Coral Reef Gyuto 178mm

Sydney bladesmith James Oatley hones Vinland pattern Damasteel high-performance stainless damascus steel, an incredible material forged in small batches in northern Sweden, to the lightweight, slim, and balanced blade of this 178mm / 7″ gyuto. Standing 56mm tall at the heel, ample knuckle clearance allows the blade to rock and chop even the largest ingredients, while the mid-size overall length, relatively flat edge profile, and low, slim tip lend themselves to detail work, precision slices, and a general feeling of finesse in the hand. Expertly shaped primary bevel geometry tapers downward to a thin, very sharp cutting edge, the stainless damascus steel etched and polished to a beautiful, contrasting sheen as its layers transition from a condensation of twists and turns to the lower portion’s parallel lines, the visual result of James’ free-hand convex grind. Balancing just above the edge’s heel at the base of the blade’s choil, one which curves backwards as James’ profiles often do in order to maximize edge length in a compact package and to provide a sharp point situated directly below the fingers for optimal control, the knife is quick, light, and nimble in the hand. Each of these blade attributes are controlled by a beautiful, classic Oatley handle, oval in profile and symmetrical both top-to-bottom and left-to-right, sculpted from green dyed and stabilized maple that elicits the colors and chatoyance of a coral reef viewed through the ocean’s refractions, and secured by a single, domed brass pin which allows for handle removal in case care and maintenance are needed.