Exclusive Masakage Yuki Gyuto 210mm

First Impressions

The widely used and popular white #2 core steel has been sharpened and finished by one of Japan’s best sharpeners, Shibata san so boasts an excellent edge right out of the box.

This one is ready to work and perform the moment you get it out of the box.

Beauty

The blade is mottled with marks and flecks from the manufacturing process, when you look at it you instantly can imagine the craftsman working this in his forge. It is obvious that this is a hand worked steel and it looks beautiful as a result.

The reactive steel corewill develop a patina along the cutting edge as it reacts with your ingredients and moisture which adds to the look and part of owning a unique knife.

The handle is a beautiful white magnolia which adds to the wintery feel of this knife and the red pakka wood end cap really sets this knife off well.

In Hand

The handle is light and beautifully smooth. The blade is comfortable in the hand particularly when held with a pinch grip. The sharpness of the blade though means this knife is a joy to use as it just falls through food when chopping. Puts a smile on your face when using it.

Durability

The blade will last you a lifetime. The handle looks a little odd to us Westerners with itshalf tangjust stuck into the handle but trust us that handle is going nowhere and is secure as a rock and suitable for its purpose.

White #2 is used in many Japanese knives because it’s durable, easy to sharpen and retains its edge well.

Ease of Care

This core steel in this knife is carbon steel which if not looked after will rust along its edge. Easy to prevent, wipe and dry after each use, don’t leave it sat in water. If you do find a spot of rust on the blade you can remove it with a plastic scrubber and some hot water.

The edge will gain a patina as you use it which will add to its unique character, this is caused by oxidation of the steel when moist. It’s the trade off for fabulous sharpness and one worth paying.

Our Verdict

Exceptional quality at the price point – Masakage knives and the Yuki range here offer a great quality blade and sharpness out of the box.