If you are thinking about a good new Japanese knife, at a good price, this is a screaming deal. The Fujiwara FKM-09 Gyuto 210mm is one of the best value knives on the website, and one of Mark Richmond's favorite recommendations to newcomers. This is a semi-stainless mono-steel blade which gives this knife a beautiful aesthetic simplicity and has a versatile shape for just about any cutting style, from rocking to slicing to chopping. It has a classic arc, with a good flat spot toward the heel of the knife and a gentle curve toward the tip.
Typical of the gyuto style compared to western blades, this knife is thin at 2.2mm at the heel, with this particular knife boasting a beautiful distal taper toward the tip. The thin and pointed tip of the FKM-09 makes for impressive precision cuts and detail work. The blade height is not too tall, has a slender-sized western-style handle, and is light at 166 grams, making this knife ideal for small and medium-sized hands.
The 210mm size is also great for cooks working with smaller cutting boards. This knife is exceptionally well balanced between blade and handle, and feels great using both western and pinch grips. The FKM-09 handle is made from a black Japanese pakka wood, which together with the stainless steel bolster will last the lifetime of the blade. Out of the box, the knife is quite sharp with good bite. Overall, this is an excellent, low-maintenance entry into Japanese knives!
For Care: Please wash with a powdered cleanser (we recommend Bar Keeper's Friend and towel dry after you clean it. If you let these drip dry they can spot and rust a bit.
Weight: 5.8 ounces
Blade Length: 210 mm (8.25")
Overall Length: 335 mm (13.25")
Thickness at Heel: 2.2 mm
Product Reviews
5Excellent Service and Knife, September 15, 2020
Posted By: Marcus Chau
While there were some issues with delivery (USPS), Sue was amazing in customer service and helping me getting the issue handled and making sure I get my knife.
After using the knife for only a short period, I am very happy and this is a beautiful quality product that works really well.
Bought this for a cook as a Christmas gift, out of box very sharp. Fit and finish leaves a little to be desired but at this price it is a great deal. Feels a little flimsy, But handles denser product no problem.
5After 4 years, still my go to knife, December 8, 2016
Posted By: TJ - verified customer 1 people found this review helpful
4 years ago I got this as my first Japanese knife. Since I have added a few Tojiros (both DP and carbon steel) a few Globals and some miscellaneous other knifes. This is still the knife I reach for the most. It has held its edge the best of all of my knives. I've also started sharpening and this takes an edge incredibly well even for a beginner like me. This is truly a great knife for the money.
Posted By: Lucus J Danckwart - verified customer 1 people found this review helpful
Been using this knife in a professional kitchen for over 5 years and it's still solid. Had to reforge the tip after someone decided to try cleaning a grill with it a year ago. But besides that it's always a go to for all of my day to day cutting tasks.
I recently have received this knife thru a raffle at work. I am very pleased with this knife. It cuts very smoothly and evenly. It was very sharp when I first pulled it out of the box. The balance and weight of this knife are perfect for the cooking I do. It also has a very sleek look!!!
This knife for the price is amazing! i put a new edge on it out of the box, and it still is screaming sharp 2 months later with only a couple times being honed. This edge out lasts shuns i've used by twice as long, and sharpens twice as easily
Posted By: Herb Strauss - verified customer 2 people found this review helpful
I have to say the purchase was as smooth as this knife cuts. I?m an avid home cook with a number of chefs knives, and I wanted to try a Japanese knife. After reading so many reviews, I was so confused I contacted Mark for a recommendation. He recommended the Fujiwara Gyuto, and I couldn?t be happier. The knife arrived 2 days later. Thank you again!
Over the holidays I purchased 2 FKM 21o Gyutos as gifts for my Aunts. I inspected the knives when they arrived and they were thin, sharp and the fit and finish were excellent. Both recipients loved them.
This is the best value priced knife on the market. Super sharp out of the box, holds an edge and has a great look and feel. I love the balance and I can't believe how good this knife is for the price paid.