Gyuto 240mm Wrought Iron Clad 1.2519 Warikomi Integral

When you first cast eyes on one Jonas Johnsson’s blade there is a sense of age about them, as if they have been preloved. Of course, the knives are new and without fault, but you get the impression they are from another age. Antique, yet new, rustic, yet perfect.

This blade has been forged Warikomi style, the result is similar to SanMai laminated steel, but arguable slightly more durable. Essentially, instead of forge welding a stack of steel in layers, the steel is split open into what some describe as a taco shape. The core steel, in this case 1.2519 tungsten alloyed German steel, is inserted into the taco, and forged closed. The benefits are like that found on Honyaki blades. A tough and hard cutting edge capable of becoming very sharp and a softer spine able to take a beating. Please don’t give your knives a beating ;) 

The profile is Jonas’s classic santoku tipped Gyuto with a relatively flat radius curve towards the tip. The santoku tip gives the knife rigidity, this is not a flexible blade. Stable, satisfyingly weighted, and well balanced. An aggressively tapered spine gives the knife versatility and the razor-sharp edge is thin, sharp and tough.

This blade is finished with a stunning and unique Kasumi polish, with a black forced patina edge band. A forged integral bolster and hidden tang western grip in Thuya burl complete the package. This is heirloom craftsmanship at its best. Stunning work by Jonas Johnsson.