Sakai Kikumori NDS Santoku 180mm

The Sakai Kikumori NDS Santoku 180mm has plenty of character, both on the board and in the hand. Fine Damascus lines wind across the blade beneath a textured Nashiji finish, creating a lovely contrast between flowing patterns and a more rustic surface. Paired with pale magnolia wood and a dark buffalo horn ferrule, it is a knife whose details reward a closer look.

Lightweight and nimble, this Japanese Santoku feels right at home moving between the small jobs that make up a meal: dicing an onion, slicing mushrooms, chopping herbs or portioning boneless chicken. Its 180mm blade offers useful cutting length while remaining manageable for everyday preparation. The broad blade also gives your guiding hand a comfortable surface to work against when making controlled, repeated cuts.

The Santoku’s name is commonly translated as “three virtues”, referring to its versatility with meat, fish and vegetables. That versatility is a big part of its appeal: one knife that earns its place on the board throughout the cooking process.

Sakai Kikumori is the knife brand of Kawamura Hamono, established in Sakai in 1926. The company works with specialist craftspeople and brings a long history of supplying Japanese kitchen knives to this distinctive everyday cutter.

Steel and Construction

At the heart of the blade is 19C27 Swedish stainless steel, hardened to HRC 60. This steel is known for its wear resistance, an attribute that helps the cutting edge stand up to repeated use.

The Damascus cladding provides the blade’s intricate layered appearance, while the Nashiji finish adds a softly irregular texture to the upper blade. Nashiji means “pear skin”, a fitting description of its subtly mottled surface. Together, these finishes give the NDS a particularly attractive mix of detail and texture.

The magnolia wood handle keeps the look clean and traditional. Its pale grain contrasts beautifully with the buffalo horn ferrule, complementing the blade without competing with its Damascus pattern.

Maintenance and Care

• Hand wash and dry thoroughly after use. Although 19C27 is a stainless steel, it still benefits from prompt cleaning, particularly after cutting acidic ingredients. Do not soak the knife or put it in the dishwasher.
• Use a wooden or suitable plastic chopping board, and avoid bones, frozen food and twisting the edge during a cut. Maintain the edge with a whetstone when needed.

Best for: Home cooks and chefs looking for a light, versatile Santoku with distinctive Damascus detailing and the practicality of stainless steel.

Kitchen Samurai Ease of Use Rating: Everyday All Rounder.

HRC:60

Made in Japan.

Free shipping on orders over R1,500.