Yanagiba knives are one of the three basic knife styles employed in Japanese professional kitchens, together with the
deba and the usuba. The slender long blade of a
yanagiba is intended to cut slices of fish in a single drawing stroke. It should require a minimal amount of pressure to achieve the slice, which therefore avoids cell destruction to the fish. Expert sushi chefs can actually employ different cutting techniques to enhance the aesthetics and flavors of each type of fish, but it takes a knife of this caliber to achieve these goals.
The Takayuki Inox Yanagiba 300mm is a classic yanagiba with a twist. It is constructed from a stainless steel that the makers dubbed Inox. In fact the alloy is AUS8A which is a high carbon molybdenum steel which is very corrosion resistant. It is also capable of taking and maintaining a very sharp edge. The knife thus offers the user a wonderful traditional cutting tool that comes without the need of the heavy maintenance customarily required with carbon steel blades.
The hand forged blade is beautifully finished with a semi-satin look and some lovely chiseled Kanji elements. It is fitted with a well-made traditional D-shaped ho wood handle which has a buffalo horn ferrule.
This is wonderful knife for any user entering the world of traditional Japanese blades. It is well made, easy to maintain, and comes at a very reasonable price point. Highly recommended.
Maker: Takayuki
Location: Sakai, Japan
Construction: Hammer Forged, Single Bevel, Traditional Grind
Right Handed Only
Steel: Inox (Stainless Steel)
Length: 288mm
Height: 36mm
Weight: 7.3oz
Handle: D Ho Wood
Ferrule: Buffalo Horn