This Hitohira NM V10 Damascus 130 mm Japanese santoku knife is a compact and versatile knife, designed for both home kitchens and light professional use. Part of Hitohira's NM series, it features a short, easy-to-handle blade that is ideal for quick and precise cutting on a cutting board. Its 130 mm size is particularly suitable for confined spaces or users seeking maximum control.
The blade is made using a sanmai construction, with a VG-10 (V10) stainless steel core surrounded by damask layers. This steel is renowned for its good balance between hardness, cutting performance, and ease of maintenance. The Damascus finish provides a discreet and regular pattern, while protecting the cutting core. The santoku profile allows for versatile use: vegetables, boneless meats, and fish.
The Western-style handle is made of composite wood, assembled with rivets and a stainless steel bolster. Its ergonomic shape ensures a stable and reassuring grip, suitable for both right- and left-handed users. The knife is well balanced, with a balance point close to the heel.
In use, this Japanese knife offers a smooth, clean cutting action with little resistance in food. Its short blade favors precision over power, making it an excellent choice for fine work and everyday cutting tasks. Its main limitation is heavy-duty tasks or large volumes, for which a longer blade would be preferable.
Thanks to its VG-10 stainless steel construction, maintenance is simple: just wash and dry after use. Regular sharpening on a water stone will help maintain its performance over time. As with any Japanese knife, it is recommended to avoid bones, frozen foods, and hard surfaces.