YOSHIHIRO 46 Layers VG-10 Hammered Damascus Petty Utility Prep Chef Knife 6'', Octagonal Ambrosia Handle

This VG-10, 46 Layer Damascus Stainless Steel utility knife caught my attention because I was looking for a smallish Japanese utility knife that's easy enough to care for. Based on its size, I expect my wife will also use this frequently. It took me a long time to convince her that sharp does not equal dangerous, but she still has a strong preference for smaller knives. This knife is easily twice the blade length of a paring knife, but it is light enough and very well balanced. It also came razor sharp out of the box. I haven't owned it long enough to comment on its ability to hold an edge, but it is a 60 on the Rockwell hardness scale, so it should be pretty durable.Maintenance. Mine came with an unfinished Saya (wooden knife cover) and an unfinished octagonal wood handle. Both took nicely to the food grade mineral oil I had on hand. VG-10 steel resists rust and stains, but it's not immune to either if you abuse the material. Do not let anybody leave the knife soaking in water. Get acid off of it an an early opportunity. I'm not sure it needs an oil wipe down every time you put it away, but it absolutely does need to be dry before it it stored.My Amazon purchase came from Yoshihiro's Amazon store. Since they import the knives directly, you can be assured they are the genuine article--something I think is important at this price point. Yoshihiro's customer service is also very responsive to e-mails when you have questions.

Insanely good and sharp knife. Quality built, my favorite brand and this is one of the entry models, but easily can become your best knife in the kitchen...

love the knife. The hammered texture is meant to release the cuttings easier. I am not sure it does that, but still, great steel. Handles can get quite fancy with woods. I like this perfectly fine.

Best knives I’ve ever used.

Pretty good knife,also light weight. Nice box.