This Kikuishi Chef Knife uses SK-5, a classic Japanese carbon tool steel - a well-proven alloy that takes a fine edge easily, holds it well through sustained kitchen use at 59-60 HRC, and sharpens more quickly than most premium stainless alternatives. Kikuichi has been using it in the Elite Carbon line as part of over 700 years of knife production in Japan. Mono-steel construction, black pakka wood handle, laser-cut blade. A professional-grade carbon steel kitchen knife at an accessible price.
At 243mm blade length, 52mm height, and 7.7 oz the 240mm gyuto is the professional standard - well-proportioned for high-volume prep and confident slicing. The 2mm spine keeps the grind thin and responsive. Big Tex calls it one of the best knives he has owned - sharp out of the box and uses it daily at both work and home. SK-5 at 59-60 HRC is a softer hardness than most premium Japanese carbon steels - the tradeoff is easier sharpening and more forgiving use, which suits professional environments where a knife takes real punishment. Kikuichi has been refining this balance for over 700 years. Black pakka wood handle, mono-steel laser-cut construction.
What Customers Are Saying: One five-star review from Big Tex - calls it one of the best knives he has owned, sharp out of the box, uses it at both work and home every day. The simplicity of that verdict from a regular professional user is a strong endorsement for a knife in this category.
Care Instructions: SK-5 carbon steel is reactive and will patina naturally with use. Wipe and dry the blade immediately after every use. Avoid leaving acidic foods or moisture on the blade. Hand wash only, never dishwasher. Apply a light coat of camellia oil for long-term storage. Sharpen on quality water stones - SK-5 at 59-60 HRC sharpens easily and takes a fine edge.
At 243mm blade length, 52mm height, and 7.7 oz the 240mm gyuto is the professional standard - well-proportioned for high-volume prep and confident slicing. The 2mm spine keeps the grind thin and responsive. Big Tex calls it one of the best knives he has owned - sharp out of the box and uses it daily at both work and home. SK-5 at 59-60 HRC is a softer hardness than most premium Japanese carbon steels - the tradeoff is easier sharpening and more forgiving use, which suits professional environments where a knife takes real punishment. Kikuichi has been refining this balance for over 700 years. Black pakka wood handle, mono-steel laser-cut construction.
What Customers Are Saying: One five-star review from Big Tex - calls it one of the best knives he has owned, sharp out of the box, uses it at both work and home every day. The simplicity of that verdict from a regular professional user is a strong endorsement for a knife in this category.
Care Instructions: SK-5 carbon steel is reactive and will patina naturally with use. Wipe and dry the blade immediately after every use. Avoid leaving acidic foods or moisture on the blade. Hand wash only, never dishwasher. Apply a light coat of camellia oil for long-term storage. Sharpen on quality water stones - SK-5 at 59-60 HRC sharpens easily and takes a fine edge.
- Brand: Kikuichi
- Line: Elite Carbon
- Founded: 1300 AD, Nara Prefecture
- Construction: Mono Steel, Laser Cut
- Steel: SK-5 Carbon Steel
- HRC: 59-60
- Handle: Black Pakka Wood
- Weight: 7.7 oz (218g)
- Blade Length: 243mm
- Total Length: 375mm
- Spine Thickness at Heel: 2mm
- Blade Height: 52mm
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