Sakai Takayuki Moonlit Waves Yanagiba

Performance

A VG10 cutting edge gives this knife a truly great cutting edge and allows it to keep it for a long time meaning you get to spend more time cooking rather than sharpening. The stainless steel clad on to each side protects it from corrosion.

The dimpled hammer finishes helps prevent sliced of food sticking to the blade by reducing the surface area in contact with the food, they also look great too.

Beauty

The blades look stunning and are certainly eye catching. The 17 layers of stainless steel on each side are hand ground to reveal each one in turn like tree rings.

The hammered dimples are a by product of getting the layers to bind together but leave the blade with this wonderful finish. The mahogany wooden handles finish it off well and make this range very attractive.

Comfort

The handle will be very familiar to most Western users as its what we are used to seeing in a kitchen knife. The grip is good and the balance of the knife is nicely central or neutral. A great knife with a lot of feel.

Durability

Japanese blades are all about sharpness and the ability to cut. To achieve that they are always thinner than most Western knives. As a result a little extra care is needed with them. That said they are more than up to the job of working in any kitchen be it pro or home.

The handle is really study being made from mahogany and riveted to the full tang of the knife, its going no where.

The edge steel does need a little more care than some of our other knives as it is a little softer so we'd recommend a quick hone with a sharpening rod every couple of weeks to avoid it going too dull over time.

Ease of care

The stainless steel cladding makes this nice really easy to care for by protecting the cutting edge steel (VG10 in this instance) from rusting. The handle being wood should not be immersed in water so its the usual ritual of use, wipe, dry and store. Job done.

Value for money

Great Japanese blades, super sturdy handles, fabulous looks and performance to match. At this price what is not to like?