High Speed Steel is currently considered to be the most advanced stainless steel on the market for high end kitchen knives. A particular significance is the high amount of Cobalt (8%) in the steel alloy which give it its high wear resistance and durability. It makes it perfect for use in its original purpose of industrial machinery, but also excellent in high end kitchen knives which require long lasting edge retention.

It is not easy to forge kitchen knives with High Speed Steel and there are not many knife manufacturers that make the attempt. However, the end results are overwhelmingly positive if done successfully. A particular importance is during heat treatment when the steel reaches in excess of 1200 degrees Celsius. This temperature is extremely high even within forging handcrafted Japanese knives and combined with the state of the art steel, it is what makes the Yoshihiro High Speed Steel Yanagi its exceptional features.

The knife is complimented with a traditional Japanese Ebony handle and comes included with a protective wooden sheath called a Saya. This specific Saya included with the knife is brush coated with non-toxic lacquer coating that provides resistance to unwanted odor, stain, and chips. The Yanagi is a long slicing knife designed to cut thin slices of fish for sushi and sashimi. The beauty of its elegant thin blade is in its ability to slice through ingredients in long uninterrupted strokes, preserving their integrity and freshness. The Yanagi is one of the most essential of traditional Japanese knives and is a powerful component in the repertoire of many chefs. Although traditional Japanese powder steel knives are not 100% stain resistance, with proper care they can provide years of enjoyment. Keeping dry before storage. This will keep your knife in tip top shape. Japanese knives should always be sharpened and honed on premium quality Japanese water stones.

With a HRC Scale of 64-65, this knife will make and keep its superior edge for an extreme period of time. High Speed Stainless steel core is clad with a softer stainless steel, resulting in extreme toughness and unmatched edge retention, and comes equipped with a traditional Premium Ebony wood handle with double bolster for a balanced comfortable grip. It is perfect for those professionals who have daily high-volume prep work for extended hours.