Masutani Sekka VG10 Nashiji Santoku 170mm

From the maker

Overview

The Masutani Hamono Sekka VG10 Nashiji Santoku 170mm is an agile, stainless Japanese kitchen knife made in Echizen, Fukui, Japan. Its versatile santoku profile gives home cooks and professionals the control to slice vegetables, portion boneless proteins, mince herbs and handle everyday prep with one compact blade.

A VG10 stainless-steel core provides dependable edge retention and easy care, while layered stainless cladding adds visual depth along the cutting edge. Above it, the textured nashiji finish gives the blade a traditional, understated character. The full-tang Western handle is made from durable black pakkawood with stainless rivets and a metal bolster for a familiar, secure grip.

Cutting Performance

Masutani knives are known for delivering thin, efficient cutting geometry at an approachable price. The approximately 170mm blade is long enough for complete meal preparation yet nimble enough for smaller boards and tight workspaces. Its gently curved edge supports smooth push cutting and light rocking, while the broad blade makes it easy to scoop and transfer prepared ingredients.

Common Questions

Q: Is this Masutani santoku suitable for a home cook?

A: Yes. The stainless VG10 construction, manageable 170mm size and comfortable Western handle make it an excellent first Japanese knife as well as a capable everyday tool for experienced cooks.

Q: What is a santoku best used for?

A: A santoku is designed for the three core kitchen tasks of slicing, dicing and mincing. This knife excels with vegetables, fruit, herbs, poultry, fish and boneless meats. Avoid frozen food, bones and hard twisting cuts.

Q: Does VG10 require special care?

A: VG10 is stainless and easier to maintain than carbon steel, but the knife should still be hand washed, dried immediately and stored safely. Never put it in a dishwasher.

Care and Maintenance

Use a knife-friendly surface such as a Hasegawa Pro cutting board to protect the fine edge. Between sharpenings, gentle use of the Tokushu Knife Premium XL leather strop can help maintain clean cutting performance.