The name GAI means armor in Japanese, and Tojiro applies it to a line that reflects that ethos: 37 alternating layers of high and low stainless steel wrapped around a VG10 core, creating a blade that is as structurally considered as it is visually striking. Built in Sanjo City, the GAI petty is a step above the entry-level Tojiro offerings in materials and finish, with Damascus cladding that adds both beauty and surface toughness to the blade road.
At 135mm this petty sits at the versatile mid-length of the format - long enough to handle board work for proteins and produce, short enough to use in hand for peeling, trimming, and detail tasks where a longer knife gets in the way. The VG10 core holds a keen edge and sharpens readily on quality water stones, while the 37-layer Damascus cladding provides the visual contrast and surface texture that makes this knife stand apart from plain-finish pettys at this size. The blade is well-balanced for both pinch grip at the cutting board and standard grip in the hand, and the Damascus pattern gives it a presence on the block that belies its compact size. A capable, attractive everyday utility knife from one of Japan most trusted production houses.
Care Instructions: VG10 stainless is low maintenance and easy to live with. Hand wash and dry after use - avoid the dishwasher. Sharpen on quality water stones and strop regularly to maintain the edge. Avoid bones, frozen foods, and hard materials that can chip the edge at high hardness. Free shipping over $100.
At 135mm this petty sits at the versatile mid-length of the format - long enough to handle board work for proteins and produce, short enough to use in hand for peeling, trimming, and detail tasks where a longer knife gets in the way. The VG10 core holds a keen edge and sharpens readily on quality water stones, while the 37-layer Damascus cladding provides the visual contrast and surface texture that makes this knife stand apart from plain-finish pettys at this size. The blade is well-balanced for both pinch grip at the cutting board and standard grip in the hand, and the Damascus pattern gives it a presence on the block that belies its compact size. A capable, attractive everyday utility knife from one of Japan most trusted production houses.
Care Instructions: VG10 stainless is low maintenance and easy to live with. Hand wash and dry after use - avoid the dishwasher. Sharpen on quality water stones and strop regularly to maintain the edge. Avoid bones, frozen foods, and hard materials that can chip the edge at high hardness. Free shipping over $100.
- Maker: Tojiro
- Location: Sanjo City, Niigata, Japan
- Construction: San Mai
- Edge Steel: VG10 Stainless
- Cladding: 37-Layer Stainless Damascus
- Finish: Damascus
- Edge Grind: Even (50/50)
- Blade Length: 135 mm
