The Masamoto VG Series Japanese traditional-style Yanagiba knife is the highest grade Yanagiba that Masamoto produces in stainless steel. VG-10 High Carbon Stainless Steel Cutting Edge Core welded forged with soft stainless steel, Hon Kasumi finished blade (HRC61) provides similar cutting performance to Masamoto’s Japanese traditional-style knives made from high carbon steel, however, VG-10 is much easier to maintain due to its excellent rust-resistance.

The knife is fitted with a ‘D-shaped’ traditional Japanese magnolia wood handle with a water buffalo horn ferrule / collar and also includes a matching magnolia wood Saya (Sheath) for safekeeping. 

Yanagiba knives are primarily used to slice boneless fish fillets for Sashimi and Sushi dishes, but they can also be used to fillet small to medium-sized fish and are often used for skinning fish. The narrow blade and relatively acute edge angle of the Yanagiba are features which greatly reduce the effort required to cut through ingredients. As with the Sujihiki, the long blade allows the fish to be cut in one single drawing motion, from heel to tip. 

The combination of cutting technique, acute blade angle, and sharp edge result in very little cellular damage in the cut surface. This is particularly important for dishes where the fish is eaten raw, because it helps to preserve the original flavor and texture of the fish.

Notice about White and Marble Colored Water Buffalo Horn Ferrules for Masamoto Knives:

For several years, Masamoto and most other Japanese knife makers have unfortunately been struggling to source Wa handles with White or Marble colored Water Buffalo Horn Ferrules, which are becoming very scarce.

Under these difficult circumstances, both we and Masamoto have done our best to satisfy customers who have requested knives with White Ferrules or Marble colored Ferrules. However, to cover increased costs, Masamoto will now require an extra US$13 when you request a knife with either a White or a Marble colored Ferrule. Please note that even if you request a Marble colored Ferrule, there is still a possibility that Masamoto will only be able to supply your knife with a White Ferrule. Similarly, even if you request a White Ferrule, Masamoto might only be able to supply your knife with a Marble colored Ferrule.

Although White and Marble colored Ferrules have an appealing, distinctive appearance, we actually recommend the simple, stylish solid Black Horn Ferrules because many years of expert experience (Including numerous Wa Handle Craftsmen, professional Japanese Food Chefs and Experienced Knife Users) suggests that Black Horn Ferrules are stronger and more durable than White or Marble colored Horn Ferrules.

If you order a Masamoto knife with a White or Marble colored Horn Ferrule and Masamoto cannot fulfil your request, we will inform you by Email and ask if you are willing to accept a Black colored Water Buffalo Horn Ferrule instead. We apologize for this inconvenience, however, no matter the color of the ferrule, we are confident that you will enjoy your Masamoto knife.

Knife Model: Masamoto VG-10 Hon Kasumi Yanagiba

Blade Material:  VG-10 Stainless Steel

Rockwell Hardness (HRc): 60 to 61

Blade Grind and Edge Shape: Single Bevel Edge

Handle Material: D Shaped Magnolia Wooden Handle with Water Buffalo Horn Ferrule

Saya Included: Yes.

Japanese Traditional Style “Wa-Bocho” knives generally come with Single bevel edge for right-handed use (the opposite side of blade is ground flat with slightly concaved shape). The reverse grinding left-handed version is also available at 50% extra of regular price. (Sorry for much extra! Due to a small demand for the left-handed version in Japan, it is costly to run a special small production from the beginning step and production is very very limited.)

If the left-handed version knife is being out of stock in Masamoto inventory, it often requires very long delivery time. Please contact us first for the availability at email.

We believe quality and performance of Japanese knives are best in the world and hope you enjoy the fine craftsmanship and spirits from your new knife. With proper cares, every Japanese knife can be your special cooking partner for a long time.

Important

This is the Stainless steel blade kitchen knife, which has good rust resistance for easy maintenance. However even stainless steel blade kitchen knife has rust situation if you leave it with wet condition.