Masutani VG10 Damascus Nakiri 165mm Black

These are in high demand--limit two per customer.

It's hard to believe that the skilled craftsmen at Masutani can create these high-value kitchen knives using quality steels and materials for such amazing prices.

Using the very popular stainless steel known as VG10 as the core of the blade, they laminate the steel with an outer layer of a Damascus finish soft stainless steel. Then they laser cut the knife from this pre-forged sheet and apply some very well-done grinds and edges. Our customers and reviewers are already singing the praises of these knives, and rightly so.

The nakiri that we are featuring here is pretty standard fare as far as overall dimensions go. They are naturally thin knives, created to perfectly slice through vegetables and fruits of all hardnesses. It has an average-length blade at 165mm and occupies the midpoint of the scale in terms of height. The grinds are very well executed. The heat treat is kept to a low 60 HRC to prevent chipping. The well-made handle and bolster give the blade a secure and comfortable feel.

All around, this is an outstanding knife that would be a great addition to any kitchen or chef's knife roll, especially if one is looking for great bang for the buck and ease of maintenance characteristics. Highly recommended.

Care Instructions: Hand wash and dry immediately after use. VG10 is a stainless steel - resistant to corrosion and easy to maintain. Avoid the dishwasher, bones, frozen foods, and hard squash. Use a wood or rubber cutting board. Sharpen on quality water stones.

What Customers Are Saying: Reviewers who use a pinch grip call this nakiri a great fit, though a few with larger hands note the blade height feels a bit tall for their liking. Edge retention gets specific praise, including one customer who reported an excellent edge after just ten minutes on the whetstone, with several calling it the best value for the money in their collection.

Blacksmith: Masutani

Location: Echizen, Japan

Construction: Laser Cut, San Mai

Cladding: Damascus Stainless

Edge Steel: VG10 Stainless

Edge Grind: Even

Handle: Yo (Western) Black Pakka Wood

Weight: 5.7 oz (162 g)

Blade Length: 163 mm

Total Length: 306 mm

Spine Thickness at Base: 2 mm

Blade Height: 51 mm