Takayuki Kurokage VG10 Gyuto 240mm

Sinister, purposeful, darkly beautiful. All of these describe the Takayuki Kurokage VG10 Hammered Teflon Coated Gyuto 240mm rather well, we think. This is quite easily one of the most striking knives we carry, and its looks indicate its purpose and abilities in spades!

Made from a core of VG10 stainless steel, the blade is covered san-mai style with a softer stainless steel for protection and strength. This cladding is then treated to a finely crafted tsuchime finish. Then the unusual twist is added, a coating of smooth Teflon. This slippery application certainly adds an aesthetic element that is very different and quite lovely…in that sinister way. But more importantly it adds even more in the way of food release to the already efficient hammered blade faces.

Some finely applied kanji elements and a really lovely octagonal wenge wood handle up the looks even further. These handles are installed with gapped machi called “Tokyo Style.” We really like the contrast between the VG10 edge, the kanji, and the crisp black look of the face. The word kurokage means “dark shadow,” and we cannot think of a better name for this imposing looking kitchen knife.

This is fairly average sized and proportioned gyuto with a slightly tall profile. The grinds are very well done, and the overall balance and feel are really first class. Add in the great looks and ease of maintenance and you have an outstanding knife at a very keen price-to-performance ratio.

Maker: Sakai Takayuki

Location: Sakai, Japan

Line: Kurokage (Means Dark Shadow)

Construction: San Mai

Edge Steel: VG10

Edge Length: 240mm

Weight: 6.8oz (194g)

Height: 52mm

Cladding: Stainless

Finish: Hammered, Teflon Coated

Spine Thickness: 2.0mm

HRC: 60-61

Edge: Double-Bevel (50/50)

Handles are installed with gapped machi called "Tokyo Style"

Handle Material: Octagonal Wenge Wood

Photos by Gustavo Bermudez