Mr.Itou R2 Black Damascus Pearl Gyuto 150mm

SPECIFICATIONS

Knife Style: Petty
Steel Type: Stainless Steel
Blade Material: R2 / SG2 Powder
Blade Finish: Nickel Black Damascus (Kurosome)
Blade Hardness: 63HRC (+/-1)
Bevel: Double
Handle: Pearl Abalone
Bolster: Brass
Blade Size: 150mm 
Heel Height: 38mm
Spine Thickness 1: At Heel: 2.05mm
Spine Thickness 2: In Middle: 2.50mm
Weight: 165g

Despite retiring in 2020 due to health concerns, Mr. Itou, now 80, continues to produce limited-edition pieces, ensuring his legacy of masterful craftsmanship endures.

Mr. Itou (Itou Yusui) is a distinguished Japanese blacksmith from Echizen, Japan, renowned for his handmade knives that offer exceptional sharpness, vibrant handles, and unique artistry. Primarily using SG2 powdered steel for superior edge retention, each knife is carefully crafted with a hand-tapered full tang and polished handle for optimal balance and grip. 

Gyutos are renowned as the only knife needed in the kitchen. While this particular model, with a blade measuring only 150mm, caters to small knife enthusiasts, Gyuto blades typically range from 210mm to 270mm. They are a great option for most cooks due to their versatile design: a reasonably flat profile toward the heel for chopping, a belly toward the tip for rock cutting, and a pointed tip for precision work. This versatility is why many chefs prefer a Gyuto over other models.