This 210 mm gyuto belongs to the Hitohira Kikuchiyo Kyuzo Ginsan Migaki series, renowned for its balance between performance, precision, and understated finish. The blade features a san-mai construction: a Ginsan (Silver 3) stainless steel core wrapped in stainless steel sides for easy maintenance. Ginsan steel is valued for its relatively easy sharpening, excellent cutting performance, and superior corrosion resistance compared to traditional carbon steels.
The migaki finish highlights a subtle temper line visible on the transition zone, as well as engraved kanji characters characteristic of work attributed to Kikuchiyo and polished by Kyuzo. The blade geometry shown in the photos reveals a versatile profile, a fine tip, and clearance under the bevel for a comfortable pinch grip.
The wa handle is made of dark ebony, combined with a blonde horn ferrule, offering excellent durability and a solid grip. The overall effect is an elegant traditional aesthetic, while ensuring a slightly rearward weight distribution typical of dense ebony wa handles.
In use, this 210 mm gyuto excels at general tasks: vegetables, fish, boneless meats. The thin blade at the grind provides a clean and precise cutting sensation, with easy penetration into food. Thanks to Ginsan steel, it retains a long-lasting edge while remaining easy to sharpen for regular users. Its rigidity and tapered tip make it suitable for detailed work such as chopping herbs or making delicate cuts.
Maintenance is simple: although Ginsan steel is stainless, it is recommended to rinse and wipe immediately after use to preserve the migaki polish and prevent discoloration of the horn handle. Regular sharpening on water stones will maintain the blade's optimal performance.