The santoku, whose name translates as "three virtues" (vegetables, meat, fish), is a versatile knife with a tall profile and rounded tip. Its compact format suits push-cut work on the board, with good knuckle clearance throughout the stroke. Forged in V-Toku2, an alloy steel produced by Takefu Special Steel, this santoku combines a carbon content of approximately 1.05% with tungsten and vanadium additions that contribute to carbide formation and hardenability.
V-Toku2 is a reactive steel: the exposed edge can develop a patina on contact with acidic ingredients or moisture. This patina is normal and expected. The steel responds well to sharpening on water stones and holds a fine, lasting edge. Wiping the blade between tasks and drying it immediately after use slows oxidation and stabilizes the patina.
Care
Wipe and dry the blade after each use. Never soak or wash in a dishwasher. A light coat of camellia oil on the blade protects the steel during extended storage.