TOJIRO has operated out of Sanjo City, Japan for decades, building a reputation for VG-10 stainless knives that hold a sharp edge, resist corrosion, and perform reliably in demanding kitchen environments. The GAI line is the newest chapter in that story. The name means armor in Japanese, and it refers specifically to the handle: linen micarta, a composite material tougher and more moisture-resistant than wood, secured with hex bolt hardware that gives the grip its textured, industrial character. It is a handle designed to hold up under professional kitchen conditions and feel secure whether the hand is dry or wet.
The santoku - three virtues, built for meat, fish, and vegetables - runs 173mm blade length at 47mm height in this version, with the flat-to-gentle-belly profile that makes the format equally suited to push-cutting and bias-slicing. The VG-10 core is wrapped in 37 alternating layers of high and low carbon stainless steel, producing the suminagashi (flowing water) Damascus cladding pattern visible on the blade. VG-10 takes a refined edge and holds it well without requiring the reactive carbon steel care routine. The 2mm spine tapers cleanly. 6.2 oz. A practical, well-made knife with more visual character than most in this price range.
Care Instructions: VG-10 stainless - hand wash and dry after use. Avoid the dishwasher, bones, and frozen foods. Sharpen on quality water stones as needed.
The santoku - three virtues, built for meat, fish, and vegetables - runs 173mm blade length at 47mm height in this version, with the flat-to-gentle-belly profile that makes the format equally suited to push-cutting and bias-slicing. The VG-10 core is wrapped in 37 alternating layers of high and low carbon stainless steel, producing the suminagashi (flowing water) Damascus cladding pattern visible on the blade. VG-10 takes a refined edge and holds it well without requiring the reactive carbon steel care routine. The 2mm spine tapers cleanly. 6.2 oz. A practical, well-made knife with more visual character than most in this price range.
Care Instructions: VG-10 stainless - hand wash and dry after use. Avoid the dishwasher, bones, and frozen foods. Sharpen on quality water stones as needed.
- Brand: TOJIRO
- Line: GAI
- Location: Sanjo City, Japan
- Construction: San Mai
- Edge Steel: VG-10 Stainless
- Cladding: 37-Layer Damascus Stainless
- Finish: Suminagashi (Flowing Water)
- Bevel: Double Bevel
- Edge Grind: Even
- Handle: Linen Micarta
- Hardware: Hex Bolt Pins
- Weight: 6.2 oz (176 g)
- Blade Length: 173mm
- Total Length: 292mm
- Spine Thickness at Heel: 2mm
- Blade Height: 47mm
