Fukito Olive Damascus 14Cr 18cm santoku knife with granton edge

The Fukito Olive Damascus 14Cr 18cmsantoku knife is a model whose shape comes straight from Japan. Its blade is slightly shorter and more curved than a chef knife, but it performs the same functions. Its curvature is perfect for chiseling, and the movement is natural.

The Fukito knife range comes to us from Western China, more precisely from the province of Guangdong. This region has been involved in cutlery production for decades. The materials and techniques used to create Fukito knives meet the manufacturing standards of French food industry professionals.

Blade :

First of all, let's note that it is damascened, i.e. it features a core designed in rigid steel which itself is surrounded by different layers of "softer" steel (i.e. less rigid). The result is a unique visual effect that adds character to the piece and balances the alloys.

First, let's talk about the blade's core: 14Cr is a powder-metallurgy material (unlike solid steel).

Powder metallurgy requires special know-how: first, metal particles must be ground, gradually adding other elements that will be present in the alloy. The final result is more homogeneous than standard steel, making it more durable and resistant to breakage.

Certain elements of this alloy are very important, such as carbon and chromium. In this case, the steel has 1.4% carbon, which is very high considering that the general average for knives on the European market is 0.5%. The purpose of carbon is to increase the rigidity of an alloy, so that its edge is stronger and can withstand extensive sharpening to obtain a razor-sharp edge. This strength also enables the knife to retain its cutting edge for longer. This particular alloy achieves 62/64 HRC on the Rockwell scale.

Its high chromium content (14%) makes the alloy more resistant to corrosion.

Around this top-of-the-range core are several layers of less rigid stainless steel, precisely to balance the core. This makes it more supple, without making it flexible. We're talking about a "softness" that prevents breakage too easily (in fact, a very rigid steel can chip more quickly because it's not flexible, which is why it's interesting to add a softer alloy to balance it out).

Finally, to bring out the full potential of all its components, the blade is also vacuum heat-treated. This process is advantageous because, during standard heat treatment, certain elements present in the air can react with the metal, even during quenching. This is the case, for example, with oxygen, hydrogen... And this can have an impact on the blade. Here, heat treatment takes place in a protected atmosphere, free from any disruptive elements.

The handle :

A stainless steel bolster forms the link with the handle. It has a soft, polished edge for a pleasant grip. Olive wood was chosen for the handle. Olive wood is highly appreciated for its warm tones and fruity fragrance.

As wood is a living material, the veins visible on the handle will be different on each piece. Olive is also reputed to be "immortal", making it particularly suitable for kitchen use. Its density makes it highly resistant. In fact, it has few pores, so it doesn't absorb liquids and is more resistant to breakage. Finally, it is considered antibacterial, making it more hygienic than some other woods.

A triple gold and red border links the olive wood to the steel of the blade. There's also a superb mosaic rivet in the center of the handle. Its refined pattern adds a touch of originality to the knife. Finally, a steel base finishes off the handle and brings balance to the piece.

The knife comes in a magnetic box for storage or as a gift.

Care: wash by hand with a sponge and mild detergent. Do not put in the dishwasher or soak in the sink. Once clean, wipe dry and store.

Find the Fukito Olive Damask range on our website!