Cu-Mai Graphite Gyuto 230mm

Bladesmith Leszek Sikon delivers a new one-of-a-kind gyuto that packs versatility and workhorse-performance into a 230mm / 9.1″ package with strikingly good looks to match. From a glass-thin, needle of a tip for precision slicing and detail work on back to the rigid and robust convex bevels nearest the 56mm-tall heel for the most demanding chopping tasks, nothing will stand in the way of this chef’s go-to daily driver. Forged by hand at Leszek’s UK-based studio, the Polish artist and maker combines 26c3 “Spicy White” carbon steel at the edge with a vein of pure copper flanked by nickel, all clad in 01 tool steel and finished in his head-turning, dark black Graphite style. Polished by hand along the symmetrical bevels, the blade also features forge-finished flats baring the marks of its hand-hammered origins where additional copper and highlights of brass are added. With so much attention on the blade, do not overlook the handle: shaped from reclaimed denim micarta infused with copper mesh in Leszek’s recognizable, tapering octagonal wa rendition, the feeling in the hand is wonderful. Balancing beautifully a finger’s width in front of the heel and brute-de-forge integral bolster, this 9.9oz / 280g creation is steady, powerful, and rewarding to cook with.