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Japanese Kitchen Knives


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Anyone else a little too into their knives? I spent hours researching types of steel and different manufacturers and decided on the Zakuri Yanagiba in Blue Super Carbon steel. I realize this is not normal behavior. Although I felt a little better after finding entire forums dedicated to kitchen knives! After using a quality knife I really can't understand how anyone can tolerate a crappy, dull knife. Do you have a brand or specific knife that you recommend? My Henckels are looking at an early retirement as I find replacements...

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I like my Henckels but they are not on the same level as the Japanese knife that I bought. The German knives are thicker and seem to be better for certain tasks like cutting through bone or cartilage. The Japanese knives are thin and made from a steel that takes a razor sharp edge. They slice so much better. It will rust or tarnish though if it is not cared for properly though.

 

There does seem to be a few manufacturers like Shun that are more marketing than substance though. Kind of like the BOSE of Japanese knives and riding the wave of increased interest.

Edited by chknwing334
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This is the BEST knife if not looking to spend a butt load, for $40 bucks this is an absolute bargain!

 

 

 

http://www.amazon.co...e/dp/B000638D32

 

BTW, Asians knifes were typically honed to 15 degrees, western 22. But, now most Western knives are going to 15 degrees as well.

 

I have several Wustof knives, end up using this chefs knife more often than not.

Edited by plenzmd1
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This is the BEST knife if not looking to spend a butt load, for $40 bucks this is an absolute bargain!

 

 

 

http://www.amazon.co...e/dp/B000638D32

 

BTW, Asians knifes were typically honed to 15 degrees, western 22. But, now most Western knives are going to 15 degrees as well.

 

I have several Wustof knives, end up using this chefs knife more often than not.

 

Americas Test Kitchen favorite (budget) knife is it not?

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I love the Shun knives we have. The 10" Shun I use for pretty much everything. Very sharp and when I've had a few wabbly pops and finely mince garlic I appreciate the fine, clean cut it does to my finger. I bought the one below for my son for xmas 4 or 5 years ago. I know overkill but it's cool as hell and came with it's own wooden holder. Wasn't as expensive back then. We have a few Henkles as well but always seem to end up using the Japanese ones. The one 10" Henkle is so dull I think the first time it got sharpened the guy fugged it up. It hasn't been good since.

 

http://shun.kaiusalt...-in-chefs-knife

 

@Chef. When I read Bourdain's book he said pretty much what you say. He uses a cheap 10" "International" brand. I think that's what he said. It's been a while.

Edited by Dante
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My favorite knife is a piece of **** I've had for over 20 years. As long as its sharp, holds an edge no need to go for the $$$ ones. I did early in my career but realized they didn't make me cook any better.

 

Key point: if it's dull and won't hold an edge, ditch it. Goes for knives, chisels, plane blades, ice skates, scissors...a dull edge is more dangerous than a sharp one.

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