The Hitohira NM V10 Damascus Gyuto 180 mm is a versatile Japanese knife designed for everyday use in the kitchen. This series uses a V10 (VG-10) steel core surrounded by a stainless steel coating (sanmai), offering a good balance between cutting performance, ease of maintenance, and corrosion resistance. The blade has a shiny, even Damascus finish, characteristic of the NM series.
With its compact 180 mm gyuto profile, this knife is suitable for cutting vegetables, boneless meats, herbs, and general food preparation. The geometry is slim, with a straight edge over a good portion of the blade and a precise tip for detailed work.
The western pakka wood handle is durable and stable, designed to provide a comfortable grip and good control. Its flat-bottom construction provides a slightly more solid feel in the hand compared to traditional lightweight wooden handles.
When cutting, the V10 offers a clean and direct feel, with good edge retention while remaining easy to sharpen on synthetic stones. The blade is thin enough for precise cutting, while remaining sturdy enough for a variety of uses. As it is made of stainless steel, maintenance is limited to rinsing and wiping after use, with no risk of tarnishing.