Kiritsuke knife 19cm Japanese Sakai Takayuki Kashi Urushi VG10 damas

The versatile and practical Sakai Takayuki kiritsuke

This Japanese knife features a damascened blade, a typically Japanese structure. This technique consists of forging the blade's core from a rigid steel, which is then surrounded by several layers of softer steel to create optimum balance. Thanks to this process, the core is protected and becomes more supple, making the blade less brittle in the face of micro-shocks.

Damascus is a highly appreciated aesthetic feature! All along the blade, you can see the superimposed layers of steel forming elegant patterns that are unique to each piece.

Japanese VG10 steel has been chosen for this blade. This is a high-end alloy enriched with approximately 1% carbon: the crucial element that increases a steel's hardness, given that high hardness ensures excellent wire retention. Its hardness is 60HRC on the Rockwell scale, which means that the cutting edge retains its sharpness for a long time and the blade performs well over time.

The VG10 alloy also contains 15% chromium, the element that improves resistance to corrosion. Note, however, that this blade is rich in carbon and therefore requires careful maintenance to avoid oxidation.

This core is covered by 33 softer layers of steel that form the damascus. They reinforce the core's protection and give it greater strength.

Finally, the blade of your knife has been polished to a mirror-like finish. It has also been hammered to add contrast and authenticity to your knife. Hammering is useful because it prevents food from sticking to the surface of your knife when cutting, rather like honeycombing.

A Kiritsuke knife with a sophisticated design

The handle of this Japanese knife is made of oak wood: a durable and solid species. In fact, this wood is resistant to humidity and condensation, so it won't warp when subjected to shocks or vibrations.

Urushi lacquer, an ancestral technique very popular in Japanese art, is also used for decorative objects. It's a natural, non-toxic varnish that lasts a long time. The light oak is contrasted by the black varnish, which is adorned with small gold dots for an elegant starry night effect. The art of Japanese poetry is present in this knife: there are numerous contrasts in the handle and blade, symbolizing day and night.

The handle is octagonal to suit all cooks, right- or left-handed. It offers an ergonomic, comfortable grip for optimum maneuverability, especially when used for long periods.

Wood paste has been added to fill the small gaps where the blade meets the handle. This makes it watertight and prevents small foodstuffs or water from getting inside.

Sakai Takayuki is a company based in the Japanese town of Sakai, founded in the 1950s. It boasts a wealth of expertise in the cutlery field, acquired through many years of experience. Centuries ago, Sakai was a region famous for the katana-making skills of its blacksmiths. The company has inherited this authenticity in the art of knife-making. Today, Sakai Takayuki offers traditional knives with a modern twist.

The Kiritsuke knife has a large, easy-to-handle blade for many high-quality cuts! Its shape is inspired by Japanese swords, and its point allows you to be precise when cutting. For meat, fish or vegetables, this knife is a must! Do not use on hard foods such as bones, squash, etc.

To care for your knife, wash it by hand with a sponge and mild detergent. Once washed, dry it immediately and store it in a dry place. Do not soak it in the sink, and do not use the dishwasher.

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