A Japanese kiritsuke gyuto with a strong character
The Yuzo kiritsuke chef knife from the Ryuho range combines the elegance of Japanese damascus with the precision of a blade with a distinctive profile. Made in Japan, it reflects the balance between traditional techniques and contemporary materials used by cutlery craftsmen.
The name Ryuho, which translates as "Dragon's Treasure", evokes a meticulously crafted, precious blade. This name underlines the care taken in the design of each knife in the range.
The kiritsuke gyuto knife retains the versatility of the gyuto, while incorporating an angular kiritsuke tip. This shape enables precise gestures to be performed: incising an ingredient, chiseling herbs or working with food with greater control.
Its 21cm blade provides a comfortable cutting surface for preparing vegetables, fish or cuts of meat. The blade's damask finish creates a pattern reminiscent of drifting ice, giving the surface a subtle relief that varies with the light.
An SG2 steel blade designed for precision
The blade is built around a damascus structure of alternating layers of stainless steel. This architecture protects the heart of the blade while creating a characteristic pattern across its entire surface.
The core of the blade is made of Japanese SG2 powder steel, an alloy appreciated for its metallurgical finesse and cutting performance. Its carbon content of almost 1.3% enables the blade to achieve a hardness close to 63 HRC on the Rockwell scale.
This level of hardness enables the cutting edge to maintain its performance over the long term, limiting the frequency of sharpening while maintaining high precision.
The layers of stainless steel enveloping the core provide protection and suppleness to the blade, while forming a deep, elegant damascus. The mirror finish fully reveals these drift-ice-inspired undulations.
Theflat cutting edge also contributes to the blade's efficiency. It ensures clean penetration of foodstuffs and favors even cutting for a wide variety of preparations. The kiritsuke tip, characteristic of this profile, provides additional control for precise gestures and delicate cuts.
A natural-looking olive wood handle
The handle is made from olive wood, a species appreciated for its warm nuances and pronounced veining. Each piece of wood has a unique pattern, making each knife slightly different. Olive wood also has good natural resistance to humidity, a property appreciated in a culinary environment.
Carved in a traditional octagonal shape, the handle is designed to be stable when cutting. This geometry is suitable for both right- and left-handed users, and facilitates gesture control.
The combination of damask blade and olive wood creates an elegant visual contrast, while maintaining a comfortable balance during use.
Summary of features and benefits
- 21cm long blade: versatile format for many preparations
- Japanese SG2 powdered steel
core- (≈1.3% carbon): durable, precise cutting edge
- 63 HRC
hardness- : excellent cutting edge retention
- Stainless steel damascened structure: protects the core of the blade
- Mirror finish: highlights the pattern inspired by drifting ice
- Kiritsuke tip: enhanced precision for technical gestures
- Flat cut: fluid cutting and clean penetration
- Olive wood handle: unique natural grain
- Octagonal shape: stable grip for right- and left-handed users
- Japanese manufacture: Seki's cutlery heritage
Use and care
To preserve the performance of your Ryuho gyuto damascus knife, use it on a synthetic or wooden cutting board. Rigid surfaces such as glass or stone can damage the cutting edge.
After use, wash the blade by hand with a non-abrasive sponge and mild soap. Dry immediately with a clean cloth to avoid any traces of moisture. Do not use in the dishwasher, or soak for long periods in the sink.
To maintain optimum sharpness, sharpening with a Japanese stone is recommended. Since olive wood handles are a natural material, the occasional application of an oil adapted to the wood will preserve its appearance and durability.
Seki's knifemaking expertise
The Ryuho series is produced in Japan in the Seki region, a town renowned for its long tradition of cutlery-making. Located in the heart of Gifu prefecture, this region is historically associated with the manufacture of high-quality cutting tools.
Over the centuries, forging, heat-treatment and sharpening techniques have been perfected here to produce efficient, long-lasting blades. This expertise has helped make Seki an international benchmark in the world of cutlery. Today, this tradition continues in the manufacture of modern kitchen knives, designed to meet the demands of today's chefs.
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