by many layers of high contrast Damascus. This time consuming process creates a knife with outstanding edge holding and beauty. The blade is distal tapered for optimal balance and has an extremely thin, keen edge for high performance.
The right-handed 'D' shape handle fits comfortably and securely in the hand and is best used by a right-handed user. It is formed from ho wood, the traditional wood for Japanese handles. This wood, which is a relative of magnolia, holds up extremely well in the harsh environment of the kitchen. A dark red pakka wood ferrule adds nice contrast. Each knife is sent in a nice gift box.
Like other kitchen knives, this knife should not be put in a dishwasher.


Availability: Not currently available