The kitchen knife in question originates from Tsubame-Sanjo, Niigata Prefecture, renowned for its expertise in metalworking. It is aptly referred to as the "black finished knife" due to its unique manufacturing process. Instead of completely shaving the entire blade, only the tip undergoes shaving, resulting in the presence of an oxide film, which gives the blade its distinct black appearance.

This oxide film contributes to the knife's well-earned reputation for exceptional rust resistance. By retaining the oxide film, the knife's durability is enhanced, making it highly reliable even in humid or wet conditions. This quality makes the black finished knife a preferred choice among discerning chefs and culinary enthusiasts who value both performance and longevity in their kitchen tools. With its excellent resistance to rust, this knife ensures a lasting and reliable cutting experience, making it a valuable addition to any cook's arsenal.

• Knife Type: AJIKIRI/DEBA 
• Blade Material: Composite (Core Material: Carbon Steel, Side material: Soft Iron) 
• Blade Edge: Single Edge / Right-Hand version
• Handle: Traditional Honoki wooden handle, oval. With Red plastic bolster
• Blade Length: 105mm (4.1")
• Overall Length: 225mm (8.85")
• HRC: 59 - 60

FAQs About High Carbon Content in Knife Blades 1 ) What does "high carbon content" mean in knife blades? High carbon content refers to the amount of carbon present in the steel used to make a knife blade. Blades with higher carbon content typically contain more than 0.6% carbon, which enhances their hardness, edge retention, and overall performance.

2 ) Why are high carbon knives preferred over others? High carbon knives are preferred for several reasons:

Sharpness: They can be sharpened to an incredibly fine edge, which results in superior cutting performance.

Edge retention:High carbon blades maintain their sharpness for longer periods compared to low carbon blades.

Durability: The hardness of high carbon steel makes these knives less prone to chipping or breaking.

Ease of maintenance: They are relatively easy to sharpen, ensuring that your knife remains in peak condition with regular care.

3 ) Are high carbon knives suitable for all types of cutting tasks? High carbon knives excel in many cutting tasks, especially those that require precision and sharpness. They are ideal for slicing, dicing, and chopping vegetables, fruits, and boneless meats. However, they may not be the best choice for cutting through bones or frozen foods, as this can lead to chipping or damage.

4 ) How should I care for a high carbon knife? Proper care is essential to maintain the quality of your high carbon knife:

Hand wash: Avoid putting it in the dishwasher, as the high heat and harsh detergents can damage the blade and handle.

Dry immediately: After washing, dry the knife thoroughly to prevent corrosion.

Store properly: Use a knife block, magnetic strip, or blade guard to protect the blade from damage.

Regular sharpening: Keep the edge sharp with a honing rod or sharpening stone. High carbon blades benefit from frequent maintenance.

5 ) Is there a risk of rust with high carbon knives? Yes, high carbon knives are more susceptible to rust compared to stainless steel knives because of their higher carbon content. To prevent rust, ensure you clean and dry the knife immediately after use, and consider applying a thin layer of mineral oil on the blade if you plan to store it for an extended period.

6 ) Can high carbon knives be used by professional chefs? Absolutely! High carbon knives are a popular choice among professional chefs due to their exceptional sharpness and edge retention. However, chefs must be diligent in maintaining and caring for these knives to ensure they perform at their best.

7 ) Are there any downsides to high carbon knives? While high carbon knives offer numerous advantages, they do have some downsides:

Susceptibility to rust: As mentioned earlier, they require extra care to prevent corrosion.

Cost: High carbon knives can be more expensive than some stainless steel counterparts.

Maintenance: They need regular sharpening and upkeep to maintain their performance. We hope these FAQs have provided you with a better understanding of high carbon knives. If you have more questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out to us!