Daovua knives are made by the Nhat family in Vietnam, forged by hand using traditional techniques and materials that most of the knife world stopped using decades ago. The leaf spring steel they work with — typically 5160, a tough chromium-vanadium carbon alloy used in automotive suspension systems — is sourced from recycled vehicle parts and given a second life as kitchen cutlery. It is an unconventional origin story that produces genuinely capable knives, and CKTG has been one of the most vocal advocates for what the Nhat family is doing since we first started carrying their work.
This kogatana is forged from leaf spring carbon steel with a thin grind and a 50/50 even bevel that produces strong cutting performance well beyond what the size and price would suggest. At 60mm the blade is compact and precise, well suited to box cutting, utility work, opening packaging, detail tasks around the kitchen, and anything else that calls for a short, sharp, maneuverable edge. The handle varies from piece to piece — these are handmade knives with a rustic character, and minor variations in fit, finish, and dimensions are part of the deal. The steel is tough and forgiving, responds quickly to a honing rod or water stones, and develops a natural patina with use that most carbon steel owners come to appreciate. At this price point there is simply nothing else like it.
What Customers Are Saying: Reviewers consistently reach for this knife daily — box cutting, opening packages, letter opening, kitchen prep — and describe it as one of those tools that earns a permanent spot within arm's reach. Edge retention draws repeated praise, with one owner noting months of box-cutting use before the first touch-up was needed. The sharpness out of the box is described as genuinely dangerous by more than one reviewer, which in this context is a compliment. It has been purchased as a gift and nearly kept by the buyer, which tells you something about the value proposition at this size and price.
Care Instructions: Leaf spring carbon steel is reactive and will develop a patina with use. Wash and dry the blade after each use and do not leave it wet. Avoid acidic foods sitting on the edge for extended periods. Do not put in the dishwasher. Regular honing and occasional sharpening on water stones will keep it performing at its best.
This kogatana is forged from leaf spring carbon steel with a thin grind and a 50/50 even bevel that produces strong cutting performance well beyond what the size and price would suggest. At 60mm the blade is compact and precise, well suited to box cutting, utility work, opening packaging, detail tasks around the kitchen, and anything else that calls for a short, sharp, maneuverable edge. The handle varies from piece to piece — these are handmade knives with a rustic character, and minor variations in fit, finish, and dimensions are part of the deal. The steel is tough and forgiving, responds quickly to a honing rod or water stones, and develops a natural patina with use that most carbon steel owners come to appreciate. At this price point there is simply nothing else like it.
What Customers Are Saying: Reviewers consistently reach for this knife daily — box cutting, opening packages, letter opening, kitchen prep — and describe it as one of those tools that earns a permanent spot within arm's reach. Edge retention draws repeated praise, with one owner noting months of box-cutting use before the first touch-up was needed. The sharpness out of the box is described as genuinely dangerous by more than one reviewer, which in this context is a compliment. It has been purchased as a gift and nearly kept by the buyer, which tells you something about the value proposition at this size and price.
Care Instructions: Leaf spring carbon steel is reactive and will develop a patina with use. Wash and dry the blade after each use and do not leave it wet. Avoid acidic foods sitting on the edge for extended periods. Do not put in the dishwasher. Regular honing and occasional sharpening on water stones will keep it performing at its best.
- Maker: Daovua
- Blacksmith: The Nhat Family
- Location: Vietnam
- Edge Steel: Leaf Spring Carbon Steel (5160)
- Construction: Mono Steel
- Cladding: None
- Edge Grind: Even Grind
- Bevel: 50/50
- Handle: Octagonal (varies)
- Weight: 1.7 oz (48g)
- Blade Length: 60mm
- Total Length: 200mm
- Spine Thickness: 2mm
- Blade Height: 19mm
Reviews
3 review(s) WRITE A REVIEW (Reviews are subject to approval) Sharp lil gift Worth every pennyPosted By: Michael - verified customer
9 people found this review helpful
I've opened every box and every package with this since I first got it. After months, I finally touched it up with a honing steel and it's as good as new. Be careful, it's razor sharp- I cut myself the first week and didn't even know it until I felt the blood trickle down my hand.
9 people found this review helpful
I've opened every box and every package with this since I first got it. After months, I finally touched it up with a honing steel and it's as good as new. Be careful, it's razor sharp- I cut myself the first week and didn't even know it until I felt the blood trickle down my hand.
Chef Knives to go sells Shivs?!?!?!?Posted By: Michael Landas - verified customer
7 people found this review helpful
This little piece of metal is small, convenient, and perfect for opening boxes, opening letters, andything you need to cut something and are tempted to use a paring knife, use this instead. Just realize I was kidding with the title and only use it for its intended purpose.
7 people found this review helpful
This little piece of metal is small, convenient, and perfect for opening boxes, opening letters, andything you need to cut something and are tempted to use a paring knife, use this instead. Just realize I was kidding with the title and only use it for its intended purpose.
