“I have knives from many of the best (takeda, kurosaki, etc.) And this Takamura holds up to the best of them. Scary sharp out of the box, good weight and excellent balance. This is not a light nimble knife like my takeda but the not heavy either. Slices and releases food like a dream. I haven't had to sharpen it yet so will be interested to see how easily it sharpens and how long it retains the edge. So VERY happy with this blade!”

Helpful Report

Posted 4 years ago

“In the world of stainless steel knives, the Takamura name is synonymous with performance, beauty, and balance. I'll split this review up into three main sections: performance, beauty, and balance (ergonomics). As a knife, the most important thing to me is performance. It's a tool meant to cut and slice things. This Gyuto epitomizes both of those things - it moves through product with such ease and precision. The edge it takes is extremely fine, and I'm sure both pros and home cooks will find that it stands up to any (reasonable) task that is thrown at it. Need to cut up some negi that's 3 star Michelin approved? This knife is the answer to that. Need to make an onion dicing video to impress your friends? Takamura is the way to go. Need to slice up a steak for beer night with the bros? This knife can handle it. And the heat treat is great too. Usually you might expect a knife with such an acute angle at the edge and such a high HRC to be delicate, but the Takamura brothers have done a great job at heat treating to make sure the edge doesn't feel like it will chip on you. Next is all about beauty and aesthetics. Now I know Damascus patterns aren’t for everyone, but like it or not, it’s hard not to admit that the Takamura brothers have done an exceptional job at it. Assuming you like Damascus patterning, let me tell you - it’s absolutely gorgeous. There’s this texture to it that really makes it feel carefully crafted. It’s also a bit on the matte side, as to not be overly gaudy. But if you extend past the patterning, you’ll find regions of the knife like the welding joint and bevel are mirror polished. This mirroring coupled with the matte texture of the pattern is the perfect harmony between charming classiness and subdued sexiness. And it doesn’t end there. The handle is a classic western style handle, but is done exceptionally well. All the seams are sanded and polished down so it feels great in the hand. The polish and stabilizing of the handle helps to repel water but also maintains a slight reflectiveness so it ever so slightly gives off a shine when you catch in at the right angle in the light. Finally, we come to balance and ergonomics. The knife feels great in the hand. The balance point is right around where my pinch grip goes, and it feels like I can move fast without getting tired. In line with the theme of balance, it’s also worth mentioning that the profile of the Gyuto is a perfect in-between of belly and flat. Overall, the knife is beautiful and an eye-catcher, performs well and stands up to every task I’ve thrown at it thus far, and feels great in the hand. In my eyes, it’s definitely not perfect though. The two main issues I’d say are that 1) the heel height could be a bit taller. While it doesn’t have to approach the 50mm+ range, the current 45mm feels just a tad short. Somewhere around 47mm would’ve been perfect, but this is just a personal preference. Also, 2) I would’ve liked to see a bit more rounding of the spine and choil. While it currently isn’t terribly uncomfortable, I’ve definitely seen better. I’m not sure if others feel the same way but that’s just my own opinion. Hopefully future iterations of the knife will have this addressed. Finally, the price is not cheap. I purchased this at the MTC showroom in NYC and with the additional tax, the knife enters a price bracket that allows for many other options. Those who are price conscious (or just despise Damascus patterns) should aim to get the Takamura Pro line. But for the reasons I’ve stated above, I do find this knife to be worth it in the grand scheme of things. Besides, what else are you gonna flex on your friends with? I’ll be looking to extend the arsenal with a 240 Gyuto or maybe a sujihiki - but maybe next year.”

Helpful Report

Posted 5 years ago

“Sharpest knife I've ever used. I put it to the stone once a week. Very light, perfect full tang, feels like an extension of my arm. Highly recommend this knife!!!! It is my go to”

Helpful Report

Posted 5 years ago

“Good”

Helpful Report

Posted 5 years ago

“First off this knife is stunning,has almost a frosty look to it. It's is very well made as are all takamura knives. The edge comes super sharp right out of the box and it has a great feel and balance. The edge retention is very high and stays sharp for a long time due to the high speed steel it's made from. I would definitely recommend this knife to a pro chef or home cook with moderate knife skills.”

Helpful Report

Posted 6 years ago

“Laser edge and well balanced. Beautiful Damascus blade. Hoping for a lifetime of use.”

Takamura Damascus HSPS Gyuto 210mm (8.2") Reviews