Sakai Takayuki VG10 Nashiji Santoku
Sakai Takayuki VG10 Nashiji Santoku
Sakai Takayuki VG10 Nashiji Santoku
Sakai Takayuki VG10 Nashiji Santoku
Sakai Takayuki VG10 Nashiji Santoku
Sakai Takayuki VG10 Nashiji Santoku
Sakai Takayuki VG10 Nashiji Santoku
Sakai Takayuki VG10 Nashiji Santoku
Sakai Takayuki VG10 Nashiji Santoku
Sakai Takayuki VG10 Nashiji Santoku

Sakai Takayuki VG10 Nashiji Santoku

£160.00

The Sakai Takayuki VG10 Nashiji Santoku brings the range's VG10 core, hardened to around  61 HRC in san mai construction, into one of the most versatile Japanese knife shapes. As a santoku, it handles slicing, dicing and chopping with ease, making it a natural everyday choice. Finished with a hand hammered nashiji texture and octagonal ebony handle.

In stock, ready to ship

Product Code: SAK-0077

Knife & Range Specifications

Knife Measurements
  • Blade Edge Length: 172mm / 6.77" (Measurement of the cutting edge)
  • Total Knife Length: 318mm / 12.52" (Blade tip to handle end)
  • Blade Height: 46.9mm / 1.85" (Heel to spine)
  • Blade Thickness: 2.1mm / 0.08" (Spine width above the heel) 1.2mm / 0.05" (Measured 15mm from tip)
  • Total Weight: 155 grams / 5.47 oz

Our aim is to measure and photograph our products as accurately as possible but due to many items being handmade, finished or using natural materials, there can be minor variance in measurements and finishes.

Range Specifications
  • Core Steel: VG10
  • Cladding Steel: Stainless
  • Blade Finish: Polished
  • Hardness: 61 (HRC)
  • Handle Style: Japanese (Wa)
  • Handle Material: Rounded 6 sided ebony
  • Left or Right handed: Suitable for both (Double Bevel)

Some measurements such as HRC are provided by manufacturers and should therefore be used as a guide.

Sakai Takayuki VG10 Nashiji

Our in-depth range review

First Impressions

The Sakai Takayuki VG10 Nashiji boasts an impressive profile and is very thin behind the edge across the range with a flat grind that cuts and slices very smoothly.

Beauty

The nashiji, or "pear skin", finish is the standout visual feature of this range. The texture across the blade face gives each knife a an individual character even within the same series and the kasumi finish on the cladding running down to the mirror polished VG10 core steel is very well finished.

The ebony handle, dark and dense, complements the finish well.

In Hand

The rounded 6 sided ebony handle is shaped for a secure, controlled grip, tapering gently to sit naturally in a pinch grip without feeling bulky and with the slightly flared heel sizing of the handle it's very comfortable.

The blade itself is well balanced against the handle, making it comfortable to use for extended prep sessions. It's a knife that feels purposeful in hand rather than showy, in keeping with the practical nature of the range

Durability

At the core of every blade in this range is VG10, a high carbon stainless steel hardened to around to 61 HRC. The core is protected by softer stainless steel cladding in a san mai construction, which adds toughness and helps guard against chipping while keeping the hard core intact for edge retention. This combination gives the blade good resistance to wear during daily use, without the fragility sometimes associated with harder mono steel blades.

Ease of Care & Maintenance Tips

VG10's high chromium content gives it strong resistance to corrosion, making this a low maintenance option compared to traditional carbon steel blades. As with any Japanese knife, hand washing and drying immediately after use is recommended, and the blade should be stored away from prolonged moisture.

Our Verdict

The Sakai Takayuki VG10 Nashiji range delivers a solid combination of performance, durability and visual character at an accessible level. The VG10 core gives reliable edge retention and easy maintenance, while the san mai construction and nashiji finish add both toughness and a distinctive look.

It's a well rounded choice for anyone wanting a dependable, good looking Japanese knife for everyday kitchen use.

Meet the maker

Sakai Takayuki

Sakai Takayuki is one of Japan’s most respected knife makers, with roots that trace back over 600 years to the city of Sakai - a region long celebrated for its mastery of blade-making. Originally renowned for producing samurai swords and precision tobacco-cutting tools during the Edo period, Sakai’s craftsmen evolved their skills into the world of kitchen knives as Japan modernised.

Today, Sakai Takayuki operates under Aoki Hamono Seisakusho and represents the collective expertise of dozens of traditional blacksmiths and sharpeners, each specialising in distinct techniques. Their extensive range spans from handcrafted carbon-steel blades forged using age-old methods to high-performance stainless and Damascus series designed for professional chefs.

Every knife reflects the hallmark Sakai combination of exceptional balance, keen edge retention, and refined aesthetics - a seamless blend of centuries-old craftsmanship and contemporary innovation.

View all Sakai Takayuki products