The Wusaki Hikari SLD santoku knife embodies the fusion of Japanese tradition and modern standards!
A high-performance SLD steel blade
The 17-cm blade features a San Mai construction, a Japanese technique involving the layering of three layers of steel. The core is made of SLD steel enriched with 1.6% carbon, an alloy renowned for its cutting performance and wear resistance. This high carbon content achieves a hardness of approximately 63 HRC, ensuring excellent edge retention with repeated use.
SLD steel has a specific composition that makes it more durable than conventional carbon steel, while remaining easier to maintain than some very hard steels. It thus offers an attractive balance between performance and durability.
The San Mai structure protects this hard core with two layers of softer steel, providing greater flexibility to the blade as a whole. This reduces the risk of breakage while maintaining high cutting precision.
The flat grind completes the design by ensuring clean penetration into food, for smooth, effortless cuts.
An elegant and comfortable handle
The handle is crafted from bubinga wood, an African hardwood renowned for its strength and density. Naturally durable, this wood withstands changes in humidity well and offers long-lasting durability. Its distinctive grain and warm tones give each knife a unique and authentic look.
Its octagonal shape provides a comfortable and natural grip, suitable for both right- and left-handed users. This design enhances control while cutting and reduces fatigue during extended use.
Key Points to Remember
-
- 1.6% carbon-enriched SLD steel: long-lasting edge life
- San Mai construction: superior mechanical strength
- 63 HRC hardness: extends time between sharpenings
-
- Flat grind: precise and smooth cutting
- 17 cm blade: versatility in the kitchen
- Bubinga handle: sturdy and elegant
- Octagonal shape: ambidextrous comfort
- Made in Japan: artisanal craftsmanship
Usage and Care Instructions
Wash your knife by hand with a soft sponge after each use, then dry it immediately with a dry cloth. Avoid the dishwasher and prolonged soaking.
Use it on a wooden or plastic cutting board to preserve the edge. Do not cut hard foods such as bones or frozen items. Regular sharpening with a whetstone will help maintain its cutting performance.
Wusaki: Where Tradition Meets Innovation
Wusaki’s Hikari SLD line is manufactured in Japan using artisanal methods inspired by the local cutlery tradition. The artisans rely on time-tested techniques, such as the San Mai structure, while incorporating modern steels like SLD.
This approach results in reliable, handcrafted Japanese knives designed for regular use in the kitchen. Each piece reflects meticulous craftsmanship, with a focus on achieving the perfect balance between cutting performance, durability, and comfort.
Discover our wide selection of handcrafted Japanese knives at Knifeleader.eu!