Straub Maltese Mayhem Gyuto 262mm

Large in size, and larger than life in spirit, this 262mm / 10.3″ pre-owned, unused, like-new chef knife from bladesmith Salem Straub includes no fewer than three distinct mosaic damascus steel patterns of Salem’s design and making. Maltese Mayhem graces the blade from spine downward through the concave portion of the compound ‘S-grind’ bevels, and then a bold, low-layer mosaic tiling forms the thin, hard edge. Behind the blade’s 54mm-tall heel is a hand-forged, integral bolster sculpted from the knife’s third damascus pattern, Tahitian Zebras. Weighted and steady in the hand, balancing just as blade meets handle, the knife feels powerful while versatile, up to the largest tasks, and precise enough for delicate slices and detail work with the extremely fine, needle-like tip. As is often enjoyed by Salem’s compound geometry blades that receive his carefully calibrated heat treatment, this knife is flexible throughout its length: not too much, and not too little. Complementing the stunning handle bolsters are an heirloom-fit cymbal bronze spacer and beautiful carved piece of Australian Ringed Gidgee to complete a stunning grip. The handle’s ergonomic, Western form is completed at the rear with a flush, polished, stainless steel retention bolt cap.