Gyutos, as I mentioned, are Japanese-style chef’s knives. Like Western-style chef’s knives, they are versatile blades, usually between six and 12 inches long.

The Hira-Zukuri blade shape is an almost elemental blade design, simple and flat and ridgeless, ideal for utility swords and unfussy battle knives. It dates back to ancient times but was common ...

Ultra-sharp and precise, the best Japanese knives are known for their premium craftsmanship. Compared to their Western or German-style counterparts, Japanese blades are lighter, thinner and harder ...