The Santoku is the most popular knife in the Japanese home and considered to be an all rounder in the kitchen. The meaning of Santoku is the “three virtues” in Japanese and is a reference to its multi purpose and versatility. It can be used to prepare fish, chicken and most fruits and vegetables but is too small for large food items like watermelons and bigger cuts of meat. The Santoku is great as an alternative if you have a larger chef’s knife as most Santokus come in at around 165mm to 180mm its easy to handle and has a snubbed nose to it.

The Takamura VG10 series is a highly respected line of Japanese kitchen knives, crafted by Takamura Hamono in Echizen, Fukui Prefecture. VG10 is a premium stainless steel known for its high carbon content, excellent edge retention, and corrosion resistance, making it an ideal choice for professional and home chefs alike. Takamura Hamono applies their renowned heat treatment and precise blade grinding techniques to maximise the performance of VG10 steel, ensuring a razor-sharp edge that is both durable and easy to maintain. The knives in this series typically feature a thin, laser-sharp blade profile, allowing for effortless slicing and superior cutting performance.

In addition to performance, the Takamura VG10 series is also recognised for its craftsmanship and aesthetics. Many models come with a tsuchime (hammered) or polished finish, which not only enhances the knife’s appearance but also helps reduce food adhesion. The handles are traditionally made from mahogany or pakka wood, providing a comfortable grip and excellent balance. Takamura Hamono has built a strong reputation for producing knives that blend traditional Japanese forging techniques with modern materials, making the VG10 series a popular choice for chefs who seek precision, durability, and beauty in a single tool.

Weight: 156g

Handle Material: Western black pakka wood

Handle Length: 120mm (4.7")

Blade Length: 170mm (6.6")

Blade Depth: 47mm

Thickness at spine: 1.4mm

Thickness at tip: 0.2mm

Cutting Edge: Double 50/50

Blade Material: VG10 stainless steel core with stainless steel cladding

Hardness (Rockwell scale): 60 - 61