ZA-18 is a new high performance Japanese cobalt stainless steel that is being produced in the city of Sakai which is famous for very skilled professional blacksmiths. These handcrafted knives are tough which translates to longer edge retention. This steel contains a high rate of chromium which prevents and protects it from corrosion.
The handle is a beautiful Octagonal shaped Japanese Magnolia wood. It has a very smooth finish and provides a comfortable grip, well balanced blade and elegant look.
Gyuto
The Gyuto is the Japanese version of a Western chef's knife which is an all purpose knife but is thinner, lightweight and maintains a longer edge retention. Compared to its European style counterpart which has a belly and is used in a rocking style motion, a gyuto has a flatter profile and is used with a push cutting motion. The gyuto very well shines on precision cuts but because it is usually thin care must be taken to avoid chipping.
Sakai Knives
Knives from Sakai are very well known around the world because of their exceptional sharpness and balance. The blacksmiths produce these knives with exquisite balance in mind which is very essential for kitchen knives. Skillful forging and sharpening techniques is what also makes these knives cut well and easy to use.
This particular knife company we have partnered with have been in the industry since 1927. Their motivating force is from their customers' comments who have been using their knives for 30 years. However the times change where knives are being fashioned by using varieties of different materials, the "City of Knives" which is Sakai have not changed their ways. They have continued to stay true to their roots and have used the techniques that have passed down from generation to another without interruption through time.
The craftsmen have poured enormous amount of time and effort to produce these quality knives. They have diligently devoted themselves to the study of knives and have fully accepted the responsibility of continuing this long standing tradition with utmost discipline. We hope for you to cherish and take care of this functional art as this is a sign of their pride and wisdom without compromise.
